The Gateley Hill Journal

Stories from the hill

Real weddings, honest planning advice, recipes from our receptions, and everything we have learned about doing intimate Arkansas weddings beautifully.

Bride at the white stucco chapel at Gateley Hill GardensLatest
Real Weddings

Bennett & Taygen: A Destination Wedding at Gateley Hill

An out-of-state couple, a field at golden hour, and Loblolly ice cream served under the Arkansas stars.

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Couple leaving their fall wedding at Gateley Hill GardensSeasons

Gateley Hill Gardens in Every Season

Spring blooms, golden summer light, warm fall color, and a cozy winter chapel. A year on the hill.

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Wedding cake at a cake and punch reception at Gateley Hill GardensRecipes

Our Favorite Wedding Punch Recipe (Two Ways)

The punch we serve at every cake and punch reception, in two easy flavors you can make at home.

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Couple outside the chapel at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

What a Small Wedding Day Actually Looks Like

Hour by hour, from getting ready to the send-off. Why intimate does not mean lacking.

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Reception table set for an intimate chapel wedding at Gateley Hill GardensFor Guests

What to Wear to an Intimate Chapel Wedding

Invited to a small chapel wedding? The easy, friendly guide to dressing for it in any season.

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Chapel with a floral archway at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

7 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Venue

Before you sign anything, ask these seven. The difference between a smooth day and surprises.

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Small white wedding cake with fresh flowers at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

What Is a Cake and Punch Wedding?

The old-fashioned Southern reception is back. Here is what it is, what it costs, and why brides choose it.

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Reception tablescape set for an intimate wedding at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

How Much Does a Small Wedding Cost in Arkansas?

A real 2026 breakdown of intimate wedding costs, and where all-inclusive actually saves you money.

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Couple outside the chapel at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

Minimony vs. Elopement: Which Is Right for You?

They sound the same and they are not. Here is how to tell them apart and pick the day that fits.

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White chapel with fall florals at Gateley Hill GardensSeasons

The Best Time of Year to Get Married in Arkansas

Spring blooms, golden fall light, cozy winter chapels. An honest month-by-month guide.

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Bride and groom at Gateley Hill GardensReal Weddings

A New Orleans Second Line in Arkansas: Bailey & Titus

A joyful Midimony with parasols, brass, and a send-off straight out of the French Quarter.

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White stucco chapel at Gateley Hill GardensPlanning

Why Gateley Hill Is Arkansas's Best Micro Wedding Venue

What a micro wedding is, who it is for, and why an all-inclusive chapel makes it effortless.

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Couple at golden hour outside the chapel at Gateley Hill GardensOur Story

Why Couples Choose Gateley Hill Gardens

A garden venue, a hand-built chapel, and one person who plans, designs and runs your whole day.

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