A Photographer's Guide to The Grand at Willow Springs Wedding Venue in Prairie Grove, AR
Written by Emily Hendrick Photography - Arkansas + Traveling Wedding Photographer
REAL WEDDING - Hannah + Mason Lester September 27, 2024
As a wedding photographer, few things are more exciting than walking into a venue like The Grand at Willow Springs. With its timeless and elegant charm, this venue is a blank canvas to create gorgeous wedding photos. Here’s a guide to making the most of this venue's space on a given Wedding day.
1. Getting Ready: The Bridal Suite + Grooms Suite + Front Lawn
This venue was built very intentionally with large windows that provide a ton of natural light for your indoor photos. For outdoor photos, the venue is a gorgeous backdrop on its' own - just be mindful of where the sun is.
2. First Looks: The Front Loop or In front of Chapel
If you're looking for good shade around the 12-2pm window, the front loop has this spot with shade from the trees. It is also a good place of privacy for the couple, away from the hustle and bustle of the venue, if they prefer a more private moment for their first look, vows, first touch etc.
3. Wedding Party: In front of Chapel + Front Lawn
We lucked out with an overcast, kind of sunny day so these were very well and evenly lit. These are still great spots for photos even when the sun is out! Just be mindful of where the sun is and how it may cast shadows on your subject.
4. Bride + Groom Portraits: All over
I encourage you to take your Bride + Groom all over the venue, all day long!! (This is most doable when they do a 1st look). Odds are, the Bride picked this venue because she wants multiple spots as the background in the Gallery.
5. Outdoor Ceremony Spot
This was a September wedding with a 5:30pm Ceremony time. The lighting was awesome at this time of day. The rolling hills in the back and their florals get me EVERY time.
6. Cocktail Hour: Breezeway
This was such a good use of the venue space! Brides - This is a PERFECT opportunity to get Event Rentals, a Bouncy House, a live band, etc. From guest feedback, they really enjoyed having a designated space for cocktail hour where they could grab a drink and get the celebrations going with their people before going inside to see the Reception.
7. The Reception Hall
Capture details, details details! These are probably the details the Bride planned because she's wanted them forever from her Pinterest Board. You'll probably have the classic, timeless Black and White checkered dance floor, seating signage, maybe floating disco balls and a champagne tower. Capture it all!
9. The Dance Floor
Bring your flash & put your dancing shoes on! Make sure to get wide angles of the space and close ups of everyone having fun together.
Final Thoughts
The Grand at Willow Springs is a wedding photographer’s dream, offering a mix of grandeur, natural beauty, and versatility. By having a detailed Wedding Day Timeline and exploring the venue’s unique features, you can create a stunning gallery that your clients will cherish forever!
For more info on Emily Hendrick Photography Wedding Photography Services - go to the COUPLES tab on my website to connect with me!