Rachel grew up playing all over their family property, but her absolute favorite place to play was the well kept Walnut Tree grove on the edge of their property. She quickly coined this magical grove her “enchanted forest” and dreamed of getting married in the natural aisle formed by the impressive tree trunks. Her loving parents didn’t hesitate to bring Rachel’s dream to fruition, with the invaluable help of Nicole Allen Events. This incredible team brought life Rachel’s enchanting Walnut Grove wedding in Fayetteville, Arkansas. From her engagement session, to the bridal session, bridal brunch and wedding day, Rachel’s childhood home and family played a significant role throughout.
The Engagement Session
Rachel and Joey wanted to do their session in a special place, which led us to their family lodge in the Ozark Mountains. This unique home designed by renowned architect, Fay Jones, has been a place of refuge for Rachel and her family over the years.
The Bridal Session
Rachel could think of no better location for her bridal session and wedding day than her childhood home, and we think she was right! Her parents touched every inch of the property, turning it into a custom home that has served their family well. Hearing the Rachel reminisce on the property, we could tell it was a beloved place that held many fond memories for her and her family.
The Bridal Brunch
Rachel’s aunt graciously offered to host her bridal brunch the day before her wedding, and fittingly, her aunt lives just up the road from her childhood home. Her aunt and her friends planned quite the brunch, including floating swans, yummy food and vintage decor.
The Rehearsal Dinner
A few hours after the bridal brunch, the entire wedding party and close family gathered for a rehearsal dinner in downtown Fayetteville at swanky Italian restaurant, Vetro 1925. This provided the perfect opportunity for Rachel and Joey to catch up with friends they hadn’t seen in too long, hear from those they love most, and get out some nerves before the big day.
The Wedding Day
The day of the wedding had finally arrived, and in true Father of the Bride fashion, vendors were scurrying around the property preparing for a big evening. Rachel and her girls got ready in the house, while Joey and his fellas occupied the barn. But this wasn’t just any barn, it was the “party barn,” as the family calls. Equipped with a full-service bar and a bowling alley, the groom’s party was well taken care of. It was a pure joy to watch Rachel and her mother experience the wedding day coming together. The vision they had been dreaming of for quite some time was finally becoming a reality. From the dreamy ceremony aisle in the “enchanted forest” to the tented reception space, this day was simply perfect. It was Napa Valley refinement meets rustic equestrian. It was truly a direct reflection of Rachel—joyful, bright and lighthearted.
Kinds Words from Rachel
“Joey & I had such a fun experience with Cam & Liz for all of our wedding sessions. I chose them as our photographers because their gallery was colorful, bright & playful! They also have a very inclusive package which was so nice to not have to book other photographers or videographers for other sessions or add ons. We did not come into the process with a specific vision, but Cam & Liz helped us figure it out and it was perfect. They made us feel so comfortable in our engagement session. They made me feel beautiful in my bridal session. Most importantly, they really captured the moods of both the ceremony & reception so well. You can tell how much fun we were having in the photos and that is what it is all about! We will cherish these memories forever!”
Vendors
Planning – Nicole Allen Events
Bridal Brunch Venue – Private Residence
Rehearsal Dinner Venue – Vetro 1925
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Private Residence
Photography + Videography – Cameron and Elizabeth Photography
Florals – Pigmint
Hair – Catherine Schmidt
MUA – Glo Limited
Tent – Sandone
Ceremony Music – Smoke in Mirrors
Band – Stratosphere
Stage + Ceremony AV + Cold Sparks – Neal Crawford
Reception Lighting – Lightworks
Charger Rental – BBJ La Tavola
Reception Dance Floor + Rentals – Party Pro Rents
Additional Decor Rentals – Alchemy
Catering – Perini Ranch
Waitstaff – TNT
Bartending – Tie 1 On
Cake – The Cake Occasion
Stationery + Signage – Shindig Paperie
Rings – Abby Sparks Jewelry + Blakeman’s
Wedding Gown – Tesori Bridal
Groom’s Tux – Walker Brother’s
Groomsmen Tuxes – The Black Tux
Rachel and Joey’s Highlight Film
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