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If you’re looking for a dreamy Loose Park proposal idea, Bianca and Austin’s story will absolutely melt your heart. From the very beginning, this day was full of thoughtful details and joyful moments.
Bianca arrived at Loose Park and was immediately greeted by family and friends. But instead of a big crowd, each person greeted her individually—handing her a different bundle of flowers. With every hello, her bouquet grew more beautiful! This thoughtful touch added so much sweetness and made the moment feel even more personal.
Then Bianca saw Austin waiting for her! He took her hand and led her to the iconic bridge in the center of the park. The excitement was building—you could feel it! Then, right there on the bridge, Austin got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.
Right after the proposal, they celebrated with champagne! Lots of laughter, happy tears, and hugs were shared. It was such a joyful moment to capture—and Loose Park truly made the perfect backdrop.
As we wandered through the park, we snapped portraits by the water, in front of the rose gardens, and under the willow trees. Every corner of the park gave us a new opportunity for something romantic and relaxed. This Loose Park proposal was full of genuine emotion, natural beauty, and the kind of moments that make my job so rewarding.
If you’re planning a Kansas City proposal, Loose Park is a location that never disappoints. It offers a little bit of everything—open space, floral beauty, and quiet corners to make your moment feel special.
From beginning to end, this day was about love, intention, and capturing the surprise on Bianca’s face the moment she realized what was happening. Moments like these are why I love photographing proposals—they’re emotional, exciting, and totally unforgettable.
Have you ever stopped to think about how photographers use light to create emotion in your wedding photographs? At first glance, it might just seem like good timing. However, the truth is—light is one of the most important tools we use to tell your story.
Let’s start with golden hour. This dreamy, golden glow is a favorite for many couples, and for good reason! The soft, warm light during this time of day instantly adds romance and tenderness to your images. As a result, even a simple moment—like holding hands or laughing together—feels more intimate and magical.
Not every wedding day includes clear skies and sunset portraits. But don’t worry! Photographers are trained to use all kinds of lighting to spark emotion. We often work with off-camera flash, candlelight, or ambient reception lighting to create dramatic, moody vibes. These techniques are perfect for emotional first dances, heartfelt toasts, or quiet moments between the chaos.
In addition, backlighting can add a completely different mood. When used intentionally, it creates glowing silhouettes that highlight movement and emotion in a breathtaking way. Think of a twirl on the dance floor or a kiss under twinkle lights. Those scenes are made even more powerful with the right backlight.
Let’s not forget about indoor spaces. Even something as simple as a sunbeam through a window can create a soft, emotional mood. Similarly, uplighting at your reception or string lights above your sweetheart table can completely shift the feel of your images—bringing warmth, celebration, or even serenity.
Ultimately, once you understand how photographers use light to create emotion, you’ll start to notice just how often it’s working behind the scenes. Light shapes the tone of each image and helps your photos feel just as real and moving as the day itself.
So, the next time you scroll through a gallery and feel something tug at your heart—that’s the power of light. And that’s exactly why we love using it to help tell your love story.re, it’s doing a lot of heavy lifting behind the scenes—just like your photographer.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a Kansas City courthouse wedding could be just as magical as a big venue celebration, let Morgan and Amy show you how it’s done. Their day at the Johnson County Courthouse was full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Morgan and Amy kept the focus where it belongs—on their love story. With only their closest family by their side, every moment felt intentional and emotional. From heartfelt vows to happy tears, their ceremony had everything that makes weddings special.
Courthouse weddings are so underrated. They’re easy to plan, affordable, and filled with charm. Amy wore a timeless white gown. Morgan looked sharp in a classic black suit. Together, they turned a simple setting into something magical.
We wandered through the courthouse for portraits after the ceremony. The hallways, windows, and even the elevator gave us stunning photo ops. That elevator kiss? Yep, it was just as sweet in real life!
The outside of the courthouse brought a modern, clean backdrop to the rest of their photos. It’s one of the best-kept secrets for couples planning a Kansas City courthouse wedding. Sleek architecture and dreamy lighting? Yes, please.
Thinking about doing something similar? Here are a few tips:
– Check your courthouse’s requirements ahead of time.
– Don’t be afraid to dress up—make it your moment.
– Invite a few loved ones to keep the day special.
– And of course, hire a photographer who knows how to capture the magic.
Morgan and Amy’s wedding reminded me that it doesn’t take a grand venue to make your wedding day feel important. All you need is each other and a little intention.
Whether you’re planning an elopement, courthouse ceremony, or micro-wedding, I’d love to be there. Let’s make sure every glance, giggle, and kiss is something you’ll remember forever.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding venue that brings sleek, modern design together with thoughtful amenities and an inviting atmosphere, let me introduce you to The Maverick. Located in the heart of Kansas City, this fully indoor venue was once a medical device facility—but you’d never guess it! After a complete transformation, it’s now a polished, stylish space that’s tailor-made for weddings and social events.
Whether you’re planning a romantic celebration or a lively fundraiser, The Maverick has everything you need to bring your vision to life.
A Revamped Space Built for Connection
The Maverick’s story starts with a total reinvention. What was once a medical facility has been completely reimagined and redesigned with events in mind. Today, it serves as a bright, clean canvas that can be easily styled to match any couple’s vibe—whether that’s elegant, minimal, dramatic, or colorful.
With space to host up to 250 guests, it’s ideal for everything from ceremonies and receptions to rehearsal dinners and fundraisers.
Aesthetic, Architecture, and Atmosphere
The venue boasts a modern, classic, and polished design with high-end finishes and thoughtful architectural touches. Its shiny black accents, clean lines, and custom lighting features make it feel sophisticated while still warm and welcoming.
While The Maverick is a fully indoor venue, it’s designed to bring the outdoors in. Large garage door-style windows can be opened for an airy, indoor/outdoor feel, giving you flexibility without worrying about the weather!
Thoughtful Amenities & Seamless Service
Couples love The Maverick not just for the look, but for the ease of planning and execution. The venue includes:
- Full setup, flip, and teardown services
- Spacious lounge and ready room with six individual vanity stations
- Customizable light wall and uplighting
- Dedicated on-site parking lot
- Full wheelchair accessibility
When it comes to vendors, couples are welcome to bring their own or work from The Maverick’s preferred list. And when it’s time to celebrate, you have flexible alcohol options—with one of three bar packages that make hosting a breeze. The Maverick holds its own liquor license and therefore does not allow outside alcohol or bartending services.
Ceremony, Cocktail Hour, and Reception Flow
The Maverick keeps your day flowing effortlessly! Most couples choose to host both ceremony and reception on the main level. Then, while the space is being flipped, guests can enjoy cocktail hour on the lower level, creating a smooth transition from “I do” to dancing the night away.
Photograph-Ready from Every Angle
One of the standout features of The Maverick is how photograph-friendly the space is. From the natural light pouring through large windows to the stylish prep areas, the venue was made for detail shots, first looks, and candid moments.
Plus, the structural support makes hanging installations easy, which means couples can get creative with floral or decor designs. Just be sure candles are enclosed, and you’re good to go!
Packages, Pricing & Booking Info
The Maverick offers three venue packages and three bar packages, allowing couples to choose what best fits their needs and budget. A few things to note:
- 50% deposit required on the venue fee only
- Most couples book 12 months in advance
- Flexible timing, with no strict cut-off shared—but always best to confirm based on your event timeline
An Event to Remember
While every wedding at The Maverick is special, one standout event is the Newhouse Pop-Up Fundraiser. It’s a local favorite and continues to grow each year, showcasing how versatile and community-focused this venue truly is. Venue & Event Manager Paige Hultz shares a heartfelt reminder to couples:
“Stay true to what’s important to you. It’s your day, and it’s easy to get caught up trying to make everyone else happy.”
Schedule a Tour
If The Maverick sounds like your kind of venue, we highly recommend scheduling a tour! You can reach out to Paige directly at paige@themaverickkc.com to check availability and see the space in person. It might just be the modern, light-filled venue you’ve been searching for. ✨
If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably heard a lot of advice. Some of it is helpful, some of it is overwhelming, and some of it… well, let’s just say you can take it or leave it. But nothing beats real couple’s advice from people who have already been through it!
Every wedding is different, but the biggest lesson? Do what makes you and your partner happy! Whether it’s focusing on the details that matter most, staying present in the moment, or rolling with the unexpected, these couples have some great wisdom to share.
Sally + Jacob: “Talk with your partner and discuss what’s truly important. For us, photography and food were the biggest priorities, so we made sure to invest in those. Decide together where you want to focus your budget and energy.”
Your wedding day should reflect your personalities. Whether it’s an epic dance party, a gourmet meal, or stunning photographs, choose what means the most to you and plan around it.
Kaela + Kyle: “Take time to be alone together throughout the day. The first look was an intimate moment I will cherish forever! The day goes by so fast—stay together at the reception and enjoy each other’s company.”
This is your day. Guests, family, and vendors will be everywhere, but don’t forget to pause and just be with your partner. Find small moments to soak it all in—those will be the ones you remember most.
Natalie + Tanner: “Find what works best for you and fight for what you want. If a detail is important to you, make sure it happens. Do your research on vendors—great vendors make planning and the wedding day so much less stressful.”
Your wedding is your vision. If something is non-negotiable, stick to it! And when it comes to vendors, having a reliable team makes all the difference. Trust me, the right people will make your day feel effortless!
Courtney + David: “We both work in hospitality and had NO idea how much planning goes into a wedding! Hiring a planner kept us organized and took the pressure off. It allowed us to actually enjoy our engagement. There are so many decisions to make, and having a guide is extremely helpful.”
A wedding planner isn’t just for extravagant events—they help keep everything on track. If you want to be fully present on your big day (without worrying about timelines and logistics), having someone to handle the details is a game-changer.
Courtney + David (Bonus Advice!): “On the day of, take it all in. We kept reminding each other, ‘take it in’—all these people are here to celebrate your love! It’s the best feeling in the world, and it goes by fast.”
Victoria + Cody: “Enjoy the day, don’t stress over little things, and just live in the moment!”
Jamie + Tanner: “Something will probably go wrong, but just go with the flow. Others won’t notice or care. Our day felt perfect, even though some details weren’t exactly as planned.”
Things might not go 100% according to plan, but that’s okay. The most important thing? You’re marrying your best friend. If you stay focused on that, everything else will fall into place.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about you and your partner. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate your love, so make decisions that feel right for you. Stay present, soak in the joy, and don’t be afraid to let go of perfection.
The best weddings aren’t flawless—they’re filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. So enjoy every second. Take some of these real couple’s advice, and have the best day ever!
Senior sessions are always special, but getting to capture Raegan’s graduation session at Rockhurst University made this one even more memorable! As a 2024 graduate and a proud member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, Raegan has worked hard for this moment. Her excitement, pride, and joy were so clear in every single photograph.
Exploring Rockhurst & Finding the Perfect Spots
We spent the afternoon wandering around Rockhurst’s beautiful campus, stopping at all of Raegan’s favorite spots. She knew exactly where she wanted to go, which made the session feel so personal and meaningful. From charming brick pathways to the heart of campus, every location held special memories.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Kansas City graduation session without some classic fountain photographs! In true KC fashion, we made sure to capture some fun, celebratory moments with the stunning campus fountains in the background.
Raegan’s Graduation Look: Timeless & Elegant
Raegan absolutely stunned in her senior session outfit! She wore a cream-colored mini dress with dainty flower apliques, giving her look a soft, feminine touch. Her gold heels with bows on the toes were the perfect finishing detail—classy, fun, and completely her style.
Celebrating a Huge Accomplishment
Graduating from college is such a huge milestone, and Raegan made sure to soak in every moment. Between tossing her cap in the air, laughing through candid shots, and taking in the beauty of her campus one last time, it was clear she was both excited for what’s next and proud of how far she’s come.
Why College Senior Sessions Are So Special
A college graduation isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about celebrating years of hard work, friendships, and unforgettable memories. Senior sessions like Raegan’s capture all of that in a way that feels authentic and personal. Whether it’s posing by a favorite campus spot or simply soaking in the moment, these photographs become keepsakes that last a lifetime.
Raegan, it was an absolute joy capturing this session for you as a Rockhurst Senior! You are going to do amazing things, and I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.
Every time I photograph a mom with her babies—whether they’re newborns or grown-up with babies of their own—I’m reminded why I love this work so much. The beauty of motherhood is messy, chaotic, and deeply moving, often all at once. And getting to freeze those fleeting moments? It’s truly an honor.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of capturing so many different versions of motherhood. From a first-time mama cradling her newborn to a grandmother laughing with her granddaughter on her wedding day—every image tells a story that deserves to be remembered.
Some of my favorite sessions are the ones where moms let go of the pressure for everything to be perfect. When the curls are wild, the hands are sticky, and the kids are doing their thing—that’s when the magic happens. Those are the photographs that feel the most real. And let’s be honest, those are the moments you’ll treasure most later!
Often, moms are the ones taking the pictures, not being in them. That’s why I always encourage moms to step in front of the camera. You don’t need to wait for a special occasion. You just need to be present! Your kids will thank you for it someday.
Whether it’s a tender snuggle, a shared laugh, or a glance that says “I’ve got you,” these are the moments that matter. And on Mother’s Day, I like to take a moment to look back at those moments I’ve had the privilege of capturing. They’re quiet reminders of how powerful and personal motherhood really is.
Today, I’m raising a virtual glass to all the mamas—new, seasoned, bonus, chosen, and everything in between. Thank you for trusting me to tell your stories, frame by frame.
While we celebrate the beauty of motherhood, I also want to gently acknowledge the women for whom this day feels heavy. Whether you’re grieving, longing, navigating complicated relationships, or carrying quiet heartaches—I see you. There’s space for your story here too, and you’re not alone.
Wishing everyone a Mother’s Day filled with love, laughter, and maybe a nap.
One of the most emotional and intimate wedding trends I’ve seen growing in popularity is exchanging personal vows before the ceremony. More and more couples are choosing to share these heartfelt words privately, and honestly? It’s such a beautiful way to kick off the wedding day.
Why Couples Are Loving This Trend
Weddings are filled with excitement, nerves, and so many moving pieces. Taking a quiet moment before the ceremony to share personal vows allows couples to slow down, breathe, and truly connect before walking down the aisle. It’s a chance to be completely in the moment without the pressure of a crowd watching.
Plus, if you’re someone who feels extra emotional (or just don’t love public speaking), this is a perfect way to say everything in a more intimate setting. You still get to express your love in a meaningful way without the nerves of standing in front of everyone.
Creative Ways to Exchange Personal Vows Before the Ceremony
There’s no right or wrong way to do this! Here are a few ways couples are making this moment uniquely theirs:
- A First Look with Vows – If you’re already planning a first look, adding personal vows makes it even more special. The reactions, the happy tears, the love—it all makes for incredible photographs.
- Back-to-Back or Around a Door – If you want to save the first look for the aisle, standing back-to-back or holding hands around a door is a great alternative. You get to hear each other’s words while keeping the surprise for the ceremony.
- Writing a Letter & Reading It Aloud – Some couples opt to write vows in a letter and read them alone before exchanging gifts. This allows for private reflection while still making it a deeply emotional part of the day.
Why These Moments Make for Incredible Photographs
As a photographer, I love capturing these pre-ceremony vow exchanges. They bring out raw, unfiltered emotion, and those moments translate beautifully into photographs. The nervous smiles, the way couples wipe away happy tears, the way they really listen—it all tells such a heartfelt story.
These moments also help set the tone for the rest of the day. By the time the ceremony starts, the nerves have settled, and the couple is fully present, soaking in every second.
Making It Your Own
Whether you whisper vows in a quiet corner, read them through happy tears, or write them in a letter to be exchanged later, the beauty of this trend is that it’s completely customizable. The most important thing is that it feels right for you.
If you’re on the fence about personal vows before the ceremony, I say go for it! Not only will it be one of the most memorable moments of your day, but you’ll also have stunning, emotional photographs to look back on forever.
Let’s talk about a wedding day that had all the magic. Amy and Andre’s timeless and classic celebration at The Hotel Kansas City was joyful, heartfelt, and honestly just so fun. From start to finish, these two could not stop smiling (and neither could anyone else!).
They kicked off the day in style in their king lofted suite, which gave them the perfect space to get ready, relax, and soak it all in. The staff at Hotel KC even left them a handwritten note and a bottle of sparkling rosé—how sweet is that?! The balcony overlooking the Tudor Ballroom gave major romantic, old-school charm with its gorgeous wood details and stained glass windows.
Now here’s where things get extra sweet. Before the ceremony, Amy and Andre shared a first look. During the first look Amy surprised Andre with a custom painting she had commissioned of the two of them standing in front of the hotel in their wedding outfits! It was based on a moment that hadn’t even happened yet, and somehow it was still perfect. The painting is now proudly displayed in their home; such a sweet touch to the perfect day!
Favorite Moments + Memories
I asked them about their favorite moments of the day. For Amy, the moment things really hit was walking down the aisle and seeing all their guests. For Andre, it was stepping out of the church afterward and seeing all their people cheering them on. Such core memories.
Their grand entrance into the reception was another favorite moment—just this incredible wave of love and support from everyone in the room. And their first dance? “All Your’n” by Tyler Childers—a song they’d seen performed live together, which made it feel extra special.
When flipping through their wedding gallery, they’re instantly taken back to the bubble exit, the ceremony with Andre’s dad officiating, and all the timeless and classic moments in between.
Advice From the Bride + Groom
Their biggest advice for other couples? Do the first look. It gave them time to take photos early, feel relaxed, and enjoy every second with their people. And most importantly—do what feels right for you. Don’t get caught up trying to make everyone else happy. Your day, your way.
There’s something so special about summertime engagement sessions—especially when golden hour light meets the perfect downtown backdrop. Kaylan and Zach’s golden hour session in downtown Kansas City was a dream! We started at the historic Kirk Family YMCA building, then wandered to some of my favorite spots, capturing the magic of the city along the way!
Stylish & Timeless Outfit Choices
Kaylan and Zach’s outfits couldn’t have been more perfect for this session. Kaylan stunned in a white lace halter jumpsuit, which felt both modern and romantic. Her baby blue heels added a fun pop of color and complemented Zach’s blue button-up with a classic white pattern.
Golden Hour Glow & City Vibes
As the sun started to set, the golden hour light illuminated the city, giving everything that dreamy, romantic feel. The soft shadows and warm glow made each moment even more beautiful. We walked through downtown, stopping at charming alleyways, scenic overlooks, and a few hidden gems that always make for the best photographs!
Iconic Backdrops & Rooftop Views
Of course, when you are in downtown Kansas City it’s a good idea to capture the stunning Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in the background. The clean lines and grand architecture create an elegant contrast to the warm, golden tones of the evening light. With the city skyline in the background, every shot felt like a perfect blend of modern and timeless.
To wrap up the night, we made our way to a rooftop just in time for blue hour—that magical time after sunset when the city lights start to twinkle. The soft blues in the sky paired beautifully with their outfits, creating a romantic, cinematic feel. It was the perfect way to end such a stunning session!
Why Downtown KC is Perfect for Engagement Sessions
Downtown Kansas City offers the best of both worlds—historic charm and modern cityscapes. From grand buildings to glowing rooftops, every corner provides a unique backdrop that tells a love story in the most beautiful way.
Kaylan and Zach’s session was full of laughter, love, and that effortless summer romance. If you’re dreaming of a downtown KC engagement golden hour session, let’s make it happen! Whether you want golden hour glow, city skyline views, or both, I’m here to capture every magical moment.
