Kennedy + Jake
I've not stalked the weather app as much as I did the week of this wedding since the week of my own wedding. I refused to believe this beautiful bride would have to settle for the crappy lighting inside the Capitol when the outside grounds are as beautiful as they are. I talked to Kennedy several times that week and every time she told me they were just going to go for it and proceed as planned with an outside ceremony. My heart was so happy.
Fast forward to wedding day and the radar was working in our favor up until after the ceremony, aka my favorite part of every wedding (bride and groom portraits). I was so determined to get outdoor portraits of them that going inside didn't even seem like an option.
Kennedy rented an Air BnB in Charleston where she and all her best girls got ready for the day. Some of my favorite moments in this quaint, little house included Kennedy reading her letter from Jake and all the girls piling on the bed for pictures. Little moments like these remind me that every single second of a wedding day is so special.
The day went on like a dream. The ceremony was everything I knew it would be and more. Watching Jake watching Kennedy walk down to him brought tears to my eyes. You could see how overwhelmed he was with gratitude and disbelief that he was marrying a real life Barbie.
After the ceremony, I checked the radar to see that we had about forty-five minutes before chaos ensued. We made the most of each second with lots of family photos and all the pictures we could get of Kennedy and Jake. As we were walking back to our cars to head to the reception, it started to sprinkle. Shortly after we got into our cars, it poured. I was so, so thankful that we were able to capture all those moments.
The reception tables were filled with friends and family when the bride and groom arrived. Shortly after a spaghetti dinner, they all packed the dance floor with glow wands, party glasses, and fun hats. It was such a great way to end such a special day.
Every time I leave a wedding, I like to replay the day in my mind and just soak in the mushy feelings of love and the happiness it brings. I also leave feeling like I've gained new friends and Kennedy and Jake have been no different. In fact, Kennedy recently messaged me to show me the gallery wall in their home filled with the wedding pictures I captured. There truly is no greater feeling.
Here's to forever, Kennedy and Jake!
xoxo,
Taylor
Venue: WV State Capitol & Coonskin Park
Hair: Kasey Withrow
Makeup: Brooke Casdorph
Cupcakes: Sugar Shenanigans
Florals: Flowers by Dick
DJ: Caleb Fitzwater
