Weddings in Arkansas | Spring/Summer 2023

3:30 PM INFIELD

Weddings are better at Oaklawn. A variety of venues, delicious in-house catering, a hospitality team with an eye for detail. A luxury hotel for all your guests. After the reception, keep the party going in our 24/7 casino and Mainline Sports Bar. Weddings at Oaklawn. Let’s plan yours.

YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE.

Kayleigh Ross Photography

8 WELCOME

inspiration

9 SIMPLY SOPHISTICATED

12 ORANGE ZEST

14 GARDEN WHIMSY

16 FAIRYTALE FEEL

In Jonesboro, Culver Creations blends contemporary and traditional design elements.

18 A MODERN CLASSIC

Artful floral installations by Vase & Vine set the scene for a styled shoot in Dardanelle.

style

20 SCENE STEALERS

Floral patterns, shimmering jewels, and special details create wow-worthy wedding looks.

real weddings

29 KAYLEIGH KISER + PAUL PROPST

33 ARHITA DASGUPTA + BILLY HUPP

37 CAROLINE OUDIN + DAVID POLLARD

41 KELLY LAMB + JD BRUNING

45 SARAH STOIBER + KAMERON KEESLING

49 YAYA CISWONDO + REN É LEONARD

special section

53 TRENDSETTERS

last look

64 SHARE THE LOVE on

the cover

Model Maurelys Wade photographed in the home of Drs. Jim and Ann Ballard Bryan. Photography by Molly Anne Sandefur. See page 20.

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, Weddings 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

Publisher

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

Editor in Chief

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

Art Director Bailey Dougan (ext. 106) bailey@athomearkansas.com

Online Editor

Laura LaRue (ext. 104) laura@athomearkansas.com

Advertising Art Manager

Taylor Evans taylor@athomearkansas.com

Contributing Copy Editor

Susan Darcey

Contributing Photographer

Molly Anne Sandefur

Contributing Stylist

Lauren Cerrato

Contributing Writers

Tiffany Adams and Virginia Brown

Account Managers Isabella James (ext. 103) isabella@athomearkansas.com

Office Coordinator Lisa Spicer (ext. 100) lisa@athomearkansas.com

Billing billing@athomearkansas.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

Annual subscriptions: $15.95

Single copy: $3.95 plus shipping and handling

ADVERTISING

For information about advertising in Weddings in Arkansas or 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

From the Editor

For my rehearsal dinner, I combined black-and-white pictures of both my and my husband’s parents and our four sets of grandparents, all on their wedding days, in one big floating frame. I set it on a table near the bar so guests could take a look as they mingled before dinner. I had wanted a place to honor the most special people in our lives, but the framed collage also became a kind of study in wedding trends over the decades. For example, there’s my mom’s lace-trimmed veil peeking out from behind her Farrah Fawcett waves, and the tiny bride-andgroom topper on my maternal grandparents’ wedding cake. I especially love the candid snapshot of my husband’s paternal grandparents in their getaway car, “Just Married! Look Out!” written on the side of the door.

After our rehearsal dinner and all the excitement that followed, I brought the frame home and set it on a shelf in our dining room where it has stayed on display ever since. I couldn’t bring myself to disassemble it even after it had served its purpose; the joy on our family’s young faces is palpable, and it’s nice to see them all gathered in one place.

There’s no denying that photography is one of the biggest parts of planning a wedding these days. Finding a photographer is on the top of a bride and groom’s to-do list when they first get engaged, and this service often requires a sizable portion of the budget, too. If you’re sentimental like I am, every penny is worth it to capture those memories—not just for you to enjoy, but for your loved ones for years to come.

Best wishes for your big day!

Submit Your Wedding

Want to see your big day (or styled shoot!) 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).

Stephanie Maxwell Newton, Editor in Chief STEPHANIE@ATHOMEARKANSAS.COM

Photos by Rett Peek (portrait), Kati Mallory

Photo & Design (top), and Sterling Imageworks (bottom)

SOPHISTICATED SIMPLY

Rich, chocolatey brown and touches of gold set the scene

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PRODUCER BAILEY DOUGAN PHOTOGRAPHER MOLLY ANNE SANDEFUR

Two-tier textured vanilla buttercream cake adorned with neutral florals and layered ruffles. Blue Cake Co., Little Rock THEBLUECAKECOMPANY.COM

A

TANARAHLUXEFLORAL.COM

bridal bouquet of ‘Play Blanca’ roses, ‘Triple-bloom’ white lilies, eucalyptus, and dried botanicals tied with a silk ribbon. Tanarah Luxe Floral, Little Rock

Custom invitation suite with gold-foiled letterpress and magnolia envelope liner. The Social Type, Little Rock THESOCIALTYPELR.COM

Custom letterpress invitation with blind emboss detailing and envelope liner. Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville SHINDIGPAPERIE.COM

Philippe Deshoulieres “Trianon Gold” porcelain china. Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, and Pine Bluff TIPTONHURST.COM

ORANGE ZEST

Citrus accents add interest to a sweet and summery wedding theme

Green tulip ceramic dinnerware. Cobblestone & Vine, Bentonville and Little Rock COBBLESTONEANDVINE.COM

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PRODUCER BAILEY DOUGAN PHOTOGRAPHER MOLLY ANNE SANDEFUR

A bridal bouquet of ‘Free Spirit’ roses, anemones, tulips, ranunculus, strawflower, eriostemon, and faux kumquats. Vase & Vine, Clarksville VASEANDVINEFLORAL.COM

“Duval” invitation suite by Lindsy Talarico for Bella Figura featuring a coordinating belly band and envelope liner. Shindig Paperie, Fayetteville SHINDIGPAPERIE.COM

Iced petit fours featuring imagery of oranges, greenery, and blue and orange rosettes. Blue Cake Co., Little Rock THEBLUECAKECOMPANY.COM

GARDENwhimsy

Delicate details and a springtime palette create a wonderland feel

“Gweneth” wedding invitation by Alyssa Tidd for Bella Figura featuring gold-foil letterpress and an orange floral envelope liner. The Social Type, Little Rock THESOCIALTYPELR.COM

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PRODUCER BAILEY DOUGAN PHOTOGRAPHER MOLLY ANNE SANDEFUR

A bridal bouquet of roses, cremones, delphinium, stock, peonies, mini carnations, thistle, and lisianthus.

Pieces from Anna Weatherley’s “Anna’s Palette,” Herend’s “Chinese Bouquet,” and Richard Ginori’s “Oriente Italiano.” Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, and Pine Bluff TIPTONHURST.COM

Buttercream wedding cake with piped flowers and hummingbird filling.

Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe, Rogers SHELBYLYNNSCAKESHOPPE.COM

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

FEEL

Colorblocked flowers and a quaint chapel setting provide the backdrop for a storybook romance

BELLE BACKDROP

The chapel at Gateley Hill Gardens in Dardanelle provided just the European garden feel the creative team desired. “I have always loved this venue, and it was the perfect fit for the vision we were going for with this shoot,” Gina says.

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER JAYCE KEIL PHOTOGRAPHY MODELS RACHAEL AND ERIC DOYLE

Sometimes the best creative endeavors feel like kismet. Such was the case when photographer Jayce Keil reached out to Gina Taverner, owner of Clarksville florist Vase & Vine, to work together on a styled shoot. “It was the perfect opportunity to have Rachael—one of our freelancers who has always wanted to be a part of one of our styled shoots—come on as our model and co-collaborator,” Gina says. For Rachael, it was a sentimental creative opportunity. “My husband and I had eloped a few years ago and we didn’t have any flowers, so

when Gina talked to me about the shoot, I was like, ‘yes, please!’” Rachael says. With her husband, Eric, modeling beside her, the day took on an additional layer of meaning.

For the look and feel of the shoot, the Vase & Vine team decided on a “renaissance European garden” aesthetic with a moody palette of florals. “We wanted to also incorporate an element we really hadn’t had the chance to do before, using the flowers to create a colorblocking effect,” Gina says. The end result is an artful installation that was used around the chapel doors and as a stand-alone arbor in a nearby field.

Rachael’s dress was another instance of serendipity: She found it on a spur-of-the-moment shopping trip after a wedding install with Vase & Vine, tried it on, and it was the perfect fit. “It was as if it was just meant to be,” Gina says.

Vase & Vine incorporated more than a dozen types of flowers, branches, and vines into the design, creating an ombré effect that flows from lavender to orange. Some elements were foraged from Gina’s garden.

Resources FLORAL DESIGN Vase & Vine HAIR AND MAKEUP Kristin Hale

PHOTOGRAPHY Jayce Keil Photography & Film VENUE Gateley Hill Gardens

FLORAL FOCUS

A MODERNC |assic

Wedding designer Kait Culver adds contemporary appeal to a traditional wedding scene

When it came time for Kait Culver to wed her college sweetheart, she planned the whole affair herself. “I’ve always loved to design and I love helping people,” she says. “When I was planning my own wedding, I had so much fun with it.” Not two years after her big day, she founded wedding planning and design company Culver Creations to help others enjoy the process as much as she did.

For this styled shoot, Kait’s inspiration was a clean, classic look that would still feel approachable. “I wanted the feeling of love to come through with the photos,” she says. “That’s what I love on wedding days: that you can feel the love in the air.”

She linked up with photographer Alice McLain over coffee and they got to work brainstorming, first deciding on the venue: The Gardens at Harmony in Jonesboro. “It has that open and inviting feel,” Kait says, “balancing the industrial elements with the warmth of the greenhouse, and it has huge windows that bring in a lot of natural light.”

Kait wanted to blend a traditional black-and-white look with a few bolder, more modern elements, such as oversized, light-up marquee letters. The models, husbandand-wife duo Carly and Terrence Allen, were friends of the photographer’s. “They’re both really funny and kept us laughing the whole time,” Kait says. “I like it when you can feel the love through the pictures, and it’s easy to capture when you have a married couple.”

WRITER VIRGINIA BROWN PHOTOGRAPHER ALICE MCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY MODELS CARLY AND TERENCE ALLEN

MODERN MENU

Kait designed the menu herself. “I’ve never done something like it before, but it got my creative juices flowing,” she says. A minimal layout featuring a traditional serif font creates the balance Kait aimed for throughout the shoot.

GOING GREEN

To offset the classic-and-modern interplay of the menu and table settings, Kait added subtle color through the florals: Baccharis, an earthy filler flower, creates an unexpected runner. Gold candlesticks add a bit of weight and classic elegance.

IN THE MIDDLE

“I love the challenge when the groom likes one style or the bride likes the other, or the bride doesn’t know what she likes,” Kait says. “I like to find common ground.” Here, she created this balance with a blend of classic, elegant tastes and simple, modern accents.

For the cake, a tiered design by Krystal Swiercz of Suga Sisters is wrapped in a marble fondant and painted inside with edible gold.

Resources BRIDAL GOWN Jessica’s Bridal & Formal CAKE Suga Sisters FLORAL DESIGN Deep South Floral Design & Decorating GROOM’S SUIT Men N’ Black Tuxedos HAIR AND MAKEUP Muse Beauty PHOTOGRAPHY Alice McLain Photography PLANNING & DESIGN Culver Creations RENTALS Artents and Blossom Events & Florist VENUE The Gardens at Harmony

The groom’s maroon suit complements the bride’s off-the-shoulder gown by Verra Valle Couture.

SCENE STEALERS

PHOTOGRAPHER MOLLY ANNE SANDEFUR

ART

STYLIST

HAIR

DIRECTOR BAILEY DOUGAN

LAUREN CERRATO

MODEL MAURELYS WADE, SCULP AGENCY

& MAKEUP ARTIST LAVONNE WOOD

Special thanks to Drs. Jim and Ann Ballard Bryan for the use of their historic home, which was recently restored by Justin Elbert of CJE Construction.

Turn to page 24 for details about this look.

FROM FEATHERY NECKLINES TO OVERSIZED PEARLS, THESE LOOKS OFFER A PLAYFUL TAKE ON ELEGANT WEDDING WEAR

Strapless gown featuring a sweetheart neckline, tulle train, floral accents, and pearl embellishments. Low’s Bridal, Brinkley LOWSBRIDAL.COM

Bouquet of baby’s breath from Tipton & Hurst. Jewelry from Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers.

“Iris” gown by Anna Kara featuring romantic floral embroidery, ruched detailing, and an illusion neckline, paired with Untamed Petals’ “Fiona” veil, a two-tier, cathedral-length veil with a ruffle edge.

Tesori Bridal, Fayetteville TESORIBRIDALFORMAL.COM

A bouquet of ‘Quicksand’ and ‘Sweet Unique’ roses, red spray roses, pink hydrangeas, pink and purple stock, white veronica, calla lilies, jasmine vine, and silver dollar eucalyptus.

Tipton & Hurst, Conway, Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pine Bluff TIPTONHURST.COM

South Sea pearl and diamond drop earrings, riviera diamond necklace, floral design diamond bracelet, and marquise-cut diamond engagement ring featuring a diamond halo.

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

SISSYSLOGCABIN.COM

“Maven” by Evie Young jacquard A-line gown featuring a sweetheart neckline, floral pattern, and horse-hair hem, with a pearl-accented veil. Inverness Bridal, Conway INVERNESSBRIDAL.COM

Earrings from Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers. Necklace from Sissy ’s Log Cabin.

ROMANCEDIAMOND.COM

Pearl necklace, pearl stud earrings with halo of diamonds, large pearl and diamond ring, and diamond coil bracelet. Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers, Fayetteville and Rogers

Dress from Low’s Bridal.

Badgley Mischka strapless belted midi dress with a feather bodice. Unveiled Bridal Collection, Little Rock UNVEILEDLITTLEROCK.COM

Earrings from Sissy’s Log Cabin.

Necklace and flower-shaped diamond ring. Sissy’s Log Cabin, Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Jonesboro, Memphis, and Conway SISSYSLOGCABIN.COM

Lisa Nik 18k white gold diamond hoops with detachable diamond drops. Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers, Fayetteville and Rogers ROMANCEDIAMOND.COM

Dress and veil from Inverness Bridal.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELISE ABIGAIL PHOTO

Southern hospitality brought Kayleigh Kiser and her groom, Paul Propst, together. The two met while working at Wyndham Destinations in Branson. “After three months, I finally got the courage to approach Paul and ask him to help with my sales,” Kayleigh recalls. “We instantly hit it off and became inseparable.”

Paul decided to pop the question on Kayleigh’s golden birthday, January 28, while on vacation in Mexico. That night, he surprised her with a beachside dinner and then a proposal. “To this day, I have no idea what he said because I was so nervous! I'm sure it was magical and romantic, but all I could do was scream in my head and burst into tears,” she says.

Both she and Paul are from Missouri, so an Arkansas wedding may have seemed off their radar. Originally planning to tie the knot abroad, the couple changed directions in favor of having as many of their friends and family join them as possible. “I stumbled across a web page titled Top 20 Romantic Wedding Venues in the Midwest and instantly fell in love with this beautiful rose garden in Arkansas,” she says of Moss Mountain Farm. The venue adhered to Kayleigh’s vision of a garden wedding with romantic lighting, and they were willing to wait almost two years for Moss Mountain Farm’s next available wedding date.

Wedding planners Anna Dickinson and Kristen Cromley helped pull together all the details of the big day, while Tanarah Luxe Florals designed a reception scheme that

played off the natural beauty of the rose garden ceremony. For dinner, guests were treated to a buffet of pork tenderloin sliders, smoked salmon, loaded mashed potatoes, hot spinach dip, and more. The couple also considered their littlest guests, offering a special kids’ dinner of chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and fruit. For dessert, two different flavors of cake were offered alongside several treats on a groom’s sweets table. At the end of the evening, the couple’s 130 guests sent them off with a sparkler farewell that ended with fireworks overhead. After a honeymoon at the Ritz Carlton in Maui, the couple are now at home in Springfield, Missouri.

Kayleigh and Paul fell in love with the elegance of Moss Mountain Farm and traveled four hours from their home in Missouri for a tour.

“I knew I wanted the natural beauty of the garden to be the focal point with lots of moody, romantic lighting,” Kayleigh says.

The ceremony took place in the property’s Hidden Rose Garden.

A five-tier faux cake provided a sweet focal point at the reception, while guests enjoyed two flavors of sheet cake before dancing.

GROOM’S SWEETS TABLE

“If you know Paul, then you know he has the biggest sweet tooth,” Kayleigh says. Working with Sweet Lavender Bake Shop, she designed a display that incorporated all of his favorite desserts, including a chocolate cake with Oreo buttercream icing, fudge brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and carrot cake whoopie pies. Their caterer, Heritage Catering, also added their “kitchen sink” cookies to the mix to create a full table of offerings.

BRIDAL GOWN The One Bridal BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Bella Bridesmaids CAKE Sweet Lavender Bake Shop CATERING Heritage Catering ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Arkansas String Quartet ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) DJ Kolmega FLORAL DESIGN Tanarah Luxe Floral GROOM’S AND GROOMSMEN’S ATTIRE Karl’s Tuxedos HAIR High Volume Salon MAKEUP Faces by Brianna PHOTOGRAPHY Elise Abigail Photo PLANNING AND DESIGN Anna Dickinson and Kristen Cromley, Perception by Anna RENTALS AlphaLit, Central Arkansas Entertainment, Eventology, and I Do Linens RINGS Helzberg Diamonds TRANSPORTATION Arrow Coach Lines and Capital Car Service VENUE Moss Mountain Farm VIDEOGRAPHY Omega Weddings

Custom cocktails named after the couple’s French bulldogs, Norma Jean and Betty White, were served as the signature drinks. “Our baby girls mean the world to us, so we knew we wanted them to somehow be a part of the wedding,” Kayleigh says.

ARHITA + BILLY

LITTLE ROCK 10.22.22

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYRANDA RANDLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Both growing up in Little Rock, Arhita Dasgupta and Billy Hupp met at a party Billy’s brother hosted during high school. The two dated for seven years before Billy planned a New Year’s Eve proposal in 2020. “He wanted to propose then because I was graduating from med school and he was graduating from law school; he wanted it to be a big year for us,” Arhita recalls.

The couple were immediately drawn to the idea of a fall wedding. “Our birthdays are in the spring, so we wanted to spread the celebratory love and thought having an anniversary six months later would be nice. Also, who doesn’t love Arkansas in October?” Arhita says.

It was important to the bride to incorporate her Indian heritage into the day. “In India, a daughter’s wedding is a very big deal, so it was as much for me as it was for my parents,” Arhita explains. They knew they would need a sizable venue to accommodate all their guests and also wanted to be married outdoors. This led them to Grandeur House, a site that checked all the boxes on their list and allowed for customization of the big day.

A blend of bohemian and classic style flowed throughout the celebration with vivid hues accenting the elements of the day. In Indian culture, weddings typically last three days. Arhita wanted to distill this into an hourlong ceremony while still incorporating numerous traditions. A few of these included walking around the fire seven times, exchanging garlands, and breaking clay pots together, which is a symbol of overcoming hardship as a couple. “It was a bespoke ceremony created just for us, and we absolutely loved every minute of it,” Arhita says. She also credits planner Leslie Carter of Bella Baxter Special Events for making their dreams a reality.

Guests dined on traditional Indian food before taking to the dance floor. Following a tour of Japan during cherry blossom season, they are now at home in Kansas City, Missouri, where Arhita is completing her residency.

FIERY FLORALS

Arhita envisioned warm yet classic colors in the floral design. “Tipton & Hurst brought my vision to life,” she says. The florist used a mix of roses, dahlias, mums, marigolds, and greenery to convey an inviting fall feel throughout the ceremony and reception.

Grandeur House was the backdrop for Arhita and Billy’s big day.

“I was excited to wear a traditional red sari and then change into something more fun for the reception,” Arhita says of her wedding day

wardrobe.

“Billy really embraced my culture; he wanted to understand the traditions so he could relay all the intricacies and symbolism to his family and friends so they felt a part of it.” —ARHITA

how much we appreciated them

Caroline wore her grandmother’s enamel ring as her “something blue.”

When Caroline Oudin and David Pollard met at a mutual friend’s wedding reception at the Pine Bluff Country Club, they had no idea it would become the site of their own nuptial celebration. The pair were introduced by a friend who thought they might hit it off, and Caroline admits that after dancing and talking through the night, she “felt butterflies.” The feeling was mutual, and the couple dated for a year and a half before David proposed at his family’s cabin

on Petit Jean Mountain. He popped the question at a favorite scenic overlook, and Caroline said “yes.”

Before meeting with wedding planner Natasha Gates, the couple decided on a spring date, a lilac color palette, and a church wedding. Both had attended First United Methodist Church of Pine Bluff while growing up and thought it would be a special place to tie the knot. From there, Natasha helped pull together all the details of the big day, including amazing floral displays, food selections from chef Jamie McAfee, and an artful faux cake by baker Kelli Marks. Caroline’s mother also played a big role. “Mom and I tried to meet every Friday for lunch to make decisions, plan, and get organized,” Caroline says.

On the big day, the bridal party enjoyed a relaxing morning at the bride’s childhood home before heading to the church. Following the traditional ceremony, well-wishers headed to the Country Club for a reception with a live band. Southern favorites, such as grouper on a bed of étouffée, were served alongside beef tenderloin and vegetables. For dessert, guests enjoyed individual slices of cake topped with a solid chocolate “P.” Following a fireworks send-off, the couple exited the reception in a decorated golf cart. After a honeymoon in Antigua, they are now at home in Little Rock.

A little red getaway car, which the couple took from the ceremony to the reception, paid homage to David’s parents’ wedding.

ARTFUL DESSERT

Caroline envisioned a wedding cake with petal-shaped layers. Baker Kelli Marks brought this to life in a faux cake rendition that served as a display piece during the reception. Guests were served sliced sheet cake in a variety of flavors.

The grand finale of the celebration was a firework show over the golf course after Caroline and David exited through a set of sparklers.

When Kelly Lamb set out to surprise her thenboyfriend, JD Bruning, she had the tables turned on her. “I had been planning a surprise 30th birthday for him with his mom’s help,” Kelly says. Everything seemed to be going as it should, with the birthday boy appearing surprised and family and friends enjoying drinks and dinner. JD got up to thank everyone and asked Kelly to join him—which she thought was a bit odd. His sentiments quickly turned into a proposal. “He knew about the surprise birthday party the entire time and had orchestrated the plan with the help of his mother to make it a surprise engagement,” Kelly recalls.

The two, who met during their time at the University of Arkansas but didn’t begin dating until after college, set their sights on a summer wedding in Little Rock. Kelly envisioned a day that was light and bright with touches of Southern charm with a ceremony at St. Edward’s Church and a reception at Heifer International. Her collection of blue and white chinoiserie vases played into the Southern feel. “The vases were really personal because I have always loved collecting them, and because it was really fun for my mother and mother-in-law to also help out with these.”

Gina’s Catering—helmed by Gina Simpson, a friend of the couple—provided a spread for guests. Selections included everything from tortellini skewers and bacon-wrapped dates to shrimp and grits. For a whimsical twist on tradition, the bride’s cake was a funfetti confection. A band and a full bar, wedding day must-haves for Kelly and JD, kept the party going for the crowd of more than 200 well-wishers. Wanting to enjoy every last minute, the two ended the day on the dance floor with friends. They are currently at home in North Little Rock and plan a delayed honeymoon.

Kelly’s “something blue” was a diamond bracelet that once belonged to her grandmother.

FINDING THE ONE

The first dress Kelly tried on ended up being the one of her dreams. “I never anticipated I would pick a ballgown,” she says, “but I just couldn’t beat it.”

The bride’s collection of chinoiserie vases served as the inspiration for the day’s blue and white color palette.

Since Kelly and JD married in June, they gave guests personal fans to keep them cool during the celebration.

BRIDAL GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection CAKE Harp’s CATERING Gina’s Catering ENTERTAINMENT (CEREMONY) Arkansas Capital String Quartet ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Even Odds (Memphis) FLORAL DESIGN Cabbage Rose GROOM’S AND GROOMSMEN’S ATTIRE Jos. A. Bank MAKEUP Belle and Blush PHOTOGRAPHY BJ Matthews PLANNING Anna-Lee Pittman RENTALS Eventology RINGS Cecil’s Fine Jewelry TRANSPORTATION Little Rock Coaches VENUE (CEREMONY) St. Edward’s Catholic Church VENUE (RECEPTION) Heifer International VIDEOGRAPHY Andrew Cunningham Photo & Film (Memphis)

Kelly and JD shared their first dance to “I Try” by Macy Gray.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATI MALLORY PHOTO & DESIGN

The workplace brought Sarah Stoiber and Kameron Keesling together. After several years of friendship through working at Sam’s Club’s corporate headquarters, the two began dating. Kameron proposed the day before Sarah’s birthday, which she planned to celebrate with a barbecue at her house. Kameron had her open a couple of gifts and then gave her a large, heavy present. She opened it to see a tiny ring box surrounded by bricks. “I immediately said ‘yes,’ and our friends arrived shortly after to celebrate with us,” Sarah recalls.

With Kameron being from Florida and Sarah growing up in Little Rock, the two decided to host their wedding in their current home base of Northwest Arkansas. Osage House gave them the ability to have both the ceremony and reception in one location but in separate spaces, which was attractive to the couple. “Most importantly, we loved how it was nestled in Arkansas’s natural beauty. Everything was green and in full bloom,” Sarah says. Working with a planner, they began to pull together everything for a spring wedding. “The amazing Amanda Reed helped to make all of our dreams a reality,” Sarah says.

Sarah had long dreamt of the flowers for the big day. She selected her favorites, including peonies, ranunculus, tulips, and roses in vibrant shades of orange and pink. Additionally, the dance floor corners were anchored by four statement-making trees handcrafted by Samantha’s Garden. Guests dined on filet mignon and chicken piccata before taking to the dance floor to celebrate the newly married couple.

Sarah and Kameron shared a private last dance and then joined their guests on the bus to downtown Bentonville— extending the evening as long as possible. After a honeymoon in Italy, they are now at home in Rogers.

MEANINGFUL BOUQUET

To keep the memory of her late father close during the day, Sarah attached a locket with his picture to her bouquet. An engraved charm for their late dog, Charlee, was also added.

“Most women have a Pinterest board titled Wedding Day. My wedding Pinterest board has always been titled Flowers & The Party. So, my must-have was the florals!”

—SARAH KEESLING

The couple’s cockapoo, Rosie, adorned with the wedding day’s signature orange blooms.

SWOON-WORTHY SONGS

Sarah and Kameron worked on a set list with their band, Lost Wax. Their first dance was to an acoustic version of Elvis’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

BRIDAL GOWN Unveiled Bridal Collection CAKE Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe ENTERTAINMENT (RECEPTION) Lost Wax Band FLORAL DESIGN Samantha’s Garden HAIR AND

MAKEUP Megan Duncan, Moody Beauty PHOTOGRAPHY Kati Mallory Photo & Design PLANNING AND DESIGN Amanda Reed Weddings STATIONERY Shindig Paperie VENUE Osage House

Guests were greeted at the reception with glasses of Prosecco.

YAYA + REN É

Love evolved naturally for Victorine “Yaya” Ciswondo and her groom, René Leonard. After meeting at the University of Central Arkansas’s recreation center in the fall of 2018, Yaya asked him out. “We went on a sweet and awkward first date, and that was it,” she recalls. However, during winter break they began to message each other, and their connection became more romantic.

After a couple of years of dating, René proposed on Yaya’s birthday at Two Rivers Park in Little Rock. “He told me he would be picking me up for a picnic and to dress nice,” she recalls. He popped the question by a pond covered in lily pads, and two of their friends came to surprise Yaya. Afterward, they celebrated with her family.

Opting for a fall wedding, the pair decided to marry on a Sunday to allow a full weekend of celebrations with friends and family before the formal ceremony. They chose Rusty Tractor Vineyards for its stunning setting and open floor plan. The venue also complemented their desire for a down-to-earth celebration. “We both love natural earth tones and simplicity in our lives,” the bride says of their style preferences, which were reflected in the celebration.

It was also important to them to incorporate Yaya’s Indonesian heritage into the big day, which they did through the menu. “René’s family from Louisiana loves good food, and they had never tasted Indonesian cuisine before. They love trying new things, so we thought this was the perfect place to do so,” she says. Salads with peanut sauce, garlic beef and chicken meatball soup, and spicy fried potatoes were selected to please an array of palates.

At the celebration’s end, the couple exited the venue as their guests blew bubbles. After a honeymoon in Montauk, New York, Yaya and René are now at home in Little Rock.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

For her something borrowed, Yaya donned the same veil her aunt had worn on her wedding day along with her mom’s pearl earrings and mother-in-law’s pearl necklace. Her dad served as the officiant for the ceremony, and, afterward, her aunts and uncles catered the big day with classic Indonesian food.

The invitation and wedding day florals all tied into an aesthetic Yaya describes as “classy, simple, and earthy.”

Boulevard Bread Co. created a vanilla wedding cake with cream cheese filling for the affair.

Local Resources BRIDAL GOWN Low’s Bridal CAKE Boulevard Bread Co. CATERING OMG Hibachi ENTERTAINMENT DJ JellyBean PHOTOGRAPHY Alice McLain Photography VENUE Rusty Tractor Vineyards VIDEOGRAPHY Walter Lyle Photo

YAYA’S ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE:

“Soak up the memories starting from day one. It’s easy to get caught up in the details and to stress; but at the end of the day, all those little details aren’t what’s important.”

Are you starting the planning process for your own perfect day? Get to know wedding professionals who can help bring your vision to life

TRENDSE TT ERS

Photo by Kati Mallory Photo & Design

Cobblestone & Vine

Cobblestone & Vine has been a fixture of the interior design world in Arkansas for more than 30 years.

“We are in the business of helping customers create beauty in their homes,” says Laura Hathaway, wedding registry coordinator. “We are always on the hunt for exceptional pieces curated for the modern home, and we recently expanded our registry at our Little Rock stores with the intention of offering our brides and grooms the most special design accessories and tabletop pieces available.”

Among their glassware and table top lines are favorites such as Juliska, Vietri, Match, La DoubleJ, LVM Ceramics, and Estelle Colored Glass. They also carry bedding, table linens, and, of course, a range of elevated home furnishings. Laura’s advice to couples registering is that more is more. “Think long-term; register for 12 versus six settings, because you will be entertaining. And don’t hesitate to register for bold, extravagant items,” she says.

“At Cobblestone & Vine, we proudly offer everything necessary to create timeless luxury and joyful details for the bride and groom’s new home.”

Photos by Christa Masters

5100 Kavanaugh Blvd. and 11525 Cantrell Road | 501.664.4249 | cobblestoneandvine.com | @cobblestoneandvine

Founded in 2010, Tesori Bridal opened its doors in 2010 as an upscale clothing and formalwear boutique. Soon after, the business transitioned to focus on bridal, and now offers a wide range of associated looks from “little white dresses” to bridesmaids gowns, accessories, and jewelry. This woman-owned and operated business prides itself on offering a range of styles, silhouettes, and price points. “With the most professional, fun, no-pressure customer service in the business, we will be your guide to help find your perfect wedding gown,” says

manager Ashton Asbury. When it comes to current trends, Ashton notes 3D textures, hand-painted details, and sleeves are all current showstoppers. She also reminds brides that the perfect dress takes time—five to six months, to be exact. “To ensure you have enough time for any customizations, alterations, and bridal portraits, we recommend starting your dress shopping journey one year in advance,” she says. “Most importantly, be sure to have all of your ‘yes’ people at your appointment so you can have the ultimate ‘I do’ dress experience!”

The Venue at Oakdale

When the Venue at Oakdale opened in 2020, their versatile event space was missing just one thing, a director. They hired wedding planner Carol DePriest in February of 2021. After 14 years in the industry and working with more than 30 venues around the state, Carol felt she had a unique perspective on what brides were looking for when planning their receptions and ceremonies. For those just starting their planning journey, she recommends reading all the fine print to avoid surprises and be able to plan early. “Be sure you understand

what all is included or not included in your contract,” she says.

The Venue at Oakdale offers a variety of packages, from intimate gatherings to large, all-inclusive celebrations. “Our indoor and outdoor spaces allow you and your guests to feel comfortable and welcomed, and our staff strives for excellence in friendliness, customer service, and hospitality,” Carol says. “At The Venue at Oakdale, we offer an amazing facility that can be transformed into your dream come true.”

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

FAYETTEVILLE

Sissy’s Log Cabin

Established in 1970, the story of Sissy’s Log Cabin begins in Pine Bluff, where Sissy Jones founded the brand in its original log cabin. Now, more than 50 years later, it’s known as one of the largest family-owned and operated independent jewelers in the region with six locations across Arkansas and Tennessee.

Bill Jones, Sissy’s son and CEO of Sissy’s Log Cabin, encourages couples to come in together to try on rings, check out different styles, and give each other feedback on what they like. “In store, we help measure ring sizes, discover what style and type of rings suit them best, and try on bands to find one they love,” he says. They

also have a custom creation service, which allows clients the opportunity to design something totally unique for their betrothed. “Our jewelers have created stunning custom jewelry pieces from heirloom treasures,” he adds. “No matter what brings you into our store, our customers are treated like family.”

Little Rock Heights 1825 N. Grant St. 501.663.0066

Little Rock Promenade 17717 Chenal Parkway 501.441.0066

sissyslogcabin.com

@sissyslogcabininc

@legacyacresar info@legacyacresar com

501-733-0375

Legacy Acres

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and such was the case for the foundation of Legacy Acres in Conway. “The original owner was looking for something perfectly white for her daughter’s upcoming wedding, and it seemed to only exist in her imagination,” says Camryn Crain, who came on as co-owner in 2022. Inspired by the knowledge that there would be other Arkansas brides looking for a similar venue, she built Legacy Acres. Its 40 acres encompass a ballroom, chapel, outdoor pavilion, and suites where the bride and groom’s parties can get ready. “The opportunities are limitless and

brides can go as far as their dreams reach,” Camryn says.

Legacy Acres has the unique offering of a Friday/Saturday package, which gives clients the luxury of an extra day for set-up, rehearsal, and even a rehearsal dinner in the space. Camryn’s advice to brides- and grooms-to-be is to invest in a wedding planner. “They are the most magical resources to our brides because they have ‘been there, done that’ many times before,” she says. She also says if you have your heart set on a particular date or venue, reach out early—it’s never too early to book your dream day.

Photography: Kayleigh Ross Photography

CONWAY

Ashton Kremer, Camryn Crain, and Caroline Crain

Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers

Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers opened its doors in 1996. Since then, it has grown to be one of the biggest names in bridal jewelry in the state. “We have exclusive bridal brands that are the highest quality in the industry and have been our partners since the beginning,” says owner Brittany Adair. They are always looking for new ways to help clients; for example,

they recently launched the “bridal box,” which helps brides-to-be get connected with other local vendors in Northwest Arkansas. Another new addition is space available for customers to host small parties, such as bridal showers and viewing parties.

As for current trends, Brittany says yellow gold is back in a big way. “Fancy cut diamonds are still trending,

and unique stones other than diamonds are really hot as well,” she says. They are also seeing an increase in interest around lab-created diamonds and vintage looks. “We are engaged with our customers to get them exactly what they want when searching for that very important purchase,” she says. “Jewelry is very much an emotional experience, and we guide you through it as a partner and trusted friend.”

Two locations allows us to better serve the region and more personally serve each individual customer.

FAYETTEVILLE AND ROGERS

Inverness Bridal

Leigh Middleton opened Inverness Bridal in 2016. Since then, she’s enjoyed creating an experience for each and every customer who steps inside her doors. “The bride and up to five guests are treated to a two-hour consultation that includes snacks, drinks (including our specialty cocktail), and a goody bag to take home if they say ‘yes’ to the dress,” she says.

At the moment, Leigh says playful color, texture, and removable elements such as capes, trains, and sleeves are trending. “One of my favorite things I am seeing is brides leaning more into what they love and represents them and their personality,” she says. She recommends brides-to-be start their search as early as possible to allow for a stress-free dress search. “We never want to forget that this is a special day for every bride, and our goal is for you to leave Inverness feeling like you had a fairy tale experience.”

Heritage Catering

Kim Henderson fulfilled a lifelong dream when she opened Heritage Catering in 2017. “My parents owned a small business growing up, and I think I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit,” she says. With Heritage Catering, Kim offers fullservice catering, beverages, service equipment, and staff, and they begin each job with a detailed discussion of the client’s budget, tastes, preferences, and personal style. “This is a good place to bring in family recipes or other ideas that will make the menu really special,” she says. Whether planning a sit-down dinner or roaming hors d’oeuvres

for your guests, Kim encourages engaged couples to be creative with their menus. “We can take a concept for an overall feel of the wedding and make the food a prominent part of the experience,” she says. To that point, trends like comfort foods, local ingredients, and charcuterie spreads are currently popular because they can be implemented across a range of styles and budgets. “You can have confidence in our food knowing that all our ingredients are top quality and housemade,” Kim adds. “Our past experiences, family traditions, and shared memories are what Heritage is all about.”

CONWAY

LITTLE ROCK

White River Landing

Vickie Presley Hassell founded White River Landing as a Fayetteville event venue in 2019. “It wasn’t until my daughter’s wedding in 2015 that I knew I wanted to have my own wedding venue,” she says. The rustic-modern space can accommodate 150 guests indoors with an additional 1,900 square feet of covered porches, a stunning setting for outdoor dancing, dining, enjoying the fireplace, or just taking in the natural country setting. “I think we have one of the most beautiful outdoor ceremony

areas, with our landscaped stairway leading to the ceremony site nestled among mature trees and open fields,” Vickie says.

White River Landing offers spacious rooms for brides and grooms to get ready, a kitchen equipped for caterers, and all the rentals you could need to bring your dream day to life, all included at no extra charge. “I’d say our décor room filled with thousands of decorating items is hands-down my favorite room at the venue, and our clients seem to agree!”

Bella Terra Estate

Jennifer Wallace founded Bella Terra Estate in 2016 with 20 years of experience in interior design and event planning. After her husband retired and their kids left for college, the Wallaces decided it was time for a change; they moved from North Little Rock to Cabot, bought 14 acres of land, and opened Bella Terra Estate soon after.

With Bella Terra Estate, Jennifer builds on her background planning weddings large and small while overseeing all aspects of the venue. “Our company offers everything from a basic rental to full-service,” she says. Their all-inclusive package

includes catering, florals, décor, entertainment, photography, a cake, and excellent customer service both in the months leading up to the wedding and during day-of coordination. Her advice to newly engaged couples is to choose a venue first, noting that Bella Terra Estate stands out because it is so versatile. “We have indoor and outdoor ceremony sites and are capable of pulling off rustic, traditional, and formal weddings all within our venue,” she says. “Most importantly, our all-inclusive weddings are second to none because they are customizable, beautiful, easy on the bride, and a huge bang for your buck.”

CABOT

500 Highway 89 East bellaterraestate.com @bellaterraestate

Jennifer Wallace

FAYETTEVILLE

Aloft Little Rock West

Aloft Little Rock West offers everything you need for your dream wedding day. Its ballroom, Ex:Change, has capacity for 150 wedding guests, and WXYZ Bar can provide bar services for your event. “We’ve customized a unique venue for the tech-savvy, design-forward bride featuring jet-setting style and more than 7,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space,” says director of sales Anita Williams. When you book at Aloft Little Rock West, rentals are a breeze; tables, black linens, chairs, and even a projector and screen are available through the hotel as well as its connections with trusted vendors.

Finally, your guests will have a comfortable, convenient stay located just down the road from dining and shopping options at The Promenade at Chenal. Blocks of rooms are available for a discounted group rate, too. “With spacious loftstyle rooms, an outdoor pool, and ReFuel breakfast and late night snacks, it’s the perfect spot for your wedding guests to enjoy,” Anita says.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

For those getting married in Russellville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites has it all. “We offer the largest event space, allowing us to cater to any rehearsal dinner, wedding shower, wedding, and reception,” says Courtney Probst, regional director of sales. “We also offer accommodations, so guests can party the night away while staying close by,” she adds, noting guests should call the hotel directly for the best rates.

Event space rentals at Holiday Inn Express & Suites include tables, chairs, and even a projector and screen for slideshows. Those planning their big day can also have the choice to use on-site catering or bring in outside catering. The hotel’s location in the heart of Russellville provides easy access too and from other venues. Finally, Courtney says the friendly and helpful staff is there to make sure your wedding event is easy and stress-free. “They’re ready to assist with any last-minute questions you might have to ensure your event is a success!”

716 Rahling Road 501-791-9999 aloftlittlerockwest.com

LITTLE ROCK

300 East Harrell Drive 479-219-5152

RUSSELLVILLE

Low’s Bridal

Low’s Bridal is a family-owned and operated business that has been providing beautiful wedding gowns to brides for more than 45 years. Owners Dorcas and Stan Prince moved the business, which was founded by Dorcas’s mother, Margo Low, to its current home in the historic Great Southern Hotel in 1997. “Low’s Bridal is the true American dream: a mom-and-pop privately owned business,” Dorcas says. With more than 2,500 wedding dresses in sizes 0-34, Low’s Bridal

is one of the largest bridal shops in the United States, and brides-to-be travel far and wide for the Low’s shopping experience. While the store has many dresses that can be purchased and taken home that day, some dresses require special order due to sizing, availability, and customization. “When a bride and her fiancé are planning a wedding, our best advice is to plan early for less stress,” Dorcas says. “Current trends are florals and brocades, but today’s brides can really follow their dreams.”

Dorcas Prince, owner

Share the Love

It sure is sweet to see all the ways people celebrate #weddingsinarkansas! Use this hashtag or tag us (@weddingsinar) on Instagram for the chance to see your photo featured in our next issue.