Kathy and Jeff were two people whose paths probably would never have crossed… if it weren’t for their love of animals. Kathy and Jeff met during veterinary school at K-State — she’s from the east, he’s from the midwest — and they fell in love over walks with their dogs. At least, that’s what Jeff told me. :) In fact, he said it was the dogs that helped in their proposal. See, on one of their first dates, Jeff and Kathy decided to go for a walk in Anneberg Park with their dogs. When it came time to propose, Jeff wanted to get Kathy back to the park on a freezing cold day — she agreed (because of the dogs, of course) — and Jeff had to hurry and propose before Kathy ran back to the car. He didn’t even have time to drop to one knee. Still, Kathy said yes (of course!) and the rest is history… well, actually, the rest is just beginning! :)
Kathy and Jeff got married this past weekend in Manhattan, Kansas, where their love story began. Their family and friends from all over the country flew or drove in for the big event!

Their first moments all dressed up on their wedding day!

A few portraits outside the church (St. Isidore’s):


Jeff went along with me to this wedding, and he captured this fun shot:

And this one. I like how peaceful it looks.

While I got this one — I love how Jeff’s reaching out to help his bride, how vibrant her Kansas-themed bouquet is, and the general happy feel of this day. :)

The rings (love the greens!):

Before the ceremony, I caught Kathy peeking out from her “hiding” place. :)

Jeff’s shot of the stained glass:

Kathy’s dad walked her down the aisle. I love how joyful her expression is!

Jeff had this view from the balcony:

I just love ceremonies. I could shoot ceremony shots all day. I know that might sound funny, but they’re seriously my favorite part. I love watching intently for the little moments the bride and groom share even with everyone staring at them… :)






After the ceremony, the wedding party headed to Anneberg Park for photos in the special spot for Kathy and Jeff. Here’s the whole wedding party:

Here’s the lake that Jeff proposed next to:

The ducks lined up perfectly for this shot… :) Have I mentioned how much I love cathedral veils? They are so romantic.

More photos of the happy couple. These were all taken on one of the walking trails, next to a row of trees. The sun was at the perfect spot for some great light.




I love how the light catches in her veil… and how the happy smiles catch on their faces. :)


Their reception was at the K-State Alumni Center, which is an absolutely gorgeous venue. This next photo was taken during Kathy and Jeff’s grand entrance into the reception. I love this because it wasn’t posed, it’s not a portrait… but everything is so perfect that it could have been carefully orchestrated. I think that’s what makes wedding photography so awesome — capturing the perfect little moments in a day that couldn’t be any better if someone had carefully planned it out. I love my job.

Everything about their wedding tied in a sunflower and Kansas theme — even using native Kansas flowers and grasses in the bouquets and centerpieces. It was really elegant and paid tribute to the great state where they met. :)


And, instead of cake, Kathy and Jeff opted for pie. They cut into a delicious-looking apple pie, and they also offered a variety of pies for their guests. I hadn’t seen that before, and we all know how much I love personal touches. :)

And, I’ll leave you with a few shots from their first dance. Such sweet moments.


Kathy and Jeff, congratulations on your marriage. If you lived in Kansas City, I’d most definitely bring my dog to you for great care. :) Wishing you (and your pets!) the happiest life.
Friends and family can click here to view all of the images from the big day (or sign up and you’ll be notified when they are all ready!).
Erica, you nailed it! (And Jeff, too! ;) All of these images are stunning… #s 6, 7 and 8 are my favorites! You continue to wow me with your talents!
beautiful photos! fantastic work yet again!!!
Gorgeous! Great work!!
great job erica! those flowers really pack a powerful punch to the photos!
What I love the most is your beautiful and expressive writing of your couple’s story. I can read their story through your writing and photography and think I was at the wedding