Sophisticated silhouettes, sumptuous furs and splendid jewels — wedding fashions that never go out of style. Click on the links in the slideshow above to discover more about the featured shops.
What better place to stage a show of timeless beauty than the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion? Our thanks to Gov. Mike Beebe, Ginger Beebe and the staff of the first family’s home.
(Editor’s note: The Governor’s Mansion is not available for wedding ceremonies, receptions or bridal portraits.)
PHOTOGRAPHY: | Jason Masters |
HAIR & MAKEUP: | Angela Alexander |
MODELS: | Erica Kyle & Dan Crotts |
FLOWERS: | About Vase, Little Rock |
Notes About the Governor’s Mansion
- STATELY ESTATE: The fountain at the mansion’s front gate is identical to the one in front of the Old State House, and garden guru P. Allen Smith designed the estate’s picturesque landscaping.
- CONVERSATION PIECE: The French chandelier in the mansion foyer dates back to the 18th century.
- SERVE IN STYLE: Ornate silver service on display in the mansion’s dining room is from the battleship USS Arkansas. Pieces in former first lady Betty Bumper’s Chippendale cabinet are just a portion of the mansion’s 62-piece set.
- BOOK SMARTS: Former Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton collected the books in the governor’s library during their 12 years at the mansion. Almost all are about Arkansas or by Arkansans.
- KEEPING TIME: Made in 1770 in Ireland, this cabinet-style grandfather clock is the oldest item in the mansion.
This form-hugging gown boasts romantic lace and intricate beading. Available at Gayla’s Gowns, Hot Springs. Veil and bracelet from Proposals, Little Rock. Earrings from Tulle, Sherwood.
Beaded lace adorns this off-the-shoulder Allure Couture gown; available at Jessica’s Bridal & Formal, Bay. Bel Aire birdcage and earrings from Proposals, Little Rock. Necklace from Smith Caldwell, Benton.
Allure Couture ball gown with dazzling bodice encrusted with Swarovski crystals; available at Danielle’s Bridal, Clarksville.
Earrings and bracelet from Proposals, Little Rock.
Enzoani “Heli” is a couture fit-and-flare gown with a sheer one-shoulder overlay that covers an inner lace dress; available at Proposals, Little Rock. Classic Jean Yves tuxedo with vest and tie in Tango Latte; available at Gayla’s Gowns, Hot Springs.
Dramatic diamond-drop necklace, delicate diamond stud earrings and a diamond engagement and wedding ring set available at Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry, Rogers. Fox tube capelet from Fletcher & Bensky Furs, Little Rock.
This Justin Alexander trumpet gown features a beaded sweetheart neckline with cap sleeves that crisscross into a deep V back; available at Clark’s Bridal & Formal, Jonesboro. Necklace from Smith Caldwell, Benton. “Jackson” slim tuxedo by Ike Behar is classic and handsomely fitted; available at Paul Morrell Formalwear, Little Rock.
Voluminous ruffled organza and tulle fall dramatically from this Maggie Sottero gown; available at The Bridal Cottage, North Little Rock. White and black diamond jewelry from Cecil’s Fine Jewelry, Little Rock.
Watters “Norma” has a romantic sweep train and layers of washed silk organza that dreamily flutter with movement. Pearl and rhinestone necklace and satin sash sold separately; all available at Low’s Bridal & Formal, Brinkley.
The G. Alexander Midnight Blue “Maxwell” Tuxedo features black satin shawl lapels and a one-button front; available at Paul Morrell Formalwear, Little Rock.
Show-stopping diamond solitaire rings (6, 5 and 4 carats each), Hearts on Fire dangle diamond earrings and a gorgeous pavé diamond fashion ring go beautifully with an Alwand Vahan diamond, yellow gold and sterling silver necklace and matching bracelet; all available at Wilkerson Jewelers, Stuttgart. Gown from She Said Yes Bridal, Rogers.
Cherie Dori raindrop pendant paired with Ivanka Trump lace scroll earrings — both with black and white diamonds. An Ivanka Trump rock crystal ring with diamonds and black rhodium lace detail completes the look; available at Cecil’s Fine Jewelry, Little Rock.
Moonlight fit-and-flare gown with beaded sash and demure lace illusion build-up; available at Tulle, Sherwood. Rhinestone bracelet from Proposals, Little Rock.
“Wallis” by Modern Trousseau is classic and stylish but with real “wow” factor — perfect for a Southern princess. Like all Modern Trousseau gowns, it’s made to order for a perfect fit; available at She Said Yes Bridal, Rogers. Lipi cat jacket from Fletcher & Bensky, Little Rock. Necklace from Smith Caldwell, Benton.
The Beebe family’s German Shepherd, Viper, looks dashing in his floral collar by About Vase, Little Rock.