Kara Valentine & Nathan Elmore
Sept. 24, 2011 • Grandmother’s farm, Alma
Photos by Erika Dotson Photography
Click here to view this Real Wedding spread in our Spring/Summer 2012 issue. 

With a last name like Valentine, a compelling love story is almost mandatory. Alma natives Kara and Nathan barely knew each other in high school and, after graduation, lived two hours apart (she moved to Conway). Still, a romance was kindled thanks to their very own “Cupid” (her mother’s friend) who worked behind the scenes to set them up. A few shy Facebook messages and a phone call later, the duo began dating, and after a 13-month engagement, the kismet couple married in front of family and friends in the most meaningful of places – her grandparent’s farm.

How They Customized
The bride went “vintage” all the way with a vintage typewriter for guests to leave a message for Nathan and Kara; vintage church pews (as well as hay bales) for ceremony seating; books dating back to the 1920s were used in centerpieces; old wooden boxes, wine barrels, Mason jars, vintage radios, and her grandmother’s crocheted items were used in the décor; and an old window frame displayed pictures of Nathan and Kara – among many other details.

Ways They Saved
Friends and family pitched in to help make many of the do-it-yourself details, including the 32 flower balls for pew décor, the wreaths and centerpieces, and even the wedding stationery. A friend also allowed them to borrow the lights that were strung over the reception area, and lighting for the barn and other items were bought on sales over the course of the year.

Just for Kids
The couple also designated a “Kids’ Play Corner” filled with bubbles, crayons and a cool coloring page featuring a caricature of Kara and Nathan.

What detail truly made the wedding yours?
“The location; it serves as a source of many memories – it reminded me of my grandfather who passed away six years ago and symbolizes the simple life that Nathan and I hope to have one day on a farm of our own.”

The Details

  • Photographer: Erika Dotson Photography
  • Florist: Unique Florist, Alma
  • Cake: Paul’s Bakery, Van Buren
  • Caterer/Drinks: Events by Ann, Van Buren
  • DJ/Band: MS Soundworks, Fort Smith
  • Bride/Bridesmaids/Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Danielle’s Bridal, Clarksville
  • Bridal Beauty: Panache Day Spa, Fort Smith