We’re working on our first-ever Bridal Guide and need to find a model for the front cover. If you’re engaged and getting married in 2009, send us your engagement story — if we choose your story, you’ll be featured as our cover model and your original story will run in our Bridal Guide.

The story needs to be 400-500 words and in our hands by 5 p.m. on Dec. 17. You can e-mail it to lifestyles@shelbycountyreporter.com or fax it to 669-4217. If you choose to fax it, please mark it “Attention: Bridal Guide.” Please include at least one contact number where you can be reached at any time.

This contest is open to Shelby County residents only. You don’t have to be getting married here, but you do have to be from here. When you submit your story, please let us know where you’re from in Shelby County.

We’ll schedule the photo shoot with the winner during Dec. 18-23. Please make sure you’ll have some time available during those days.

We can’t wait to read all the stories, so make them as creative and fun as possible! Remember, every engagement story is special — give us a chance to share yours with Shelby County!