Eureka Springs Wedding Q&A

 

Where should we get our license for our Eureka Springs Wedding?

Most couples get their marriage license for their Eureka Springs Wedding at the local Courthouse.  You must get your marriage license in the state of Arkansas as a license from another state is not valid.   Your minister/officiate will sign it following your Eureka Springs Wedding and then you must take it to the Courthouse to be registered.

The Bride and Groom must be 18 years of age and have a photo ID, your social security number and fee. The state does not require you to bring your divorce paperwork. It is not necessary to have your birth certificate unless you are under 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, call the courthouse for more specific requirements. In Eureka Springs the license is $60.00 cash. They ask that you bring exact change.

Carroll Country Courthouse  – 44 S. Main St – Eureka Springs, A – 479-253-8646 – 888-592-8163

The County Clerk’s offices are open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.  Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Closed for Holidays.

 

How long does it take to get a marriage license?

Five Minutes. There is no waiting period in Arkansas. Both the Bride and Groom must be present.

 

Can we apply for the license by fax?

No, the two of you most go to the Courthouse in person.

 

When should I make my wedding reservations?

A great deal depends upon the type of wedding you are planning and how specific you are about the day you want to get married. If you are planning a more formal wedding with over 50 guests, you should make your reservations at least six months in advance.

Eureka Springs specializes in small intimate weddings and is a very popular location as a result it is important to call and make your reservations just as soon as you have set the date for your special event.  If you are planning to elope, there are a number of places and ministers that can perform your ceremony the same day you arrive.  We suggest planning ahead, which will allow you more time to be more relaxed and enjoy this very special day.

 

What steps do I need to take to plan my Eureka Springs wedding?

We assume you have already selected your wedding dress and attendant’s attire. If you wish to rent your wedding attire, there are places in Eureka Springs that have a very nice selection to choose from.

Secure the venue, chapel or place in which you are going to hold the ceremony. Determine the number of guests you plan to invite, as that will make a difference in your location. If you plan on having children at or in your wedding, be sure the location you select allows children to attend.

Determine where you– the Bride and Groom are going to stay, and how many guests are going to be staying in Eureka Springs. There are several beautiful Bed and Breakfasts in Eureka Springs that are an ideal honeymoon location.  Your wedding location will give you suggestions for lodging that will meet the needs of your guests. Consider carefully whether you want your guests to stay at the same location. If they are staying somewhere else in town, it makes you less responsible for entertaining them. Following the wedding you may want to be alone. You might also, suggest to your guests that they consider staying in Eureka Springs a few days for a personal getaway.

Contact a photographer. There are some very creative, talented professional photographers in Eureka Springs. Your wedding is an extremely important event; so consider getting the best possible photographs you can afford. The Wedding Guild website has a selection of photographers you can chose from. Visit their websites for further information.

Cake and Flowers. These items may be a part of your wedding package.
Once you have your wedding dress, and have decided on the colors you want, contact the bakery and florist with your requirements. They will help you make your selections. This website will assist you in reaching these vendors.

Schedule Spa and Hair Appointments. Don’t forget to make your appointment in advance as the salons here in Eureka Springs are very busy and you do not want to be disappointed.

 

How long does it take to drive to Eureka Springs?

Maps. Be sure you have a map to give to each of your guests to assist them in finding your wedding location. Discuss parking with your location and consider having the guests carpool. Give your guests an approximate drive time to Eureka Springs that will help ensure they arrive on time for your wedding. Suggest a specific route for them to take.

We do not recommend MapQuest directions for Eureka Springs.

Tulsa, OK                         2.5 hours

Springfield, MO            2 hours

Little Rock, AR            3.5 hours

Kansas City, MO            4 hours

Dallas, TX                        6-7 hours

 

Are you having a dinner following your Eureka Springs wedding?

Eureka Springs has a number of fine dining restaurants that would be perfect for your special occasion.  But first, there are a number of questions that need to be answered.

  • Who is going to pay for dinner?
  • What is your budget?
  • What type of restaurant do you want to go to? Casual dining, Family style, Buffet or Fine Dining
  • How many people are going to be joining you? Adults? And Children?

Once you have determined the answers to these questions, contact the appropriate restaurants, which you will find, listed on the Wedding Guild website.  Ask them if they will make a reservation for a large group. Determine the appropriate reservation time for dinner with your wedding coordinator.

 

Where can we change clothes (For Day Trippers)?

Definitely inquire at your wedding location as some have rooms for changing and others prefer you come dressed and ready for the ceremony. Public locations for changing are at public restroom at the Trolley Depot next to the courthouse, the Information Center on Hwy. 62 or most gas station restrooms.

 

Where can I get a bouquet at the very last minute?

Eureka Flower Shop on Passion Play Road or Holiday Island Flowers. Be aware they may close early on Saturday.

 

Do we have a rehearsal?

For most smaller weddings – 25 guests and under – there is no rehearsal. Check with your wedding contact person to be sure.

 

Is there a bridal gown rental shop?

Yes, Melissa’s at East Gate Salon on Hwy 62 across from Passion Play Rd.

 

Can my dog be a part of the service?

Depends on the establishment where you are having your wedding. Please inquiry BEFORE your wedding, and make appropriate arrangements.

 

My grandmother is very elderly, do you have wheelchair access?

This should be a consideration during the early stages of choosing your wedding location. Many places in Eureka Springs are not wheelchair accessible, and it will be up to you to consider this during your planning process.