Saad and Gillian

Surrounded by swirls of makeup, bridesmaids and Red Bull, the wife-to-be waits patiently for the finishing touches to be completed on her hairstyle.

Mary Antoinette Saad, better known as Anna, is a graduate of the University of South Alabama and the first of three sisters to marry. "Anna is fabulous," comments Erin Donley, one of the bridesmaids who are all dressed in long, black satin gowns purchased at Couture Brides and Belles. "She's so put together, so we knew we were going to be cute." "Anna is a great girl, a daddy's girl, and she is very in love with her fiance," said her mother, Teresa Hanlon Saad. Unique, glamorous, and yes, fabulous, Anna Saad is all of the above and more.

Timothy Wayne Gillian, the groom she is so dearly in love with, is a graduate of the University of Mississippi, an alumnus of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Timmy works as a Project Manager with Graves Construction. He has one brother, Cole. "He loves Alabama football, except of course, when they are playing Ole Miss," joked his mother while commenting on his hobbies.

With the preparations completed by Jenifer Simpson, owner of Marybelle's, the ceremony approached. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a perfect venue for this beautiful event, is delightfully constructed of white floors and massive columns topped with gold. The ceremony began in the cathedral, filled almost completely with loving family and friends. Down the isle came the parents, the groomsmen, four absolutely adorable flower girls, and all 12 of the breathtaking bridesmaids. Dressed in an absolutely stunning gown designed by Jenifer Simpson and Judy Cleveland, the bride floated down the isle. Father James F. Zoghby and Father John S. Boudreaux performed the ceremony.

The new Mr. and Mrs. Gillian arrived at their reception in a magnificent white Rolls Royce. The Saenger Theatre was stunningly decorated in red roses and a unique upside-down Christmas tree. Beautiful and enormous Christmas ornaments hung from the ceiling surrounding the stage, a perfect site for dancing the night away. A breathtaking Christmas tree and the melodious sounds of the harpist met guests at the entrance, while the main screen in the theatre played scenes from "It's a Wonderful Life" as they arrived. The food was spectacular, with a sushi bar, an open martini bar, a pirogue filled to the brim with shrimp, roast beef served with three types of cheeses, sauteed shrimp, and vegetables. The five-tier cake was surrounded by five two-tier cakes, created by Buttercream Dreams, and completed the culinary experience.

A jazz ensemble provided the perfect mix of music, getting guests of all ages hopping on to the stage for a trip around the dance floor. For hours, people laughed, danced and enjoyed the presence of family and friends, in celebration of the union between their beloved Anna and Timmy.