Sometimes the best love stories start with a quiet moment. For Paula and Ayson, their journey began in January 2020 at a small bar in downtown Jonesboro, where fate placed them across the table from each other. Though Ayson barely spoke two words that first night, a chance encounter the very next evening—and perhaps a touch of liquid courage—led to a proper introduction that would change both their lives forever.
As their friendship blossomed within their shared social circle, they discovered an incredible coincidence: they had both lived in the same dorm at the University of Arkansas during their freshman year. After three months of growing closer, Ayson finally asked Paula to be his girlfriend. By May 2021, he was down on one knee, and their whimsical spring wedding dreams began taking shape.
A Dream Venue Sets the Stage
The moment Paula stepped into Legacy Acres in Conway, Arkansas, she knew she had found the perfect setting for their spring celebration. “The venue is absolutely breath-taking from the chandeliers to the immaculate size of each space,” Paula shared. “I had never seen anything like it! It truly set the tone for an amazing weekend.”
Their wedding day was blessed with perfect spring weather, with trees in full bloom providing a lush green backdrop. The ceremony, officiated by Paula’s beloved grandfather (“Papaw”), created an intimate atmosphere that kept the couple grounded amidst the excitement of their big day.
A Culinary Journey to Remember
When it came to the wedding menu, Paula had a clear vision: elevated comfort food that would make guests feel like they’d just left their grandmother’s house, but with an elegant twist. Vibrant Occasions Catering brought this vision to life with a memorable feast that became a highlight of the celebration.
The menu featured two spectacular main courses: a paneed chicken breast with a crispy panko-parmesan crust, finished with a delicate beurre blanc sauce, and tender pork tenderloin wrapped in applewood-smoked bacon, served with rich au jus. These were accompanied by sides that perfectly balanced comfort and sophistication: a Yukon gold twice-baked potato casserole featuring buttery potatoes, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon; mac and cheese elevated with a distinctive jalapeño cheese sauce; and green beans Provençal tossed with blistered grape tomatoes.
“After a long day of getting ready and pictures, it was the most comforting thing to get to sit down with my new husband and enjoy the food together,” Paula recalled. “Everything was absolutely delicious and met every expectation I had!”
A Night to Remember
The reception transformed into an unforgettable celebration, with DJ Derrick King of King’s Productions keeping the dance floor packed all night long. The space came alive through Kelly at A Perfect Bloom’s masterful interpretation of Paula’s whimsical spring vision, creating an atmosphere of pure magic.
Money-Saving Tips from the Bride
Paula shared some practical advice for future couples, including creating DIY signage and utilizing QR codes for online RSVPs. “This was the quickest and easiest way for us to get a good headcount for the wedding,” she explained, “and we were able to save quite a bit of money on food and alcohol with this.”
Vendor Dream Team
Venue: Legacy Acres
Catering: Vibrant Occasions Catering (us!)
Photography: B Matthews Photo
Florist & Rentals: A Perfect Bloom
Wedding Planner: Steiner Event Group
DJ: DJ Derrick King with King’s Productions
Cake: Julie’s Sweet Shoppe & Bakery
Wedding Dress: Low’s Bridal
Rings: Sissy’s Log Cabin
Live Painter: Dale Case
Videographer: BRE Photo & Video
Hair: Whitney McDaniel with Salon 55 Forty
Makeup: Jadyn Moore and Ashlyn Weaver
For couples seeking their own perfect wedding celebration in Central Arkansas, Vibrant Occasions Catering offers customizable menus that combine comfort food favorites with elegant presentation. Contact mary@vibrantoccasionscatering.com to start planning your dream wedding menu today.
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