Page 42 - Real Weddings

THE EVENT
Sweet spots
ARKANSAS OFFERS AN
ARRAY OF DIVERSE LOCATIONS TO EXPLORE WHEN DECIDING ON A WEDDING LOCALE
Narrowing down the style of a wedding can be tasking, and deciding on a wedding venue to match can add to the pressure. Fortunately, Arkansas offers an abun- dance of wedding venues that meet the unique styles
of a variety of couples, from upscale glam to eclectic boho, as well as rustic chic, simple elegance and more. Here is a look at some of the location options that brides and grooms can explore when deciding where to say “I do.”
OUTDOOR SPACES
True to The Natural State, Arkansas has endless scenic spac- es that make for remarkable wedding venues. “Guests enjoy the country-farm setting while only minutes away from the city,” said Karen Martin of Faulkner Lake Orchard. Martin said Faulkner Lake Orchard is located on a scenic peach orchard that overlooks a rolling hillside and is complete with a state-of-the-art commer- cial kitchen for the caterer and shuttle services to and from a hotel in which the venue is in partnership.
Some additional notable locations such as Sassafras Vineyard & Winery in Springdale, The Silos in Bono and Mulberry Mountain Lodging in Ozark provide breathtaking views for exchanging vows in the great outdoors.
Such scenic settings can reduce decorating costs and provide fresh air and natural light for the ceremony. “We are a rustic, yet elegant, venue. Being that our inside facility is out tted in native Arkansas cypress, it doesn’t require a lot of decorating,” Martin said. “Hardwood trees and cypress trees are a perfect backdrop for our outdoor arbor.”
However, seasonal climates should be considered when choos- ing between indoor and outdoor venues, and it’s recommended to choose a location that has a backup plan in case of bad weather conditions, such as a place with both indoor and outdoor accom- modations. When selecting a more rural location, couples should also discuss availability of certain amenities such as electricity, restrooms, kitchen facilities and bridal suites with the venue.
MUSEUMS AND EDUCATIONAL SITES
For an engaging way for a couple to express their personalities and interests while exchanging vows, educational venues such as museums, libraries and nonpro t sites are a unique consideration.
The Arkansas Arts Center, the Clinton Presidential Center and Heifer International, all in Little Rock, are just a few of the locations in Arkansas that provide spaces for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Marcia Shelton of Heifer International said that while Heifer is not a typical wedding venue, people often come to Heifer aware of Heifer’s mission to end hunger and poverty, and they support that mission through the cost of the wedding and reception. Shelton
SKYTOUCH_E_PHOTOS
CHECK ‘VENUE’ OFF YOUR LIST TODAY
VENUE CHOOSE FROM OUTDOOR AND INDOOR SPACES AT THE HEIFER INTERNATIONAL CAMPUS
1 WORLD AVENUE
LITTLE ROCK
501.907.2697 WWW.HEIFER.ORG/RENTALS
PAGE 42