Official Photographer at Two KC Wedding Industry Gatherings: Margaritaville Luncheon & Unity Village Merriment

When I started ATN Photography, I knew what I’d miss most from corporate life were the colleagues—the everyday chats, the friendships, the sense of belonging. Photography is deeply fulfilling, but it can also feel isolating. That’s why I treasure Kansas City’s wedding networking events. They keep me connected to a vibrant community of creative professionals who inspire me just as much as my couples do. Since entering the circle, I’ve always felt warmly welcomed.

This summer, I was invited to photograph two very different industry gatherings: the Wedding Guild Luncheon at Margaritaville Hotel and the Monthly Merriment at Unity Village. Same purpose—bringing people together—but such different vibes.

Margaritaville Wedding Guild Luncheon

At Margaritaville, the hotel is like a beach escape: fish decorations above the tables, Margaritas (of course), shrimp for lunch. I found myself playing with hanging margarita glasses or fishes, catching my own reflection in the buffet dish... What stood out most wasn’t the décor, though—it was the laughter, which I’m always drawn to like a bear to honey.. Imagine 150 wedding pros in vacation mode, swapping stories with a drink in hand. That energy is contagious, and exactly what I love to document.

Unity Village Monthly Merriment

Unity Village had a completely different rhythm. No styled shoot this time, just people, pure networking. The setting sun washed over the historic arcades, and the gathering felt like a cocktail hour before a wedding: clusters of friends catching up. Without a timeline to chase, I slipped into pure documentary mode—waiting for the right expression, allowing myself to linger on one photos idea for a long time, experimenting with my flash, catching those exchanges.

Why This Matters for Couples

These events aren’t just about us as vendors—they ultimately shape your wedding experience. When your planner, DJ, florist, and photographer already know each other, your wedding day feels seamless. But beyond logistics, there’s a spirit here: community, connection, joy. That’s what I bring with me when I show up to document your day.

For me, photographing these events is also play. It’s where I sharpen my eye, test ideas, and remind myself why I fell in love with documentary photography: the little unplanned moments that carry the most meaning.

✨ Two events, two moods—but the same reminder: my job isn’t just to take pretty pictures, it’s to notice what others might miss and preserve the energy of the event.