Start with the setting: historic charm, room to celebrate

The Sanctuary at Argenta is a restored church in North Little Rock's historic Argenta Arts District, and it brings its own sense of occasion before you've hung a single decoration. Original stained glass windows and all the charm and character of a historic church.

It works for an intimate bridal shower with close friends and family, and it also has room for a big engagement party. The Sanctuary seats up to 250 guests, so you can celebrate with a small circle or invite everyone who's been cheering the couple on. If your guest list is more than 150, this could be the perfect space for you.

When you tour, walk through the room as if you were a guest. Where would people mingle? Where would the gifts go? Where would the couple sit?

Small shower or big engagement party: shaping the room

A big space can feel just as personal as a small one when the layout does its job.

• For an intimate shower: Think about grouping tables and seating closer together so the room feels warm and connected.
• For a large engagement party: Plan clear areas for arrival, food and drinks, seating, and toasts, so guests can move easily and still feel part of the celebration.
• For a mix: Many hosts want a cocktail-style start and a seated meal or toast later, so ask how the room can change during the party.

Write down what you like about each option, and take photos as you go. You'll want them later.

Your party planning checklist

Here's the host checklist, one piece at a time. Print it, screenshot it, or keep it open while you plan.

Invitations

• Start with the couple's personal details: their colors, florals, wedding date, and the feel of their day
• Pick a design that matches the mood of the room, like soft, classic, or romantic
• Include the date, time, address, and the name of the host
• Add the RSVP date, plus a way to reply
• Mention a registry or a theme, if there is one
• Send invitations early enough for guests to plan, especially for a busy 2027 calendar, and early enough for a big guest list

Layout

• Decide how you want the party to feel: seated, mingling, or a mix
• Plan where guests arrive, where the food is, where the gifts go, and where the guest of honor will sit
• Leave clear paths so guests can move easily, especially if you're hosting a large group
• We provide 60-inch rounds, cocktail tables, 6-foot and 8-foot tables, and 250 chairs
• Ask who handles setup, breakdown, and any room changes

Menu

• Think about the time of day and how long guests will be there: brunch, lunch, tea, cocktails, or an evening spread
• Include a few of the couple's favorite foods and drinks as a personal touch
• Ask about dietary needs on the invitation or RSVP
• For a big guest list, plan food stations or service that keeps lines short
• Open to any and all caterers; liquor must be served by a licensed bartender

Decor

• Pull from the couple's wedding details: colors, flowers, and a few meaningful touches
• Let the room do the heavy lifting, and add decor that complements the setting instead of covering it
• Think about what you'll bring versus what you'll need to rent or borrow
• Ask what decor is allowed and what isn't
• Plan when you can get in to set up and when everything needs to be cleared

Photo moments

• Choose two or three spots ahead of time, and walk the room to find the best light
• Set up a simple photo backdrop or a table with a sign for the guest of honor
• Add a keepsake like a guest book, advice cards, or a memory table
• Use the big screen for a slideshow of photos of the couple. The Sanctuary has a large 14.5-foot projector screen with AV.
• Ask a friend to take photos during the party, or consider hiring a photographer
• Plan a group photo while everyone's still looking fresh

Your planning timeline

Not sure when to do what? Here's a simple way to space it out. Adjust it to your date and guest count.

• 8 to 10 weeks out: Tour, request dates, and confirm your guest count
• 6 to 8 weeks out: Finalize the date, plan your menu, and send your invitations
• 4 weeks out: Order or arrange decor, and confirm any vendors
• 2 weeks out: Confirm the RSVP count and finalize your layout
• 1 week out: Confirm delivery and setup times with everyone involved
• Party day: Set up, enjoy, and let someone else take the photos

Hosting a large engagement party? Give yourself a few extra weeks, since bigger guest lists take longer to confirm.

Before you book: questions to ask on your tour.

• How many guests can the space comfortably hold for your type of party?
• What are the rules for outside vendors, such as caterers, bakers, florists, and bartenders?
• What tables, chairs, and linens are included?
• How much time do you get for setup and cleanup?
• What AV is available for a slideshow or toasts?
• What decor is allowed?

Bring your preferred date, guest count, and a few inspiration photos. Those three things help our team show you the right layout and prepare an accurate quote.

Looking for something more intimate?

If your guest list is on the smaller side, our sister venue, E.O. Manees House, sits just across the street and is a historic house that works well for an intimate bridal shower. You can ask our team about both when you reach out.

Ready to host a celebration they'll talk about?

Share your date, your guest count, and a few details about the couple, and we'll help you picture the day. Request your date for 2027 and book a tour of The Sanctuary at Argenta, and we'll put together a proposal based on your needs

FAQ's