Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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Sissy’s

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PHOTO BY ERIN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY

FULL SERVICE LUXURY WEDDING FLORIST AND BOUTIQUE FLORAL DESIGN 2 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

| EVENT PLANNING | BRIDAL REGISTRY | GIFTS

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Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 3

I N

T H I S

I S S U E

8 WELCOME

inspiration 11 PLAID PERFECTION

A rich palette and tailored selections are hallmarks of this look.

14 FLORAL FÊTE

Garden blooms are a classic addition to wedding celebrations.

17 TIE THE KNOT

Bow-inspired details add a dainty touch to the big day.

21 FORMALLY YOURS

Greystone Estate is the setting for an elegant affair designed by Modern Bliss Weddings.

style 26 WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE

The Reserve at Hot Springs provides a stunning backdrop for the latest in bridal fashion.

Bouquet by Tipton & Hurst

26

real weddings 35 LAQUASHA ROSSON + RAYMOND ROSS 40 BAILEY GRAVES + CHEVY BROCK 44 ASHLEY OWEN + JACOB NORTH 48 BROOKE BORGOGNONI + JAKE LASSITER 52 MALLORY O’QUINN + GRAY MILLSAP 56 LAUREN COLLINS + ANDY BROWN 60 LEXIE HUDDLESTON + BLAKE SANDERS

last look 64 KEEP THEM CLOSE

60

on the cover Model Pristine Bay Pittman-Davidson at The Reserve at Hot Springs. Photography by Steph Smith.

See page 26.

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 20, Number 1

4 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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Publisher

Kelly Fraiser (ext. 101) kelly@athomearkansas.com Editor

Stephanie Maxwell Newton (ext. 102) stephanie@athomearkansas.com Managing Editor

An urban event venue located in the heart of downtown Little Rock.

Tiffany Adams (ext. 104) tiffany@athomearkansas.com Art Director

Steph Smith steph@athomearkansas.com Graphic Designer

Taylor O’Dell graphicartist@athomearkansas.com Social Media Manager

Laura LaRue laura@athomearkansas.com Contributing Stylist

Lauren Cerrato Account Managers

Mary Kathryn Brengard marykathryn@athomearkansas.com Isabella James (ext. 103) isabella@athomearkansas.com Brand Manager

Becca Moore (ext. 106) becca@athomearkansas.com Billing

billing@athomearkansas.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Call 818.286.3115 or email subscribe@athomearkansas.com for customer service

Loft 1023 has four rooms that can be used together or separately for events big or small.

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Annual subscriptions: $12.95 Single copy: $3.95 plus shipping and handling ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in At Home in Arkansas, call 501.666.5510 or email kelly@athomearkansas.com

Editorial & Advertising Office 2207 Cottondale Lane Little Rock, AR 72202 501.666.5510

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 7

From the Editor One of my favorite parts of putting together each issue of Weddings in Arkansas is reading through the responses from real brides and grooms as they reflect on their big days. You can feel the love throughout every reminiscence— no matter how seemingly small. In these interviews, many couples share advice for the newly engaged who are about to embark on wedding planning themselves. One piece of guidance (from Bailey + Chevy, page 40) stood out to me: “Always make decisions as a couple.” What simple, wonderful advice not only for those about to tie the knot, but for those already married—whether it’s been five years or five decades.

Your spouse is your teammate; you don’t have to agree on everything (picking a restaurant or movie is famously difficult for some), but when it really matters, that person is in your corner through every step of life.

If you’re starting to plan your own wedding, there’s the possibility of feeling overwhelmed by how many decisions you’ll need to make before you marry. Good news: You’re not alone! Remember to lean on your significant other throughout the process. Consider it practice for your marriage and the years to come.

Congratulations and best wishes!

Stephanie Maxwell Newton, editor S T E P H A N I E @AT H O M E A R K A N S A S . C O M

8 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

On the Blog Weddings in Arkansas doesn’t stop here—there’s more vendor news, real wedding features, and inspiring styled shoots online at weddingsinarkansas. com/blog.

Submit Your Wedding Want to see your big day featured in the pages of our next issue? Visit weddingsinarkansas.com/submit for information.

Get in Touch!

We love hearing from our readers. If you have a question, correction, or simply want to share your thoughts on a story, email stephanie@ athomearkansas.com. You can also find us on Facebook (@weddingsinarkansas) and Instagram (@weddingsinar).

Photos by Rett Peek (portrait) and Erin Wilson Photography & Films

W E L C O M E

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Beautiful custom wedding and party invitations, stationery, cups, napkins, programs and more curated by designers and tailored to fit your style.

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501.231.1728 | BellaTerraEstate.com

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10 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

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Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 11

I N S P I R AT I O N

Create a sophisticated celebration with well-tailored details and natural hues

1 Custom gold foil letterpress invitation suite featuring a custom monogram and envelope liner based on artwork by the bride’s mother. Created by Stephanie Benton for Amanda Reed Weddings.

Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville SHINDIGPAPERIE.COM

2 Assortment of chocolate and vanilla petit fours.

Blue Cake Co., Little Rock THEBLUECAKECOMPANY.COM 3 Bella Figura “Hawthorne”

invitation suite featuring foil letterpress in Cedar Shine and blind-debossed details.

Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville

SHINDIGPAPERIE.COM

12 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

4 Bouquet of ‘Combo’ roses, dried

fan palm, thistle, dusty miller, copper beech leaves, willow eucalyptus, and spiral eucalyptus.

Tanarah Luxe Floral, Little Rock TANARAHLUXEFLORAL .COM

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 13

I N S P I R AT I O N

FLORAL FÊTE

14 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

Elegance and whimsy unite in Regency era-inspired details

1 Traditional two-tier lemon wedding cake with lemon whippedcream filling, accented with a mix of silk and buttercream flowers.

Blue Cake Co., Little Rock T H E B L U E C A K E C O M PA N Y. C O M

2 Bella Figura “Burklyn” engraved invitation with coordinating reception and save-the-date cards.

The Social Type, Little Rock 5 0 1. 6 61. 9 9 2 9

3 Bouquet of pink and white ‘O’Hara’ garden roses, larkspur, peonies, lisianthus, hydrangeas, spray roses, feverfew daisies, and Italian pittosporum.

Silks A Bloom, Little Rock SILKS -A-BLOOM.COM

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 15

An exceptional venue for a variety of occasions!

SCAN HERE

901 Kellogg Acres Road | NLR, AR 72120 501.838.9224 | info@thevenueatoakdale.com

BEAUTIFUL LAKE SIDE WEDDINGS WITH LAVENDER FIELDS (870) 828-9413 • info@lakebanoe.com Lakebanoe.com • @lakebanoe

Your wedding awaits!

rentals@peelcompton.org WEDDINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS | EVERYDAY DESIGN | SEASONAL DESIGN 5507 R A NCH DR. # 2 L I T T L E ROCK , A RK A NS A S | 501-228 - 6989 | SIL KS - A - BLOOM .COM 16 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

@PeelMuseumNWA

(479) 254-3870 peelcompton.org

400 S. Walton Blvd, Bentonville, AR

I N S P I R AT I O N

Tie the Knot

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 17

I N S P I R AT I O N

18 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

A standout detail and pink palette create a theme that’s simple, subtle, and undeniably feminine

1 Bourbon-vanilla wedding cake with strawberry icing and an edible ribbon.

Sweet Love Bakery, Little Rock SWEETLOVEBAKES.COM

2 Custom letterpress invitation suite with coordinating reply card and floral illustration-lined envelope.

Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville S H I N D I G PA P E R I E . C O M

3 Bouquet of blush peonies, toffee roses, ivory astilbe, lisianthus, rice flowers, and silver dollar eucalyptus.

Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pine Bluff T I P T O N H U R S T. C O M

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 19

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

You Deserve the Best From the elegant glass and wood walls to sweeping views of the Little Rock skyline, the Clinton Presidential Center will exceed your every expectation. Call today to reserve your space.

Photo: Jo Johnson Photography

501-748-0454 | www.clintoncenterweddings.org 20 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

FORMALLY YOURS

Greystone Estate sets the stage for a dreamy wedding scene in Northwest Arkansas W R I T E R S T E P H A N I E M A X W E L L N E W TO N PH O T O G R A PH E R O L I V I A F RY E R M O D E L S G A B E N I XO N A N D M AC K E N Z I E RYA N

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 21

I N S P I R AT I O N

“For the groom, I went with a traditional black tuxedo to stay true to the timeless style,” Meg says.

There’s a history of love carved into the enchanting Greystone Estate in Rogers.

As the story goes, its original owner, Willard Robertson, began constructing the luxurious manor in the 1960s as a surprise for his beloved wife, Marlyn. Now reimagined as a wedding venue by current owners, fine materials and furnishings give Greystone Estate an unmistakable air of romance.

That was certainly the draw when designer Meg Taylor of Modern Bliss Weddings and photographer Olivia Fryer teamed up to create this captivating styled shoot to showcase their talents. “We chose the venue because we loved the intimate setting,” Olivia says. “We had in mind a couple who want a private but lavish affair, and there are many elements that add to that vibe—like the gated entrance, the private forested drive, and the opulence of the home itself.”

For every detail, Meg’s directives were “youthful, ethereal, and elegant.” An element of airy effortlessness runs throughout, from the gardenesque floral design to the bride’s loose curls and off-the-shoulder gown. The designer also wanted to play into Greystone Estate’s formality.

“The manor’s dining room has beautiful European characteristics, and I tried to select items that would elevate the space while keeping its historic charm,” she says. Gold-rimmed china and crystal stemware complement the mahogany-paneled walls and Chippendale furnishings in the candlelit scene.

“There’s an old-world element here that’s somewhat unique among venues in this area, so we wanted to highlight those features,” Olivia says. “The estate just feels very mysterious and romantic.”

A classic invitation suite by Shindig Paperie sets the tone.

22 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

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SWEET DETAILS

Tiers of varying heights and flowers made of sugar give the traditional cake a fresh spin. Green velvet draped on the cake table accentuates the great room’s green marble fireplace for a cohesive look.

Pigmint’s floral design incorporated a muted palette and organic shapes.

24 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

I N S P I R AT I O N

LASTING BEAUTY

Becca's Photography, Sher wood

Greystone Estate derives its name from the ‘Napoleon gray’ marble used throughout the exterior and interior of the home. “One of my favorite features of this venue is the gray marble staircases and outdoor areas,” Olivia says. “The marble photographs beautifully and complements its subjects so well.”

119 Roden Mill Rd, Conway, AR 72032 501-380-0035 | thepinesconway.com @thepinesconway

ONE YEAR for $12.95

Resources

BRIDE’S GOWN AND ACCESSORIES Tesori Bridal CAKE Cakes by Robbin FLORAL DESIGN Pigmint Floral Studio GROOM’S SUIT Mr. Tux NWA HAIR Mackenzie Ruebling Ballou, The Beauty Lounge NWA MAKEUP Veronica Lopez, Artistry by Veronica PAPER GOODS Shindig Paperie PHOTOGRAPHY Olivia Fryer Photography RENTALS Randal Events RINGS David Adams Fine Jewelry VENUE Greystone Estate WEDDING DESIGN AND COORDINATION Meg Taylor, Modern Bliss Weddings

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 25

The “Sarita” gown from Anna Kara’s Daydreaming collection featuring a deep-V neckline, floral lace underlay, and statement-making detachable sleeves.

Tesori, Fayetteville TESORIBRIDALFORMAL .COM

Bouquet by Silks A Bloom

26 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

S T Y L E

Where Dreams Come True From modern glam to classically chic, take inspiration for your bridal style from these gowns and gems 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 P R I S T I N E B AY P I T T M A N - DAV I D S O N H A I R & M A K E U P A R T I S T J A M I E LY N N J O N E S S T Y L I S T L A U R E N C E R R AT O

Shot on location at The Reserve at Hot Springs

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 27

S T Y L E

18K white gold engagement ring with halo and cushion-cut diamond, 14K white gold milgrain wedding band, platinum and diamond “Riviera” necklace, and 14K white gold and diamond twist hoop earrings.

Sissy’s Log Cabin, Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Jonesboro, Memphis, and Conway SISSYSLOGCABIN.COM

28 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

Mikado silk trumpet skirt gown with dual spaghetti straps and ballerina neckline.

Low’s Bridal, Brinkley LOWSBRIDAL .COM

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 29

S T Y L E

30 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

S T Y L E

18K oval diamond engagement ring with pavé setting and matching band, shown with 14K white gold diamond bracelet and JB Star platinum and diamond earrings.

Romance Diamond, Fayetteville ROMANCEDIAMOND.COM

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 31

S T Y L E

32 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

S T Y L E

Crepe sheath-style dress with chiffon puff sleeves and rickrack trim.

Low’s Bridal, Brinkley LOWSBRIDAL .COM

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 33

S T Y L E

Strapless gown with a deep plunge neckline and floral appliques featuring sparkle and lace.

Low’s Bridal, Brinkley LOWSBRIDAL .COM

34 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

L A QUA SH A + R AY MON D C O N WAY 1 1 . 6 . 2 1 PHOTOGRAPHER ERIN WILSON

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 35

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

R

aymond Ross and LaQuasha Rosson’s love story has been almost a decade in the making. The two met and began dating in 2012 when they saw each other at a fraternity/sorority function at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Fast forward to 2015, and Raymond gave LaQuasha the surprise of her life when he proposed at his own birthday party. Raymond’s sister announced she had made a video to share at the party; it started with pictures of him, then faded to LaQuasha’s parents saying, “Yes, you can marry our daughter.” When the scene ended, Raymond was on one knee. “I am hard to surprise, because I am so nosy—but this was definitely a surprise!” the bride recalls.

Originally set for 2017, the couple postponed their wedding for LaQuasha to attend nursing school. Wanting to take advantage of the seasonal landscape, they decided on a fall date in 2021. To set the tone for the celebration, floral designer Tanarah Haynie and wedding planner Jessika McCuin asked LaQuasha how she wanted to feel on her wedding day.

Her response was, “I want it to be so overwhelming that all I can do is cry because I am speechless.” This was, in fact, the response the team received when LaQuasha viewed the ballroom the day of the wedding.

After exchanging vows, the Rosses invited guests to a sit-down dinner featuring favorites such as garden salads with watermelon radishes, chicken with chimichurri sauce, and brisket.

The cake was a confection of almond, lemon, chocolate, and carrot cake layers—with a flavor each chosen by the bride, groom, and their two children.

When the evening ended, the couple made their way through a crowd of wellwishers holding light sticks to escape in a classic 1940s Cadillac and on to their honeymoon in Puerto Rico.

36 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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Inspired by the couple’s fall wedding date, Tanarah Luxe Floral incorporated branches with autumn color into the design.

TRADITION WITH A TWIST

To symbolize their marriage, the couple “jumped the broom” after the ceremony. “We did this with the most beautiful broom anyone ever did see,” LaQuasha says, pointing to the embellishments Tanarah Luxe Floral added.

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 37

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COLOR THEM HAPPY

Inspired by their son, RJ, and daughter, Raegan, considerations for children were a big part of LaQuasha and Raymond’s celebration.

Crayons and custom coloring sheets made from the couple’s engagement pictures were a fun element on specially reserved tables for kids.

A bar at the entrance to Legacy Acres’ ballroom greeted guests with signature cocktails.

In lieu of a groom’s cake, the couple served bitesized portions of caramel cake, banana pudding, key lime pie, and strawberry shortcake.

38 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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HIS AND HER SIPS

For their signature drinks, Raymond selected “Alpha punch” as a nod to his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, while LaQuasha opted for a Moscow mule.

Resources

BRIDE’S GOWN Inverness Bridal BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES David’s Bridal CAKE PattiCakes Bakery CATERING Vibrant Occasions ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) DJ Tee Rose, Central Arkansas Entertainment FAVORS AND PAPER GOODS By Invitation Only FLORAL DESIGN Tanarah Luxe Floral HAIR Cushena Scott, SHE the Salon MAKEUP Haley Hanna, Lash Out and Makeup and Kayla Daniels, Kayla D Artistry PHOTOGRAPHY Erin Wilson, Erin Wilson Photography and Films RENTALS Crown Entertainment, Eventology, and The Dance Floor Man TRANSPORTATION Vintage Motor Cars VENUE Legacy Acres VIDEOGRAPHER Josh Wilson, Erin Wilson Photography and Films WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN Jessika McCuin Weddings

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 39

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

BA I L E Y + CH E V Y SILOA M SPR INGS 10.2.21

PHOTOGRAPHER CALLIE AND JAISON STERLING

40 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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W E D D I N G S

GOLDEN TOUCH

With the help of their families, the couple found more than 80 candlesticks at thrift stores.

They used them throughout the wedding day décor.

T

exarkana natives Bailey Graves and Chevy Brock met through mutual friends one summer, and soon thereafter began an 8-year courtship.

When the time came for a proposal, Bailey admits she was more than ready. “I had been wanting him to propose for a while and was always somewhat expecting it whenever we did anything,” she says. Chevy decided a trip to Chicago to celebrate Bailey’s birthday would be the perfect time to pop the question. “About an hour before he proposed, he basically told me that if I continued to ask, he wouldn’t propose because I would ruin the surprise.

And then, on a walk around the city, he got down on one knee and all I could say was, Are you serious?”

Inspired by a terracotta color Bailey had loved for years, the two chose an October 2020 date when nature’s hues would complement the palette. However, with COVID restrictions in place at the time, they opted to push the

ceremony a year, ultimately exchanging vows in 2021. As for the venue, Chevy found The Brick Ballroom and the pair fell for its “exposed brick, open ceilings, and historical feel,” Bailey says. “It also used to be a Chevy dealership, which is ironic,” she adds.

With all the plans set, Bailey and Chevy exchanged vows they wrote themselves in the company of 200 guests. “Both of us ended up writing them the day of the wedding, of course, and it turned out to be somewhat of a competition,” Chevy says with a laugh. Both he and Bailey say this was their favorite and the most meaningful part of the day. “Chevy was crying, I was crying, our family was crying,” Bailey recalls. “His words were beautiful and so full of love.” “Regardless of who wrote the better vows, we were both able to articulate what the other meant to us, and we both ended up winning in the end,” Chevy says.

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 41

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

Bohemian-inspired florals from Stems by Em carried the palette of terracotta and cream throughout the celebration.

BAILE Y’S ADVICE TO ENGAGED COUPLES:

“Always make decisions as a couple.

While Chevy didn’t have opinions on everything, his validation of my ideas made the day feel and look like what we were both envisioning.”

42 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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W E D D I N G S

A three-tiered cheesecake was served as the groom’s cake.

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 couple exited their ceremony in a cloud of bubbles created by their friends and family.

Resources

BRIDE'S GOWN Inverness Bridal CAKE Rick’s Bakery CATERING Catering Concepts FLORAL DESIGN Stems by Em HAIR Whitney Burr, Urban Society Salon MAKEUP Whitney Burr, Urban Society Salon, Madie Mazur Beauty and Cassie Oaks PAPER GOODS By Invitation Only PHOTOGRAPHY Sterling Imageworks Photography RENTALS CWP and Eventology RINGS Sissy’s Log Cabin VENUE The Brick Ballroom VIDEOGRAPHY Complete Weddings and Events

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 43

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

A SH L E Y + JAC OB L I T T L E ROCK 9.18.2 1

44 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

PHOTOGRAPHER STEPH SMITH

R E A L

W E D D I N G S

SOUTHERN GRACE

From Ashley’s bouquet to the base of a tree at the reception, Tipton & Hurst combined timeless favorites, such as blue hydrangeas, antique roses, lisianthus, and silver dollar eucalyptus throughout the floral design.

L

ittle Rock natives Ashley Owen and Jacob North met through mutual friends in high school. After dating for five years, Jacob proposed while on a family vacation to one of Ashley’s favorite places, St. George Island, Florida. “We were all supposed to be taking family pictures during the sunset. I turned around to see Jacob getting down on one knee,” she recalls.

Because both are outdoor enthusiasts, they envisioned an open air reception in late summer or early fall— so as not to interfere with their other favorite pastimes, Razorback football and hunting season. While they were certain of their ceremony location, Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church, they were unsure of the ideal place to celebrate afterward. As luck would have it, they passed the Old State House Museum on their way to visit another venue. “It completely captured the tone we had imagined,” Ashley says of the historic setting and welcoming lawn. Additionally, many of their guests were able to stay at nearby hotels, allowing them to walk to the celebration and take in the downtown area.

Wedding designer JoBeth McElhanon of Lilias and Olive helped pull details into place to make the day a true reflection of Ashley and Jacob.

Welcome tents and bars situated on the lawn to greet guests, live entertainment from The Sensations soul band, and dining selections such as tomato tartlets and shrimp skewers all added to the “Southern garden party” feel the couple desired. At the end of the evening, the couple made their exit with a second line. After a honeymoon in Costa Rica, they are now at home in Little Rock.

Spring/Summer 2022 | weddingsinarkansas.com 45

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SILVER SERVICE

Champagne, signature cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres were passed to guests on pieces of Ashley’s family’s silver collection.

Ashley and Jacob’s son, Jackson, took on a special role as the ring bearer.

46 Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2022

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Guests received a bottle of Jacob’s parents’ famous homemade barbecue sauce as a favor.

Floral detailing on Ashley’s gown inspired the design seen on the classic vanilla buttercream cake.

A second line led from the Old State House to the Capital Hotel at the night’s end.

Resources

ACCOMMODATIONS The Capital Hotel BRIDE’S GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bella Bridesmaids CAKE Custom Cakes by Michelle Mayer CATERING Scallions ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) The Sensations Band (Memphis, TN) FLORAL DESIGN Tipton & Hurst GROOM’S AND GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Men’s Wearhouse HAIR AND MAKEUP Hannah Karr PAPER GOODS The Social Type RENTALS Confetti's Party Rental Company RINGS Sissy’s Log Cabin PHOTOGRAPHY Steph Smith VENUE (CEREMONY) Pulaski Heights Methodist Church VENUE (RECEPTION) Old State House Museum WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN JoBeth McElhanon, Lilias & Olive

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BROOK E + JA K E ROL AND 5.15.21

PHOTOGRAPHER KIM CHRISTOPHER

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PRECIOUS PEARLS

For her something borrowed, Brooke’s mother loaned her a pearl bracelet that once belonged to her late grandmother.

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ometimes the thing—or person—you’ve been looking for has been there all along. This was the case for Brooke Borgognoni and Jake Lassiter. The pair have known each other their entire lives, with a formal introduction coming in elementary school; however, they never dated until after college graduation. Two years later, Jake proposed while the couple celebrated their anniversary at Cache Restaurant in Little Rock.

Both natives of the Lake Village area, the two were unsure of where they wanted to tie the knot. “I went to dinner with one of my bridesmaids, and she mentioned Moss Mountain Farm,” Brooke recalls. “After touring the grounds, I knew it was the place.” Wanting to take full advantage of the setting’s gardens at their

peak in May, the couple had just six months to plan their dream day. “I knew it would be magical in such a beautiful location, but wow was it amazing the day of the wedding. All of the flowers were in bloom, which really made the event that much more spectacular,” Brooke says.

Wedding designer Anna Dickinson helped coordinate the afternoon affair, which included a light menu featuring individual charcuterie boards and hors d’oeuvres. These selections were complemented with the bride’s cake, Italian cream, and groom’s cake, a strawberry flavor. When it was time to leave, 150 wellwishers tossed rose petals as the Lassiters made their grand exit. The pair are planning a one-year anniversary trip to the Florida Keys to celebrate their nuptials.

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In a nod to her family’s heritage, Brooke selected Italian cream for the bridal cake flavor.

SMALL BITES, BIG TASTE

Since the pair hosted an afternoon wedding, they wanted to keep the fare light. Individual charcuterie boards provided the perfect selection of fresh samplings.

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Boxes of pink macarons were given as favors.

Brooke and Jake shared their first dance to “La Vie en Rose.”

Resources

BRIDE’S GOWN Low’s Bridal BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES The Bridal Cottage CAKE Blue Cake Co. CATERING Vibrant Occasions ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Rodney Block ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Rodney Block Band and Bijoux FLORAL DESIGN Tanarah Luxe Floral GROOM AND GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Men’s Wearhouse HAIR Ashley Swain Creative MAKEUP Lauren Benet PAPER GOODS By Invitation Only PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Christopher Photography RENTALS CWP and Eventology RINGS Sissy’s Log Cabin VENUE Moss Mountain Farm VIDEOGRAPHY Kate Carper, Carper Media Productions WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN Anna Dickinson, Perception by Anna

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M A L LORY+ GR AY LITTLE ROCK 5.8.21 PHOTOGRAPHER THE BROTHERS MARTENS

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Mallory carried a bouquet of peach French tulips, a favorite for both her and her mother.

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allory O’Quinn and Gray Millsap ran in the same circles throughout their time at Little Rock’s Central High; however, it wasn’t until years later that the two fell for one another. During the holiday season, they were both in town visiting family and hit it off on a bowling night with friends. A year and a half later, Gray proposed to Mallory on their back porch over margaritas.

Although the couple live in Texas, they wanted to be married in their hometown, and Mallory knew the perfect location: the backyard of Gray’s family home. “We pictured our wedding to be intimate in such a meaningful space and to feel at home,” the bride says. They also wanted their guests to “feel immersed in the celebration.”

Mallory worked with her best friend (and bridesmaid), Macy Pulliam of Dallas-based Social Llama Events, to put a signature spin on the big day. One of the biggest undertakings came in transforming the backyard into a

true destination. A tent was a must-have on the couple’s list to make this happen. “We built a special structure with Gray’s childhood home and street on one side and lush forest on the other. Once in the tent, you were truly present,” Mallory says.

Following the garden ceremony, guests dined on a trifecta of culinary favorites, including barbecue to represent their Arkansas upbringings, Tex Mex, and Asian stir-fry, before taking to the dance floor. “We knew we had to have a big band and made a caveat for no break—no time to stop the party!” Mallory says. At the end of the evening the newlyweds shared a final dance while guests did a second line exit to the front of the house. Guests called the Hogs and cool sparklers exploded as they made their way to a baby blue Cadillac that took them to the Capital Hotel for the evening.

After a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the Millsaps are now at home in Dallas.

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“Everything about the weekend was special and intentional as an ode to our Arkansas roots.”

— MALLORY O’QUINN MILLSAP

LOVE STRIKES

As a nod to their meeting place—and the site of their first kiss—a custom booth was created to mimic a bowling alley, complete with cubbies holding iconic leather shoes. The booth also held a three-tiered wedding cake, a champagne tower, and a fun fact sheet designed to look like a bowling scorecard with details about the couple.

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Cocktail napkins depicted the venue as well as the couple’s dogs.

Mallory and Gray shared their first dance to “Nobody But You” by Charles Bradley.

Resources

ACCOMMODATIONS The Capital Hotel CAKE Blue Cake Co. ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Jack Dawson and Patrick O’Brien ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) The Party Jammers (Memphis, TN) FLORAL DESIGN Tanarah Luxe Floral HAIR Heather Copeland, The Fix Salon LIGHTING Central Arkansas Entertainment LIVE ARTIST Steve Griffith PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY The Brothers Martens (Dallas, TX) RENTALS Central Arkansas Entertainment, Eventology and Social Llama Rentals (Dallas, TX) TRANSPORTATION Vintage Motor Cars WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN Social Llama Events (Dallas, TX)

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L AU R E N + A N DY C AV E S P R I N G S 5 . 1 4 . 2 1 PHOTOGRAPHER ERIN WILSON

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MEANINGFUL MEMENTO

A locket holding a picture of her late mother was incorporated into Lauren’s bouquet, keeping her memory close throughout the ceremony.

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pringdale native Lauren Collins and her future husband, Andy Brown, who is from nearby Joplin, Missouri, were an office romance before their marriage. The pair dated for three years before he popped the question in Seattle, where they live currently. In a grand fashion, Andy drove Lauren to a downtown building where they, along with their two Bernese mountain dogs, boarded a helicopter for Mount Rainier. Here, Andy proposed over a picturesque picnic.

With two requirements—amazing flowers for Lauren and a fantastic band for Andy—they set out to plan their dream day back in Northwest Arkansas. They envisioned a romantic event that was also fun for them and their guests. “We wanted to throw the party of our lives,” Lauren says. Wedding designer Natasha Gates helped them do just that. Working with Silks A Bloom, they

translated the vision into lavish floral arrangements that set the tone. “We wanted something extravagant in both quantity and scale but also romantic in color, and Silks A Bloom knocked it out of the park,” Lauren says. To honor the memory of her mother, who passed away in 2011, Lauren asked for pieces of her mom’s wedding gown to be incorporated into the bouquets. Additionally, her mother and other relatives who have passed on were honored at a memory table.

Guests celebrated the couple in a fairytale setting complete with a dance floor ready to welcome revelers.

When the festivities ended, Lauren and Andy made their getaway to 21c Museum Hotel in a classic convertible.

From there, they took a mini-moon to Charleston, South Carolina, and are planning an upcoming 16-day cruise to Antarctica to round out their celebration.

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A floral installation graces the entrance to Osage House.

Rose-adorned arches welcomed guests— and the couple—to the ceremony.

L AUREN AND ANDY'S ADVICE TO ENGAGED COUPLES:

“Plan the wedding you want to attend.

Focus on what you want and what makes you excited—and hire a planner. Natasha deserves all the credit for making our wedding what it was!”

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Wax seals depicting horses are a nod to the couple’s horse farm in Washington.

Resources

ACCOMMODATIONS 21c Museum Hotel CAKE Harps CATERING Catering Unlimited ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Smoothman Music Productions ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Jordan Kahn Music Company FLORAL DESIGN Silks A Bloom HAIR AND MAKEUP Salon Beaux LIGHTING Lightworks PAPER GOODS Shindig Paperie PHOTOGRAPHY Erin Wilson, Erin Wilson Photography and Videography RENTALS Eventology and Stage King SERVICE (BARTENDING) Koon Saloon TRANSPORTATION NWA Classic Car Rental and Pinnacle Car Services VIDEOGRAPHER Josh Wilson, Erin Wilson Photography and Videography VENUE Osage House WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN Natasha Gates Events

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LEXIE + BL A K E HOT SPRINGS 12.11.21

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THE SWEETEST DAY

Lexie and Blake exchanged vows in a small private ceremony at Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens.

exie Huddleston and Blake Sanders met at a high school football game and soon became close friends before they made their relationship official their freshman year at the University of Arkansas. The pair dated for seven years before Blake popped the question on campus in front of Old Main. “Both of our families were there, and it was very special. The U of A is where our relationship started and we made so many amazing memories during our four years there,” Lexie says.

With a winter wedding in mind, the two set a date in February. However, as the time grew near, COVID cases began to rise during the winter months.

Not wanting to wait any longer to say “I do,” Lexie and Blake opted to exchange vows in a private ceremony at Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens on their set date and celebrate with family and friends at a reception later in the year. “I will never forget when the chapel doors opened and I saw Blake waiting for me surrounded by our families. It was intimate and beautiful,” Lexie says of the ceremony.

When it came time to celebrate, the two had a particular destination in mind: Hot Springs’ Memorial Field Airport. The theme runs deep in Blake’s family: he has his pilot’s license, his dad has been a pilot for 40 years, and his grandfather was even married in a plane while flying over Hot Springs. Working with planner Jessika McCuin, the hangar was transformed into a polished and elegant venue using the selected palette of black, white, gold, and tan. Guests dined on the couple’s favorite Mexican food selections before dancing the night away. When the party was over, friends and family created a tunnel of sparklers for the newlyweds’ exit. “Our wedding reception exceeded all of my expectations,” the bride says.

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SWEET DETAIL

Chocolate, lemon, and coconut layers comprised the wedding cake, which featured an elegant bow embellishment in the colors of the night.

A coffee bar and firepits warmed guests outside the hangar.

“Making our grand entrance into the hangar is my favorite memory of the day. Blake and I waited so long for that moment, and finally getting to celebrate our marriage with our friends and family meant everything to us.”

— LEXIE SANDERS

Resources

BRIDE’S GOWN Inverness Bridal BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES David’s Bridal CAKE PattiCakes Bakery CATERING Coco’s Catering ENTERTAINMENT DJ JellyBean FLORAL DESIGN Tanarah Luxe Floral HAIR Isabella Baker and Kalie Rylee, Serenity Salon MAKEUP Adrianne Brooks, Whiplash Beauty PHOTOGRAPHY B. Matthews Photo RENTALS Central Arkansas Entertainment, The Dance Floor Man, Eventology and TNT Staffing TRANSPORTATION Elite Limo and Hot Springs Trolley VENUE (CEREMONY) Garvan Woodland Gardens VENUE (RECEPTION) Memorial Field Airport VIDEOGRAPHER Forestland Films WEDDING COORDINATION AND DESIGN Jessika McCuin Weddings

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L A S T

L O O K

KEEP THEM CLOSE

LAUREN SANDERS & EVAN STATON

Lauren carried a piece of one of her late father’s embroidered shirts to feel him close on her wedding day.

Photos by Sterling Imageworks Photography

Sentimental keepsakes incorporated into wedding details make the day even more meaningful

SUMMER CHASE & JACKSON LOWERY

Framed miniature photos of Summer’s late father and grandparents were tied with ribbons to her bouquet.

JORDAN NORTHCUTT & BLAKE PLYLER

SHELBY DANIELS & ETHAN VONNAHME

Jordan wore a bracelet gifted from her great-greatgrandfather to his bride on their wedding day in 1894.

Shelby wore her grandmother’s sorority pin as an ode to the sisterhood she shares with three generations of family, as well as to represent something old, borrowed, and blue.

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