Rehearsal

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

Ceremony Rehearsal

Basecamp Restaurant and Venue

Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Fountain Garden

Welcome Hour

Ceremony

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa

Reception

Our Wedding

Suzannah and Jacob’s love story begins high in the Rockies, in the ski town of Winter Park, Colorado - a place they both ended up not for love, but for a much-needed break from real life. Ironically, it’s also where real life began. After finishing her degree in Agriculture at the University of Maryland, Suzannah moved to Fort Collins to pursue her Master’s at CSU. When graduation rolled around, she looked at the adult world, shrugged, and decided to delay it by heading to Winter Park to be a ski bum for “just one season.” That season turned into seven years. Jacob was in the middle of earning his degree in Landscape Architecture at the University of Arkansas when he shattered his elbow. Forced to take time off school, a friend suggested he move to the mountains and become a ski lift operator. Naturally, Jacob thought, “Why not trade textbooks for powder days?” He moved to Winter Park, also for “just one season.” You can probably guess how that turned out. Though they had crossed paths occasionally over the years (small town, mutual friends, apres-ski overlaps), it took a few more years - and one fateful night on the dance floor of Ullrs Tavern - for sparks to finally fly. Some strong cocktails and questionable dance moves later, something clicked. Jacob really captured Suzannah’s attention when he told her he was taking her on a picnic - and that he wanted six kids. They quickly discovered a shared love for plants, family, adventure, humor, and a good time. After a few great years in Winter Park, they packed up their snow boots and headed for Northwest Arkansas in spring 2023 to be closer to Jacob’s family, plant some roots (literally and figuratively), and start building the future Jacob had jokingly, but confidently, pitched that first night: complete with picnics, laughter, and maybe even six kids (jury’s still out on that one). The ski days may be fewer now, but the love and adventure are only growing.

From Ski Bums to Soulmates

Our Story

Photos

Our ceremony will be held at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, a charming and historic chapel tucked into the hillside of Eureka Springs. Just a stone’s throw away, our reception will follow at the beautiful and iconic Crescent Hotel - you can walk between the two in just a couple of minutes.

The Ceremony - St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a charming and historic church known for its unique architecture and peaceful setting. Built in the early 1900s with inspiration from Byzantine design, it features a distinctive bell tower entrance and beautiful details like marble altars, mosaic floors, and a serene garden. Its timeless character and quiet elegance make it a special place for meaningful celebrations.

The Reception - 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa

The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a one-of-a-kind spot with a long, colorful history. Built in 1886, it’s full of old-world charm, mountain views, and plenty of stories- some romantic, some a little spooky (it’s known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel”!). Over the years, it’s been everything from a resort to a hospital, and today it’s a beautiful and quirky place to stay or celebrate. We’d love for guests to read up on the hotel’s backstory before visiting - it really adds to the experience. You can check out the <a href="https://crescent-hotel.com/about/history/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crescent Hotel’s official history page</a> or this fun article on <a href="https://www.historichotels.org/us/hotels-resorts/1886-crescent-hotel-and-spa/ghost-stories.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">America’s Most Haunted Hotel</a>. Whether you're into the architecture, the ghost stories, or just the views, it’s a place with a lot to take in.

The Crystal Ballroom

Our reception will be held in the Crystal Ballroom at the Crescent Hotel - a space that immediately felt perfect to us. Originally built in the late 1800's, the ballroom features high ceilings, hardwood floors, and vintage chandeliers that give it a classic, elegant feel. It’s a spacious yet welcoming setting that’s hosted celebrations for over a century, and we’re excited to add ours to that history.

The Venue

Getting to Eureka Springs

Branson Airport (BKG) – Approximately 45 minutes away, this is the closest airport with commercial service. Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) – About an hour’s drive, XNA offers the most flight options and major airline service. Springfield–Branson National Airport (SGF) – Around 1.5 hours away, SGF has a good selection of commercial flights. Tulsa International Airport (TUL) – Roughly 2.5 hours from Eureka Springs, TUL is a major airport with a wide range of flight options and rental car services. If you prefer to fly Southwest, this is your closest option!

Where to Stay

Eureka Springs has no shortage of great places to stay, but the most convenient options for our wedding are the Crescent Hotel and its sister property, the Basin Park Hotel. Neither hotel offers room blocks, so if you're hoping to stay at one of them, we recommend booking sooner rather than later to make sure you get a spot. ***It is expected to be a busy weekend in Eureka Springs! We suggest booking your accommodations as soon as possible to lock in lower rates and get ahead of the rush! The Crescent Hotel is where our reception will take place - it’s perched up on the hillside with beautiful views and lots of historic charm. The Basin Park Hotel is right in the middle of downtown Eureka Springs, perfect if you want to be close to restaurants, bars, and shops. *Full disclaimer: Both of these hotels are known to be haunted. We highly recommend reading up on the history before your visit! The Crescent Hotel has a very interesting history and has been identified as "America's Most Haunted Hotel" on several lists. We stayed at The Crescent Hotel over Suzannah's birthday weekend this past spring, and while Suzannah is a big baby about all things scary, we witnessed no "activity" and slept great, despite going on the hotel's ghost tour earlier that evening.

While both hotels offer rooms for whatever your preference (very haunted versus less haunted), if staying in a haunted hotel is not your vibe, Eureka Springs has tons of other great close-by options without the additional spooky guests. The New Orleans Hotel is a charming 1892-era inn modeled after the French Quarter, showcasing original iron balconies, a four‑story grand staircase, balcony-access suites adorned with local art, and warm, Southern hospitality in the heart of downtown. The Grand Central Hotel, built in 1883, is Eureka Springs' oldest hotel and a beautifully restored Victorian gem featuring 14 elegant suites, antique furnishings, and modern amenities, all within walking distance of downtown galleries and shops. Want something a little more standard? There is a Best Western that is a 5-minute drive from the venue and is also located on the trolley route. There are several other cozy inns and a wide variety of Airbnb and VRBO rentals, which are especially great if you're planning to stay with a group.

Getting Around

Getting around Eureka Springs, Arkansas is as easy as hopping on a Trolley (yes, there actually is a trolley!). There is a free shuttle that runs between The Crescent Hotel and Basin Park Hotel from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m every day. Even if you aren't staying at either of these hotels, you can still use the shuttle system between the two - all you have to do is ask the person at the front desk! We recommend using this shuttle service to get to and from the venue if you choose to stay elsewhere in downtown. Uber and Lyft are also around and seemed easily accessible when we spent time in the area. This is a good option if you are looking for a lift outside of the hotel's shuttle hours or want to travel somewhere other than downtown or The Crescent Hotel. Parking in downtown Eureka Springs is a bit more challenging. With old and narrow cobblestone streets, the options are few and far between; however, there is street-side metered parking and a few paid parking lots. Plan ahead and use the trolley system or check the parking maps on the town's <a href="https://www.eurekasprings.com/transportation/transport.html#trolley" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">transportation website</a>.

Located in downtown Eureka Springs, this spa hotel is a 10-minute drive from Holiday Island Golf Course. Known for being a haunted hotel, it features an outdoor pool and rooms with free Wi-Fi. A cable TV and coffee maker are standard in every Victorian-style furnished room at the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa. All rooms are decorated in rich colors and include a private bathroom. New Moon Spa offers massage and body treatment services. A sauna and hot tub are also available for relaxation. Breakfast is served daily at the Crescent Hotel. Fine dining is prepared at the Crystal Dining Room Restaurant and Sky Bar Gourmet Pizzeria. The Great Passion Play is an 8-minute drive from the hotel. Eureka Springs Historical Museum is just 1 mile away.

The Crescent Hotel and Spa

Featuring Spa1905 on site, this Eureka Spring, Arkansas hotel was built in 1905 and is adjacent to the Downtown -N- Underground Walking Tour. Free Wi-Fi is available in the guest rooms. Cable TV and coffee facilities are offered in every room at the 1905 Basin Park Hotel. The historic guest rooms feature bright accents. Dining at the Basin Park 1905 hotel is available at The Balcony Restaurant. Traditional American fare is offered along with views of Spring Street. Eureka Springs Historical Museum is a 2-minute drive from the hotel. Promised Land Zoo is a 20-minute drive away.

Basin Park Hotel and Spa

Located in Eureka Springs a few steps from Eureka Springs Historic District New Orleans Hotel Eureka Springs provides accommodations with a restaurant free private parking a bar and a terrace. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom. The property is 2 miles from Pine Mountain Theater. Guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a coffee machine. Free WiFi is available to all guests while selected rooms have a DVD player. A buffet breakfast is available daily at New Orleans Hotel Eureka Springs. The Great Passion Play is 2 miles from the accommodation while Onyx Cave Park is 8 miles away. The nearest airport is Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport 49 miles from New Orleans Hotel Eureka Springs.

New Orleans Hotel Eureka Springs

A total of 25 units are available for guests' convenience.

Grand Central Hotel & Spa

Featuring free WiFi, Best Western Inn of the Ozarks is located in Eureka Springs, 0.7 mi from Eureka Springs Historic District. The Great Passion Play is 1.9 mi from Best Western Inn Of The Ozarks, while Onyx Cave Park is 5 mi from the property. The nearest airport is Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport, 32 mi from Best Western Inn of the Ozarks.

Best Western Inn of the Ozarks

Travel

Wedding Party

Eureka Springs has a rich and quirky history that dates back to the late 1800s, when it boomed as a Victorian health resort. People flocked to the area for its natural springs, believed to have healing powers, and the hillside town quickly filled with ornate architecture, winding streets, and no stoplights or right angles. The entire downtown is now on the National Register of Historic Places, and much of its original charm remains - from the preserved buildings and historic hotels to the legends, lore, and ghost stories that still draw visitors today.

Places to Eat and Drink

Eureka Springs has so many great spots to eat and drink, whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a casual lunch, or a fun night out. If you want to start your day with something special, the <a href="https://crescent-hotel.com/eat-drink/breakfast-crystal-dining-room-menu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crescent Hotel’s Crystal Dining Room</a> serves a lovely breakfast with a beautiful setting. Later, you can head up to their <a href="https://skybarpizza.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SkyBar</a> for delicious gourmet pizza and cocktails with amazing views of the town. For a cozy, local vibe, <a href="https://www.localflavorcafe.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Local Flavor Café</a> is a favorite for creative brunch dishes, while <a href="https://ermilios.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ermilio’s</a> offers comforting Italian meals that feel like home. If you’re in the mood for something casual and laid-back, <a href="https://www.sparkysroadhouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sparky’s Roadhouse Café</a> is great for spicy burgers and a wide beer selection. A couple of other local favorites are <a href="https://mcgaritysrestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">McGarity’s</a>, just outside downtown, where you can enjoy hearty Irish-inspired dishes in a relaxed pub atmosphere, and <a href="https://www.fillingstationeureka.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Filling Station</a>, a family-friendly spot known for classic American breakfasts and lunches. For drinks, <a href="https://basinpark.com/eat-drink/jack-rabbetts-whisky-bar/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jack Rabbett’s Whisky Bar</a> in the Basin Park Hotel has a lively vibe (pool tables included) with craft beers and great cocktails, and <a href="https://gotahold.beer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gotahold Brewing</a> is perfect if you want to relax outdoors with some local brews and live music.

Activities Close By

In Eureka Springs, you’ll find a walkable downtown filled with quirky shops, art galleries, cafes, and historic architecture. Hop on the trolley, visit the iconic Thorncrown Chapel, stroll the springs and gardens, or take a ghost tour at the Crescent Hotel. Outdoor lovers can hike or paddle at Lake Leatherwood, explore Onyx Cave, or meet rescued big cats at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Thorncrown Chapel

<a href="https://thorncrown.com/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thorncrown Chapel</a>, just a mile outside Eureka Springs, is a breathtaking glass-and-wood sanctuary nestled in the Ozark forest. Designed by E. Fay Jones - the protege of Frank Lloyd Wright - for retired teacher Jim Reed, it opened in 1980 and immediately became an architectural marvel. Standing 48 feet tall with 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass, the chapel seamlessly blends into its wooded surroundings, offering a serene space for reflection and celebration - indeed, critics have called it “one of the finest religious spaces of modern times”

Springs and Gardens

<a href="https://www.bluespringheritage.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blue Spring Heritage Center</a>, located about 5 miles west, showcases a stunning 33-acre woodland garden built around a massive spring that discharges roughly 38 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily. With its trout-filled lagoon, historic bluff shelter (listed on the National Register, and once a Trail of Tears stop), and native wildflower trails, it’s a tranquil escape full of history and scenic beauty Closer to downtown, the town’s famed natural springs, like Grotto Spring, Harding Spring, and Magnetic Spring, are tucked into neighborhoods and trails, often paired with stonework and shaded garden paths. Two must-sees right in town are Crescent Spring, with its picturesque Victorian gazebo on Spring Street, and <a href="https://www.eurekaparks.com/parks" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Basin Spring Park</a>, a central gathering spot with live music, historic plaques, and the spring that helped start it all. Visit the <a href="https://www.eurekaparks.com/springs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eureka Parks website</a> for more information. You can also access a map of all the springs <a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d56a5c_347ca862568942da8112b5c1c6585a74~mv2.png" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour

The Crescent Hotel offers popular <a href="https://crescent-hotel.com/things-to-do/ghosts/?https://crescent-hotel.com/?utm_source=google+&amp;utm_medium=paid+search&amp;utm_campaign=lodging&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=22687745899&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADiGtKDJJpB-1h3Ylo9vJULZel7km&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwsZPDBhBWEiwADuO6y0f0RuwnJuxremz10iZjTxcoZG46E5u6z5iT_s_13c-EfFtw1NLzTxoCFYkQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">nightly ghost tours</a>. Guided walks share spooky stories of spirits like Michael, a stonemason who died during construction, and Theodora, a helpful housekeeper ghost. The tour also explores the hotel’s dark past as a 1930s cancer hospital. Tours run around 8 PM, with advanced tickets recommended since they often sell out. Whether you’re curious or a skeptic, it’s a memorable, eerie experience - we thoroughly enjoyed it (coming from a skeptic and a scaredy-cat).

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

For you Tiger King fans! <a href="https://www.turpentinecreek.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge</a>, just south of Eureka Springs, is a sanctuary caring for rescued big cats like tigers, lions, and cougars - many of which came from Carole Baskin's Big Cat Rescue in 2023 when they merged. Spread across 450 acres, the refuge offers guided tram tours where you can learn about the animals’ rescue stories and conservation efforts. Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM during Daylight Saving Time, it’s a great spot for wildlife lovers and supports ethical animal care.

Activities Farther Away

If you're up for a short drive, Northwest Arkansas has even more to offer. <a href="https://www.visitbentonville.com/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;utm_campaign=madden%20aor-arbent24&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=20924716498&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACvlI7rrnKlBT-S5GeIiD0CJkXD6f&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwsZPDBhBWEiwADuO6yxEKc8Recl9oV9ir0cNQrdI9tyiA9seDcZapLi1cx9hEkrQS07aMVBoCsGcQAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bentonville</a> is a hub for world-class mountain biking, with over 150 miles of trails, plus great restaurants, breweries, and <a href="https://crystalbridges.org/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=20921898685&amp;utm_term=crystal%20bridges%20bentonville&amp;utm_content={adid}&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=20921898685&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwsZPDBhBWEiwADuO6y_BrD__FglGbWsfNIqzKMeknWXLnlKE0Abbj3PFu1paGCMPUNsvwQRoCNZ0QAvD_BwE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art</a>. <a href="https://www.experiencefayetteville.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fayetteville</a> offers a lively college-town vibe with farmers markets, live music, and scenic hiking. Whether you're into nature, food, art, or just relaxing, there's something nearby to enjoy while you're here.

Things to Do

Q: Where and when is the wedding?A: The ceremony will be at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Eureka Springs on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 6 p.m. Join us before the ceremony in the Crescent Hotel Fountain Garden for appetizers and drinks. A reception will follow the ceremony in the Crescent Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom. Q: What should I wear?A: The dress code for both the ceremony and reception is garden formal - think polished yet comfortable, perfect for a late spring celebration. Flowy, soft floral, midi-length dresses work great for the ladies, and lightweight suits or dressy separates for the gents. Keep it classy for the Catholic Church ceremony, but relaxed enough to dance the night away! While most of the evening will take place indoors, it’s June in Arkansas, so plan for warm weather and a bit of walking between venues. Q: Is parking available?A: Yes! There’s parking at both the church and The Crescent Hotel. Parking is limited at the church. We recommend parking at the hotel. They are within a very short walking distance of each other. Q: Are kids welcome?A: We love your little ones, but adults only please, unless otherwise specified on your invitation. Q: Is there accommodation nearby? Is there a room block reserved?A: While the Crescent Hotel does not offer room block services, we recommend staying here since it is the closest to where all the action is taking place. The Basin Park Hotel or other charming local spots like the New Orleans Hotel are also great options. There are also many Airbnb and VRBO options nearby. Staying downtown will make it more convenient to get around! Check out the "Travel" tab for more information. Q: Will transportation be provided between venues?A: Guests are responsible for their own transportation, but the venues are close by and walkable. Q: Are there things to do nearby?A: Yes! Eureka Springs has lots to explore, from historic sites and gardens to local shops and breweries. Plus, Bentonville nearby offers great biking trails and more. See the "Things to Do" tab! Q: Can I bring a guest?A: Invitations are personalized, so please RSVP only for the people invited. Q: What time should I arrive?A: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the ceremony starts at 6 p.m. to get seated comfortably. We'll have some refreshments in the Crescent Hotel Fountain Garden starting at 5 p.m. if you would like to get the party started earlier! Q: Where should I send a gift?A: While they are not required, gifts can be sent to our home address at 25 Devizis Drive, Bella Vista, AR 72714. If you plan to bring a gift with you to the wedding, please bring it with you to the welcome hour or reception, as there will not be a place to store them at the ceremony space.

Q + A

Registry

Pros Dish on What to Wear to a Wedding

40 Affordable Guest Dresses to Save Money

Affordable Suits? They're a Click Away

The dress code for both the ceremony and reception is garden formal - think polished yet comfortable, perfect for a late spring celebration. Flowy, soft floral, midi-length dresses work great for the ladies, and lightweight suits or dressy separates for the gents. Keep it classy for the Catholic Church ceremony, but relaxed enough to dance the night away! While most of the evening will take place indoors, it’s June in Arkansas, so plan for warm weather and a bit of walking between venues.

Suzannah and Jacob

Suzannah and Jacob

S&J

Rehearsal

5:00 PM–6:00 PM