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Winter in Kansas City can be unpredictable and chilly. An indoor location like John’s Greenhouse provides a perfect setting for engagement sessions. I had the pleasure of capturing a greenhouse engagement session at John’s and despite the cold weather outside, the greenhouse was warm and inviting.
Indoor locations offer consistent lighting and controlled temperatures, ensuring comfort for everyone. John’s Greenhouse, with its lush greenery, and vibrant backdrop, made this couple’s engagement session feel like a tropical escape!
The couple chose outfits that perfectly complemented the greenhouse’s aesthetic. They opted for simple yet bold colors, which stood out beautifully against the greenery. The bride-to-be wore a stunning deep orange dress, adding a pop of color to the photos. The groom-to-be chose a classic cream colored shirt, offering a sharp contrast to the green foliage. The greenhouse’s natural light highlighted their features and the details of their clothing.
Using an indoor location like John’s Greenhouse has several benefits. It provides a unique and picturesque environment, perfect for capturing special moments. The controlled setting eliminates the stress of weather-related issues. The greenhouse’s lush plants and flowers create a vibrant, natural background for photos.
In winter, outdoor sessions can be challenging due to the cold and unpredictable weather. An indoor location ensures that the session can proceed without any weather-related interruptions. John’s Greenhouse offers a warm, comfortable space for couples to relax and enjoy their session!
Wedding exits are a memorable way to end your special day, and are so much fun to capture! Here are four creative and unique wedding exit ideas.
Sparkler Wedding Exits
A sparkler exit is magical and makes for stunning photos. Guests line up, holding lit sparklers high. As the couple walks through, the sparklers create a tunnel of light. This exit is especially beautiful for evening or night weddings. Ensure safety by having a designated person to oversee the sparklers.
Bubble Lights Wedding Exits
Bubble lights are a newer wedding exit trend that I can get behind! The clear ballon shaped balls are filled with dozens of twinkly lights and placed on the end of a stick. They are very easy to hold and they photograph extremely well! The photos will capture the joy and festivity perfectly.
Car Getaway Wedding Exits
Drive off in a car for a classic, stylish exit. Decorate the car with flowers or a “Just Married” sign. This exit makes for an unforgettable end to your wedding. The photos will capture the elegance and nostalgia perfectly. It’s a timeless choice that adds a touch of old-world charm.
Private Last Dance
A recent trend in wedding exits is to actually send your guests away and have a private last dance with your new spouse! It is such a sweet way to wrap up a day full of love and celebration. A few moments alone with your hunny to reminisce on all the memories made on your wedding day!
Each of these wedding exits offers something unique. Choose the one that best fits your style and wedding theme. Your exit will be a beautiful, memorable moment to end your special day.
Your wedding day should be perfect, rain or shine! Here are 10 tips to create a rain plan for your big day.
Tips and Tricks for Creating a Rain Plan
- Choose a venue with indoor and outdoor options. This ensures flexibility no matter what the weather brings. Indoor spaces like ballrooms, pavilions, or barns can be beautiful and functional.
- Consider renting a tent. Tents can provide shelter while still allowing you to enjoy the outdoor ambiance. Make sure the tent has sides to keep out wind and rain.
- Invest in clear umbrellas. Clear umbrellas are perfect for keeping you dry without blocking the light or your photographer’s view. Plus, they look adorable in photos!
- Talk to your vendors. Make sure your photographer, caterer, and other vendors are prepared for a rainy day. Ask about their backup plans and how they handle bad weather.
- Have a hair and makeup backup plan. Discuss with your stylist how to keep your look flawless despite the rain. Waterproof makeup and extra hairspray can be lifesavers.
- Communicate with your guests. Let them know the rain plan ahead of time. This way, they come prepared with appropriate attire and footwear.
- Embrace the rain. Rain can add a unique and romantic element to your wedding photos. Trust your photographer to capture stunning shots, even in wet weather.
- Keep towels and blankets handy. They can be useful for drying off and staying warm, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and dry.
- Ensure safe walkways. Lay down mats or boards if needed, so guests can navigate without slipping. Your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
- Stay positive! Your attitude sets the tone for the day. If you’re happy and relaxed, your guests will be too.
Always Remember…
Remember that rain on your wedding day is considered good luck! It symbolizes cleansing and a fresh start. So, embrace it and enjoy your beautiful, memorable day. By following these tips, you can create a rain plan that ensures your wedding day is magical, no matter the weather. Happy planning!
In February of 2020, Blake Harris took the chance on 40-acres of unused farmland in rural Louisburg, Kansas to turn it into The Haven, a premier event space for weddings, parties, and corporate events.
Due to issues during the pandemic, construction did not begin until 2021 with the official opening taking place in October of 2021. All this time, Blake still maintained his corporate job while booking dates for weddings at his then under-construction venue. Attributing to the initial success of the venue, the attention to detail and passion for these events was evident and foremost in the actions of everyone involved. Since its grand opening, the venue has held events consistently.
The Haven’s Features
Since construction was completed, the Haven has never stopped receiving upgrades and evolving. The venue rental includes all furniture and access to all of the 40-acre property with the only add-ons being bar packages. Some of the key features include:
- A 9am to 11pm rental time
- Reception accommodations for up to 260 guests
- Event staff included for assistance in day-of venue needs
- Private caterer’s kitchen (as part of their open vendor policy)
- Private Bridal suite with an in-suite restroom and rooftop deck
- Large Groom’s suite
- Two indoor ceremony setup options
- Free access to The Haven’s house décor
- Outdoor ceremony location
- Custom-built indoor bar in the Main Hall
- Glass Mirror photo booth with unlimited prints included in the rental package
- Touchscreen game tables in the loft areas for guests
- State-of-the-art indoor and outdoor sound system
- Golf cart access to the rest of the property for videos and photographs
- Large, gated entrance and convenient paved parking lot
Getting Ready
The Private Bridal suite includes an oversized space featuring:
- Dedicated Thermostat control
- A wall-length bar with a buffet top
- 7 LED makeup stations
- In-suite changing rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows
- A massive bridal deck that overlooks the property
- Complimentary mimosa cart
- Sound system with Bluetooth capabilities
- Private key code access
- Coffee station
- And a Vintage Gold Mirror for beautiful bridal shots
The Groom’s Lounge includes:
- Dedicated Thermostat control
- A custom, black felt pool table
- Two 75” TVs with Xbox and streaming
- Custom bar with a fully stocked fridge
- Sound system with Bluetooth capabilities
- Iconic photo wall with a neon sign
- Private key code access
- And the room is Soundproof!
The Haven has a modern farmhouse aesthetic which beautifully compliments the joyous occasions which are held there. The large, overarching ceilings provide a sense of space, and, with a wooden finish, they provide a certain warmth and comfort for all in attendance. The venue can accommodate up to 260 seated guests or 500 standing.
When asked what their favorite part of the wedding industry was, they replied: “Our favorite part of working in the industry is the close relationships we have been able to develop with our clients and vendors! We are impacted by all of the people that have an opportunity to visit and work in our space. We believe that relationships are the building blocks of our venue!”
Anyone interested in booking a tour should visit their website. They look forward to being a part of your special day!
Traveling is one of my favorite things! Even if is is just a few hours east to Evergreen Plant Co. in Greenville, IL. I had a BLAST capturing this engagement session for Hayle and Ben in a new place. One of my recommendations to couples that want to do an engagement session in the winter is to find a unique indoor location. I have done winters sessions at breweries, coffee shops, in-home, and at other plant shops!
I really enjoyed getting to know the couple during our session! Ben and Hayle both went to Greenville University, and knew of each other, but didn’t start talking until Hayle reached out to Ben via Facebook. Things started slowly as they got to know each other, but once they did, they knew it was a forever kind of thing. They love to go out for dinner and drinks as a date night and really like to try out new places around the STL area.
When I asked Hayle what they are most looking forward to as a married couple she said retirement, traveling, having children, and grandchildren! She said she ask’s Ben weekly if they can retire. It was her idea that we meet at Evergreen Plant Co. for their engagement session, and I am forever grateful!
Liberty Memorial is a popular location for a variety of sessions: proposal, engagement, senior, family, and even branding or headshots. This Liberty Memorial proposal was nothing short of dreamy! The perfect time of the year, at the perfect time of day, created the perfect moment for this couple. I feel so blessed that I was able to capture it!
One of my favorite parts of the session was the moments the couple spent together right before he popped the question! I could tell it was so special and intentional. Being able to capture moments like that make me fall in love with my job more and more.
After he popped the question we had a good time walking around the property and capturing moments of the newly engaged couple! My favorite spots at Liberty Memorial change depending on the time of year and time of day. We were able to have some privacy in each of my favorite spots during this session!
Of course, we had to get some photographs with the iconic Liberty Memorial Tower as the sun set. We also had time to capture some moments in front of Union Station before heading up to a rooftop where we took some skyline photographs.
Proposals are so much fun to capture because it is the first big step toward forever with your favorite person. Being able to look back at these cherished moments is so important!
The Fall colors showed up for this stunning golden hour senior session at Shawnee Mission Park in Kansas City, Missouri. The colors were ALMOST as vibrant as Jeanine’s fun and boisterous personality. She has the kind of smile that could light up any room! I had so much fun capturing her fun personality and interests in this senior session.
One of the pieces of advice I always give to my seniors is to include anything from your high school experience that is important to them. It could be a letterman’s jackets, class ring, sports uniform, etc. Jeanine brought some “props” with her to help commemorate her time spent cheerleading while in high school. Having these items helped personalize her session and will provide beautiful photos for her to look at when thinking back on her time in high school and in cheerleading.
She also coordinated her outfits to perfectly match the beautiful Fall colors! Her white dress was the perfect contrast to the colors of the leaves. Her second outfit included a maroon shirt that matched the rustic surroundings! Coordinating your outfits with your surrounds can help really make your photographs turn out beautifully.
I will go to Shawnee Mission Park for senior sessions again and again, it never disappoints! Jeanine’s session was no exception.
I had the pleasure of photographing an beautiful senior, Sydney, at Shawnee Mission Park. She wanted a beautiful backdrop to help capture her personality as she closed out this exciting time in her life and began a new one. My time spent with her and her mother for this senior session was nothing short of delightful!
We met up just as the afternoon sun was going down and cast a beautiful golden light on our surroundings. Shawnee Mission Park served as the perfect backdrop, offering multiple settings that perfectly complemented the Sydney’s personality and style. Whether we were at the lake, standing among the trees, or taking a walk through the park, each scene provided a canvas for creating timeless memories that she can cherish for years to come.
A few pieces of advice I offer to all my senior session clients or anyone preparing for their own senior sessions:
- Plan Ahead: Take the time to coordinate outfits, and discuss any specific ideas or preferences you may have with your photographer. Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable session.
- Be Yourself: Your senior portraits should reflect who you are at this moment in time! Don’t be afraid to express yourself and showcase your unique personality through your clothing, props, and poses.
- Embrace the Moment: Senior year is a time of excitement and anticipation! Your session is an opportunity to celebrate this milestone in your life. Relax, have fun, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.
- Trust Your Photographer: Your photographer is there to guide you every step of the way. From posing to lighting to capturing the perfect shot. Trust in their expertise and vision, and you’ll be amazed at the results.
Choosing between mini v. full sessions can be tricky, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
As a photographer, I understand that selecting the right session for your needs can be a challenging decision. Whether you’re planning a family portrait session, a couples’ session, or an individual portrait session, it’s essential to understand the differences between mini and full photography sessions to make an informed choice.
Mini sessions are quick and budget-friendly, perfect for capturing those spontaneous moments without breaking the bank. They are short and sweet, lasting around 15 minutes to an hour. Great for busy schedules! They’re often themed, so you can capture those holiday vibes or celebrate milestones with flair.
Full sessions are like the director’s cut, offering more time and creative freedom for personalized shots. They’re the whole shebang, lasting anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. With full sessions, you can mix it up—multiple outfits, different locations, you name it! They’re perfect for those who want a customized and immersive photography experience. Full sessions require more time and resources, but the personalized attention is worth it. They offer flexibility for both you and the photographer to get creative.
Most importantly, when deciding between mini v. full sessions, find a photographer who understands your needs and has the style you are looking for!
Mini Sessions
Full Session
Last Fall I had the opportunity to travel outside of Kansas City to Effingham, Illinois to capture a good friend’s rehearsal dinner! It was a beautiful afternoon when everyone met at Firefly Grill to rehears for the wedding the following day. Firefly Grill offered a picturesque landscape that photographed wonderfully. I was able to capture some dreamy and romantic moments between Claire and Kyle before the rehearsal began.
As friends and family gathered at the grill I was able to capture couples, family, and friend groups that had made the trip into town for the wedding! The rehearsal dinner is often overlooked when it comes to professional photography. But it is a wonderful opportunity to capture documentary style moments!
They ran through the ceremony as the sun was setting on the lake. Then everyone met at Village Wine and Spirits for the rehearsal dinner!
Village Wine and Spirits is located in a beautiful historic building. The exposed brick walls are complimented by the original crown moldings and gorgeous wooden floors. The tables were decorated with simple and elegant flower arrangements of white roses and baby’s breath. The addition of polaroid photos of Claire and Kyle on each table were a nice personal touch!
Everyone enjoyed dinner and then memories of the bride and groom were shared by family and friends through speeches and toasts. At the end of the evening I was able to sneak away with Claire and Kyle. We captured some fun flash photography moments around the building! I love when my couples are up for some experimenting.
It was a lovely Fall afternoon and evening, spent with incredible friends and family! I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to capture this special moment. Cheers to the happy couple!
