When I watched this little vignette that Andy over at Portal Films put together, I literally cried. Which I guess isn’t that telling considering that I cry about once a day because of something beautiful that one of my favorite vendors sends my way. But in all sincerity, the tears that I shed were completely authentic as this is one of the most beautiful little moments I’ve ever seen. Planned by the lovely and wonderfully talented mother and daughter team, Jacki and Jaimeson, this wedding is all gorgeousness.
Click here to see some still images from the day.
Lexington was the perfect location for our wedding, since we met there and it was my hometown. We now live in Pennsylvania so Lexington was a good blend of familiarity for us and a fresh venue for our friends and family coming from outside the area. Our journey together began during graduate school at the University of Kentucky in 2002. Five and a half years later our adventure included one dog, two moves, two new jobs, some tears, some smiles, and a proposal! On a snowy moonlit evening in February 2008, to my surprise, I found Michael on one knee with an engagement ring in hand, and our faithful “fur kid” by his side. Yes!
Both Michael and I agreed on a small, intimate, outdoor wedding. With autumn in mind, we discovered the perfect venue, Shaker Village. The solitude of the West Lot offered privacy while the abundance of trees and the rolling hills provided the natural atmosphere we wanted.
On the afternoon of October 3, 2009, bathed in the warmth of the fleeting summer sunlight and beneath the maple trees, surrounded by our friends and family, Michael and I were married. A horse drawn carriage delivered my father and me along the country road leading to the West Lot. As I passed our guests, I was overcome with peace and joy knowing our moment was finally here. After exchanging our vows, we exited the guests’ seating spiral, returning the many smiles of family and friends as husband and wife.
Our menu featured many Shaker and locally grown foods. As we dined, we enjoyed the traditional folk sounds of the banjo and mandolin. With night upon us, the party began! Guests wandered between the photo booth, complete with costumes, ice cream and coffee bars, the beautifully lighted lounge area, and the fire pit complete with s’mores. Too soon I found our wedding day coming to a close! We made our exit aboard a vintage tandem bicycle; our dog running beside us, showered with eucalyptus leaves and well wishes from all.
Wedding Planning: Jacki and Jaimeson / Photography: Angela Anderson Photography / Cinematography: Portal Films / Flowers: E. Stephen Hein / Beauty: Ana Crane Simpson, Applied Cosmetic Services / Ceremony Music: Kentucky Wild Horse