MARY KATE THOMPSON & MASON GARDNER
May 20, 2023 | Rusty Tractor Vineyards | Little Rock | Torches Together
Mary Kate and Mason met through a dating app. After sending a few messages back and forth, they decided to take it to the next level and have their first official date at Mylo Coffee in Little Rock. “We instantly clicked,” Thompson said.
Mary Kate knew early on in the relationship that the initial spark would last.
“Things just felt so natural and comfortable, and we became pretty inseparable. I felt like I could truly be myself around him, which was something really special for me,” she said.
With a love that transcends borders, Mary Kate and Mason got engaged in Alaska in 2022. Mason planned to propose after a flight to Denali National Park, but when strong wind canceled the plane ride, he improvised.
“We ended up taking a hike that led to beautiful mountain views… He proposed at the end of the hike with just my mom and dad to document it,” Thompson said. “It was such a special moment.”
WEDDING VENDORS WE LOVE
Florist
Tanarah Luxe Floral
Wedding dress
Joon Bridal
Catering
Heritage Catering
Dance floor
Party Time Rental & Events
MORE VENDORS
Planning and design: Jessika McCuin Weddings; Photography: Torches Together; Venue: Sunset Lodge at Rusty Tractor Vineyards; Rigging: Crown Entertainment; Rentals: Eventology; Cake: Patticakes Bakery (now closed); Band: Elevation Party Band; Bridesmaid’s dresses: Bella Bridesmaids; Groom and groomsmen attire: The Black Tux; Hair stylist: Jessica Cogburn, Dazzle by Brazil; Makeup artist: Jessica Humerick; Transportation: Arkansas Destinations
Q & A
Q: What did you love about your venue? Why did you pick this venue? What accommodations did they have for you?
A:” I loved the indoor/ outdoor versatility we had that allowed us to have our ceremony outside in the vineyard, or indoors if weather was an issue. I was really drawn to the bright and airy feel the venue had and the beautiful views of the vineyard.”
Q: What was your favorite moment of the day, and why?
A: “My favorite moment was definitely dancing at our reception with family and friends we love so much. It was so special to have our friends and family we don’t get to see often all in one place to celebrate.”
Q: What inspired your color palette?
A: “Our color palette was inspired by the wildflowers we saw on our trip to Alaska. The colors felt whimsical, yet still down to earth. I thought it was cool to give a nod to our engagement in Alaska through the colors and flowers.”
Q: What was your most worth-it splurge?
A: “Our band, Elevation Party Band, hands down! They were so much fun and did an incredible job setting the tone for the reception and getting everyone involved. Our guests kept telling us how much they loved them—they were a huge hit!”
Q: What do you wish you had known before starting the planning process?
A: “I would say to cherish the moments of planning and trust the process. It can feel overwhelming and daunting at times, but the planning process really does fly by, so make sure to not get caught up in the small things and truly soak it up.”
KEEP IT CLASSY
“I knew I wanted a dress that was timeless but had a modern element to it and still felt like me,” Thompson said.
DRINK TO THAT
“We had two specialty cocktails that are Mason's and my favorite drinks from Mockingbird Bar & Tacos in Little Rock.”
