
Abby and Michael’s wedding day was perfect as can be from start to finish! May 9th, 2026 was an absolute dream day, and I couldn’t have been more honored to document every moment of it.
The day began at Millbottom in Jefferson City, Missouri, where we started by photographing the reception space and all of Abby’s beautiful bridal details before heading upstairs to the getting ready loft. The atmosphere was calm, relaxed, and full of excitement as music played in the background while Abby and her bridesmaids enjoyed the final hours before the ceremony Hair and makeup artists worked away while laughter and conversation filled the room, setting the tone for the incredible day ahead.
Before slipping into her wedding gown, Abby shared some sweet moments with her bridesmaids before her mom helped her into her stunning fitted dress! Once she was fully dressed, one of the most emotional moments of the morning unfolded. Abby surprised her mom with a heartfelt gift that immediately brought tears to both of their eyes. It was such a special exchange and one of those moments that reminds me why I love documenting weddings so much. Not long after, Abby shared a first look with her dad, and there wasn’t a dry eye between the two of them. Watching a father see his daughter as a bride for the first time is always emotional, but these two shared such a genuine connection that made the moment even sweeter! Abby also revealed her bridal look to her bridesmaids, whose reactions were exactly what every bride hopes for!
With everyone ready to go, we made our way to the Missouri State Capitol for bridal party portraits before the ceremony. Abby and Michael are surrounded by such a fun group of friends, and they made our job incredibly easy!! There was no shortage of laughter, inside jokes, and genuine excitement throughout the entire portrait time. It was clear that every person standing beside them loved and supported them wholeheartedly!
Soon it was time to head to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where family and friends gathered to witness Abby and Michael become husband and wife. The ceremony began at two o’clock and was filled with all the beauty and tradition that comes with a full Catholic Mass. Surrounded by those they love most, Abby and Michael exchanged vows and promised forever to one another!
Before long, they were officially pronounced Mr. and Mrs. Widmann and happily made their way back up the aisle together as husband and wife!
Following the ceremony, we completed family portraits before sneaking outside the church for a few newlywed photos and some sweet just married moments. From there, the bridal party boarded the trolley and headed back toward downtown Jefferson City for more portraits at the Missouri State Capitol and Governor’s Garden. This portion of the day may have been one of my favorites!
Abby and Michael are simply effortless together! The way Michael looks at Abby, the way he constantly makes her laugh, the way Abby lights up around him, it all feels incredibly genuine! Abby spent much of the portrait session giggling while Michael smiled right back at her, in awe of her beauty! They have the kind of chemistry that makes everyone around them smile!
Between the stunning architecture of the Missouri State Capitol, the beautiful gardens, and the perfect spring weather, we couldn’t have asked for a better backdrop for their portraits!
As the evening continued, everyone gathered back at Millbottom for the reception. Abby and Michael made their grand entrance to a room full of cheering family and friends before sharing a heartfelt welcome speech. One thing that stood out all day long was how intentional these two are! They genuinely care about the people around them and took time throughout the day to make sure everyone felt appreciated and loved!
Considering it was Mother’s Day weekend, they made a point to thank guests for traveling and celebrating with them, which perfectly reflected the kind and thoughtful people they are. The evening continued with dinner, cake cutting, heartfelt and humorous toasts, and plenty of laughter. As the sun began to set, we stole the newlyweds away for sunset portraits with the Missouri State Capitol glowing beautifully in the background. The light was absolutely perfect, creating some of my favorite images of the entire day!
Back inside, Abby and Michael shared their first dance as husband and wife before celebrating with their families and friends on the dance floor. The joy in the room was contagious as everyone soaked in every last moment of the celebration.
To end the night, guests gathered outside with sparklers in hand while Abby and Michael made their grand faux exit surrounded by their bridal party and immediate family. It was the perfect ending to an already unforgettable day!
Abby and Michael, thank you for allowing us to be part of such an incredible celebration! Your love for one another is evident in every glance, every laugh, and every interaction. It was truly an honor documenting the beginning of your marriage, and we cannot wait to see where life takes you both next!
Congratulations again to Mr. and Mrs. Widmann! We wish you a lifetime filled with laughter, adventure, and the same joy that surrounded you on your wedding day!
Vendors
Photography: Morgan Lee Photography
Second Photographer: Pascale Stokes
Venue: The Millbottom
Ceremony: Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Hair: Holly Hentges: @hollypelliot and Emma Veltrop: @emma.veltrop
Makeup: Emma Wieberg: @emmawieberg
Wedding Gown: The Ultimate Bride: @ultimatebridestl
Bridesmaid Attire: Azazie
Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Warehouse
Florist: River City Florist: @rivercityflorist
DJ: DJ Shark Attack: @djsharkattack
Catering: Argyle Catering
Wedding Cake/Desserts: Sams Club
Invitations: The Knot
Transportation: The Trolley Company
Decor/Rentals: US Rents it













































































































































































Leave a Reply