Check out the story behind Tyler and Bridgette’s woodsy Redbud Party Barn wedding. The day was was a dreamy, rustic affair that perfectly encapsulated the natural beauty of the outdoors.
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Ceremony & Reception Venue: Redbud Party Barn Photography: Marissa Cribbs Photography Gown: “I Do” Bridal & Tux Menswear: Dillards Invitations: Simple & Stunning Hair: Stormi Potucek & Elizabeth Klenke Flowers: Moore Flowers Caterer: Redbud Farms Catering DJ & Photobooth:8OH8 Productions Cake:Wichita Cake Creations Dessert Favors: Nothing Bundt CakesTyler & Bridgette’s Love Story We first met in the summer of 2003 at our hometown festival. I was going into eighth grade and we “dated” for about six months, totally middle school style. We stayed in touch and dated again during the summer of 2005, for which we have been together since. In total, we dated for over 10 years before becoming engaged. We enjoyed weekend trips to Kansas City to go shopping and have a fun night out in the city. We were usually accompanied by our close friends, who eventually became our matron-of-honor and best man. It was just another weekend getaway, or so I thought, that turned into one of the best weekends of our lives. We arrived on Friday night and walked around the Plaza, as it was December, and beautifully lit up with Christmas lights. Behind the scenes, Tyler and (best man) Alex were trying to find the perfect spot for the proposal to take place. Nothing on Friday seemed just right. Saturday night, December 12th, 2016, we all ventured to Crown Center where the large trees were beautifully lit. As I started getting a panorama of all that was around us, Tyler got down on one knee behind me. As I made my way around with the picture, there he was, asking for my hand in marriage. I was speechless. I don’t even remember letting him speak as I immediately cried and hugged him all at the same time. One of the best parts was that my future matron-of-honor, had no idea that the proposal was planned and was just as shocked and tearful as I was. We celebrated the engagement for the rest of the weekend. Planning for the big day started immediately. I made a board on Pinterest and began pinning endlessly. The venue was already decided on, as I had previously fallen in love with the space while attending previous gatherings. With the venue in the country, and surrounded by trees, a rustic and vintage theme seemed the most appropriate. Aside from working full-time and graduate school full-time, Tyler and I managed to plan the wedding ourselves along with help from family and friends. Luckily, our ceremony and reception were held at the same location and we were able to set up a day before. This was extremely beneficial as the day-of we were not rushing around last minute, but instead could relax and take in all of the events that were to come. Our big day, October 22nd, 2016, had finally arrived! The girls arrived at the venue bright and early to begin hair and makeup, and, of course, enjoyed some mimosas! After we were all ready, boys included, we had our breathtaking first look, which was such an emotional moment. The time came and guests began to arrive with our ceremony beginning at 4:30 pm. Right after the ceremony, we had a cocktail hour for the guests while Tyler and I enjoyed pictures. Delicious barbeque was for dinner followed by our first dance, father/daughter dance, which was a fun choreographed routine, and an open dance floor for all to enjoy. We literally danced the night away! Our special day was absolutely perfect and we would not have changed a thing. A Few Special Pieces: A special touch at our wedding that stands out was the honoring of our grandparents. Family is very important to us and unfortunately a few had an area set up with pictures of our loved ones by candlelight. It was a beautiful sight to look around the room and see that they were there with us. The Groom’s Favorite Part of the Day The first look was like a fairytale. I waited. I was nervous, anxious and excited all at the same time. I was told to stay turned around until she touched me on my shoulder. I felt the touch and turned. My jaw dropped, my words disappeared and tears came to my eyes. She was beautiful. It was a moment that I will never forget. The Bride’s Favorite Part of the Day The first look between us was definitely a special, unforgettable moment. We both were very emotional and it was as if only us two existed. We both have waited years, literally, to take the next step in our lives and become one. To see him dressed as a groom, took my breath away and I couldn’t believe the day was finally here. And of course, officially saying “I do” sealed the deal!