Devan Malone & Ernest Elbert
April 1, 2017 • Malvern
Family Farm Christian Day Camp
Ernie Elbert, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, and Devan Malone, a Benton native, had both lived in Little Rock for several years before meeting at a dinner party he hosted for mutual friends. “It’s funny to think about how the moment he answered the door, and we officially met, neither of us realized our entire lives were about to change,” Devan said. “I think I knew he was the person I wanted to spend forever with from the very beginning.”
The day Ernie proposed, Devan thought he was hunting in Texas. Devan made plans to play bingo with a couple friends at the local country club. When she walked up to the sign-in book, she saw someone had already signed her in as “Devan Elbert.” After that, Ernie appeared and took her on a walk around the lake, along a path of hanging pictures that told the story of their relationship. Then, he got down on one knee. Little did she know that 100 of their closest friends and family were waiting just a boat ride away.
The Inspiration
After growing up as a camper and counselor at Family Farm Christian Day Camp since she was six, the decision to get married somewhere so important to her was an easy decision — and after one visit, Ernie was in.
The farm was peaceful setting for an outdoor ceremony, and the reception was held in a log-cabin-style lodge. The couple wanted the color scheme to compliment the wood without being too rustic. They ultimately chose blush pink and, by happenstance when the bridesmaids dresses arrived, raspberry pink.
How They Customized
Music to Our Ears
Processional
“My Dear”
by Bethel Music
Exit
“I’m a Believer”
by Smash Mouth
First Dance
“White”
by Tim Halperin
On their first date, Ernie brought Devan her favorite breakfast foods, and to this day they enjoy eating breakfast at all times of the day. They wanted to treat their guests to some of their favorites: chicken and waffles, a cereal bar, a coffee car with custom coffee sleeves and breakfast tacos, which added the Texas flare for Ernie.
The cake was also layered with coffee and mocha flavors. The breakfast-themed signs that decorated the reception were made by a friend and now hang in the Elbert’s kitchen.
Another personal touch the two put on their wedding was a last dance. They had a first dance at the beginning of the reception, but, after being told to savor every moment, the couple decided to take one last moment to enjoy their wedding day. While all the guests were getting the sparklers ready outside, the couple danced again, taking a moment to look at their beloved friends and family outside waiting to lead them into a new season of life.
Video
The Details
Photographer | Drew Cason Photography, Benton | |
Venue | Family Farm Christian Day Camp, Malvern | |
♥ | Florist | Petal Chik Designs, Little Rock |
Day-of Coordinator | Allyson Gattin, Little Rock | |
♥ | Caterer | Gina’s Catering, Little Rock |
Cake | Stephanie Boyd | |
Wedding Stationery | Wedding Paper Divas & Vista Print | |
Videography | Alex Blankenship | |
DJ | Central Arkansas Entertainment, Little Rock | |
Rentals | Confetti’s Party Rental, Little Rock | |
♥ | Wedding Gown | Low’s Bridal & Formal, Brinkley |
Bridesmaid Attire | LightInTheBox.com | |
♥ | Wedding Bands | Sissy’s Log Cabin, Little Rock |
Groom & Groomsmen Attire | Men’s Warehouse, Little Rock | |
Hair & Makeup | Laura Hart | |
Rehearsal Dinner Venue | Benton Event Center, Benton | |
♥ | Wedding Vendor We Love |
See this Real Wedding as it appeared in our print edition
Discover more inspiration in our Real Weddings section.