The engagement of Bridgette Elizabeth Allen to Joseph “Clayton” Barnard, both of Vicksburg, is announced today. Vows will be exchanged in a private ceremony at 6 p.m. Oct. 8, 2011, at Monmouth Plantation in Natchez. A reception will follow.

Miss Allen is the daughter of Kathy Allen and Mark Hilderbrand of Vicksburg and Graham Allen of Savannah, Ga. She is the granddaughter of the late Paul W. and Bonnie J. Kerr of Valley Park and the late Earl A. and Elizabeth “Anne” Allen and Vivian Hilderbrand and the late Earl Hilderbrand, all of Vicksburg.

Mr. Barnard is the son of Larry and Donna Barnard of Vicksburg. He is the grandson of Carolyn Laster and the late Don Laster of Dermott, Ark., and the late Manuel and Evelyn Barnard of Collins, Ark.

The bride-elect is a 2003 graduate of Warren Central High School. She attended Hinds Community College.

Miss Allen is employed at the Animal Medical Clinic.

The prospective groom is a 2001 graduate of Porters Chapel Academy. He is attending Hinds Community College.

Mr. Barnard is employed at Armstrong World Industries.