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.
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.
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!
Couples love The Maverick not just for the look, but for the ease of planning and execution. The venue includes:
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.
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.
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!
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:
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.”
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!
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.
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.
There’s no right or wrong way to do this! Here are a few ways couples are making this moment uniquely theirs:
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.
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.
There’s something undeniably special about black and white portraits. They strip away distractions, leaving behind nothing but raw emotion, beautiful light, and genuine connection. Whether it’s a quiet moment on your wedding day, the joy of a surprise proposal, or an intimate engagement session, black and white portraits have a way of making emotions feel even deeper.
Trends come and go, but black and white photography remains timeless. It’s classic, elegant, and full of depth. When you look at an old black and white portrait, it doesn’t feel outdated—it feels iconic. That same magic applies to modern-day wedding and engagement photographs.
By removing color, black and white images highlight the details that matter most—a soft touch, a tear-filled smile, or the way two people hold each other like no one else exists.
Some moments are so emotional that they don’t need anything extra. A groom’s reaction as he sees his bride for the first time. A tear rolling down a parent’s cheek during a heartfelt vow exchange. The laughter of a couple, just moments after getting engaged.
Black and white photography makes those moments feel even more powerful. It draws your eyes straight to the emotion, allowing you to relive the feeling over and over again.
Not every photograph needs to be black and white, but certain moments absolutely shine in it. Some of my favorite times to use black and white on wedding days include:
Black and white works beautifully for more than just weddings. A surprise proposal captured in black and white feels cinematic and timeless. An engagement session with a mix of both color and black and white provides the perfect balance of modern and classic.
Imagine a photograph of a newly engaged couple, lost in laughter, with the city skyline behind them. Or a close-up of hands intertwined, engagement ring sparkling in soft light. Without color, the focus shifts completely to the feeling of the moment.
At the end of the day, the goal of wedding, engagement, and proposal photography is to tell your love story. Black and white portraits do that in a way that feels timeless, artistic, and deeply personal.
So, when you receive your gallery and see those black and white portraits mixed in, know that they were chosen with purpose. They are the moments that speak volumes without saying a word—the ones that will feel just as magical decades from now as they do today.
Your wedding day will be a whirlwind of love, laughter, and once-in-a-lifetime moments. While you can’t possibly remember every little detail, your wedding photographs will help you relive it all for years to come. That’s why having a “must-have” photograph list is so important!
Of course, your photographer will capture all the big moments—your first look, the first kiss, and those dreamy sunset portraits. But what about the small, in-between moments that are just as meaningful? Some of the most fun and heartfelt photographs are the ones couples don’t even think to ask for.
To make sure nothing gets forgotten, here’s a list of must-capture moments that add an extra layer of personality and magic to your wedding album!
Your wedding photos should reflect you. Think about moments that mean the most, inside jokes with friends, or sentimental details. If there’s something special you want captured, create a photograph list and let your photographer know!
At the end of the day, the best wedding photos are the ones that make you feel something. So let’s make sure every moment—big and small—is beautifully documented.
If you’re searching for a wedding venue with history, character, and a unique charm, then Fire House KC might just be the perfect spot for you! Nestled in Midtown Kansas City, this beautifully restored 1931 fire station is now a stunning venue that blends industrial vibes with sophisticated elegance. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor courtyard ceremony or a cozy, intimate reception, Fire House KC offers endless possibilities to make your wedding truly unforgettable!
Originally built in 1931, Fire House KC was Midtown’s only fire station and served the area for over 40 years. After closing in 1979, the building sat vacant for decades—until UC-B Investment Properties purchased it in 2019 and gave it a second life! Thanks to a meticulous restoration, this historic space has been reborn as a wedding and event venue, keeping much of its original charm while adding elegant, modern touches.
Fire House KC isn’t just another wedding venue—it’s full of character! Many of its original features remain, making it a one-of-a-kind space.
From romantic chandeliers to lofty ceilings, this venue offers a perfect mix of historic charm and modern elegance!
One of the best things about Fire House KC is its flexibility. Whether you’re planning a small intimate ceremony or a big celebration, there’s a space to fit your vision.
Fire House KC offers all the essentials to make wedding planning stress-free:
Alcohol Service Options:
Fire House KC also offers flexible alcohol options to suit your needs! You can choose to bring in your own alcohol and hire a bartender, giving you full control over your drink selections. If you’d rather skip the hassle of handling alcohol yourself, the venue also offers an in-house bar package. This option takes care of everything, so you can relax and enjoy the celebration without any extra stress.
While their team helps with venue logistics, couples are encouraged to hire a wedding planner to handle day-of coordination.
Many couples love the idea of hosting both their ceremony and reception in the same place. Fire House KC makes this easy with multiple ceremony options and an upstairs lounge for guests while the space is flipped for the reception. The perfect excuse for cocktail hour with apps!
Outdoor ceremonies in the courtyard are a favorite, with the city skyline peeking through the trees. Indoor ceremonies in the Main Hall offer a warm, romantic setting under stunning chandeliers. Intimate ceremonies upstairs provide a cozy atmosphere for smaller weddings!
And don’t worry about Kansas City weather! Backup indoor options are available in case of rain.
As a photographer, this venue is a dream! Some of the best places for wedding portraits include:
Want something even more unique? The original fire pole and hose shaft make for playful and unforgettable photos!
Pricing & Booking: Weekend wedding pricing remains the same year-round. However, weekday weddings are significantly discounted, and last-minute bookings (within 12 weeks) may receive additional discounts.
How far in advance should you book? Peak dates fill up fast, so plan to book at least 6-9 months in advance, or 12+ months for prime wedding season dates.
Policies to know: A 50% deposit is required to reserve your date, and while it’s non-refundable, cancellations can be made at any time. Events must end by 10 PM on weekdays and 11 PM on weekends, with everything cleared out one hour later.
One of the most special things about this venue? Firefighters who get married here! Given the venue’s rich history, it’s always extra meaningful when couples with connections to the fire service choose this as their wedding space. But every couple who celebrates at Fire House KC becomes part of its story—and that’s what makes it so special.
If you’re looking for a venue with historic charm, modern elegance, and a little urban edge, Fire House KC is an amazing choice. The flexible spaces, stunning architectural details, and indoor/outdoor options make it versatile, unique, and unforgettable.
Molly, the Venue & Event Manager, recommends checking out their preferred vendor list to make planning easier. Their recommended professionals know the space well and can help bring your wedding vision to life!
If Fire House KC sounds like your perfect venue, book a tour through their website and see it for yourself! It’s a place where history meets love, and where your story becomes part of something truly special.
A HUGE shoutout to Molly, the Venue & Event Manager for agreeing to collaborate on this Venue Spotlight by answering all my questions and being so wonderful to work with. I can confidently say that if you decide to host an event at Fire House KC, you will be in good hands!
Let’s talk about Hotel Kansas City, a venue that effortlessly blends timeless elegance with modern charm. It’s the kind of place where vintage meets chic, where history is layered into every detail, and where your wedding day—or engagement session—feels like it belongs in a classic romance film.
As a Kansas City wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing magical moments at this incredible venue, including Amy and Andre’s unforgettable wedding. From start to finish, their day was filled with beauty, laughter, and those perfect little details that make Hotel KC so special.
Hotel Kansas City is full of stunning spaces that feel like they’re straight out of a fairytale. The Tudor Ballroom is a personal favorite, with its two-story stained glass mural by Ronald Neill Dixon and intricate woodwork. It’s as if you’ve stepped into a different era of sophistication! Amy and Andre hosted their reception here, and let me tell you, the glow from the stained glass paired with the warmth of the afternoon sunlight was pure magic.
If you’re looking for something with a grander scale, the Starlight Ballroom on the 15th floor is a showstopper. It boasts jaw-dropping views of the city skyline and a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces. Perfect for ceremonies under the stars or receptions where the city lights dance in the background.
For a more intimate vibe, the Library Ballroom or the Grill Room offers cozy sophistication. The Library’s domed ceiling and brass sconces create a regal charm, while the Grill Room’s Arts & Crafts style adds a touch of bohemian elegance.
One of the things I love about Hotel KC is how versatile it is for photographs! The vintage textiles, ornate ceilings, and classic architecture provide stunning indoor backdrops. They have a little bit of everything! During Amy and Andre’s wedding, we captured timeless portraits in the Tudor Ballroom and bright and airy getting-ready moments in one of the luxurious hotel suites.
Step outside, and the city becomes your playground! The hotel’s downtown location means that within seconds, you can frame breathtaking cityscapes. Amy and Andre’s rooftop portraits with the skyline in the background are stunning.
Hotel Kansas City doesn’t just provide a gorgeous venue—it’s designed to make your wedding stress-free. From 12 hours of event time to expert bartenders and complimentary cake-cutting servers, they’ve thought of everything. The cherry on top? Their on-site event planner ensures every detail is executed to perfection!
Oh, and don’t forget about the after-party. Nighthawk, the hotel’s swanky bar, is perfect for keeping the celebration going! You can reserve a section of the bar, or host an exclusive buyout. They offer customizable packages to suite everyone’s needs.
Every session I’ve captured at Hotel Kansas City has been an absolute dream. The venue’s timeless beauty, paired with its downtown location, makes it the perfect spot for any couple! Whether you’re planning an engagement session, a wedding, or both, Hotel KC is where elegance and romance come to life.
Ready to create your own magical memories here? You can reach out to them by phone at (816) 685-1228! Or use this link to book an event.
Eloping at the Kansas City Capitol Building is nothing short of enchanting, as this recent capitol wedding proved. Surrounded by a handful of their closest family and friends, Brittany and Todd exchanged heartfelt vows on the grand steps of the Capitol. The setting offered a perfect mix of timeless elegance and intimacy, making their union feel both significant and personal.
The bridal party’s attire complemented the historic charm of the Capitol beautifully. The bridesmaids glowed in soft sage green gowns, perfectly matching the groom and groomsmen’s ties. The groom looked dashing in his light grey suit, accented with a eucalyptus boutonniere that tied seamlessly into the day’s greenery theme. The bride, however, truly stole the show. Her stunning corset A-line dress, adorned with lace and intricate beading, shimmered in the light. The silk train and delicate buttons up the back added an extra layer of sophistication to her look, making her appear as though she stepped straight out of a fairytale.
The day couldn’t have been more ideal for an outdoor ceremony! The Kansas City weather played its part, offering the perfect backdrop for the couple’s Capitol wedding on the front steps. After the ceremony, the newlyweds and I wandered downtown, capturing their joy and love amidst Kansas City’s rich historic backdrops. I have such a love of sessions in downtown KC!
An elopement like this proves you don’t need a large venue or grand production to create unforgettable memories. The Kansas City Capitol Building, with its classic beauty and central location, offered the perfect setting for a love story that will be cherished forever.
As 2025 begins, the wedding industry is brimming with exciting trends that blend nostalgia, personal touches, and bold statements. If you’re planning your big day, here are the top 2025 wedding trends to keep on your radar!
Forget faraway destinations—hometown weddings are having a moment! Couples are opting for small, intimate ceremonies in meaningful locations close to home. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about the warm, nostalgic feeling of getting married where your story began. Think “Father of the Bride” vibes, with soft lighting, family traditions, and all the charm of a 90’s Nancy Meyers film.
The traditional dress change? It’s still in, but it’s being taken to the next level. Brides and grooms alike are using outfit changes as opportunities to showcase their personalities. Picture matching shoes, stylish hats, bold accessories, and even second looks that steal the show. These changes make for unforgettable photos and add extra flair to your reception!
The first look has been a staple for years, but now couples are adding a meaningful twist: private vows. After the first look, many couples take a quiet moment to exchange their vows with just each other (and maybe their photographer). It’s an intimate way to connect, share your feelings, and keep the ceremony short while making it deeply personal.
Restaurants are stepping into the wedding spotlight! Whether it’s hosting your reception or even saying “I do” in a cozy restaurant setting, this trend is all about creating a warm, communal vibe. Restaurants provide built-in ambiance, delicious food, and an intimate atmosphere that guests adore.
Cakes with intricate piping and vintage flair are officially back! Say goodbye to the minimal, modern designs and hello to tiers adorned with swirls, flowers, and colonnades. These cakes not only look stunning but also add a touch of nostalgia to your wedding day.
2025 weddings are shaping up to be all about personalization, nostalgia, and creating meaningful experiences! Whether you’re planning an intimate hometown celebration or dreaming of a statement-making reception, this year’s trends offer something for everyone. Whatever you choose, make it yours—and don’t forget to have fun along the way!
Winter weddings possess a unique magic that sets them apart from celebrations during other seasons. From cozy venues to snowy landscapes, they create an enchanting atmosphere. If you’re considering a winter wedding, you’re in for a truly unforgettable experience.
One of the most captivating aspects of winter weddings is the natural beauty of the season. Snow-covered trees, frosted windows, and crisp air lend a dreamy backdrop to your big day. Photographs taken during this time have a magical quality, especially with soft, diffused winter light. Add fairy lights or candles to your venue, and the ambiance becomes nothing short of a winter wonderland.
Another advantage of a winter wedding is the opportunity to embrace luxurious and cozy styles. Brides can choose elegant long-sleeve dresses or add a faux fur stole for a touch of glamour. Grooms look dashing in rich, dark suits or velvet jackets. Guests also enjoy bundling up in warm and festive attire, which enhances the seasonal charm.
Winter weddings often feel more intimate and romantic. The chilly weather encourages guests to gather closely, fostering a sense of warmth and togetherness. Hosting your ceremony and reception in one location can also make the day feel seamless and cozy. Venues with fireplaces, rustic decor, or stunning indoor spaces are ideal for creating an inviting atmosphere.
Planning a winter wedding has its perks, especially when it comes to vendors. The off-season timing often means greater availability and sometimes even lower costs for your dream team. This can open up opportunities to book venues and photographers that might be harder to secure during peak wedding season.
Additionally, winter weddings allow for creative and seasonal touches. Think hot chocolate bars, mulled wine, or warm comfort food to delight your guests. Seasonal flowers like amaryllis, roses, and evergreens make stunning bouquets and centerpieces. Don’t forget the joy of holiday-themed decor if your wedding coincides with the festive season.
To make your winter wedding truly magical, focus on embracing the season’s unique qualities. From snow-dusted backdrops to cozy gatherings, this time of year offers unmatched charm. With thoughtful planning, your celebration will shine as brightly as the season itself. Winter weddings are a true testament to love’s warmth, even in the coldest months.