Mr. & Mrs. Benedict | Emerson Fields Wedding

When Carla first contacted me about her wedding day at Emerson Fields, I knew the day would be an absolute dream to document! She was so passionate when she spoke about marrying Courtland and how she envisioned the day going. I officially met this darling pair in March for a very cold, rainy, and windy engagement session in downtown Jefferson City. Though the weather wasn’t in our favor that day, the vibes and energy for Carla and Courtland couldn’t be more perfect. After meeting them, I was even more excited for their wedding day!

Fast forward to October 15, 2022, and it’s their wedding day! They were blessed with a beautiful October day with temperatures topping out in the 60s. You can’t get much more perfect than that. I knew the day was going to be over the top with details and man was that the case! Carla and Courtland along with their vendor teams knocked this day out of the park. Emerson Fields looked stunning with tall fresh florals on each of the guest tables. Candles added a romantic feel, along with the sequin table decor, and bistro lights.

When I went to the bridal room to greet Carla for the day, she was full of nerves and excitement. She gave me a box of all her gorgeous details and I was off to work on styling all the prettiness. I love when brides take our advise and inquire with their florist about including extra blooms and greenery for us. The extra florals provided from her florist really elevated her bridal detail shots to a new level. I could have played around with detail shots all day long!

Off in the groom room, Courtland was preparing for the day! He was joined by his mom, dad, and brothers for the getting ready portraits. His mom became emotional while pinning on the boutonnière and his dad was all smiles as he adjusted Courtland’s tie. Carla and Courtland decided to get gifts for each other and write sweet letters. After reading his letter, it was like Christmas morning for Courtland as he opened a brand new cowboy hat. That hat never left his head for the remainder of the day.

Upstairs, Carla and her bridesmaids had just finished up with hair and makeup. We did a few robe shots with everyone before it was officially time to get ready. Carla read her letter from Courtland and teared up several times. The moment to get ready had finally arrived! With the help of her mom, Carla was fastened into her gown. Jewelry and a beautiful crown from Mexico was added, and Carla looked radiant! She was grinning from ear to ear looking confident as ever. Two of Carla’s sisters joined in the getting ready fun and added the sleeves to the dress. It was quite the process to get the sleeves on, but well worth it! Carla looked stunning! Once the veil was pushed into place, Carla did a grand reveal with all her bridesmaids. What a sweet moment this was, as all the girls cheered in excitement as they witnessed Carla as a beautiful bride.

We guided Carla’s dad outside by the lake for a first look. Carla was set into place and we gave her the green light. She paused before walking up to her dad and tapping his shoulder. Her dad quickly turned around and the two would share an emotional first look. Next, we gathered the bridesmaids and groomsmen outside for separate bridal party portraits just before the ceremony.

Carla and Courtland’s ceremony got slightly delayed due to transportation running behind with guests and family, so we took advantage of the unexpected extra time and photographed several bridal portraits of Carla in the bridal suite. What a great use of time this was! Carla and Courtland shared in a bilingual ceremony as the officiant spoke both English and Spanish. A mariachi band was present and played tunes as Carla made her way down the aisle. It was a beautiful ceremony. I loved how they included both of their cultures in the ceremony. After the ceremony, we took family formals under the pavilion, before it was finally time for bride and groom portraits.

Carla’s brother brought his horse to Emerson Fields, so it only made since to grab several portraits of Carla and Courtland with the gorgeous horse. Carla and Courtland are cute as can be! They stole several kisses from each other in the field surrounded by fall foliage. Courtland is such a southern gentleman and treats Carla like a queen. Their connection is a beautiful one. Photographing these two is effortless! Before heading into the reception, we photographed the full bridal party with the last little bit of day light we had.

The mariachi band entertained guests inside for the evening up until the traditional dances began. It was such a unique aspect to the day and I loved it! Carla and Courtland were announced in as guests were cheering and applauding the happy new couple. The cake was cut, speeches were delivered, and dinner was served. The evening was full of music from the Mariachi band, laugher and mingling before dances started. After a romantic first dance, Carla shared a dance with her dad and her mom. Courtland danced with his sweet momma and many happy tears were shed.

The remainder of the night was full of dancing and celebrating. Party glow sticks lit up the night and the party got wild! I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed a reception quite like this one. It was so much fun and very lively from beginning to end. Carla and Courtland met out front at Emerson Fields for their “faux” sparker send off. Guests waved the sparklers back and forth as Mr. & Mrs. Benedict dashed through sharing kisses. It was the perfect ending to the amazing day!

Carla and Courtland, I cannot thank you enough for trusting my team with your wedding day memories. It was such an honor and a privilege to be there documenting it all. You two have been so great to work with. I’ve truly enjoyed getting to know you both as a couple. I want to wish you both all the very best as you embark on this new journey as husband and wife. I know only the best things are in store for you two. Congratulations again, Mr. & Mrs. Benedict. Enjoy reliving the beautiful day!