YOUR
DREAM
DRESS
REAL WEDDINGS
to Inspire
154 WAYS TO CELEBRATE
FALL/WINTER 2021
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PHOTO BY ERIN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY
FULL SERVICE LUXURY WEDDING FLORIST AND BOUTIQUE FLORAL DESIGN 2 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
| EVENT PLANNING | BRIDAL REGISTRY | GIFTS
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Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 3
I N
T H I S
I S S U E
8 WELCOME
inspiration 11 DARK & DREAMY
Rich colors and European accents bring allure to wedding day essentials.
14 MODERN TROPICS
Bright botanicals inspire everything from bouquets to invitations.
16 GARDEN PARTY
Dainty and delightful florals lend a classic air to celebrations.
18 RETRO REIMAGINED
Colorful vintage finds bring cheer to a designer’s dream scheme.
style 23 ENVISION ELEGANCE
Modern meets classic to create a perfect blend in these wedding day looks.
23
real weddings 31 SYDNEY STEELE + NOAH WEST 36 RACHAEL RAINEY + JOHN COBB 40 JEN SPORE + BO BRISTER 44 SELBY WHITBECK + JAMIE BOYD 48 ALVINA VEDERNIKOV + SAM STRUK 52 EMILY GUNTHARP + MATT HENDRICKSON
last look 56 GET HITCHED
on the cover
48
Model Becky Yoon photographed on location at The Brick Ballroom in a dress from Low’s Bridal. Photography by Steph Smith. See page 23.
This issue contains listings of some of the products, manufacturers, distributors and retailers represented in this issue. Space limitations prevent sourcing of all items. Although extreme care is taken to provide correct information, At Home in ArkansasTM cannot guarantee information received from sources. At Home in Arkansas TM Weddings in Arkansas is published 2 times a year by Root Publishing, Inc. Opinions expressed in articles, letters or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither Root Publishing, Inc. nor any of its staff, is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright© 2015 Root Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the publisher. All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, Root Publishing, Inc. is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Stephanie Maxwell Newton, editor; At Home in Arkansas TM; 2207 Cottondale Lane; Little Rock, AR 72202 or by email at stephanie@athomearkansas.com. Volume 19, Number 2
4 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
Sissy’s
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 5
501.231.1728 | BellaTerraEstate.com
Publisher
Kelly Fraiser (ext. 101) kelly@athomearkansas.com Editor
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6 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
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Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 7
W E L C O M E
My husband and I recently celebrated our wedding anniversary with a trip to the Ozarks. Hiking to Hawksbill Crag, also known as Whitaker Point, has been on my Arkansas bucket list for a while, and early November was the perfect time of year to make the trek. The fall foliage along the trail and across the valley below ranged from still-green to deep umber, with every hue of yellow and Photo by Rett Peek orange in between—just like it was on our special day four years prior. When we were almost to the trail’s iconic lookout point, we passed a group of girls on the bluff huddled around a camera. A few steps later they shrieked with happiness, their whoops echoing across the valley as they rushed past us to meet a couple on the rock ahead. Turns out their dad had just become engaged, and they had not only kept the plan a secret but also captured the picturesque proposal on camera. Planning your wedding day can feel a bit like reaching the pinnacle of a mountain. The work you’ve put into your relationship has brought you to a place where you’ve decided to share your life with another person, and that’s an achievement, no doubt. However, that point is just one stop in the journey. On our hike back down from Hawksbill Crag, the view across the bluff was every bit as breathtaking as it had been from its much-photographed destination. The same is true of the years that will follow after your big day. I hope you enjoy the view!
Best wishes,
Stephanie Maxwell Newton, editor stephanie@athomearkansas.com
8 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
Photo by Rett Peek
take it all in
DIGITAL EDITION Take us with you anywhere at weddingsinarkansas.com. @weddingsinarkansas @weddingsinar Follow along on social media for more wedding inspiration. SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING We’re looking for the most inspiring Arkansas weddings to feature in our next issue! For details on how to see your big day in our pages, visit weddingsinarkansas.com/submityour-wedding.
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Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 9
Loft 1023 An urban event venue located in the heart of downtown Little Rock.
Loft 1023 has four rooms that can be used together or separately for events big or small. 1023 West Seventh Street Little Rock, Arkansas (501)566-4776 www.loft1023.com
501.525.4500 307 BROADWAY STREET HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS 10 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
I N S P I R AT I O N
DARK & DREAMY PRODUCER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPH SMITH
Three-tier wedding cake with buttercream icing and berry filling, topped with flowers by Tipton & Hurst. Ambrosia Bakery Co., Hot Springs, ambrosiabakeryco.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 11
I N S P I R AT I O N
Moody hues and organic influence make for a refined, romantic affair
1 Bridal bouquet of burgundy dahlias, ‘Playa Blanca’ roses, ivory ranunculuses, burgundy coffeeberries, white snowberries, astrantias, and ‘After Dark’ peppermint willow wrapped with satin ribbon. Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pine Bluff, tiptonhurst.com 2 Custom gold foil invitation suite with coordinating envelope liner, reply card, and table number. Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville, instagram. com/shindigpaperie 3 & 4 Costa Nova “Fauna” salad/dessert plate from the Elements collection and Busatti “Donna di Coppe Taupe” Italian linen napkin. Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, and Pine Bluff, tiptonhurst.com
12 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
Wedding Jewelry 101 We sat down with Bill Jones, CEO of Sissy’s Log Cabin and GIA Certified Gemologist, to learn from a pro how to pick out wedding jewelry they can try on various styles and receive feedback from each other. In store, we help them measure their ring sizes, discover what styles suit them best, and try on bands to find ones they love. We can work with almost any budget and have in-house financing available so couples can enjoy shopping and celebrating their love without worrying about breaking the bank. WHAT PIECES DO YOU SUGGEST COUPLES CONSIDER TO COMPLETE THEIR
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR BRIDES AND GROOMS SHOPPING FOR WEDDING BANDS?
We encourage couples to shop together so
WEDDING DAY LOOKS? Some brides prefer simple, sophisticated jewelry for their big day, while others embrace the opportunity for a glamorous look. I always recommend a stunning pair of earrings along with a bracelet and necklace for her, and a classic pair of cufflinks with a handsome timepiece for him. With our wide variety of
styles and designers available, couples will find pieces perfectly matched to their styles that they can wear for years to come. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR BRIDE AND GROOM GIFTS FOR THE SPECIAL DAY? Weddings are a sentimental time, so we always recommend selecting a gift with meaning. Many of our pieces can be engraved with initials, your wedding date, or even a short message. Another great gift idea is to purchase a special wedding-day jewelry piece for your soon-to-be spouse, such as a watch or gemstone jewelry. We love helping our customers find the perfect gifts, and we are committed to providing exceptional, trustworthy service for a lifetime. To browse an extraordinary jewelry
selection, stop by your nearest Sissy’s Log Cabin or shop online at sissyslogcabin.com.
photo by Benjamin Martin Photography
The Hot Springs Country Club is a full-service venue for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, banquets, events and catering. The banquet staff at HSCC wants to ensure you have a relaxed and stress-free wedding day. Come see our beautiful banquet room with its wraparound veranda overlooking our state-of-the-art golf course. When it comes to your wedding, our banquet coordinator works with you; taking care of all the details to make sure your day is perfect! Donna Bryant, Banquet Coordinator | office: 501.623.4981, ext. 4 | cell: 501-617-1812 | banquets@hotspringscc.com | hotspringscc.com Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 13
I N S P I R AT I O N
MODERN
TROPICS
14 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
I N S P I R AT I O N
Set the tone for a contemporary celebration with tropical fronds and bright blooms
1 & 2 Vietri “Prism” short green tumblers and white napkin with green hemstitch. Cobblestone & Vine, Bentonville and Little Rock, cobblestoneandvine.com 3 Bella Figura “Ginchy” letterpress invitation suite with coordinating save-the-date card, morning-after card, and lined envelope. The Social Type, Little Rock, facebook.com/ thesocialtypelr 4 Bouquet of green anthurium, snapdragons, pincushion proteas, mink proteas, dahlias, ginger lilies, and monstera leaves. Magnolia Belle Floral, Conway, magnoliabellefloral.com 5 Traditional white wedding cake with a brown butter pineapple filling, fondant icing, and sugar Monstera leaves, accented with fresh flowers. Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe, Springdale, shelbylynnscakeshoppe.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 15
I N S P I R AT I O N
Garden PARTY
16 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
I N S P I R AT I O N
1 & 2 Anna Weartherly “Simply Anna Polka” salad plate and two-tier cake stand. The Everyday Chef, Jonesboro, theeverydaychef.net 3 Bella Figura “Ichabod” gold foil invitation suite with vellum belly band and coordinating save-the-date card, website card, rehearsal dinner card, and envelope liner. The Social Type, Little Rock, facebook. com/thesocialtypelr 4 Table arrangement featuring hydrangeas, cocoa roses, ‘White O’Hara’ roses, mini calla lilies, ‘Dendrobium’ orchids, anemones, eucalyptus, and Italian ruscus. Tanarah Luxe Floral, Little Rock, tanarahluxefloral.com 5 Vanilla petit fours decorated in fondant icing. Community Bakery, Little Rock, communitybakery.com
A muted palette and simple sophistication create a look that’s perfect for an al fresco soirée Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 17
I N S P I R AT I O N
BOLDLY BEAUTIFUL
Retro Reimagined Rona Luong takes cues from one of her favorite time periods to design a magical and memorable wedding scene
WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER SHALAE BYRD PHOTOGRAPHY
18 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
I N S P I R AT I O N
“Every time I do a styled shoot, I always want to do something different,” says event designer and coordinator Rona Luong. As one of the owners of Mint + Mix Events & Design, she has the responsibility of tailoring each wedding day to a bride’s vision. However, when she sets out to style an editorial shoot, the possibilities are endless. “I love being able to have ideas with no limitations and to do something people might not dare to do,” she says. “I ask myself, What’s different? What hasn’t been done yet?” For one of her recent styled shoots, Rona dreamed up a midcentury modern-inspired scheme that played vintage décor against the contemporary backdrop of Heroncrest Event Center in Northwest Arkansas. “I love all modern things, but I wanted to take it back a bit and bring in some older items so it didn’t all feel too new,” she says. “I had so much fun going to vintage stores and finding the typewriters, suitcases, vinyl records, old cameras, and things like that.” To complete the scene, Rona invited local vendors to incorporate their own takes on the theme, creating a bright and beautiful setting unlike any other.
FLOWER POWER
The warm autumn palette of orange, red, and yellow was inspired by the antique Chevrolet that made an appearance in this cheerful wedding scene. Stems by Em drew from these hues to create a bouquet and coordinating table arrangements, as well as a showstopping installation of greenery, fall foliage, and blooms that spill out of the truck.
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 19
I N S P I R AT I O N
“I love being able to have ideas with no limitations and to do something people might not dare to do.” —Rona Luong
DELICIOUS DETAILS
Rona called on Carmelita Catering Co. to create a menu of appetizers to be served alongside cocktails provided by Mint 2 Mix, the bar service arm of Mint + Mix’s business. “I’m a sucker for cocktail hour and little bites, and I’m very passionate about the bartending side,” Rona says, noting Mint 2 Mix makes all cocktails to order from scratch. Sips and Sweets NWA provided a chocolate wedding cake with praline filling, while Tap Truck Ozarks was on hand for mobile draft beer service.
20 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
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THE CHAPEL AT R I D G E R UN N E R FA R M A s t u n n i n g n e w v e n u e i n Fl o r a l , A r k a n s a s .
Resources
BAR SERVICE Mint 2 Mix BRIDE’S GOWN Tesori CAKE Sips and Sweets NWA CATERING Carmelita Catering Co. and Tap Truck Ozarks FLORAL DESIGN Stems by Em GROOM’S SUIT Mr. Tux NWA HAIR AND MAKEUP Amanda Owens PAPER GOODS Dayflower Designs PHOTOGRAPHY Shalae Byrd Photography RENTALS Mint + Mix Events VENUE Heroncrest Event Center WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Rona Luong, Mint + Mix Events
501-765-5608 | thechapelatridgerunnerfa rm@gma il.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 21
WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS | EVERYDAY DESIGN | SEASONAL DESIGN ROGERS, AR | SHESAIDYESBRIDAL.COM | 479-631-2006
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22 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
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S T Y L E
Envision Elegance From traditional silhouettes to modern details, let these dresses and jewels inspire your dream day look Shot on location at The Brick Ballroom in Siloam Springs.
Strapless ivory Mikado silk gown with sweetheart neckline. She Said Yes Bridal, Rogers, shesaidyesbridal.com Jewelry provided by Romance Diamond Co.
A R T D I R E C T O R & P H O T O G R A P H E R S T E P H S M I T H M O D E L B E C K Y YO O N H A I R & M A K E U P A R T I S T S H A K AY L A C A N A DAY
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 23
S T Y L E
18k white gold diamond earring jackets over cultured pearls, 18k white gold splitrow diamond necklace, and platinum oval diamond halo wedding band. Romance Diamond Co., Fayetteville, romancediamond.com
24 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
S T Y L E
Lace gown with bell sleeves and jewelencrusted headband. Low’s Bridal, Brinkley, lowsbridal.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 25
S T Y L E
High-waisted palazzo trousers, kimono-style bridal jacket, and “Aimee” tulle overskirt with Swarovski crystal earrings. Tesori, Fayetteville, tesoribridalformal.com
26 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
S T Y L E
Jenny Yoo “Gabriela” burnout satin bridesmaids dress in Emerald. Bella Bridesmaids, Little Rock, bellabridesmaids.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 27
S T Y L E
Tiered wedding gown featuring flower appliques and horsehairtrimmed skirt paired with a cathedral-length veil. Low’s Bridal, Brinkley, lowsbridal.com
28 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
S T Y L E
14k yellow gold and diamond “Riviera” necklace, 18k yellow gold and diamond teardrop earrings, 18k yellow gold and diamond bangle and fashion ring, and 18k yellow gold “Triple Threat” diamond ring. Sissy’s Log Cabin, Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Jonesboro, Memphis, and Conway, sissyslogcabin.com
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 29
A N I N V I TAT IO N T O YO U R N E W B E G I N N I N G AT MOUNTAIN HARBOR RESORT & SPA
East Cove Pavilion Park
The Couple’s Cottage - C19
CELEBRATING 65 YEARS The families of Harbor invite you to the vacation destination of those who treasure the natural beauty of Arkansas. Come find your sanctuary at Harbor. 30 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
Turtle Cove Spa
East Cove Pavilion
A FULL-SERVICE DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE • Premier Lodging • On-site Dining & Catering • Turtle Cove Spa • On-site Event Coordinator • Multiple Lakeside Venues
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R E A L
W E D D I N G S
SYDNEY + NOA H BE N TON V I L L E 9.19.20
P H O T O G R A P H E R TA R Y N LY N N P H O T O G R A P H Y
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 31
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
TRADITIONAL TOUCHES
The couple followed the something old, something new tradition by using Sydney’s great-great-grandfather’s Bible and a borrowed handkerchief from her grandmother. Additionally, the bride wore new earrings that were a gift from her groom and a sapphire bracelet from her mother for something blue.
AT FIRST SIGHT
“My favorite part of the day was our first look. It was important for us to get to spend time together before the ceremony,” Noah says.
Sydney Steele thought she was headed to a business dinner with her boyfriend of six years, Noah West, when the couple pulled into Springdale’s Sassafras Springs Vineyard. However, Noah had other plans. Upon entering the property, he drove back to the chapel area. “Before I knew it, he was getting down on one knee,” Sydney says. After she said yes, the couple, who are both from Springdale and met in high school, went back to his family’s home to celebrate and begin planning their dream day. Wanting to be married in Northwest Arkansas in the fall, they chose a mid-September date. “I always knew I wanted to get married at The Ballroom at I Street,” Sydney says. “This venue was perfect for a garden ceremony and then an elegant reception.” Working with Buzz Events, they created a day Sydney describes as modern, elegant, and sentimental. “When
32 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
we first started our planning, we wanted to make sure this day felt like us as a couple. We wanted to keep it simple but also have those special touches,” she says. For example, a family friend made blueberry wine for the event, which the couple had bottled with custom labels; and Sydney’s grandpa’s homemade chocolate chip cookies were served as a late-night treat. After dinner and dancing, guests said their farewells with pop-out streamers before the couple exited in a 1950s convertible. Noah planned the honeymoon, surprising Sydney with a trip to St. Lucia. “Things got a bit crazy when our original destination closed one month before our honeymoon. However, Noah was still able to pull off a big surprise, and I boarded the plane with no idea where we were going,” Sydney says. Today, the couple are at home in Fayetteville.
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
SIMPLE STATEMENTS
Sydney wanted to stay within a palette of white and green for the floral selections. The bridesmaids carried white roses, while the bride’s bouquet also featured orchids.
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 33
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
DETAILS OF THE DAY
Clockwise from top right: Screens adorned with magnolias and orchids held table assignments for guests. The bridal cake featured vanilla with raspberry filling, Neapolitan, and vanilla with lemon filling layers. A family friend made blueberry wine for the occasion, which Sydney and Noah bottled with custom labels.
34 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY
“My favorite memory of the day was our first dance. I grew up dancing so I always knew I wanted to do something special for this part,” Sydney says. “Noah was such a great sport about it, and we practiced a lot trying to get all of the lifts just right.”
An installation of champagne flutes greeted guests as they entered the reception.
“This venue was perfect for a garden ceremony and then an elegant reception.” — SYDNE Y
Resources
BRIDE’S GOWN Low’s Bridal CAKE Briar Rose Bakery CATERING Catering Unlimited NWA ENTERTAINMENT DJ Derrick FLORALS AND WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Buzz Events PHOTOGRAPHY Taryn Lynn Photography RINGS EVM Jewelers TRANSPORTATION NWA High Society VENUE The Ballroom at I Street VIDEOGRAPHER Connor Callison
Fall/Winter 2021 | weddingsinarkansas.com 35
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
R ACH A EL + JOHN NORTH LITTLE ROCK 6.5.21
36 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
PHOTOGRAPHER ASHTON RAIL PHOTOGRAPHY
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
Rachael Rainey and John Cobb were just 15 years old when they met through a mutual friend in their shared neighborhood. After dating for four and a half years, John knew the time to propose had arrived. He planned a special day, starting with painting pottery and ending at the waterfall overlook at Petit Jean State Park where Rachael said yes to his proposal. Wanting to marry before Rachael started nursing school in July, the two chose a June date, allowing them six months to plan their wedding day. The couple desired an intimate outdoor venue, especially because of COVID concerns, which led them to the perfect spot in North Little Rock. “We had come across The Baker a few times in the Argenta District and loved the story behind it as well as its beauty,” Rachael says. Not only did this venue check a number of boxes on their ceremony and reception list, it also allowed all of the bridal party to stay together on the property. “The community time we shared around the whole weekend was amazing,” the bride says of this experience. The Baker also inspired the wedding day palette of blue, orange, and neutral hues which manifested in the floral design and décor. At the conclusion of the ceremony, guests were invited to dine at The Crêpe Coop food truck, which was set up at the historic venue for the occasion. The menu included four crepes: chicken pesto, chicken and cheese, taco, and roasted sweet potato. This was followed with a three-tiered bridal cake consisting of red velvet, chocolate, and classic wedding cake layers. After a honeymoon in Mexico, the Cobbs are now at home in Conway.
Fall/Winter 2021| weddingsinarkansas.com 37
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
INSPIRED BY LOCATION
Using the colors of The Baker and its setting as inspiration, floral designer Dale Aldridge of Little Rock’s Silks A Bloom created a fairytale scene with a range of orange, blue, and neutral-hued flowers. These included anemones, hydrangeas, coral tulips, orange and peach roses, and an abundance of greenery, all of which carried throughout the bouquets and décor.
38 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
“Our wedding involved our community, and that meant so much to us... There was so much intentional time that weekend spent with all our friends and family.” — R ACHAEL
Guests held sparklers to illuminate the path as the couple made their getaway at the end of the night. Resources
BALLOON INSTALLATION Moore Pop Balloons BRIDE’S GOWN Buffie’s CAKE Community Bakery CATERING The Crêpe Coop ENTERTAINMENT DJ Tee Rose, Central Arkansas Entertainment FLORAL DESIGN Silks A Bloom GROOM’S SUIT Jos. A Bank HAIR Lynn Durbin PAPER GOODS Mikayla Sellers PHOTOGRAPHY Ashton Rail Photography RENTALS Confetti’s Party Rental and Eventology RINGS Brooks Fine Jewelry VENUE The Baker VIDEOGRAPHER Emily Bezet, EBlettering WEDDING COORDINATION Emily Free, Emily Free Event Coordination
Fall/Winter 2021| weddingsinarkansas.com 39
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
JEN + BO L I T T L E ROCK 1.30.21
40 Weddings in Arkansas | Fall/Winter 2021
PHOTOGRAPHER ERIN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMS
R E A L
W E D D I N G S
v
Jen had Gregory Jewelers in Mountain Home engrave Bo’s cufflinks with the couple’s custom monogram.
There was a bit of kismet involved when Jen Spore and her future groom, Bo Brister, first saw one another at Little Rock’s Ciao Baci in the spring of 2018. “We were both out with friends, and after a few not-so-subtle glances, he made his way over to me. We talked the rest of the night and had our first official date a few days later,” Jen recalls. After two years of dating, Bo proposed over a quiet, romantic dinner at home, and the pair began planning for an early 2021 wedding. “I’ve always wanted a winter wedding, mostly so I could wear sleeves,” Jen says with a laugh. “I do love the rich tones and textures associated with a colder season, too.” As a result of venues either not re-opening or restrictions in place due to the pandemic, the couple had to change the wedding location three times. They finally found the setting for their dream reception at a private farm that allowed for both indoor and outdoor
entertaining. Working with planner JoBeth McElhanon of Lilias & Olive, the couple created what Jen refers to as a timeless, elegant, and romantic celebration. “I tend to steer away from trendy and flashy choices, opting instead for a classic and refined style with delicate details,” the bride says. “JoBeth was able to take just a few ideas and transform them into a truly dreamy and beautiful evening.” Guests dined on a French-inspired menu that included lemon crab pastries, cheese puffs, country pâté, mini potato galettes, and a duo of chicken and beef carving stations. Confections included a three-tier lemon cake finished with cream cheese icing as well as a polo-themed groom’s cake to honor one of Bo’s favorite pastimes. When the night ended, the newlyweds exited through a canopy of sparklers held by wellwishers. They are currently at home in Little Rock and plan a delayed honeymoon to the French West Indies.
Fall/Winter 2021| weddingsinarkansas.com 41
R E A L
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WINTRY MIX
Floral designer Tipton & Hurst created tall arrangements of burgundy and blush flowers for the reception tables. These were accompanied by laurel garlands that lined the center. “We used soft textures, lush florals, and flickering candlelight to create the dreamiest day ever,” Jen says.
The bar’s signature drinks were named after the couple’s pets, who were depicted on cocktail napkins and drink menus.
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After the couple’s first dance and the bride’s dance with her father, Bo shared a dance with his daughter, Garrison; his son, Finn, and Jen soon joined in for a Brister family dance.
The wedding cake was a three-tiered confection with layers of chocolate, strawberry, and seasonal pumpkin covered in black icing and topped with a feather-and-floral design by Hannah Taylor of Fleurish Floral Studio.
The groom’s cake was a nod to his love of polo, while the favors—Bo’s homemade artisan pepper-infused honey—speak to the pair’s love of spicy food.
Resources
BRIDE’S GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bella Bridesmaid CAKE Custom Cakes by Michelle Mayer CATERING RH Catering ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Alisa Coffey ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Diamond Empire Band FLORAL DESIGN Tipton & Hurst GROOM’S TUXEDO Barakat Bespoke HAIR Lauren Musich, Joel’s Salon MAKEUP Brandon Golden, Belle & Blush PAPER GOODS By Invitation Only and Jessie Russell Fuchs PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY Erin Wilson Photography and Films RENTALS CWP Productions, Eventology, and Party Time TRANSPORTATION Twin City Limo VENUE (CEREMONY) Oak Forest United Methodist Church VENUE (RECEPTION) RH Farm (private residence) WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION JoBeth McElhanon, Lilias & Olive
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SELBY + JAMIE C AV E S PR I N G S 3. 1 3. 2 1
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Silks A Bloom infused the celebration with bright, happy florals, including coral ‘Charm’ peonies, blush hydrangeas, orange spray roses, coral roses, and mixed greenery.
W E D D I N G S
For Selby Whitbeck and Jamie Boyd, May 2020 was meant to bring a trip to New Orleans’ famed Jazz & Heritage Fest. In particular, the couple were excited to hear artist John Prine sing their song, “In Spite of Ourselves.” However, when the pandemic began, everything changed. Jamie, who had planned to propose at the festival, still wanted to pop the question that weekend. Rather than in New Orleans, the couple spent the day together in Little Rock on the golf course. He got down on one knee at the 18th hole with their beloved song playing in the background as Selby said yes. After looking at a number of venues, they kept coming back to the idea of Osage House in Northwest Arkansas. Upon touring it, they were blown away by its “simplicity and beauty” and decided on an early March date. Working with Anne-Claire Allen Planning & Design, they dreamed up a day that Selby describes as “playful and fun.” “I could not have survived without my amazing wedding planner. AnneClaire is literally a dreamworker!” The scene was set with an altar adorned with bright florals. The palette was repeated in both the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets, carrying the colorful scheme throughout the ceremony and later into the reception. The menu was also a reflection of the couple’s whimsical style, drawing inspiration from Selby’s favorite restaurant, Cheers in the Heights, and Jamie’s, Taco Bell. Individual stations included everything from chicken street tacos to roasted rosemary pork loin sliders. When the evening ended, cool sparklers lit the way to a 1967 Cadillac DeVille convertible, which the couple used to make their getaway. After a honeymoon in Inlet Beach, Florida, they are now at home in Little Rock.
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SELBY AND JAMIE’S ADVICE TO ENGAGED COUPLES:
“Be present in the moment; everything will work out as it should.”
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Made with pink lemonade and vodka, the couple served “Helena Country Club Bullfrogs” to pay homage to Jamie’s hometown.
FAVORITE FLAVORS
Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe created a three-tiered bridal cake consisting of hummingbird, strawberry, and chocolate layers. The topper, to be shared on their first anniversary, was also the citrus and raspberry jam-filled hummingbird flavor.
Resources
BARTENDING Koon’s Saloon BRIDE’S GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection CAKE Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe CATERING Event Group Catering DANCE FLOOR (CUSTOM) The Dance Floor Man ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) William Reyes ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Chinatown Band FLORAL DESIGN Silks A Bloom GROOM’S AND GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Jos. A Bank HAIR Devin Vanpatter Pate, DVP Hair Salon MAKEUP Madison Domenick, Makeup with Madz PHOTOGRAPHY Kati Mallory Fine Art Photography RENTALS Alpha Lit NWA, Eventology, and Lightworks Events TRANSPORTATION NWA Classic Car Rentals VENUE Osage House VIDEOGRAPHER Lucy Camryn Films WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Anne-Claire Allen Owens, Anne-Claire Allen Planning & Design
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A LV I N A + SAM OM A H A 9.19.20
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“I love soft, gentle colors and that’s exactly how our wedding day looked.” — ALVINA
Sam Struk and his bride, Alvina Vedernikov, met at church. “He caught my eye,” Alvina says, “and he liked me as well but didn’t think he had a chance.” After dating for a year, Sam was ready to pop the question over a picnic of Chipotle. “When we got to the picnic, there was a ‘Will You Marry Me’ sign. I was telling him, ‘Ha! That’s cute,’ and shortly realized it was for me!” Alvina says. Ready to tie the knot, the couple planned their big day in five months. They started by selecting an autumn date. “We wanted the weather to be perfect, so we picked the month of September,” the bride says. “And we were truly blessed with the most beautiful weather.” From there, they looked at a number of venues before finding one that suited their style and
the feel they wanted for the celebration. “When we found Olive View Events, we were just speechless with how beautiful the venue and view were,” Alvina says of the event center located in Omaha, just south of the Arkansas-Missouri border. Working alongside wedding coordinator Elona Skorykh, who also happens to be Alvina’s sister, a dream day began to fall into place. The couple prioritized sharing the special time with loved ones. “We both have large families who mean the world to us,” Alvina says, noting many came from miles away to gather for the celebration. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a steak dinner along with a bridal cake made by a dear friend. After a honeymoon in Mexico, the couple are now making their home in Rogersville, Missouri.
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DREAM FLORALS
Alvina says her wedding Pinterest board came to life upon hiring He Loves Me Flowers. “When I came the morning of the wedding to see the beautiful flowers, I started to tear up because it was all I ever dreamed of and even more,” she says.
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At the top of Alvina and Sam’s must-have list was a coffee bar— complete with a barista—for them and their guests to enjoy.
Resources BRIDE’S GOWN Norman’s Bridal (Springfield, MO) CAKE Anita Yakovlev Cakes CATERING Jamie’s Creative Catering FLORAL DESIGN He Loves Me Flowers (Springfield, MO) PHOTOGRAPHY Snezhana’s Photography RENTALS Eventful Rentals (Springfield, MO) VENUE Olive View Events VIDEOGRAPHER Stephanie Dejeu Design Co. WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Elona Skorykh, Eloskor Events
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E M I LY + MATT C ON WAY 6.19.21
PHOTOGR APHER K YLIE FARMER PHOTOGR APHY
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While they both hail from Mississippi, Emily Guntharp and her groom, Matt Hendrickson, have shared their love around the globe. After meeting at Millsaps College in 2017, Matt proposed two years later on a trip to Venice, Italy. “We were there on vacation with my family and had just been on a gondola ride,” Emily recalls. “When little girls dream of a fairytale proposal, they dream of something like ours. It was an absolutely beautiful place to propose.” During their two-year engagement, the couple searched everywhere for a venue that suited their style. “We had absolutely no idea where to begin looking for a wedding venue, and we weren’t sold on anywhere in particular. After an extensive Google search of non-rustic venues—which are hard to find in Mississippi, particularly—we found Legacy Acres. I knew without even visiting that we would get married there,” Emily says. Working with wedding designer Kaitie Gill, the couple created the “bold, vibrant, and vintage-inspired” day of their dreams. “Our wedding would not have been as perfect as it was without Kaitie. She has truly become a friend over the past couple years and made the process so enjoyable and stressfree,” Emily says. Amidst the backdrop of energizing summer décor, guests were treated to two main courses: shrimp and grits, which are Emily’s favorite food, and corned beef and turkey reubens, Matt’s choice. Additionally, black-eyed pea caviar was served in cornbread muffins to honor the memory of Emily’s great-grandmother. “We are food lovers through and through, so we knew we wanted our menu to be special,” Emily adds. To further make the day reflective of the couple, they shared a video montage of scenes from favorite romance movies and television shows. At the bar, signature cocktails paid tribute to their two French bulldogs, Bonnie and Louie. At the end of the celebration, the officiant drove the couple away in his vintage Volkswagen van. After honeymooning at the same Montego Bay Sandals resort where Matt’s parents spent their first days as newlyweds, the couple are now at home in Starkville, Mississippi. “When I first started looking into wedding dresses, I stumbled across the designer Sarah Seven online. I knew without hesitation that I would wear a Sarah Seven dress,” Emily says.
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HAPPY DAYS
The couple had what Emily refers to as a “1970s, Anthropologie-inspired vision” for the floral design. Designer Brianna Belton used a mix of tropical and bright blooms to execute this idea. “We gave her inspiration, and she went beyond what we could have imagined!” Emily says.
“My everyday style is much more neutral-toned, but our wedding day was the perfect day to bring in the bold colors that I adore!” — EMILY
Resources
BARTENDING Buzzin’ Bee Bartending BRIDE’S GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection CAKE Custom Cakes by Michelle Mayer CATERING Crave Catering Company DANCE FLOOR (CUSTOM) The Dance Floor Man ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Abbey Pierce Music ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION)
DJ Chad Mansfield, Central Arkansas Entertainment FLORAL DESIGN Brianna Belton Designs (Bossier City, Louisiana) HAIR AND MAKEUP Makeup by Bayley LIVE ARTIST Watercolors by Korry PHOTOGRAPHY Kylie Farmer Photography RENTALS Brianna Belton Designs and Eventology VENUE Legacy Acres VIDEOGRAPHER Forestland Films WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Kaitie Gill Weddings
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Sterling Imageworks Photography
A PREMIER EVENT VENUE LEGACYACRESAR.COM
Whether it’s an intimate or elaborate ceremony, your wedding here will be a memorable experience that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Eureka Springs • Arkansas I 1.800.809.5392 I sales@innoftheozarks.com I EurekaWeddings.net Fall/Winter 2021| weddingsinarkansas.com 55
L O O K
ON THE GO
Get Hitched From sips and sweets to photo ops, these mobile vendors are sure to be the life of the party
ICE CREAM
Founded in 2011, Loblolly Creamery (loblollycreamery.com) is an Arkansas favorite for locally made small-batch ice cream. Their colorful truck is available for catering, offering scoops, cones, floats, and sundae bars for special events.
PHOTO BOOTH
COTTON CANDY
Housed in a vintage VW bus named “Pearl Jam,” Das VW FotoFace (dasvwfotoface.com) is a mobile photo booth with personality. Rental includes props tailored to your event.
Cotton candy spun on-site from Lemon + Puff (lemonandpuff.com) offers a unique sweet treat for wedding guests. Offerings include a choice of 15 flavors made with all-natural and organic ingredients.
COFFEE
DRINKS
Whether you want to offer guests a late-night caffeine boost or after-dinner decaf, Campfire Coffee Bar (campfirecoffeebar.com) makes it easy with baristas that come to you. Packages include options for the full truck or a small mobile set-up.
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Toasts in Tow (toastsintow.com) is a mobile bar operating out of a converted covered trailer. Customizable packages include everything from the use of the bar taps for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to bartending service.
Photos by Lexi Adams (Loblolly Creamery), Sydney Rasch (Lemon + Puff), and Boston Mountain Photo (Das VW FotoFace and Campfire Coffee Bar). Toasts in Tow image courtesy of vendor.
L A S T
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