Why Eureka Springs as a wedding destination?
Eureka Springs is a small, quaint community in the Ozark Mountains. Offering a magical setting of Victorian homes, lovely gardens, historic hotels and a downtown district of shops and galleries literally built on the hillsides, Eureka Springs has made a name for itself as “The Wedding Capital of the South”. Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by Beaver Lake, Lake Leatherwood, and Table Rock lake recreational areas and bordered by the White River and Kings River…well, as you can imagine Eureka Springs offers a beautiful and most unique setting for your wedding or renewal of vows celebration.
Eureka Springs has long been a favorite for weddings and anniversary celebrations and continues to offer everything for weddings including a myriad of professional wedding services that will make your wedding day a stress-free affair. And Eureka Springs is a perfect setting for your guests to come and enjoy the many activities surrounding your special moment.
Where can I get married in Eureka Springs?
There are endless possibilities for Wedding locations in Eureka Springs. From a casual moment for the two of you to a grand affair and everything in between – historic Victorian Parlor or garden setting, natural springs with a garden setting – Blue Spring Heritage Center being a most outstanding location and there are a half dozen other spring locations in town; from quaint chapels in the woods to the elegant Thorncrown Chapel and the historic Gavioli Chapel….the locations are as varied as your desires. You can be married on horseback, on the trolley, in the park, at the Overlook for Inspiration Point, on the balcony of your hotel or the courtyard of your Bed and Breakfast, or in a horse-drawn carriage. Most locations are available during all seasons with only January being the most limiting of choices available. The suggestions we would offer you are dependent on the number of guests attending and the style of the celebration that you may consider. We will be happy to advise you on the best option for you to meet your spiritual needs.
How do I get started planning my wedding?
Once you have a date selected for your wedding ceremony or renewal of vows, please contact us by phone or fill out the contact form on this site to get started. We will be able to confirm our availability to officiate your ceremony and let you know how we can assist you with planning a location or other special needs. Our consultations are complimentary and may stimulate ideas you may not have considered. We will help you keep the steps simple so you can focus on the deep meaning of this special event.
How do I find flowers, cake, photographer, hairdresser…..in Eureka Springs?
We have listed some links on this page to help you with your search. Once we know when and where the wedding will be held we can help you narrow down your options.
Can you help us find a place to stay in Eureka Springs?
The Eureka Springs area offers accommodations that range from cozy cabins in the lake area to elegant bed and breakfast lodging and charming historic hotels in town. All offer a magical getaway honeymoon experience. Let us know your needs and budget and we can offer some suggestions for your needs or for your guests.
Where can I find more information about visiting Eureka Springs?
Visit www.eurekasprings.org for lots of information on lodging, spas, attractions, shopping, events and more. And you can request a Visitor Guide and Wedding Guide online.
We don’t live in Arkansas – how do we get ‘legally married’ in Arkansas?
In the State of Arkansas, a legal “marriage” must take place according to the laws of the State in which the union takes place. It’s where you get married, not where you live, which ascertains which marriage license you will be required to have. A couple is officially “married” when a legally authorized person performs an official ceremony uniting them in marriage. The officiant will then sign the marriage license and send the documentation to the state for recording. Legally authorized persons are all clergy (i.e. priests, ministers, rabbis, etc.) and certain other persons specifically authorized such as Judges, Justices of the Peace, etc. Vows of commitment are a part of the ritual exchanged by the couple and can be written as you wish – wedding rings are optional and not required. We honor handfastings and other cultural traditions. You may obtain a license in any county in Arkansas. How to obtain your Wedding License in Carroll County.
How does the ceremony proceed? What about a rehearsal?
The order and style of the wedding may depend on the location that you choose. Also, we can create a custom ceremony for each couple so let us know your thoughts and unique requests for your special ceremony. Writing your own vows is encouraged.
Our services are non-denominational, but may include any of the numerous religious traditions available. The choices range from a very traditional “church-style” wedding to what is considered more a civil ceremony. In all cases, the ceremony honors the spiritual platform on which you enter the marriage as a couple joined. Many couples wish to include readings from the bible or traditional or non-denominational prayers, and blessings. Our recommendation is to include only that which is meaningful to you.
Other options may include a Unity Candle or special music. You may write your own vows or special words that will reflect your unique feelings for each other. We will assist you with various possibilities and ideas that you may reflect on.
Generally, weddings with less than 100 guests or a wedding party of less than 6 (excluding the bride and groom) do not require any rehearsal. If your wedding is to be larger, we can discuss whether a rehearsal is necessary. Also, in many cases, your wedding party may be arriving from out of town on the day of the wedding which would not easily accommodate a rehearsal.
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About Thomas Morin, Celebrant
Thomas Morin is an ordained minister (non-denominational) and licensed to perform weddings in Arkansas. Tom refers to himself as a 'celebrant' rather than officiant or minister. He is available to celebrate with you your special ceremonies of marriage, renewal of vows, holy union, hand-fasting and other rites of passage.