Cooper Chapel Wedding - Maria and thomas
Featured on Arkansas Bride Magazine
Maria and Thomas’s wedding was nothing short of magical—an enchanting blend of whimsical beauty, personal touches, and the loving union of two souls. Set against the lush woods of Bentonville, Arkansas, their celebration unfolded like a scene straight out of a fairy tale, perfectly encapsulating Maria's love for all things fantastical and her dream of getting married in a glass chapel in the woods.
The Perfect Venue: Mildred B. Cooper Chapel
Maria’s vision for her wedding day was rooted in her love for fairies and nature, a theme that took shape beautifully at the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel. Located just outside of Bentonville, this architectural gem is known for its stunning glass walls that allow natural light to flood the space, creating an ethereal and serene environment. The chapel's design, which seems to float among the trees, provided the perfect backdrop for Maria and Thomas’s vows—a breathtaking blend of nature and elegance that felt truly magical.
A Global Celebration: Family from Near and Far
Maria and Thomas's guest list read like a world tour—family and friends traveled from all corners of the globe to be there for the couple. Guests came from as far as Abu Dhabi, ensuring that this wasn’t just a wedding, but a truly international celebration of love. Maria, originally from a different part of the world herself, was thrilled to have her loved ones by her side on this momentous occasion. Their presence, from all walks of life, added to the warmth and joy that filled the day.
A Pastry Chef’s Dream Cake
As a professional pastry chef, Maria’s talent for creating beautiful and delicious confections took center stage at her wedding. Rather than leaving the cake design to a baker, Maria took charge of creating her own wedding cake. Using seasonal ingredients, she crafted a masterpiece that not only reflected her culinary expertise but also her personal touch. The cake, adorned with her parents wedding cake topper, and finished with a soft, rustic elegance, was as stunning as it was delicious. Maria’s dedication to using seasonal ingredients made the cake a reflection of the time of year and an extra special treat for their guests.
The Dress: Flowing Elegance Meets Whimsy
Maria’s bridal style was a perfect blend of classic elegance and whimsical fantasy. She chose a flowing “Selkie” brand gown, known for its ethereal, romantic designs that echoed the soft lines of a fairy tale. The dress, with its flowing fabric and light, graceful movement, seemed made for a woodland celebration.
But it was her veil that truly made a statement. Rather than opting for a traditional veil, Maria chose a unique bow-style veil that added an unexpected touch of charm and whimsy to her ensemble. It was the perfect finishing touch for a bride who was anything but conventional but still wanted to look timelessly beautiful on her wedding day.
Whimsical Florals Inspired by Rivendell
When it came to the floral arrangements, Maria’s love for nature and fantasy shone through. Drawing inspiration from Rivendell—the serene, magical realm from The Lord of the Rings—the florals at the wedding felt as though they were plucked from an enchanted forest. Soft, whimsical blooms in shades of blush, ivory, and lavender were paired with lush greenery to create a romantic, woodland-inspired aesthetic. The flowers seemed to mirror the natural beauty of Mildred B. Cooper Chapel, with arrangements that felt wild and free, yet thoughtfully curated.
Anna of JLK Weddings worked tirelessly to bring Maria’s vision to life. Her expert planning and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the wedding. From the floral arrangements to the overall design, Anna’s guidance ensured that the day went off without a hitch.
The Reception at The Record
After exchanging vows in the breathtaking chapel, the celebration continued at The Record in Bentonville, AR—a venue that combines modern sophistication with the charm of the region. The industrial-style space was the perfect contrast to the natural beauty of the chapel, with its sleek, contemporary vibe offering a chic, yet welcoming atmosphere.
Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, laughter, and heartfelt speeches as they celebrated the couple’s love. The venue provided the perfect canvas for the couple’s vision, and it was a night that everyone would remember.
A Day to Remember
Maria and Thomas’s wedding was a dream come true, a perfect blend of nature, whimsy, and love. From the glass chapel in the woods to the stunning florals and the elegant yet non-traditional details, everything about their day reflected who they are as a couple: passionate, creative, and deeply in love.
Special thanks to Anna of JLK Weddings for turning Maria’s vision into a reality and to all the vendors who helped make this day unforgettable. If you’re planning a wedding that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook, Bentonville, AR, and its stunning venues like Mildred B. Cooper Chapel and The Record are the perfect places to start.
