Meet Taylor Holmes, owner of Holmes Media LLC. She started her photography business 10 years ago and has never looked back!
She took on Holmes Media LLC full-time two years ago, and her business has been flourishing.
Photo Credit: Paige Seidenschwarz Photo and Video
“I pride myself on being a photographer that clients/vendors can feel comfortable with, and I work diligently to ensure that my couples have fun,” Taylor says. “It’s so important to me that my couples actually take time to soak in the joy of those beautiful moments.”
She describes her photography style as eclectic, fun and vibrant – and we couldn’t agree more!
Photo Credit: Holmes Media LLC
“The art, culture, and history of the world around me! When I’m in a creative rut, I take my camera and just go,” Taylor says. “I let it lead me wherever it wants – sometimes outside in nature, other times in the studio trying something new.”
The BasicsPackage includes the ceremony and family/party photos.
The Essentials Package includes eight hours of full wedding day coverage.
The Works Package includes eight hours of wedding coverage and both engagement and bridal/boudoir shoots prior to the wedding day.
“I’m someone who can connect with just about anyone, and I love that about myself,” Taylor says. “I carry this small superpower with me to every shoot and wedding!”
Every year, we receive hundreds of wedding submissions from all over the state, and we pour through thousands of images to select our favorite moments. You guys never make it easy, but we’ve paired down our absolute favorite moments of the year from your weddings.
From swoon-worthy wedding exits and hysterical dance floor moments to tear-jerker first looks and fabulous wedding styles…we’re so excited to introduce our Best of 2024 Categories.
WINNER OF THE BEST PHOTO OF 2024
After reviewing over 7,000 votes from you,
the winner of the best photo of 2024 is…
Meica Royal-Robinson & Tirrell Robinson
by The Photo Squad
Photo Credit: The Photo Squad
SEE ALL 29 PHOTOS NOMINATED AND SELECTED FOR THE BEST PHOTO OF 2024 HERE!
Introducing Arkansas Bride’s Best of 2024: Best Cakes!
Wow guys, you really showed up and showed out with wedding cakes this year. We wish we could feature them all! From pearls and bows to vibrant colors and extravagant florals, here are the cakes of 2024 that really stood out to us.
So many beautiful brides and grooms this year…it was so hard to pick our favorites! Here are just a few stylish Arkansas newlyweds who really stood out to us as Best Dressed of 2024.
Introducing Arkansas Bride’s Best of 2024: Best First Looks. We laughed and cried while going through thousands of wedding day photos. We’d recommend grabbing some tissues now before you start scrolling!
Introducing Arkansas Bride’s Best of 2024: Best Dance Moves!
This may be our favorite category because your guests make us laugh, cry (tears of joy, obviously!), and feel like we missed out on a really good party!
Arkansas couples showed up and showed out this year with some show-stopper reception and ceremony exits! These are the images that stuck out to us the most this year…
Photo Credit: AC Photography & Events
Photo Credit: AC Photography & Events
Photo Credit: Alyssa Simpson Photography
Photo Credit: Boston Mountain Photos
Photo Credit: Caitlin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Caitlin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Caitlin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Caitlin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Caitlin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Cameron and Elizabeth Photography
Photo Credit: Erin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Erin Wilson Photography
Photo Credit: Freckled Fox Photography
Photo by Kati Mallory Photo & Design | Photo Credit: Kati Mallory Fine Art Photography
Calling all Planners, Designers, Custom Rentals and Florists…We love the work you’ve done this year! What a hard year to select our favorites, because we wanted to select ALL OF THEM!
Here is just a sneak peek at some of our favorites, but if you want to see more – go see our new issue of Arkansas Bride here.
There’s still time to discover that special something at Romance Diamond Company. Whether it’s a sparkling statement piece or a timeless treasure, our curated collection promises something unique for everyone on your list. Visit us today and let us help you find a gift that will make this season truly unforgettable.
Come see us TONIGHT at the She Said Yes 20th Birthday Party tonight!
Starting a 6pm, come check out the store and meet the owners and bridal consultants who make the dreams of so many brides and grooms come true from across the state of Arkansas.
Luxurious bridal gown textures so soft, sleek, and effortlessly elegant, you can almost feel them.
Photography: Jason Masters; Photography assistant: Stephanie Bittle; Model: Ryanne Roland of AVA Model Management and Ella Hubener; Hair: Lori Wenger; Makeup: Colby Valentine of Belle & Blush; Venue: Modern Light Studio and Peel Museum & Botanical Garden
(Pictured at top) “Isana” by Justin Alexander shimmers with beaded details and detachable sleeves available at Something You Bridal (Formerly Couture Bridal) in Rogers.
Diamond bezel and baguette ring paired with a yellow gold leaf ring available at Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry in Rogers. Yellow gold diamond stud earrings available at EVM Jewelers
in Fayetteville.
Sculptural silk SenStudio ballgown and fabric flower hair pins available at Unveiled Bridal Collection in Little Rock. Pearl necklace and yellow gold diamond earrings available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville.
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
Timeless A-line “Josette” by Justin Alexander from Low’s Bridal in Brinkley. Jewelry available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville.
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
Frosted white gold diamond necklace paired with a sparkling white gold tennis bracelet, diamond wedding band, teardrop diamond engagement ring and oval diamond engagement ring available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville. Wedding dress from Low’s Bridal in Brinkley.
Lace details with a hint of sparkle on this beautiful fitted Allure Romance gown available at The Vogue Veil in Cabot. White gold diamond bangle bracelet, diamond engagement ring, diamond tennis bracelet and diamond hoop earrings available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville.
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
Yellow gold diamond chain ring, bracelet and necklace available at Wilkerson Jewelers in Stuttgart. Paired with diamond double hoop earrings available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville. Wedding dress available at The Vogue Veil in Cabot.
Modern diamond bezel cushion cut ring with baguette diamonds, diamond chandelier earrings and diamond chain bracelet available at Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry in Rogers.
Aqua and diamond halo necklace, yellow gold bangle, inside-outside diamond hoop earrings and a diamond fashion ring available at Wilkerson Jewelers in Stuttgart. Wedding dress available at Jessica’s Bridal & Formal in Bay.
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
Photo Credit: Jason Masters
“Sammy” by Martina Liana hugs every curve with a sultry silhouette, featuring shimmering embellishments and dazzling pearl details. Available at She Said Yes Bridal in Rogers. Jewelry available at EVM Jewelers in Fayetteville.
Why settle for just drinks at your wedding when you can design around them? We asked some of the most creative minds in the wedding biz to craft showstopping tablescapes inspired by their favorite cocktails — and they delivered a buzzworthy blend of florals, flair and flavor. First up? The ever-chic Aperol Spritz, bubbling over with citrusy charm and sun-drenched sophistication. Cheers to décor that’s as spirited as the signature drink.
The Mai Tai takes center stage with a tropical twist that’s anything but tiki cliché. Think vibrant hues, lush greenery and just a taste of the islands. It’s a tablescape that says “aloha” to laid-back luxury — and maybe a little dancing barefoot under the stars.
We’re heading west — where the cocktail is crisp, the skies are wide, and the vibe is effortlessly cool. Inspired by the no-fuss charm of a Ranch Water, this tablescape blends modern minimalism with Texas grit. Picture clean lines, earthy tones, and just a hint of desert glam. It’s proof that simple ingredients — like tequila, lime, and Topo Chico — can still make a big statement.
Cue the city lights and clink the martini glasses — the Cosmopolitan has entered the chat. This tablescape channels sleek sophistication with a pop of pink and a wink of glam. Bold, modern and unapologetically chic, it’s a tribute to girls’ nights, terrace views, and the cocktail that never goes out of style. Carrie Bradshaw would definitely RSVP yes.
When bold flavor meets after-dinner elegance, you get the Carajillo — and a tablescape that’s just as rich and unexpected. Inspired by this velvety blend of espresso and Licor 43, the design leans into moody tones, luxe textures, and a sultry glow. It’s perfect for the couple who wants their reception to end on a high note — with a little caffeine kick and a whole lot of style.
Fasten your seatbelts — the Aviation cocktail is taking your tablescape to new heights. With its dreamy lavender hue and vintage allure, this design is all about soft romance with a twist of whimsy. Think delicate florals, airy textures, and a dash of Art Deco glam. It’s a look that floats somewhere between cloud nine and cocktail hour.
Classic, crisp and undeniably cool — the Martini needs no introduction, and neither does this effortlessly elegant tablescape. Inspired by the cocktail that defines sophistication, this design leans into sleek lines, timeless neutrals, and just the right amount of shimmer. It’s the perfect match for couples who believe in keeping it polished, powerful and always shaken (or stirred) to perfection.
Bright, bold, and refreshingly unexpected — the Paloma brings a splash of citrusy fun to the party, and this tablescape follows suit. Inspired by the grapefruit-forward favorite, the design bursts with vibrant pinks, zesty accents, and a playful mix of textures. It’s a celebration of sunshine, spontaneity, and a cocktail that proves tequila doesn’t always need a lime to shine.
Pop the bubbly and add a twist — the French 75 is the life of the (very chic) party. This tablescape sparkles with Parisian flair, marrying timeless elegance with a splash of effervescence. Think soft golds, crisp whites, and hints of lemony brightness. It’s the perfect setting for saying “oui” to glamour, grace and a good Champagne cocktail.
Strong, smooth and steeped in tradition — the Old Fashioned is the dashing gentleman of cocktails, and this tablescape dresses the part. Rich tones and refined details set a mood that’s equal parts classic and cool. It’s a sophisticated nod to timeless taste, perfect for couples who appreciate the beauty of the old-school done right.
Sophisticated with a side of swagger, the Manhattan is the cocktail equivalent of a well-tailored suit — and this tablescape follows suit. Deep burgundy tones, sleek glassware, and a moody city-slicker vibe bring urban elegance to the reception. It’s a bold, refined look for couples who like their style like their drinks: stirred, strong, and straight to the point.
At 27 years old, Kenzie has pursued multiple passions throughout her lifetime. When she was a child, she was signed with an agent and manager and spent years pursuing acting with her sister. At 11 years old, she started a nonprofit called Brat Pack 11, which granted wishes to military kids whose parents were wounded or had fallen in service.
“[It was] one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done,” Kenzie said.
In her early twenties, she served as a Creative Pastor at her church. Throughout all of these different seasons of her life, Kenzie always had a camera in her hand!
“While working in ministry, people started asking me to photograph their weddings—and I fell in love with it. It felt like everything clicked,” Kenzie said. “My love for people, [stories] and creativity all found a home in photography … Photography became the space where purpose and creativity collided—where I could keep telling meaningful stories, this time through the lens of love, legacy, and human connection.”
Her favorite moments on the job are when she captures the little things not everyone sees on the wedding day. Glances between newlyweds, a father wiping away his tear before walking the bride down the aisle and the joy every guest has on their face while dancing at the end of the night.
Photo Credit: Kenzie Digitized Photography
“I’m drawn to the emotion and uniqueness of each story, and I believe every family has one worth telling,” Kenzie said. “My favorite part is uncovering those layers and reflecting them back through images that don’t just show what the day looked like—but what it felt like.”
Not only is Kenzie a new up-and-coming wedding photographer in the state, but she also uses a Super 8 to capture highlights and create films for her couples. She enjoys being an important part of her client’s wedding days, and feels drawn to telling their story through her lens.
“Photography can sometimes feel transactional, but I don’t approach it that way,” Kenzie said. “I think of it more like directing a film—crafting something honest, emotional, and true to you. With a background in acting and time spent on sets as a kid, I learned early on how powerful storytelling can be when it moves you emotionally. That same cinematic lens shapes how I photograph weddings. My work is nostalgic and editorial, with honest emotion at the center.”
Our latest issue showcases 16 real weddings, each with its own unique style. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your big day in The Natural State.
Discover these one-of-a-kind Arkansas weddings and let them spark ideas for your own.
September 21, 2024 | The Nest at Prairie Creek in Rogers | The Montoya Collective
Wilson Valdez has never given up on chasing Alyssa Simpson’s heart since the moment her met her.
When they first met as students of rival high schools, Alyssa didn’t think much of it. Wilson introduced himself during a group outing at a haunted house, and that was that.
Luckily, he followed up.
“I eventually let him take me on a date after he persistently asked [through] Instagram direct messages,” Alyssa said.
The high school sweethearts had been together for nearly a decade when Wilson proposed in Spain. The couple decided to rent a car and explored the area. After a fun day together, they decided to cap the day off with a picnic on the beach at sunset for pictures.
“Wilson popped the question in the most beautiful spot right as the sun was going down,” Alyssa said. “[We] got it all on camera for us to look back on later and share with everyone!”
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Wedding Vendors
Planning and design:Taylor Hight for Amanda Reed Weddings; Photography: The Montoya Collective (Keely Montoya); Wedding dress:Joon Bridal; Florist:Arloh Flora; Rentals: Kindred Provisions; Stationery: Shaye Makes; Hair stylist: Evelin Ballesteros; Makeup artist: Han Helps Hair; Content creator: Weddings With Molly; Bartending:Mint 2 Mix; Cake:The Cake Occasion; Cellist: Cello by Austin; Catering: Pizzeria Ruby; DJ: DJ Eros; Event staff: Stom Events & Staffing
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Q&A
Q: What was the vibe you wanted for your wedding?
A:“I always knew that I wanted a really colorful wedding,” Alyssa said. “We kind of ran with it being the last day of summer by making the wedding an end-of-summer garden party. The venue was all outdoors and it was perfect for incorporating that vibe!”
Q: What inspired your florals?
A:“Art, summer and memories,” Alyssa said. “… I wanted bold colors and funky structures that felt almost like abstract art and evoked an end-of-summer feeling.”
Q: What inspired your wedding day look?
A:“We wanted to be able to express ourselves on our wedding day. We both love fashion and expression through clothing. We gravitate towards looks that are elevated in a real, effortless way,” Alyssa said. “I honestly feel like the looks we chose were very authentic to us and the vibes we like.”
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
‘Congratulations’
“We are both huge Mac Miller fans and got to see him perform our favorite album in concert before he passed,” Alyssa said. “I walked down the aisle to the first song of the album, ‘Congratulations,’ performed live by Cello by Austin. It was perfect!”
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
Flower Power
Alyssa wanted to feature funky florals, like poppies, orchids and hydrangeas. Her florist sourced out-of-season poppies and incorporated orchids, Alyssa’s mother’s favorite flowers, and hydrangeas, a reminder of summertime visits to Alyssa’s grandmother’s house, into the bouquet Alyssa held during the wedding.
Photo Credit: The Montoya Collective
SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO BE FEATURED IN ARKANSAS BRIDE HERE!
Anna and Lucas became best friends in the seventh grade and realized quickly they were meant to be something more. It wasn’t until ninth grade that they decided to make their romantic relationship official.
“Even back in ninth grade, I knew I wanted to marry him—and as the years went by, that feeling only grew stronger,” Anna said.
Looking back, Anna feels incredibly lucky to have met the love of her life when she was a kid. The two have been best friends since they were teenagers, and she looks back on those early days fondly.
“Looking back, it’s amazing to think that the person I met as a kid would become my lifelong partner,” Anna said. “Our story has been full of love, growth, and so many memories. He truly is my best friend, and we have so much fun together.”
Planning and design: Samantha Daniels; Venue:The Loft at Stone Oak; Videography: Nick Daniels; Florist: Kindred Blooms; HMUA: Kari Wein; Cake:Creative Kitchen; Catering: Mel’s Creative Catering; DJ: Allen Mangan; Stationery: Shindig Paperie; Rentals: Eventology, Kindred Provisions and Tables Matter; Groom’s and Groomsmen’s tuxes: The Black Tux; Dance lessons: TK Rakoski
Photo Credit: Bethany Grace Photography
Q&A
Q: What was the vibe you wanted for your wedding?
A: “For my wedding vibe, I wanted it to feel Southern, timeless, charming and creative,” Anna said. “I also got a little inspiration from influencer Morgan Massarelli.”
Q: What inspired your florals?
A:“When planning the florals, I used these words to guide me: soft, effortless, textured, bunched, backyard, and airy yet full,” Anna said. “I wanted the bridesmaids’ flowers to feel like they had just been picked fresh from the garden. My color scheme consisted of pinks and greens. I shared all my inspiration with my planner, Samantha, and she truly brought my vision to life.”
Q: What moment of the day do you wish you could relive over and over again?
A:“I wish I could relive our dance floor moments over and over again,” Anna said. “All of our first dances were so special. We took dance lessons leading up to the wedding, and getting to ‘perform’ was an absolute blast. And the dance floor party—our DJ kept the energy electric all night long!”
Photo Credit: Bethany Grace Photography
Fern-filled Fairytale
“My parents and I bought 30 large ferns,” Anna said. “We kept them alive until the end of September and lined our entire walkway up to the ceremony chairs.”
Photo Credit: Bethany Grace Photography
First Dance Magic
“My dad and I danced to a song we used to sing together in the car when I was growing up— ‘Come Sail Away’ by Styx,” Anna said. “Lucas and I also shared a private last dance to a song we had been singing along to together since 10th grade.”
SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO BE FEATURED IN ARKANSAS BRIDE HERE!
Covington Crain never wanted to work in finance, but that didn’t stop her from asking for an interview at 49 Financial during Harding University’s 2023 spring career fair. It wasn’t the bustling world of business that drew her to the company, however. She was drawn in by the representative they’d sent to man their booth at the job fair, Luke Heiligenthal.
“I knew absolutely nothing about being in finance, but I did know a hot guy when I saw one,” Covington said.
The interview, unsurprisingly, did not land her a job at Luke’s company. It did get her a date, though.
“Many months later, I was offered an even better position… one seated across a dinner table from Luke on our first date,” she said. “Suffice it to say, that interview went swimmingly, and we were dating seriously by July.”
Planning and design: Jessika McCuin Weddings; Videography: The Powells; Rentals: Eventology; Stationary and paper goods: By Invitation Only; Hair stylist: Bre Smith; Makeup artist: Chandra Price; Calligraphy: Quill & Curl Calligraphy; Linens: BBJ La Tavola; Menswear: Jos. A. Bank; Live painting:Watercolors by Korry Jones; Pre-ceremony music: Harpist Frances Cobb Kenney; Ceremony music: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra quartet; Dinner music: Pianist Don Nichols; Reception music: Jordan Kahn Music Company; Cake: AM Cake Designs
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Q&A
Q: What was your favorite part of the planning process?
A:“Neither of us [were] living in Little Rock, [so] planning came with some challenges. Fortunately, my mom is my best friend and knows what I like,” Covington said. “Paper and words are my mom’s favorite part of any big event she hosts, so we spent a lot of time and energy on our wedding papers … I loved being able to use my creativity and skill to capture on paper so much beauty.”
Q: what was your first priority when wedding planning?
A:“To make it ours. To be careful to not [emphasize] being different, but instead, to [emphasize] glorifying our God and honoring our guests.”
Q: What part of your wedding day sticks out in your mind the most?
A:“The sheer joy of the day, from sunrise to sunset. God was so incredibly kind to us! Brings grateful tears to my eyes to this day,” Covington said.
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Faith Upfront
“We didn’t want the opportunity to be lost on us to bless our guests with … worship,” Covington said. The couple started their ceremony with the a cappella rendition of “We Are Standing on Holy Ground” for their guests.
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Photo Credit: Cameron And Elizabeth Photography
Museum Meets Monochrome
“Classic elegance was our anchor. I find nothing more beautiful and timeless than classic cream and black,” Covington said. “At the same time, we wanted to respect the integrity of the art museum’s own vibe, [so] we were careful to allow that to inform our planning.”
SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO BE FEATURED IN ARKANSAS BRIDE HERE!
Jordan Arrington and Alan Herrera met the old-fashioned way – through a dating app during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
“I was the independent woman who never thought I’d settle down any time soon, and he was the sweet, somewhat shy guy who made me wonder if he even liked me,” Jordan said. “We went on three dates, and by the third one,
I was about ready to pull the plug. His manners were so good, I thought he just wasn’t into me!”
Luckily for Alan, a friend could see the writing on the wall and told him to hurry up and make a move.
“We can honestly say we owe our entire relationship to that moment (and his friend, of course),” said Jordan.
A 2020 visit to Northwest Arkansas ended up being Alan’s inspiration for his proposal. When he was ready to pop the question in 2022, he tried to recreate the trip, but nature had other plans.
“As we made our way to Fayetteville, the snow started to fall, the temperature dropped into the negative degrees and our carefully planned dinner reservation was promptly canceled,” Jordan said.
Undeterred, the couple continued their vacation, with Jordan none-the-wiser about the impending proposal. When the photographer Alan had hired to capture the special moment came down with the flu, it seemed like everything was officially going wrong.
“The day we visited the Momentary, Alan surprised me by getting down on one knee and the stand-in photographer captured the perfect shot,” Jordan said. “It was one of those rare moments where everything just clicked into place.”
Planning and design: Ramsey & Co. Weddings and Events; Photography and videography:Nouvel Photo & Film; Venue:The Edgemont House; HMUA: Lavonne Beauty; Groom’s hair: Natural State Hair Studio; Bar stools: Eventology; DJ: DJ Afrosia; Harpist: Alisa Coffey; Catering: Gina’s Catering; Bartending: Pour Sisters; Cake: Michelle Mayer; Wedding dress: Ultimate Bride; Alterations: Altered for the Altar; Groom’s attire: Barakat Bespoke: Transportation: Emmett Parker Limousine Service
Photo Credit: Nouvel Photo & Film
Photo Credit: Nouvel Photo & Film
Q&A
Q: What was your favorite part of the planning process?
A:“Alan and I had a very clear vision of where we wanted to tie the knot: a Spanish-style mansion, surrounded by our closest friends and family. We were dreaming big, and honestly, we thought it might be a stretch to pull off in Arkansas,” Jordan said. “But to my shock, there it was–a Spanish-style mansion just 10 minutes away in a historic neighborhood in North Little Rock. It felt too good to be true!”
Q: What inspired the vibe of your wedding?
A:“Our wedding was deeply inspired by our cultures. As a couple with both African-American and Mexican roots, it was essential to us to create a celebration that honored both of our backgrounds,” said Jordan. “The result was a beautiful combination of everything we hold dear, a wedding that felt completely us – rooted in our cultures and celebrated with love.”
Q: Did you incorporate anything sentimental into your wedding day?
A:“One of the most special moments was when Alan’s godparents spoke a traditional blessing over us in Spanish,” said Jordan. “Another incredibly sentimental moment came from my maid of honor, a singer-songwriter. As a special gift to us, she wrote a song and performed it on our wedding day.”
Q: What was your favorite moment?
A:“It was the after-party! We finally got to let loose and truly enjoy ourselves with our guests,” said Jordan. “We took weeks of dance lessons with April from Club 27, and we ended up performing a traditional salsa routine. It was a blast, and the moment we hit the dance floor, the party really [started].”
Photo Credit: Nouvel Photo & Film
Photo Credit: Nouvel Photo & Film
Love in Two Languages
Jordan and Alan chose to have a bilingual wedding ceremony to recognize Alan’s Mexican heritage. “It was incredibly meaningful for us to honor both of our cultures in such a personal way and tie our families together with our union,” said Jordan.
Planning and design: Ramsey & Co. Weddings & Events; Photography and videography:Nouvel Photo & Film; Venue and bartending:Club 27 (614 President Clinton Ave); Catering: Iriana’s Pizza; Tres leches cake: Mercado San Jose; Bride’s after-party dress: BHLDN (Anthropology Weddings); Groom’s after-party attire: Barakat Bespoke; DJ: DJ Afrosi; Bar stools: Eventology; Dance instructor: April Jones (Club 27)
SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO BE FEATURED IN ARKANSAS BRIDE HERE!
October 26, 2024 | Private Residence in El Dorado | Taryn Lynn Photo
Seemingly connected by an invisible string, Gabe and Anna had been part of one another’s lives for as long as they could remember. The two had several mutual friends, but never officially met until February 2024. Anna was urged by a mutual friend to connect with Gabe, and they have been inseparable ever since.
“We both knew by the end of March that we loved each other and knew we were ready to spend forever together,” Anna said.
Anna never saw Gabe’s proposal coming. After their families met for the first time, Gabe invited her to dinner for a chance to unwind and enjoy some one-on-one time together. With their relatives gone, Anna happily agreed. They drove to their first date spot, Post Masters Grill in Camden, to celebrate a successful week with their families.
“Gabe grabbed my hand from across the table and started talking very sweetly, and the next thing I knew he was down on one knee asking me to marry him,” Anna said.
Anna’s family and closest friends suddenly surrounded the newly engaged couple to celebrate!
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Wedding Vendors
Planning and design: Hannah Lamb Events; Photography: Taryn Lynn Photo; Content creator: Creative Reflection; Florist: All About Flowers; Wedding dress: The Bridal Path; Jewelry: Murphy Pitard Jewelers & Ann Trimble; Rentals: Pelican Tents & Events; Specialty rentals: Lilac Lane; Linens: BBJ La Tavola; DJ: Carter Bryant; Catering: Martha’s On the Square; Bar: Bilo’s Liquor & Fine Wine; Cake: Uptown Downtown; Live wedding guest artist: Hillary George Art; Valet: Drake Valet; HMUA: Almost Blonde Salon & Boutique; Stationery: Please & Thank You
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Q&A
Q: Why did you decide to have a block party wedding?
A: “As a 37-year-old bride and a 39-year-old groom, I was past the whole ‘wedding’ idea and more focused on the marriage itself,” Anna said. “I wanted the day to feel intimate, intentional, and sweet from start to finish. We did our best to make that happen, and I truly believe we succeeded!”
Q: What was your favorite moment of the day?
A: “We both say that our favorite moment, and one we could relive over and over would be our first look,” Anna said. “Gabe didn’t know it was coming, but before I walked down the aisle, I had arranged for his favorite song to play over the speakers, and when the song started and he turned around, and I walked down the aisle to him was hands down our favorite moment.”
Q: When you look back at your wedding, what part of the day sticks out to you the most?
A: “I think for both of us, spending time with our bridal party that morning—just being together and having fun—was really special and stands out,” Anna said. “And of course, having so many people we love, from both sides and all walks of life, come together to celebrate with us at the reception was truly amazing!”
Q: What personalized details did you incorporate into your wedding?
A: “From the personal details, the music we picked out, the ceremony and the vendors from the reception, it was all very intentional and personal to both of us. And of course, deciding to transform my childhood street into a giant block party reception! Everyone truly enjoyed it!”
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
Photo Credit: Taryn Lynn Photo
It’s a Block Party
“When the reception site I originally wanted fell through and my backyard wasn’t big enough, we decided to turn the situation around,” Anna said. “[We transformed] it into a giant block party for our closest 300 friends! We got it approved by all our neighbors and authorities, then blocked off the entire street for two days. It was the talk of the town!”
SUBMIT YOUR WEDDING TO BE FEATURED IN ARKANSAS BRIDE HERE!
When Kadyn first told Nate (“not asked,” she notes) he’d be her date to an upcoming formal at Harding University, where they were both students, he turned her down. But a few weeks later, when he had to sit out a Bison’s football game on Kadyn’s birthday weekend, they were able to really connect.
“I went to dinner with my friends to celebrate my 20th birthday and saw a notification that he had swiped up on my Instagram story asking where we were eating,” Kadyn said. “I told him to meet me back home in two hours for my birthday party, and we’ve been together ever since.”
It didn’t take long for the couple to realize they were in it for the long haul. By Christmas that year, they’d said their first “I love you.”
Two years later, Nate knew he had to make the proposal special. He started the day with a special lunch for Kadyn, which was to be followed by a date night in Little Rock. But when he left to prepare for the date, Kadyn was surprised when a limousine arrived to pick her up.
“We went on a scavenger hunt to all of the places that held significance to us,” Kadyn said. “We ended up at the country club golf course … He was waiting for me there with pictures and rose petals scattered everywhere. He got down on one knee and we promised forever together!”
Photography: Taylor Renee Photos; Planning and design: B Jane Events; Florist: Sam’s Club; Videographer: Asa Clay; Jewelry: Anthropologie, Michael Kors and Tara & Co.; Catering: Jose’s Mexican Restaurant; Bridesmaids’ dresses: ASOS, Revelry, Lulu’s and Meshki; Mother of the bride’s dress: Mac Duggal; Groom’s suit: Men’s Warehouse; Second look: Lulu’s Bridal; Rentals: Kindred Provisions; Bartender: Tie 1 On; Dance floor and mirror balls: Dancenhance; Cake: Harps; Hair stylist: Ka Kue; Makeup artist: Karah Aleanna Artistry; Officiant: Greg Harris; Photo Booth: KS Event Rentals
Photo Credit: Taylor Renee Photos
Photo Credit: Taylor Renee Photos
Q&A
Q: What was your favorite part of the planning process?
A:“My favorite planning moment was finding my dress at Unveiled Bridal Collection with my mom and mother-in-law,” Kadyn said. “I had zero intentions of walking out with a dress that day, but once I put it on, I burst into tears, and I just knew she was the one!”
Q: What inspired your decor?
A:“We went with black and white because we love the vintage, checkered B&W vibe,” Kadyn said. “Black, white and gold is also an homage to our alma mater, Harding University.”
Q: What inspired your second look?
A:“I felt that because it was New Year’s Eve, I wanted to look like a disco ball,” Kadyn said. “ … But I still felt like something was missing and decided it needed a big, white bow on the back to make it more bridal.”
Photo Credit: Taylor Renee Photos
Photo Credit: Taylor Renee Photos
Sentimental Bride
“My mom handmade my garter from the tulle of her wedding dress,” Kadyn said. “The flower petals that our flower girl threw down the aisle were petals that I kept and dried from all the bouquets Nate gave me over the years, including the petals that were on the ground when Nate proposed. Our guest book was Nate’s football jersey that he wore when we won the National Championship during our senior season.”
Photo Credit: Taylor Renee Photos
Honoring Their Alma Mater
“We had all our friends and family sing ‘The Lord Bless and Keep You’ as a closing blessing during our wedding ceremony,” Kadyn said. “I don’t think we have ever heard anything more beautiful in our lives. We felt so loved in that moment.”
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| Photo Credit: Kati Mallory Fine Art Photography
