Over Memorial Day weekend, we traveled down to the Weston Red Barn Farm—just north of Kansas City—for Blake and Madison’s wedding. It was a day and an event that was beautiful in so many ways. Having worked with Madison’s family before, I was excited because I knew we were going to be blessed with a gorgeous event to document, and the warmth of their gracious hospitality. These guys love to laugh, and they are not afraid to cry, which gives us a chance to create images that you can really feel. Additionally, we were fortunate to keep the rain away that had lingered around in the forecast all week. Yep, the skies parted and it was nothing but blazing, hot sunshine for these guys!!
Blake and Madison’s day was stunning aesthetically, but there was no way you could have been in attendance and not felt the overwhelming presence of love and joy that surrounded them and all of the festivities. And really, that’s what it’s all about. These two high school sweethearts are now on the other side of years of dating, college, career uncertainty and a 1,200 mile long-distance relationship. Now, they are together forever, and we couldn’t be happier for them.
The ceremony was in the apple orchard on the property, and Madison’s brother in-law, Ryan (one of our former grooms), officiated the ceremony. Madison was escorted to the ceremony by her grandfather, in a classic truck, who handed her off to her dad to finish the walk to the altar. It was another meaningful touch that they were able to incorporate (and it photographed really well!). Blake and Madison took each other’s hands at last and breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that they had made it so far. They exchanged heartfelt vows that they had written, which included an agreed upon deadline (begrudgingly by Blake) for babies. After making everyone cry, they smashed their sweaty faces together for a joyful first kiss.
The reception started off with custom craft cocktails by Cordial Craft and a killer dinner, courtesy of Blue Pot. More heartfelt words were delivered and more tears fell during toasts. Shout out to Madison’s sister, maid of honor and former bride of ours, Erin, for delivering both tears and rolling laughter. Ah yes—love truly is like a fart. There were sweet spotlight dances, then Platinum Productions turned it up and everyone got their celebrating on. (Especially Blake’s wrestling buddies).
I hope you can feel the laughter, tears and tenacious love in these photos. Blake and Madison, thank you again for having us—we are blessed by you guys and your family. Congratulations, and may your love continue to grow deeper and richer!
Planner – Simple Elegance (Lauren)
Hair – Hair by Bobbi Kay
Makeup – Miles Makeup
Flowers – Hitched
Cake – Dolcé Bakery
DJ – Platinum Productions
Photographers – Carter Photography
Videographers – Baysinger Films
Dress – Bridal Extradinoaire
Rentals – Vinatge KC, UltraPom, AAA Party Rental
Catering – Blue Pot
Stationery & Printed Signage – Yellow Brick Graphics
Chalkboard – Creative Souls
Bartender/Craft Cocktails – Cordial Craft