THE ART OF THE WEDDING:
11 Artistic Venues in Arkansas
For couples wanting a unique and artsy wedding day, we’ve compiled a list of 10 art museums, galleries and inspired venues for a contemporary spin on your big day.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Celebrate your big day surrounded by friends, family and famous American art. The incredible architecture creates stunning backdrops for all your wedding photos. Indoor spaces include the Great Hall with soaring wood beams and a Jeff Koons classic overhead (and views of the water on three sides). You can rent any of the 12 venues across the museum, or rent out the entire museum for your wedding.
The Momentary
What could be cooler than a transformed cheese factory turned contemporary art museum in the heart of northwest Arkansas? This venue is perfect for the artsy bride. The Momentary offers multiple customizable rental options in the 63,000-square-foot space and various personalized technology and décor.
Opening soon!
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Located in Little Rock, this new and improved venue will shed an artistic light on the Central Arkansas area starting in the fall of 2022. Inspiration for the museum was drawn from Arkansas’ ecologies, including the banks of Fourche Creek, the bluffs of Emerald Park and the agrarian landscapes of the Mississippi Delta. The architectural exterior will be a wow-moment in and of itself (think engagements and bridals, y’all!), but the event space promises to be the next go-to venue for Arkansas brides well into the coming years.
1894 Gallery
Located in Texarkana, this 12,000-square-foot space is available for intimate wedding ceremonies, bridal showers and other small events. Perfect for the modern bride planning a small wedding.
Wildwood Park for the Arts
Located in verdant West Little Rock, this beautiful garden and arts venue is a gorgeous indoor/outdoor option. The Asian Tea House and Butler Gazebo are picturesque outside, and the inside gallery space is a contemporary blank canvas.
United States Marshals Museum
Bright, airy and modern, this new world-class museum in Fort Smith is prime for contemporary brides (we especially love its views of the Arkansas River). The state-of-the-art facility will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
21c Museum Hotel
Located in Bentonville, 21c is a contemporary art museum and boutique hotel. With more than 12,000 square feet of exhibition space, you can discover art around every corner. Not only is your venue filled with art, but your guests will also sleep alongside it in the hotel accommodations.
The Ravington
Tucked away in Centerton, this popular venue is the artsy-bohemian brides’ dream. The “Maharaja'' is art in and of itself. Beloved by brides, this 200-year-old door traveled from a palace in Rajasthan, India. It’s 11-feet-tall with beautiful stained glass. It makes for a memorable ceremony backdrop and photo op.
Bradbury Art Museum
Part of the Fowler Center at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, this art museum is available for brides to use as a rehearsal dinner or wedding venue. It features an ever-changing mix of exhibitions of contemporary art in all media. The white walls, black ceiling and modern art make it a no-brainer for a gallery-vibes wedding.
Walton Art Center
This modern space is the perfect alternative to ornate traditional ballrooms. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll have all the natural light you love, as well as a unique chandelier, a grand staircase, a gallery, a rose garden, and theater spaces—the possibilities are endless!
M2 Gallery
This Little Rock art gallery is the largest in the entire state. Often partnered with South on Main, this venue has hosted bridal showers, rehearsal dinners and other various events. The downstairs floor of 2,000-square-feet is available for rent, and the additional 3,500-square-feet upstairs are available for rent as well. Recently expanded, this gallery is the perfect venue for brides wanting a downtown city vibe.
Discover more from THE ART OF THE WEDDING in this issue of ARKANSAS BRIDE.
