Garvan Woodland Gardens | Hannah + Joey | Wedding
A Romantic Garden Wedding at Garvan Gardens and Crystal Ridge Distillery
Hot Springs, Arkansas
A Peaceful Start on Lake Hamilton
Hannah and Joey’s wedding day began with the softest, most peaceful kind of morning. The sun rose over Lake Hamilton outside the windows of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hot Springs, casting warm light across the room while inside, the quiet buzz of getting ready was underway.
Her bridesmaids laughed together in matching robes while the final touches of hair and makeup were finished. Every meaningful detail was laid out and waiting to be captured: her dress gently swaying near the window, the sparkle of her rings, delicate stationery, and her favorite perfume. It was calm, joyful, and full of anticipation for the day ahead.
These early hours always feel sacred to me. Before the timeline picks up speed, before guests arrive, there’s this beautiful stillness where everything is about to begin.
A First Look That Stopped Time
Once we arrived at the gardens, we walked straight onto the full moon bridge at Garvan Woodland Gardens for their first look.
The moment Joey turned around and saw Hannah, the entire world seemed to fall silent. No rushing, no distractions, just two people completely locked in on each other. It was one of those rare moments where you can actually feel the depth of a love story unfolding in real time.
From there, the day felt like an adventure. We wandered winding paths, found hidden corners filled with blooms and greenery, and laughed our way through joyful bridal party portraits. They were glowing with that just-married excitement long before the ceremony even began.
Vows, Prayers, and the Beginning of Forever
Their ceremony was tender and faith-filled. Surrounded by the people who love them most, they spoke heartfelt vows and prayed over the life they’re building together.
When they walked back down the aisle as husband and wife, the joy was contagious. Smiles, happy tears, and cheers followed them out as everyone felt the weight and beauty of that moment.
Right after, we gathered the family close for portraits and then stole a few quiet moments for just the two of them. Those newlywed portraits took my breath away. The way they looked at each other and held each other like the rest of the world had faded into the background is exactly why I love documenting weddings.
An Emotional Reception Full of Joy
The celebration continued at Crystal Ridge Distillery, and the emotions only grew deeper.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the night came during the father-daughter dance. Hannah changed into ruby red slippers as “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” began to play. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room. It was soft, nostalgic, and overflowing with love.
And then, just when everyone had wiped their tears, the party burst wide open.
Beads were tossed into the crowd and a surprise Mardi Gras dance filled the room with laughter and pure joy. The dance floor stayed packed, the smiles never faded, and the celebration felt completely alive.
More Than a Wedding Day
Weddings like this remind me why these moments matter so much. It’s never just about pretty photos or beautiful locations, even somewhere as breathtaking as Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
It’s about preserving the feeling of a beginning.
The quiet morning light.
The breathless first look.
The prayers, the promises, the tears, and the laughter.
Hannah and Joey’s day was the perfect blend of romance, faith, emotion, and celebration. Capturing the first chapter of their forever together was an absolute honor, and a story I’ll never forget.
If you’re dreaming of a garden wedding in Hot Springs or planning your own Arkansas wedding day, this is exactly why choosing a photographer who tells the full story matters. Not just the events of the day, but the feeling of it.
Wedding Vendors Featured:
Ceremony Venue: Garvan Woodland Gardens
Reception Venue: Crystal Ridge Distillery
Event Planner: Lulu Events
Photography: Hannah Capps Photograph
Videographer: NiLo Production Co.
Florals: Kelly Eifrd Flower Events
Wedding Cake: Destiny’s Bakeshop
Hair + Makeup Artist: Whiplash Beauty
DJ Company: DJ Doug Kramer
Planning your wedding in Hot Springs, Arkansas? Whether you’re saying “I do” at Garvan Gardens or another dreamy Arkansas venue, I’d be honored to capture your day with the same light and joy that make your love story unique. Let’s make magic together.
Are you looking to capture your wedding day?
Send me a message to get the process started!!
