Tag Archive for: together in tulsa

A Big, Fat Iranian Wedding (times two)

I have the coolest writing gig-I get paid to write a bi-monthly column called ‘Together in Tulsa’ for the regional paper, ‘This Land Press’. I’ve been doing this for two years now and loving it. And if this information is new to you, now you know.

I find unique couples in the Oklahoma area, interview them, design a photo set for them and then ‘kapow!’-photograph them. (Most of the photos are bizarre-or different-as my Dad would say.)

And, after my article has been edited for the millionth time (you know who you are, Mark…), it is printed in the physical newspaper first, and then put online a couple of weeks later.

This is my latest couple-Nick Doctor and Mana Tahaie.

 


The couple had planned to originally tie the knot at the justice of the peace. But, Iranian mothers don’t take “no” for an answer. Soon the couple had two weddings back to back, a house to close on and a speeding ticket to get out of-in a matter of two days.

Read more about Nick Doctor and Mana Tahaie here.

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My latest “Together in Tulsa” Couple-Mick & Gayla

My latest couple, Mick & Gayla, are being featured in my  ‘Together in Tulsa” column online. If you don’t already know, I write for the regional paper, This Land Press. Boy, that was a lot of links….

I like to find unique couples from Oklahoma and let them tell their story. And because I am obviously so weird, the photos I take of the couple are weird.


These two were genuinely a joy to be around. They were very much still in love, even after several kids and the adoption of one precious baby girl. Mick gave up the outback of Australia to be with Gayla-but he doesn’t regret it for a moment.

Go check out their full story here: Mick & Gayla.

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This Land Press Launch Party!

I have a secret that I have been keeping from all of you.
When I began reading This Land online, I had no idea who the Mastermind was behind it.

I soon found out that this talented writer, Michael P. Mason, who has been in my life for years, was the Mastermind behind This Land.
This is a quote from the ‘ol Mastermind about this venture:
‘As a collaboration of Oklahoma’s best writers, thinkers, and artists, the aim of This Land is to deliver engaging content that’s relevant to Oklahomans, and to encourage a richer sense of community through our various projects.’-Michael P. Mason

Well said, Mike. Well said. Pay no attention to the robot behind you.


This is Mastermind’s cute little wife putting up with the his inappropriateness. I think he had one too many cups from the French Press, personally.
I know I will be in big trouble for this…but it’s worth it.


But, I digress. (Isn’t that what smarty pants writers are supposed to say when covering over their rabbit trails?)
I started reading this online/now in print paper, and fell in love with it. I timidly began leaving comments on Van Eden’s articles at first, then started stalking Michael Cooper’s photography, and then left a few comments on Michael Mason’s articles, praying I didn’t misspell a word or have a run-in with a dangling participle.
I was intimidated. The writing is good. Not just ‘local’ good, but GOOD.
And the photography? Um, hands down just plain stinkin’ awesome.


One thing led to another, and Michael approached me with a request. He wanted ME to contribute.
I think I threw up on the spot due to my anxiety issues.


And then, I walked around like this for a couple of days. Yes, I was a gigantic robot with flashy silver horseshoes for hands. Not really, but I just loved this robot at Dwelling Spaces and wanted to squeeze it in somehow.


And, guess who squeaked in with her half-butt talent?
Me. That’s my picture in the upper right hand corner, page 2.
Because of this, I was invited to the launch party for ‘This Land Press’.
I actually put on makeup for this event. I can’t believe that anyone would invite me to a social get-together such as this. I tend to sweat a lot and spill wine and say inane things when conversation lags.
Example:
“Rebekah, who did your hair?”, Classy Lady asks.
“I did.” I respond.
Awkward silence. So, I jump in with both feet.
“Isn’t this party great? I mean, this is such a cool paper (yes, I used the word ‘cool’) and everyone is so nice. And boy, do you look great. I love your dress. Where did you get it? Isn’t Mike nice?…..” And so my stupidity carried on for what seemed like hours, until she raised her eyebrows and walked away.


But, I digress, again.
This great little store, Dwelling Spaces was packed for the Launch Party. The stock in the store is unreal.


Hand made clutches decked out with embroidery, cute n’ sassy rings made from buttons, and brightly colored toys kept me entertained for hours. Literally.
Note: I want this hanging lamp very bad.


Second Note: I also want this painting in my house. A local artist, Sara Bowersock, did this and a ton of other paintings that I drool over. She even has an etsy store: Point Blank Design.


The Launch Party was a complete departure from my usual nights of pouring concrete steps, caulking showers in rent houses or the general application of Arnica Gel on my aching joints.
The night included food, wine, beer, coffee (mmmm….), music, past boyfriends….which of course is the exact formula needed in order for me to spill something, have junk in my teeth, spit while talking, sweat profusely and just generally embarrass myself.
It was a fantastic night.

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