McMechan -- Ragan Wed

Sunday, July 23, 2006

April Dawn McMechan became the bride of James Edward Ragan on Saturday, July 8, 2006, in The Old Congressional Church in Fort Scott, Kan., which had been decorated with an arch in the bridal colors of red and white, accents of greenery, white tulle and large white pew bows. Clyde Hendricks officiated the 4 o'clock ceremony.

Parents of the newlyweds are Randy and Cindy McMechan of Liberal, Mo., Deb Allen, of Moundville, Mo., and Ralph Ragan, of Nevada, Mo.

Ruth Hendricks provided selected wedding music.

The mothers of the couple -- Cindy McMechan in a red two-piece ensemble, and Deb Allen, in a two-piece black ensemble -- lighted the unity candle. Each wore rose corsages in the bridal colors of red and white.

Given in marriage by her father, Randy McMechan, the bride wore a white silk gown banded in dark red at the top of the strapless, fitted bodice and at the hem of the gown's full skirt. Her fingertip veil was also trimmed in red and she carried a red and white rose cascade bouquet.

Sara McMechan of Liberal attended her sister as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Kim Bates, Frontenac, Kan., Sandy McMechan, Liberal, and Joey Stevens, Liberal. All bridal attendants wore red formal gowns.

Flower girls McKenzie and Sammy Ragan, of Fort Scott, wore red and white floor-length dresses.

Donnie Ragan of Fort Scott, served his brother as best man. Groomsmen were J.R. Wheeler, Fort Scott, Jason Findley, Fort Scott, and Richie Allen, Fulton, Kan. All male attendants wore black tuxedos.

Ring bearers were Nicholas and Landon Ragan.

A reception, at The Elks Lodge in Fort Scott, followed the ceremony. Table decorations featured red and white roses and carnations and candles. Decorations also featured the wedding arch and greenery.

The groom's grandmother, Lu Keys, presided at the cake and gift tables.

A buffet was provided for guests, along with champagne provided by Donnie Ragan, for a toast. Dancing followed, with the bride and groom leading with the first dance.

The couple are planning a cruise in the future and are currently making their home in Bronaugh, Mo.