The Wedding of Kayla Jo & Matthew
On March 14, 2020 Kayla Jo and Matthew said I do. The couple, who have been together for eight years, enjoyed their day with their closest friends and family.
KaylaJo & Matthew | Outdoor Bride and Groom Bridge Photos
Their wedding was straight out of a modern country dream- their backdrop for both their ceremony and reception was made by the couple. I’m in love with their choice of slotted, raw edge wood. The addition of antlers, wagon wheels, and western-chic signage gave the atmosphere of polished country. Right away I felt at home.
The truley thought out ever detail. From the wooden flowers to the wooden look alike cake the Pavek’s provided a natural, down to earth environment for their wedding.
Kayla Jo’s first look with her father was a moving experience for everyone involved.
When Matthew saw Kayla for the first time, I’m sure she took his breath away, and the other way around. The duo was glowing.
The wedding party was ready to party- so we hit the party bus and the bar for a few drinks & photos. They had the best time posing on the bar with each other.
A stop at the park and we were back to the gardens.
If you have never been to McCoy Gardens, I highly recommend. Even in this time of year, they were beautiful with loads of walk ways and grassy areas.
Family photos were a breeze. We photographed in my favorite way: Photos with KaylaJo & Matthew were done first, followed by individual photos of couples/families. People on the top of my list are the couple’s parents, grandparents, and siblings- however, I was able to snag many extended family photos!
We took a few photos with images of passed loved ones. I’m happy KaylaJo & Matthew found a way to honor and remember their whole family! <3
One thing that stuck out to me during the message was this, “It takes two to fight.” I think every couple listening was nodding their heads and reflecting on their own relationship. That’s one of the things I love about weddings so much- the service is usually applicable to everyone’s relationships (not just marriages or significant others, but friends & family too).
Kayla Jo & Matthew requested a specific photo for their ceremony kiss- and with the help of their officiant, we were able to make it happen. Check it out!
KaylaJo & Matthew’s first kiss | Unique First Kiss
The reception was decked out with western decor and an open bar. The wedding party bussed around while guests found their tables.
Dinner was followed by toasts and the cake cutting- definitely one of the cutest cake cuttings I’ve seen in a minute. As soon as the couple got a slice of cake on the plate, Matthew just grabbed a big bite with his fingers and ate it himself. OMG I thought it was the most precious thing.
First dances left everyone emotional and teary eyed in the room. Kayla Jo’s dance with her father was to a song she had not heard before, and it was the perfect song for their first dance.
Brides looking for a wedding photographer: make sure to ask if they are comfortable with off camera flash for your dance. I would have never been able to capture these gorgeous shots with no or one flash. If you would like to know more about off camera flashes, comment down below! I would love to make a blog post breaking down different lighting situations and lighting solutions!
DJ VT had the music pumping all night and the dance floor full or boots and shoes.
A special thanks to everyone that made this special day happen:
Hair/Makeup: Jaydn Hollenbeck, Salon Bliss
Men’s Attire: Boot Barn, Sioux Falls / Infinity by Sisters Bridal
Ladie’s Attire: David’s Bridal
Cake: B-Cake, Lake Preston SD
Location: McCrory Gardens & Brookings Inn
Video: Scott Pearson, Complete Weddings and Events SF
Photo: Your’s Truely, Complete Weddings and Events SF
Second Camera: Kendra Janssen, Complete Weddings & Events
Officant: Greg Pavek, Living Word, Marshall MN