Real Wedding in Arkansas: Frances VandenHeuvel & Benjamin Iverson in Hot Springs

Frances Elizabeth VandenHeuvel of Hot Springs and Benjamin Charles Iverson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa recently wed in Hot Springs.

  • Wedding date: July 23, 2011
  • How many guests: 375
  • Ceremony location: First United Methodist Church, Hot Springs
  • Reception location: Hot Springs Convention Center, Horner Hall

While Frances’ mother was volunteering at Ben’s school, she couldn’t help but play match-maker for her daughter. Ben was given Frances’ telephone number by her mother and a few other convinced teachers, so Ben made the call.  And after a few dates of dinner, dancing and much conversation, the rest is history.

What was your overall inspiration? Our travels. New York and Paris were intertwined as romantic touches in personalized decorations and photo displays.

Why did you choose your colors? The color scheme came from a bracelet bought by Ben for Frances during a trip to Long Island: purples in shades of aborigine and various bright greens. The design of an elegant swirl was also used as an inspiration for decorations, flowers and the cake. “Most special, my wedding gift from Ben was a beautiful white-gold necklace in the design of this same swirl.” 

How did you customize your wedding:

  • We chose to learn a choreographed dance to our favorite song, “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. Our band, The Hoosier Daddies, made the extra effort to learn the special version of our song, for which we were very grateful. We were nervous, but it was fantastic and fun!     
  • Our napkin rings were all handmade by friends and family, designed originally by my mother and inspired by the bracelet from Long Island.
  • We had a most beautiful photograph wall with hand-drawn frames within which people could sign special notes.
  • Our favors were sugar cookies with our purple monogram, designed by my little sister and wrapped beautifully by her friends at a pre-wedding party.
  • The menu was chosen with a French flair. Delicious cheeses, traditional French entrees, macaroons, and even a crepe bar served many happy gourmands.

THE DETAILS

Related Articles