Wedding Date: October 14th 2023

This whole day felt like a family reunion and a homecoming. Then add on top the sweetest and most genuine couple I could ask for and you end up with a recipe for the perfect wedding day. I met Nicole at her sister Lindsay’s wedding back in 2020 when they had a small celebration for their closest friends and family. We kept in touch over the years and I was overjoyed to get the call when Nicole and Kyle were engaged. They too decided to plan a smaller celebration and centered it at the incredibly beautiful and stylish Hotel Ivy.

Upon walking into the Hotel Ivy I was greeted by friendly faces and an artfully stylish crowd. The decor was modern and minimalistic and started sparking photo inspiration instantly. My head was swimming in excitement and photo plans as I went up the elevator so I didn’t even notice that I reached the top floor. To my surprise, this floor had special access and opened up to a two story penthouse with floor to ceiling windows filled with the most spectacular views. I turned the corner and was met by Nicole and her family. They helped her put on her stunning dress which matched the mood of the space perfectly. She looked like she stepped out of the pages of a bridal magazine! As Nicole waited upstairs, I met up with Kyle and his guys while they were laughing in the hall. He stepped inside the beautiful room and I could feel his excitement. Nicole elegantly made her way down the stairs to meet him with a big smile filling her face.

We explored the beautiful hotel from their penthouse suit, to the lounge areas, and finally ended up on the rooftop. We took in the views one more time before we all piled in the cars and drove over to Christ Presbyterian Church. CPC is my home church and many years ago I helped start the youth group. I haven’t been there in a long time so when I stepped through the doors it felt like coming home. I had the opportunity to meet one of the new pastors who was officiating their ceremony and she made everyone feel welcome and at home while the group shared a blessing while the guests were being seated. Candles cast a romantic glow as Kyle took his place at the front of the room and watched Nicole walk toward him, both smiling wide. Their ceremony was beautiful and spiritual and there was so much meaning and thought put into each and every word. Family joined the couple for one more blessing before they were pronounced husband and wife.

While everyone made their way back to Hotel Ivy, I took them across the street to one of my favorite hidden gems, Arneson Acres. The trees were bursting with color that was fitting to the mood. They laughed and joked as we walked through the beautiful park. When we arrived back at the hotel the cocktail hour was in full swing. They made a point to connect with each person and spend meaningful moments together. The toasts were sweet and sincere and before they knew it, it was time for their first dance. I think their only complaint was that it all seemed to go by too fast and she just wanted it to slow down. What do they say about time flying when you’re having fun? Well time definitely flew by because we were all having the time of our lives!

Vendors: Hotel Ivy (venue and catering), Christ Presbyterian Church (ceremony), Kismet Events (wedding planner), Martha’s garden (florist), Apres (decor), Nothing Bunt Cakes (dessert), NeWhite (dress designer), The White Room (dress boutique), The Foursome (suit), Laura Westrem (makeup), Instant request (dj)