Mary Alden Rial & Reagan Bret Berryman
May 25, 2024 | The Ridge at Wilson Mill in Monticello | Jenny Martin Photography
Alden and Reagan grew up just 30 minutes apart but met for the first time through mutual friends in junior high. They remained acquaintances until reconnecting in college, where they took their relationship status to the next level.
“Right from the start, I just knew [he was the one],” Alden said. “There was something so natural about being around Reagan – he felt like home. It didn’t take long for me to realize he was exactly the person I wanted to spend my life with.”
Reagan proposed to Alden in the most perfect way and took her totally by surprise. His original plan was to propose to her earlier in the day, but Alden had decided that she didn’t feel like putting makeup on for the day – so he quickly pivoted, knowing she’d want to be dressed for the special moment.
On the way to dinner that night, Alden thought they were going to stop by her sister’s apartment to help her get ready. In the apartment, Reagan got down on one knee with a custom-made ring. After tears were shed, the newly engaged couple went to dinner and attended their surprise engagement party with friends and family.
Wedding Vendors We Love
Photography
Jenny Martin Photography
Videography
Nouvel Photo & Film
Cake
Sweets by Logan
Custom rentals, Special Effects, Lighting, Dance Floor, Production Design, Custom Vinyl and Rental Design
Central Arkansas Entertainment
DJ
DJ Chad of Central Arkansas Entertainment
Photo Credit: Jenny Martin Photography
More Vendors
Planning and design: Gretchen Larkan Events; Venue: The Ridge on Wilson Mill; Tent: Artents; Florist: All Occasions Flowers & Gifts; Wedding dress: Elizabeth Lee Bridal (Dallas); Catering: Hoots BBQ; Bar: Southern Lit Mobile Bar; Furniture: White Door Events; Linens: BBJ La Tavola; Cake: Simply Cake of Stuttgart; Custom hats: Kenz Kustomz
Q&A
Q: What was your vision for your wedding day?
A: “I wanted the day to feel unique, classy, timeless and fun,” Alden said.” I sent my sister-in-law everything I loved, and she helped shape my vision into something cohesive. My planner, Gretchen, was amazing and took it from there, giving the day a creative and personal touch that felt exactly right.”
Q: Is there a personalized detail you’d like to share?
A: “Reagan’s grandfather prayed over us before we exchanged vows, which was incredibly special,” Alden said. “He and Mimi have always been a beautiful example of a Godly marriage, and it meant the world to have him bless us in that moment.”
Q: What was your favorite moment of the day?
A: “There were so many,” Alden said. “But one that stands out is the car ride after the ceremony, just Ragan and me, on our way to the reception. It was this incredible moment of, ‘Wow, we did it!’ Arriving at the reception and seeing everything come together was also magical.”
No Regrets
“I wanted something timeless, clean and simple,” Alden said. “I considered adding more color but decided to keep it classic since I can be a little indecisive. No color regrets here!”
Personal Touch
The couple opted to ditch the modern wedding trend of a “first look” to instead have a “first touch.” She said this made seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony more special and intimate.
