{A Classic Blue and White Wedding at The Stables at Copper Ridge}

Every once in a while, you witness a relationship that makes you quietly smile all day long. Not because it’s flashy or over-the-top. But because it’s so obvious. That was Emily and Derrick!

Long before they ever said, “I do,” you could tell these two genuinely love being together. Every glance, every laugh, every little interaction throughout the day pointed back to one simple truth…they’re each other’s favorite person. And honestly, I think one sentence from their ceremony captured it better than I ever could. During their Catholic Mass, the priest shared words that Emily and Derrick had written about one another. As he read Emily’s words, one line immediately caught my attention. “Loving Derrick is the most effortless thing in my life.” I don’t think there was a more perfect way to describe these two. Because that’s exactly how their love feels. Effortless.

The day began at St. Joseph Catholic Church, where they each spent the morning getting ready surrounded by the people they love most. There was excitement in the air, but there was also a calmness that settled over the day. It never felt rushed. It simply unfolded exactly as it was meant to.

Before the ceremony, we made our way to Black Hawk Lake for portraits aboard a beautiful Chris-Craft. The timeless elegance of the boat paired perfectly with the classic style of the day, creating images that feel like they could have been taken decades ago. From there, we headed to a place that meant even more. Emily’s family pond. I always tell my couples that meaningful locations will never go out of style. Years from now, they’ll look back at these photographs and remember so much more than how they looked. They’ll remember family gatherings, childhood memories, quiet evenings by the water, and all the moments that made this place feel like home long before it became part of their wedding day. Those are the kinds of photographs that become family heirlooms!

After portraits, everyone gathered back at St. Joseph Catholic Church for a beautiful full Catholic Mass. It was reverent and heartfelt. Afterwards, it was time to celebrate! The reception at The Stables at Copper Ridge was every bit as beautiful as the ceremony that came before it. Emily had envisioned a classic blue and white floral design, and somehow it turned out even more beautiful than I imagined. Every arrangement, every centerpiece, and every candlelit detail was absolutely stunning! What made it even more meaningful? Every single floral arrangement was created by Emily’s mom, who previously owned a floral shop. Talk about a labor of love! Knowing that her own hands created so much of the beauty surrounding the day made it feel even more personal.

One unique detail I loved about Emily and Derrick’s day was their decision to use Wedding Weekender instead of traditional wedding videography. If you haven’t heard of it, Wedding Weekender is a service that provides couples with a camcorder for their wedding weekend, allowing family and friends to capture candid moments from their own perspective. After the celebration, all of the footage is professionally organized and edited into a keepsake film. I absolutely loved this idea because some of the most meaningful memories are the ones captured by the people who know you best! It’s such a nostalgic way to preserve the laughter, little in-between moments, and joyful celebrations that unfold throughout the weekend!

As the evening unfolded, we heard stories about how Emily and Derrick first met after being introduced by Emily’s older sister. We listened as family and friends shared stories that made everyone laugh, tear up, and celebrate the kind of people they are. One thing became incredibly clear. These two are deeply loved. Their family and friends didn’t just show up because they were invited. They showed up because they’ve witnessed this relationship from the beginning and couldn’t wait to celebrate everything it has become.

And once the formalities were over, the dance floor came alive! From the very first song until the very last, their people celebrated with everything they had. It was impossible not to smile watching everyone gather around the couple, dancing with them as they officially stepped into married life together.

Looking back on the day, I’m not sure what I’ll remember most. The timeless Chris-Craft. The sentimental portraits at the family pond. The breathtaking blue and white florals. Or the packed dance floor. I think I’ll remember the feeling. The warmth of their families. The joy that seemed to follow them everywhere they went. The way they looked at each other when no one else was watching. And the confidence that comes from knowing you’ve found the person you’re meant to spend forever with.

Some love stories feel complicated. Emily and Derrick’s simply feels…effortless. And maybe that’s because, as they celebrated the beginning of forever, it felt like their story had been written long before either of them knew it. Emily and Derrick, thank you for allowing me to witness such a beautiful day! It was an honor to capture the beginning of this new chapter, and I have no doubt the greatest part of your story is still ahead!

Loved working with:

Dress Designer: Besa Bridal
Dress Boutique: Kalon Bridal Shop
Ceremony Venue: St. Joseph Catholic Church
Reception Venue: The Stables at Copper Ridge
Florist: Mollie Scott
Decorator: Holly’s Decor
Hair: Rachel Drost and Kelli Carroll
Makeup: Keenly by Kiley
DJ: Marquee Events
Videographer: Wedding Weekender
Cake: Homebaked by Hannah
Catering: Lidderdale Country Store Catering
Bridesmaid Dresses: Morilee from Bridal Country Ltd
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Wilkie Clothiers