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A Landlocked Yacht Wedding…Oh Yeah, It Can Happen!

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Couple toasting champagne on their wedding day on a yacht

Have you been dreaming of a waterfront wedding but just can’t figure out the travel logistics, be it finances or Covid-19 restrictions? What about a yacht elopement a little closer to home? Landlocked?–Not a problem! This team from Little Rock figured out how to bring the nautical vibes to their couples right there on the Arkansas River! On a luxury yacht, with the sunset bouncing off the water, and the bridges and city skyline in the backdrop, you’d never guess that this shoot took place in Midwest America!

These beautiful photos by Lori Sparkman Photography perfectly capture the nautical theme of this shoot. TLF Event worked closely with a team of local vendors to orchestrate every detail of this wedding inspiration, including a firework sendoff! Tanarah Luxe Floral created these over-the-top florals that really help set the scene. This shoot wouldn’t have been possible without the spectacular 41-foot yacht from Yacht Weddings By Magnolia Hill. All the images are in the full gallery, so be sure to click through and read on to hear more from Meredith Corning about how you can make your nautical wedding dreams a reality.

Nautical wedding invitations with elegant calligraphy and details

Bride in white dress on a boat, with flowers and city view

Bride on a boat poses with bouquet, cityscape and river in background

A newlywed couple embraces on a boat with a city backdrop

Bride and groom on a boat celebrating their wedding day

TRAVEL NOT REQUIRED

Elegant table setting with flowers, drinks, and coastal decor

Hosting a nautical-inspired fête does not necessarily require an oceanside backdrop as couples may utilize regional locations that incorporate rivers and lakes with sweeping views. This allows non-coastal areas to partake in the ever classic look of marine style effectively. Navy, stripes, and accents of gold played a part in this styled photo series by the team at Yacht Weddings By Magnolia Hill and Lori Sparkman Photography. 

Charcuterie board with wine, grapes, and cheese on a tray

Elegant table setting with shrimp cocktail and floral arrangement

Elegant tablescape with cocktails and colorful floral arrangement

Elegant blue wedding cake with fruit decorations and city backdrop

HAPPY TIMES GUARANTEED

Newlyweds share a kiss on a boat, celebrating their wedding day

The luxurious vessel, affectionately named Happy Times, is a 41-foot private yacht offering a picture-perfect wedding or elopement on a river backdrop that would make the big day unforgettable and carefree like no other setting can. Sunsets on the water and twinkling lights of the cityscape bridges at night offer a one-of-a-kind ambiance. End the evening with a fireworks display in the distance for a night that goes out with a bang.

A couple poses on a boat with a bridge in the background for a wedding

Couple kissing on boat with bridge in background wedding day

Romantic wedding couple on a couch by the water with flowers

Newlyweds wave from a boat wedding ceremony by a city bridge

Yacht Weddings By Magnolia Hill is new to Little Rock and the Arkansas River. We aim to serve as an intimate wedding option for couples. A reception for 10-60 guests can be made possible dockside at the Rockwater Marina. I had a dream team for this styled shoot that really showcased the beauty of the experience,” said Alda Ellis with Yacht Weddings By Magnolia Hill

Elegant couple at an outdoor wedding reception near the water

Elegant couple posing at a beautifully set table on a yacht

A LAID-BACK AFFAIR

Bride and groom embrace at sunset on a boat, romantic wedding

“Delicious charcuterie was served alongside shrimp cocktails to complement the easy, breezy atmosphere and was topped off with a bottle of Champagne Pol Roger, produced in a northern French vineyard,” explained Mary Krikorian with Vibrant Occasions Catering. An intimate ceremony top-deck with or without guests watching on the boathouse dock nearby, followed by a sunset dinner, makes the perfect celebration for couples seeking timeless, laid-back nautical nuptials.

Newlyweds embracing during a romantic sunset by the water

Bride and groom walk through fireworks at night wedding celebration

Newlyweds dance under fireworks and smoke at night on the water

We partnered with Meredith Corning for this decedent yacht wedding inspo shoot. As always, thank you for supporting our sponsors!

Cake: Patticakes Bakery
Catering: Vibrant Occasions Catering
Champagne House: Champagne Pol Roger
Champagne Retailer: O'looney's Wine And Liquor
Dress & Apparel: Bridal Cottage
Event Planning & Design: TLF Event
Female Model: Carmel Mullins
Fireworks: Buddy Ellis With Alda's Magnolia Hill
Flowers: Tanarah Luxe Floral
Groom & His Men: Barakat Bespoke
Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Jamie Lynn Jones
Male Model: Hunter Mullins
Marina: Rockwater Marina
Paper Goods & Calligraphy: Our Scripted Life
Photographers: Lori Sparkman Photography
PR Consultant for Caterer: Meredith Corning
Rentals: Eventures Party Rentals By Randal Events
Velvet Table Props: Lovefeast Shop
Venues: Yacht Weddings By Magnolia Hill

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