Vintage Wedding: Ann Hall and Howard Barnett

May 4, 1952

Ann Hall met Howard Barnett on a blind date. She had just graduated from Stephens College and he was operating a successful sewing machine business in Meridian, Miss. Ann was hesitant to go out with Howard again, but he was persistent and two weeks later they had their second date. They were married six months later after a whirlwind courtship. Once they were engaged, Howard gave her a present every day for the six weeks leading up to their wedding! They were married for 55 years.

Howard and Ann were married in her hometown of Bonita, Miss., at the Baptist church at 5 p.m., and had a beautiful reception at home for about 200 friends and family.
A neighbor made the cake and decorated it with fresh flowers and greenery. There were sprays of snapdragons, gladiolus and greenery. Ann’s bouquet was composed of lillies of the valley and she designed her own dress. The Liberty Shop in Meridian, Miss., made her dress of organza with panels of antique lace, puffed sleeves and covered buttons all the way down the back. Her veil was of silk illusion netting and lace; her half-gloves also featured an accent of lace.

After the reception, which featured cake and punch, the couple was off to the Gulf Coast to the Sun and Sand Hotel for five days.

While in Meridian, Miss., Howard worked in real estate and cable television. He retired but was then asked to come to New Orleans to start cable TV in Jefferson Parish and in New Orleans. They lived in New Orleans for 30 years. Ann opened the Hall Barnett Gallery on Exchange Alley and closed it in 2005. Ann and her daughter Holly have opened the Hall Barnett Gallery again on 247 Chartres St., so definitely check it out!
 

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