26

Sep

2024

Levi and Sabrina’s Celestial Solar Eclipse Wedding Day in Arkansas by Maggie Gulling Photography

By Boho

Back in April of this year the world saw a Solar Eclipse something that only comes around every few years. Having made a pact at the last Solar Eclipse in 2017, Levi and Sabrina were keen to keep their promise to each other and make the next eclipse their wedding day. So on 7th April 2024 this is exactly what they did. The day was super chilled and super personal, with an intimate guest count they kept things simple but filled the day with stunning flowers and kept the decoration with a celestial theme. As the moon and the sun collided so did Levi and Sabrina’s promise to each other, what a fabulous day, all captured by Maggie Gulling Photography.

Under the shadow of a rare celestial event, Levi and Sabrina exchanged vows in a whimsical celebration that perfectly reflected their love story—one that began under the stars and culminated in the glow of a solar eclipse.

How It All Began
Levi and Sabrina’s journey together started back in their college days. They bonded over shared humor, a love for fun, and a mutual appreciation for life’s little adventures. Their connection was instant, leading to countless memories that shaped their relationship. But it was a hiking trip in Decorah, Iowa, that marked a turning point in their story. On the anniversary of their first date, Levi proposed atop a picturesque waterfall after a long, scenic hike. The aquamarine ring he chose—a nod to Sabrina’s favorite stone—was as thoughtful as the moment itself, encapsulating their shared love for adventure.

A Solar Eclipse Wedding: The Vision
The couple’s wedding day was nothing short of magical, inspired by a light hearted pact made during the total solar eclipse of 2017. Back then, they joked about getting married during the next eclipse if they were still together. Seven years later, that playful idea became a reality. The wedding was scheduled to coincide with the eclipse, creating a natural theme for their day.

The ceremony and reception took place at Cross Iron Cottage in Arkansas, a venue that allowed them to create a fairytale garden party atmosphere with a relaxed, brunch-inspired vibe. Their vision was clear: they wanted their guests to feel at ease, enjoy light refreshments, and experience the joy of outdoor games and upbeat music. The couple chose subtle celestial-themed decor, incorporating hints of the solar event without overwhelming their guests.

The Ceremony: A Private Moment
Sabrina and Levi chose to share an intimate moment before their ceremony, opting out of the traditional first look. Instead, they spent time alone in the cottage, watching their guests arrive and exchanging jokes that helped calm any pre-wedding jitters. This quiet moment together set the tone for the rest of the day, easy going and filled with love.

Their ceremony was personal and touching, with their best friend officiating and a close friend reading E. E. Cummings’ poem “I Carry Your Heart,” which perfectly captured the emotion of the moment. The couple’s choice to personalize their ceremony made it all the more meaningful for them and their guests.

A Feast with Heartfelt Ties
The food at the reception was both delicious and meaningful. For the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed chicken and waffle bites and stuffed mushrooms, setting the brunch-inspired tone. The main course featured Bulgogi Brisket made with beef from Levi’s family farm, Flying C Ranch, and Caprese Chicken, both dishes expertly prepared by Vibrant Occasions Catering. The personal touch of including beef from the family ranch made the meal even more special, connecting their guests to their story in a unique way.

Sweet Simplicity: The Wedding Cake
For dessert, Levi and Sabrina wanted something light and refreshing, opting for a simple white cake with vanilla frosting, adorned with a chocolate drizzle that echoed the eclipse and fresh spring berries. Sweets by Logan brought their vision to life, creating a cake that was not only beautiful but perfectly suited for their afternoon celebration.

Floral Design: A Burst of Colour
The florals were another highlight of the day, with Sabrina’s bouquet featuring vibrant Anemone and various shades of blue, reflecting the daytime celestial theme. The arrangements were full and colourful, adding a lively touch to the garden party ambiance.

A Day to Remember
Levi and Sabrina’s wedding was filled with special moments, from their private time together before the ceremony to the heartfelt speeches during the reception. Sabrina’s father, unable to get through his planned speech without tears, spoke from the heart about welcoming Levi into the family, later gifting the couple his original notes as a keepsake. The day was a perfect blend of love, laughter, and the awe-inspiring natural wonder of the eclipse.

Tips for Future Couples
Sabrina offers some budget-savvy advice for other couples planning their big day: consider a weekday wedding to save on costs and keep the guest list intimate. She also recommends exploring custom dress options from local designers, which can offer a more personalized experience and often at a lower cost than boutique dresses. Flexibility with decorations and using items from the venue can also help keep expenses down without compromising on style.

Looking Ahead: A Honeymoon on the Horizon
While the couple is still planning their honeymoon, Iceland was their original destination choice, inspired by the natural beauty and the opportunity to witness another total solar eclipse in 2026. However, due to recent tectonic activity, they’re considering a warmer destination for now, with plans to visit Iceland in the future.

 

 

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