Since we’ve finally (and I use the word finally very loosely here) found our venue, I thought I’d take a couple of days to highlight some of the major contenders that didn’t ultimately make the cut. The process was a long one, since, as I mentioned, I may have started a lot little early.
In retrospect, the first venue I fell in love with might seem a little crazy… after all, it is in Arkansas. Hear me out, though. Mark and I are from opposite coasts. Our family live everywhere from upstate New York to Louisiana to Oregon. When it came to choosing a location, one particular place just didn’t scream, “pick me!” In fact, we almost felt like, rather than choosing sides, a neutral, interesting location might be a better fit… everyone would get to take a mini-vacation somewhere new.
Enter Thorncrown Chapel.
Photo Credit: Hudson Photography via Style Me Pretty
The gorgeous chapel was built by E. Fay Jones, a former apprentice of Mr. Frank Lloyd Wright. It sits outside one of the cutest little towns you’ve ever seen, Eureka Springs, buried deep within the mountains and woods of the Ozarks. Between Mark’s love of Frank Lloyd Wright and our combined love of the outdoors, it felt like the perfect place.
It didn’t take me long to start dreaming of the ideal underground reception location with the best bluegrass band, mason jars, loads of southern charm… maybe we could get Joe Purdy to come!!
Photo Credit: Hudson Photography via Style Me Pretty
Of course, ultimately, it just didn’t feel right. The closest I’ve been to Arkansas is New Orleans. I wouldn’t even know what to expect, and Mark is no different. The whole thing started to feel a little contrived, two kids from the coast celebrating their love with southern charm?
Yes, I grew up on a horse and am only partially ashamed to admit that I love country music, but I am not southern. In the end, Thorncrown just wasn’t the right choice.
… although, Joe, if you really would play our wedding, I could be persuaded to change my mind… so, let me know.
Seriously.