I know I start pretty much every blog post by saying the day was picture perfect, but seriously, it’s true! Sidney and Matt were no exception. They had an absolutely beautiful wedding day at the Belvoir Winery and Inn in Liberty, Missouri.

Not only was the weather perfect (Like crazy perfect for mid-October), but the whole wedding party was as laid back as could be. They all had such a blast together and I loved being there to capture it.

Now, I have to tell you about one of my favorite parts of the day! Remember that wedding last year where a groomsman dressed up in a t-rex costume? Ironically, it was actually the same weekend in October as this Belvoir Winery wedding. Well, on the morning of the wedding, I asked Sidney about where she wanted to do the first look. She responded with, “Oh that reminds me, I need to talk to you about something.”

So many thoughts rushed through my mind. Was the timeline changing and there wouldn’t be a first look? Was there a specific angle she wanted? My fears quickly subsided when Sidney told me she wanted to pull off the most awesome first look prank ever. I’ve seen similar sessions, but I hadn’t had a bride and groomsman willing to make this happen.

Chris, the groomsman in the dress, was such an amazing sport. The dress was provided by Annette, the bride’s mother. It had been sitting in her basement and somehow acquired a nasty brown stain. Chris still made it work and it looks fabulous! After the fake first look, Chris changed back into his groomsman attire. When we were taking formals, I said to all the groomsmen “Get close, I know it’s awkward.” Chris responded with, “Nothing is awkward anymore.” Touché Chris, touché . Thank you for being such an awesome “bride” and allowed us to photograph you wearing a dress!

The rest of the day was just as awesome. I mentioned our perfect weather already. Well, we were also given a pretty nice sunset and an exciting dance party. Fernando Productions always knows how to get the party started! Plus, Sidney and Matt ordered mac and cheese from Katie’s Catering just for me. Well, maybe not just for me, but they definitely ordered it based on my recommendation since mac and cheese is life.

Thank you so much Sidney and Matt for trusting me with your day! I loved watching you two interact, from your engagement session to wedding day, with such kindness and love. Your love is beautiful! You two have such an amazing life together and I’m honored to have been part of it!

Hope you’re having a great time road tripping to Florida! Here’s your full preview! More to come shortly 🙂

Venue: Belvoir Winery

Floral: 49 Floral

DJ: Fernando productions

Hair and Makeup: Ceara Layne Creations

Catering: Katie’s Catering

Gown: The Gown Gallery

Rentals: Timeless Wedding Design

Photography: eGolden Moments

– Hear from the bride –

What is your most valuable piece of advice you can share with future couples planning their wedding?

Start planning early!
I feel like we are super rushed and we have been planning for 1 year and 4 months and its still not long enough. Go with the flow. Somethings happen beyond our control, go to the bridal expos! We got a lot of good info there.

What was your favorite part of the planning process?

Turning wedding planning into date nights. A date to the caterers for tastings, cakes and even date night to get the engagement photo session done. Spending time with each other during the planning process and making it fun.