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Small,
intimate weekend weddings are increasing in popularity since
couples today are busier than ever. Naturally you’ve dreamed
of a romantic wedding surrounded by family and friends that
are dear to you. Yet you may feel overwhelmed by the thought
of planning a big church wedding or, even more difficult,
the two of you may have different religious traditions and
you prefer a neutral setting.
Whether you
choose to have a romantic service with just the two of you
or a special event with family and friends, you can still
have a ceremony that you will treasure for a lifetime!
The location you
choose sets the mood for your entire celebration and with so
many sites in Eureka Springs to choose from you’re sure to
find the perfect surroundings. Explore your options with a
budget and style in mind. Let your imagination run wild!
Unusual wedding sites are plentiful and creative ideas are
boundless. Find the right combination and your family and
guests will never forget it. Even though it may be a small,
intimate wedding make it the adventure of a lifetime for
everyone, including you and your new spouse!
Here are a few
choices to consider:
Even though
it may be a simple celebration it’s never too early to start
planning. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
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Narrow your choices and
confirm that the location is open to weddings and
available for your date.
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Make sure it is large enough
and ask about décor, cuisine, decorations, overnight
accommodations and restrictions.
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After the top candidates are
selected, arrange to visit and inspect the sites, and
determine what would be most convenient and comfortable
for you.
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Set a budget. Many wedding
sites offer special packages that include a honeymoon
suite, complete with breakfast in bed the following
morning, music, flowers, photography, videography, cake
and an Minister, all for one fee. Once you decide on a
location, be sure to get a written contract that outlines
the services and get the details of their cancellation
policy.
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Remember to check on marriage
license requirements.
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Many locations will have
their own wedding professionals to attend to the details,
leaving you free to enjoy the days prior to your wedding.
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Don’t forget to make plans
with a hairstylist and make-up expert for the morning of
your wedding.
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Schedule other activities
that you would like to include in advance – limo, carriage
ride, massages, shows, tee times, dinner reservations,
etc.
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If you plan on having guests,
keep in mind that guests usually pay for their own
accommodations, but it’s nice to have everyone in a
central location and you will need a place for everyone to
gather.
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Mail out-of-town guests a
“save the date” card well in advance of your wedding so
they can mark their calendars.
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Schedule a photographer so
you’ll have priceless photos of every moment.
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Plan for a welcome basket for
your guests to be waiting in their rooms. Fill it with
fruit, sweets or other tasty snacks. Tuck disposable
cameras in each so they will have photos of their own. For
out-of-town guests include city maps, sight seeing guides,
local souvenirs & treats.
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Find childcare for those who
will need it, and arrange special activities for young
guests such as miniature golf or swimming.
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Send guests a complete
itinerary of the weekend’s activities, including times,
locations and appropriate dress for each event.
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Invite your guests to a
brunch or lunch the day of the wedding.
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