Kristina Hollie Bates and Kenny Lee Connell were united in holy matrimony Friday, Aug. 8, at Providence Baptist Church No. 2 in Clanton.

The bride chose a strapless A-line white satin gown with contrasting platinum embroidery on the bodice, hem line and cathedral train.

The embroidery was adorned with white pearls, Swarovski crystals and rhinestones.

She carried a bouquet of pastel summer flowers complementary to the wedding’s pastel butterfly theme. She was given in marriage by her father.

The bride’s sister, Ashley Brooke Bates, served as her maid of honor and cousin, Samantha Keeley Mason, as her junior maid of honor. Hannah Kross Emfinger, a special friend and former student of “Ms. Hollie” was the flower girl.

Bridesmaids were Rene Dailey, Laura Willis, Christy Blackmon and Kimberly Lynn with Alana Marie Cleckler and Montana Ruth Ann Dailey serving as honorary baby maids.

The bridesmaids were dressed in empire waist floor length chiffon dresses pastel in color.

The groom’s brother, Michael Wayne Connell, served as his best man and his cousin, Jason Adams, serving as the ring bearer.

Groomsmen were Tony Connell, the groom’s father, Nicholas Adams, the groom’s cousin, Kerry Dailey, Cole Blackmon and Josh Mims.

Shane and Brian Bates, cousins of the bride, served as ushers.

Children from both families served as pre-wedding bell ringers. Rev. Jim Shannon performed the service.

After the ceremony, the couple enjoyed a reception at Helen’s Place.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Bates and the granddaughter of Peggy Thompson and the late James F. Thompson, Jr. and Louise Bates and the late Jeff Bates.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Connell and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Ludolf and the late Mr. and Mrs. Napoleon Connell.

The bride is currently a full time student at Auburn University Montgomery and will be graduating in May 2009 with a degree in early childhood education.

She is employed by Serendipity Uniform in Montgomery.

The groom is employed by Alabama Power Company. After a trip to Florida, the couple will make their home in Clanton.