Hands down, the best part of my job is that I get to cross paths with some pretty kick-ass individuals. And sometimes, if I’m lucky, I get to hang on to those people and take them from the “Client” category to the “Friend” realm. Hope M + E are packing their bags, because these two are headed to my friend realm. And it’s not just because they kicked ass during their rollerskating engagement session. And it’s not because they hand crafted every decoration at their wedding. And it’s not because it was a million degrees at their wedding, but never once complained and were always up for more photos. And it’s definitely not because they had a freaking petting zoo and miniature UNICORN at their wedding. It’s because they are some of the most giving and caring people I’ve had the opportunity to meet. Some people you just click with — and thankfully, I click with the majority of my clients. To be honest, I really don’t care if your engagement ring is the size of a marble, or if you’ve rented out the most expensive venue in town. I care about the client, and the all the little moments that make up the wedding day. I care about their relatives traveling far and wide to celebrate the love that two people share. I care about their older relatives that made huge efforts just to attend and may not be around for much longer. I care about preserving this moment in time for them. It’s all the little things combined that make this job worth while.
MaryEllen + Elizabeth decided to get married at a new-to-me-venue in Oregon, Missouri called Paradise Park. This place is kinda out there, but it’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s evident that Roderick, the owner, takes great pride and care for his property. Everything was manicured, but not to perfection, but as if Mother Nature had planned it this way all along. There’s an air conditioned chapel (which was very handy!) as well as a guest cabin, and all the yard games you could ever desire. If you don’t mind the 1.5 hour commute from KC, or perhaps you live in the Northland, definitely go check this place out — it’s beautiful.
The crafty couple made all of the decorations. Paper flowers, pressed flowers, and yes — that’s an old school fortune telling paper folding game (that we, Xennials use to play in Middle School) turned into a program.
This box is a time capsule of sorts that the couple will open one year from now and read all the love notes, well wishes & advice inside.
A few finishing touches with the help of these fine folks, and now it’s time for a wedding!
The brides were sporting total Celebrity Status with their own “Trailer” to get ready in.
Theres something to be said about getting married while being surrounded by nature. Listening to the songs of the birds and cicadas. Seeing signs of new beginnings, but also the decay of things dying — seeing the full circle of life, while you’re joining two lives together. There’s something so poetic about getting married outside.
Are you ready for the cutest Petting Zoo ever?! It was a HUGE hit with the young and the not-so-young. 😉
A FREAKING MINITURE UNICORN!!!!
And you know it’s going to be a good time if this guy is at your reception!
That’s Carlos, owner of The Bite in Kansas City’s Historic City Market. Amazing chef, all around good dude, and dear friend of mine. And this food did not disappoint. It tasted just as good as it looks. If you ever find yourself in the City Market, go visit him! Your stomach will thank you!
Because it was so hot outside, the cake had to stay in the air conditioned Chapel. So to the basement, we all went. I think everyone needed a little cool down, and who doesn’t need a little piece of wedding cake (or popsicles) on a super muggy MidWestern Summer day.
I love that sparklers bring out the pyro in us all. It also makes for some super dramatic photos!
MaryEllen + Elizabeth, I can’t thank you two enough! It has been an absolute delight working with you two and I’m so thankful that our paths crossed! I wish you two the best and a lifetime of Kodak Moments! Xomo
::ROLL CALL::
Venue : Paradise Park, Oregon, MO
Caterer : The Bite
Dresses : Amazon
Rings : Canova Home INC. Boulder, CO
Hair : Amy Crouch / Tease Salon, Westport
DJ : Michelle Span
Cake : Vasha Chernoff
Petting Zoo : Paramount Pony
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