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- A Joyful Kansas City Wedding with Lion Dancers and Endless Energy
If you’ve already seen my blog post about Natasha and Michael’s Vietnamese tea ceremony (if not, check it out here) , you know how meaningful tradition is in their story. Now, let’s dive into their wedding day itself—a beautiful blend of American and Vietnamese traditions. Natasha and Michael made sure their wedding reflected their life together, even including their beloved dog, who proudly joined the festivities. The entire day took place at the venue Union . With three floors, the space easily accommodated a ceremony on one level, a reception on another, and cocktails on the third. One of the most exciting moments of the evening came when a team of three Vietnamese lion dancers took the floor. The drums, music, and vibrant costumes created an electric atmosphere, blending culture and celebration in the most unforgettable way. With this stunning performance, Natasha and Michael honored Michael’s Vietnamese heritage while giving their guests an amazing treat. When it came time to party, the dance floor didn’t stay quiet for long. Michael especially set the tone—his energy was infectious, and guests couldn’t resist joining in. From big group dances to spontaneous laughter, it was the kind of reception you never want to end. Natasha and Michael’s wedding was a beautiful day, true to them, celebrating their love, family and culture in a joyful celebration. Alright, enough talking. Let’s dive into the photos!
- Vietnamese Tea Ceremony: A Beautiful Wedding Tradition.
One of the best things about living in the United States is the exposure to so many cultures all in one place. Because so many of us come from different backgrounds, we get the chance to experience traditions that families continue to celebrate and sometimes—if you’re lucky—you’re invited to be part of them. For me, that invitation came while documenting Natasha and Michael’s wedding. This time, I had the chance to experience a Vietnamese Tea Ceremony —a meaningful wedding tradition that brings families together. I had visited Vietnam twice in the past, back when I was designing high-end mountain bikes and touring carbon factories. But even then, I never had the opportunity to participate in the country’s rich traditions. A Vietnamese Tea Ceremony is a traditional pre-wedding ritual where the couple serves tea to their parents and elder family members. It’s a gesture of gratitude and respect, symbolizing the unity of two families and the beginning of a new marriage. The groom’s family presents gifts, the couple serves tea while dressed in traditional Vietnamese wedding outfits, and in return they receive blessings and advice from their elders. The ceremony often concludes with a shared meal, bringing everyone together. Michael’s grandparents emigrated to the USA around 1975, most likely due to the traumatic events happening in Vietnam at the time. He still has a large extended family there and has returned to visit them. His mother, born in Vietnam and later married to a non-Vietnamese American immigrant, was especially excited to share this tradition with us. She made sure everyone understood the protocol, since for many of us it was the first time experiencing a Tea Ceremony. She also cooked delicious traditional food (and I’ll admit, I happily went back for seconds). Michael’s father was very touched and emotional during the ceremony—it likely reminded him of when he was the groom serving tea years ago. I felt welcome in this important family event and I am grateful I was so warmly invited in. Curious what it looks like? Here are some of the photos I captured during this beautiful celebration of culture and family.
- 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.
- Is It Ever Too Late to Get Married?
The simple answer: absolutely not! Take Jacqueline and Shonda as a perfect example. After 25 years together, they’ve already built a beautiful life—buying a home next to what would become their best friends, raising a son (now a high school senior), and walking through every high and low of a true partnership. For better ✔️ For worse ✔️For richer ✔️ For poorer ✔️In sickness ✔️ In health ✔️ They’ve lived it all—and they’re ready to keep living it together for the next 25 years and beyond. Why did they wait so long? Honestly, I didn’t ask. Maybe it was timing, maybe tradition, maybe evolution of society, maybe just life. Regardless, Jacqueline and Shonda’s wedding was a celebration of love in its purest form. Their story is about dedication, joy, and the everyday choice to support and uplift one another. And what a celebration it was! Guests weren’t just meeting for the first time—they were lifelong friends, family, and neighbors who had already been part of this couple’s journey. The joy in the room was contagious, with everyone excited to cheer on two women they love so much as they finally made it official. Alright, enough talking—let’s get to the photos!
- A Hawaiian Night in Kansas City: Monthly Merriment at The Farmhouse KC
Last night, a group of Kansas City wedding vendors stepped through the doors of The Farmhouse KC and instantly became part of a tropical escape. We were welcomed with leis and warm aloha—and it wasn’t just the organizers who dressed the part! Guests arrived in floral shirts and island-ready smiles, making the experience feel complete. The whole vibe? Music, traditional dance performances, tropical drinks… you could practically feel the Hawaiian breeze—just missing the ocean waves. Hosted by Monthly Merriment, this enchanting evening brought a touch of Hawaii to KC. The room radiated vacation energy! Like every Monthly Merriment gathering, it was more than a party—it was about meaningful conversations, creative reconnections, and capturing the magic through my documentary lens. Here’s a glimpse of the best moments from the night! Vendor Team Shoutout: Host - Monthly Merriment Planner - Hustle & Bustle Events Venue - The Farmhouse KC Venue Bar & Alcohol - Erin Cook Personal Bartending Service Florals - KayCee Blossom Designs Photography - Gretchen Lynn Photography & RW Photography Content Creation - Call It Magic Productions Catering - Local Seasons KC Pineapple Soft Serve - Nivi's Minis Bridal Gown & Leis - Natalie M Studio Decor Rentals - Polka Dots KC Linens - Shinneman & Co Musical Entertainment - Bryan Alford Performers - Island Style Productions Photo Booth - KC Photo Booth Co Balloons - Boss Babe Balloon Co Marquee Letters - Parties by XO Henna - Henna Hands by Nida Model - Shae Dougan
- Brunch, Charm, and Creative Vibes at Southmoreland on the Plaza
If the venue hosting the KC Wedding Guild Luncheon happens to be a bed and breakfast that also offers full buyout options for small, intimate weddings… well then, you don’t have lunch—you have brunch ! This month’s event was a little different. The luncheon started an hour earlier to embrace the unique setting and flow of Southmoreland on the Plaza, and the usual styled shoot that happens before lunch was moved after brunch. Selfishly, I loved that! I got to witness another photographer in action—and that’s always such a joy for me. I find it deeply inspiring to watch someone else fully committed to making great images happen. As a morning person, I also enjoyed arriving earlier. I had time to catch the vendors setting up, to ease into the creative groove, and to explore more playful, documentary compositions before the crowd arrived. Of course, I also documented the main event: the conversations, the laughter, the thoughtful moments during the speech, the food, the smiles. It’s always a pleasure to capture those unscripted connections that happen when our wedding industry community comes together. And I have to say—Southmoreland on the Plaza truly stole my heart. It has that undeniable soul that only older homes seem to carry. The floors creak in a different tone, the rooms proportion and arrangement are just different, and the garden is fully grown and alive with charm. Every corner of the house is decorated with such taste and personality, balanced, warm, and filled with unique artwork. I wish I were that good at interior ambiance! Yes I fell in love with the place, and unfortunately for my future couples, I just tripled my rates just to one day afford a house like that! As always, this event was made possible thanks to a whole team of amazing Kansas City wedding professionals. From the brunch spread to the beautifully styled shoot, every detail was thoughtfully crafted—and it showed. Here’s a shoutout to the talented crew who brought this vendor social to life: Venue: Southmoreland on the Plaza Planner: Crystal Moments Event Planning Bar & Cigar Bar: Shot 4 Shot Bartending Bar Rental: Poured to Perfection Mobile Bar Catering & Cake: Chicken Salad Chick & Price Chopper Dessert (Pancakes): Nivi’s Minis Florist: Perfect Petals KC Linens & Rentals: Atchison Event Rental Styled Shoot Photographer: Hailey Rose Photography Event Photographer: ATN Photo (that’s me!) Hair & Makeup: Lovely Beauty KC Attire: Todd’s Clothiers (Tux), Gown Gallery (Dress) Signage & Stationery: Everafterletteringco Speakers: Sam and Hayley from Bxbbly Party Room Setup: BXBBLY Backdrop: Cyntimental Events Production: Elevate Below are a selection of the photos taken that day. If you're planning an intimate wedding or a unique family/friend gathering in Kansas City, I highly recommend taking a tour of Southmoreland on the Plaza . With its charming common space and 14 uniquely decorated bedrooms, it will make for a unique experience.
- Wedding Vendor Social at The Vineyard at J Creek – Wine Tasting & Creative Inspiration
One thing you might already know about me: I grew up in France. My accent is a dead giveaway! But something you might not know? I grew up on a farm in the south of France, where my father grew grapes and made wine. So this Wedding Vendor Social was a little extra special to me, because it took place at a beautiful venue called The Vineyard at J Creek . As soon as you walk inside, you're greeted by a statement wine wall with multiple bottles on display... and the mood for the evening is instantly set. Sure enough, wine tasting glasses were ready for us to sample four different wines, arranged from dry to sweet: one red, two whites, and another red as the sweetest—which is fairly unusual! These wines came from local Missouri grape varieties (I’m afraid I forgot the names), and they’re not the commercial grapes you’ll find in most grocery store bottles. That made the tasting even more interesting—getting to experience something more unique and regional. Later in the evening, we heard from a guest speaker who shared techniques and tips for handling a busy wedding season without becoming overwhelmed. The insights were practical and encouraging—something every wedding professional can appreciate. The rest of the evening was filled with laughter, conversation, and reconnection with fellow vendors. And of course... because I’m a photographer, I used the setting and light as a creative playground. I couldn’t help but let my inspiration run wild! Scroll down to enjoy a few photos from the event—and if you’re ever looking for a charming vineyard venue near Kansas City, The Vineyard at J Creek is definitely worth a visit. Inside the bridal suite: Yes I am in the photo for once!
- Lone Summit Ranch Sunset Engagement Photo Ideas
They reserved their venue— yay! 🎉 It’s going to be Lone Summit Ranch in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Amazing choice. This venue is gorgeous, especially at this time of year. Thanks to a wet spring, everything is in bloom, green, healthy, full of life—and the sunset light here? Just a photographer dream! Lone Summit Ranch is a big, beautifully maintained property with tons of open landscape. They do have an indoor space for both the ceremony and reception... but let’s be real: this venue is basically begging you to have an outdoor ceremony. It’s hard to resist. Now, here’s the catch: Elsie and Jason are getting married in November. And listen, I know I’m amazing at taking photos 😄, but still. What if the weather doesn’t cooperate? What if the trees are bare? What if all the flowers are gone? You only get married once, right? So here’s an idea: What if we enjoyed Lone Summit Ranch now—for their engagement photos? That way, we could take full advantage of the blooming garden, the perfect evening light, the relaxed summer vibe. That’s exactly what we did! We met before sunset, explored the property together, tried some fun Instagram-inspired poses, and even had a swing under a 100-year-old tree. It was the perfect way to make the most of this beautiful location—without the pressure of a wedding day timeline. Scroll down to see some of the photos we created. I hope they inspire you to: Visit your venue early with your photographer Explore ideas together and find your favorite spots Build trust and chemistry before the big day And maybe even visit Lone Summit Ranch if you're still looking for a magical outdoor retreat-style venue. It's definitely worth a tour!
- Discover the Huixqui Sisters: Elevate Your Wedding with Live Music in Kansas City!
The Huixqui Sisters live at the "under the spiral" concert. Imagine this energy at your wedding? Imagine walking down the aisle, emotions running high, as a live music duo performs just for you... Later, during your cocktail hour, the room is filled with the warmth of real, human-made music. The Huixqui Sisters bring this kind of magic to life with their soulful vocals and acoustic style. The Huixqui Sisters are here to turn this vision into reality. This captivating duo enchants audiences across Kansas City with their incredible talent, performing with piano or guitar accompaniment. The Huixqui Sisters also participate in a choir called "Voices of Kansas City." I met Libby and Rachel at a few wedding networking events where they were performing. They even had French songs in their setlist so the connection was immediate! In this post, I’ll share a bit of their inspiring journey and highlight two concerts I’ve had the pleasure of photographing. And of course—because I’m not a writer, I’m a photographer—I’ll let some of my favorite images do the talking. Who Are the Huixqui Sisters? Rachel illuminated in a perfect moment of light. Inspiring or inspired? The Huixqui Sisters are a talented musical duo from Kansas City. They decided on their "impossible to spell" name because they are originally from the small town of Huixquilucan (whiskey-loo-kahn) in Mexico. Those roots inspire much of their identity and artistic passions. And also because "Huixqui" is pronounced like “ whiskey” and that is actually cool and easy to remember ! Libby and Rachel grew up a musical family, and singing was and is still part of their family ritual and tradition. Also, their mom actually sang in the choir "Voice of Kansas City". (I would love to witness one of their family Christmas celebrations, that must be so beautiful! We used to sing a bit in my family during the holidays when I was a kid, but that tradition faded away. I miss it. Even if we are not good singers at all, I always thought it was such a nice way to be together and share a joyful and vibrant experience). Here Is how they define themselves: " We are a vocal duet accompanied by guitar and keys. We create custom arrangements of our favorite songs, with a vocal blend only achieved by sisters and vocal precision setting us apart from others. Our professional training allows us to adapt easily to a variety of musical genres including pop, folk, latino, jazz, and oldies. " Highlights from Their Concerts Concert 1: Under the Spiral concert One of my favorite images from the night—this moment captures the essence of the “Under the Spiral” concert. The Temple Sanctuary is a world class performance space in Independence, MO. The architecture is just stunning and you cannot walk into that building without feeling a sense of AWE at what humans can create! As you sit beneath a 195 foot nautilus inspired spiral ceiling, you will feel the music soar in this unique acoustic environment. They host unique artists and gifted musicians who write and perform songs that evoke inspiration and peace. The "under the spiral" series is sponsored by Community of Christ and the Independence Square Association. The music was beautiful, both relaxing and peaceful. The crowd certainly appreciated the harmony between the building and the music and got a nice moment with the duo. Concert 2: Voices of Kansas City Voices of Kansas City is a professional choir founded by Libby of the Huixqui Sisters. If I’m not mistaken, they perform two different repertoires—one centered on Christmas music, and one more patriotic. I had the chance to attend the patriotic concert and can’t wait to document their Christmas performance later this year. The Voices of Kansas City choir during a moving patriotic performance. Live Music + Real Moments for Your Wedding Day If you're looking for live music that feels personal, emotional, and deeply human, I highly encourage you to check out the Huixqui Sisters. Their voices blend with a warmth and precision that can truly elevate a wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, or intimate event. You can learn more about their work, listen to samples, and get in touch with them here: 👉 Follow the Huixqui Sisters on Instagram 👉 Visit the Huixqui Sisters website As for me—if you’re drawn to authentic, story-driven photography that captures the emotion and energy of your day, I’d love to connect. My work focuses on real moments and meaningful details, whether it’s at a wedding, a concert, or a gathering of friends and family. 👉 See more of my documentary-style photography at ATNfoto.com
- The easiest way to have a French Wedding while living in Kansas City!
This particular wedding was special to me. In many ways, it reminded me of my home country: France. So just for fun, I’m going to make the silly argument that you can have a wedding just like flying all your guests 4,500 miles to France, aka a French Wedding, but instead, just drive one hour from Kansas City. Of course, it comes with a few compromises—and a bit of imagination. Lucky for you, I have a lot of imagination. Want to see? A symbolic representation of the modern French culture or just 2 beautiful souls in love As a disclaimer, I am sure Isabel and Shel-twon didn't intend to have a "wedding in France" 1h away from Kansas City. But if that is your dream, you could absolutely take the concept much further than what I’m showing today. Let’s just say this wedding was a happy coincidence. Consider it a “proof of concept” for something that could feel very French! French Photographer First, “For those who don’t know me, I’m Etienne—the wedding photographer.” (Yes, that’s a private joke. You have to listen to a lot of maid-of-honor and best-man speeches to get it.) I was born, raised, and lived in France until I was 35, so I know a thing or two about the subject. And having me there, with my funny accent, already immerses the guests and our lovely couple into the French experience. If you wanted to push the concept a tiny bit further, the bartender, the DJ, the servers could all be from France and based in Kansas City... Full French accent immersion! But wait! There is more to it! The venue: Could it be a French Mansion? The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion, don't you think it could be mistaken for a French one? To figure this out, let's read the description from the Wyeth-Tootle Mansion itself: " St. Joseph is known for an extensive collection of beautiful mansions built in the late 1800s. Built in 1879 by William and Eliza Wyeth, this 43 room mansion was designed to emulate the castles along the Rhine River in Germany ." Ok, my bad, they were inspired by Germany. But the Rhine River is the border between France and Germany, so I was only off by a few hundred yards! Historically, France and Germany have taken turns invading that region anyway… so it’s basically a cultural mix. " With three floors, a tower and more than 40 rooms, it stands today as one of the best examples of St. Joseph’s late 19th century wealth and opulence, featuring stunning woodwork, hand-painted ceilings and imported stained glass. The first floor of the Wyeth Tootle Mansion has been partially restored to its Victorian grandeur. Old photographs of each room help visitors visualize the interior as it was around 1900. Each room’s ceiling is impressively different, from the cherubs that float above the Louis XVI parlor to the dark rich colors that cover the Moorish room. Ornate parquet floors and walnut woodwork change from room to room ." I knew there was French inspiration in that building ! Louis XVI style is a style of architecture, furniture, decoration and art which developed in France during the 19-year reign o f Louis XVI (1774–1792), just before the French Revolution . The Wyeth-Tootle Mansion is now a Museum, and every room is unique and have a different feel to it. But from personal experience, some of them can very well be mistaken for a castle in France. The Garden The view from the south side of the mansion was the most shocking to me. From here, you can see two towers of an old church, nearby old houses that were also probably inspired by European houses, the old trees, the garden. You could be very well in the middle of a French village. I would not say Saint Joseph looks like a French town but from that specific view, the illusion works pretty well ! From this photo, Isabel and Shel-twon could be very well be in a cute village in France With this photo, now you can't deny we are in France The Pastries, the ultimate French touch Shel-twon doing the final preparation of the room before the ceremony Now let's dive into the one thing that completely sent me back to France, the pastries! As soon as I tasted the first lemon pastry, I felt like I was back in my parents' house in the kitchen during a birthday celebration when I was 12 years old. Those little pieces of goodness are made by " The French Market " a wonderful store/restaurant with French Owners in Prairie Village and they taste as authentic as it can be. French Pastries, made by French people from Kansas City (French Market), Well I did try them all, and each of them sent me right back to my homeland. 100% approved! The new King of France. Vive Le Roi! Let me see that French Wedding in Kansas City please !! Ok, before you can see the ceremony, let's go back in time a little and see a little behind the scenes of the preparation for the day. The Ceremony in a French Castle ballroom I love documenting weddings because I get to witness—again and again—how love is such a powerful emotion that transcends us. This one is no exception and it warmed my heart to see them so well complementing each other as well as how connected and in phase they are. They have lots of differences, like very different sleeping patterns for example and they respectfully adapt to each other. It is so inspiring to me ! Ok enough about France, now it is time to celebrate !! Party time ! Enjoy the photos ! Final thoughts This wedding was about Isabel and Shel-twon, but I made it about France... I hope they forgive me for hijacking their day and making it about my homesick self! On the other hand, if you ever have the crazy idea to have a wedding in Kansas City that resembles a destination wedding in France, Contact me and I would love to work with you on take that concept to the next level! A très bientôt Princess Isabel and King Smurf, enjoying a nice walk at their retreat castle on the French Riviera coastline, near Fréjus.
- KC Wedding Guild Luncheon at Melrose Abbey | May 6, 2025
The Kansas City Wedding Guild luncheons are always a highlight of my month, and the May gathering at Melrose Abbey was no exception. I had the pleasure of photographing this fun networking event in a truly unique and beautiful venue. The setup was amazing, and the vendors who participated treated all five of our senses! Event Overview & Style Shoot The KC Wedding Guild luncheons are held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (when there is one!). A styled shoot took place beforehand, photographed by Riley Cole Photography. By the time doors opened, everything was perfectly set: a clean, elegant design in shades of white and olive green that beautifully complemented Melrose Abbey’s bold black-and-white and gold interiors. Classy, fresh, and timeless. Live Music in the Chapel, Networking & Venue visit! As guests arrived, they were welcomed with live music by Strawberry Jam , playing in the chapel during the initial networking hour. Some of us caught up with familiar faces or made new connections, while others explored the recently renovated venue—including the stunning bridal suite and groomsmen suite. A Mission with a Meal: Tacos 4 Life Lunch was served downstairs in the Abbey’s bright, naturally lit reception space. The team from Tacos 4 Life not only served a delicious catered meal but also shared the heart behind their mission. Founder Brad Vaden spoke about their partnership with Feed My Starving Children and the incredible milestone of over 40 million meals donated to children in need around the world. It was moving to hear how purpose drives their work. A huge thank you to the KC Engaged team for continuing to create these meaningful industry events. They’re always a great opportunity to connect, recharge creatively, and celebrate the amazing talent in Kansas City’s wedding community. Featured Vendors: Venue: Melrose Abbey Planner & Rentals: Crystal Moments Event Planning Bar Rental: Poured to Perfection Mobile Bar Catering & Guest Speaker: Tacos 4 Life Desserts: Decadent Delights KC Linens: Shinneman & Co. Organization: Kansas City Wedding Guild ; KC Engaged Styled Shoot Photographer: Riley Cole Photography Content Creator: Content By Kenna Event Photography: ATN Photography ( that’s me!) Florals: The Flower House KC Signage & Stationery: Loveink Design Co. Lighting & Drapery : DJ Eric James Live Music: Strawberry Jam Cigar Bar: Shot 4 Shot Bartending Makeup: Shanna Brown (@shannab_artistry) Hair: Hive Hair Co . Cake (Styled Shoot): The Sugar Shop Men’s Apparel: Todd’s Clothiers Bridal Gown: Something White Bridal Boutique Models: Jovie Xiong & Lance Johnson Lucky you, my photographer friend Smiles by Whitney stole my camera and you get to see the couple behind ATN photography ! Now that you’ve seen the faces behind the lens—let’s stay in touch! Whether you're a fellow vendor or planning your big day, I’d love to hear from you. Contact ATN Photography
- The Black and White Version of Drake and Tamieka's Wedding: Focus on Emotion
When I think back to Drake and Tamieka’s winter wedding at The Stanley in Lee’s Summit, what stands out the most is the emotion — the deep connections, the importance of friendship and family, and the pure joy of being surrounded by loved ones. To honor that, I’m sharing a special black and white version of their wedding story — a way to focus even more on what truly mattered: love, connection, and moments you can feel. Tamieka’s mom, a talented hairdresser, helped style her daughter’s hair that morning. In the middle of a room filled with bridesmaids laughing and getting ready, this moment could have gone unnoticed — but for Tamieka and her mom, it was something deeply special. It felt like a small, suspended moment in time before all the excitement of the day truly began. Drake and Tamieka built their day around what mattered most to them: celebrating with their closest people. Tamieka, an artist herself, has a deep appreciation for emotional, candid moments, and Drake, who grew up dancing, brought so much energy and heart to the day — especially during the first dance. Their wedding wasn’t about putting on a show; it was about feeling fully present with the people they love. Downtown Lee’s Summit was glowing with Christmas lights, adding a little extra magic to the portraits. I honestly don’t remember if the air was cold, but looking back at the photos, it just feels warm — full of joy and life. Inside The Stanley, everything felt just as inviting. The warm lighting, the earth-toned ceilings, and the dance floor right in the center of the room made it clear: this day was all about celebration. Drake’s love for dancing has been with him since he was young, and it lit up their wedding day. His first dance with Tamieka was especially memorable — thoughtful, well-prepared, and full of energy. You could feel how much fun they had, and the crowd loved it! Drake and Tamieka’s wedding was centered around friendship, family, and the joy of simply being together. Black and white photography felt like the perfect fit for their day — timeless, honest, and focused on what truly matters. B&W has a way of simplifying an image and pulling your attention straight to the emotion, the story, the connection. It matches everything their wedding stood for. It was an honor and a joy to be part of their celebration, and to be welcomed so warmly into their circle for such a meaningful day. If you’re drawn to photographs that are simple, artistic, and full of feeling, I invite you to explore more of my work he re or reach out if you’d like to connect ! Curious about their venue? You can learn more about The Stanley .