They met at a Halloween party; she was dressed as Carmen Sandiego and he was Neo, and after complimenting her on her costume idea, Dana had Kirsten’s attention. They spent the evening getting to know each other and Kirsten learned that Dana would be leaving soon for Air Force basic training, so they wrote. And wrote. For months, the letters flew back and forth and a special kind of love grew on those pages.
Dana and Kirsten’s story is far too sweet and far too romantic for me to fully express, but I can say that their wedding was exactly that. Full of lovely details, a hint of vintage charm, and everything that Kirsten had so perfectly orchestrated and designed {and shipped!} from their home in Germany where Dana is stationed. Yes, Germany! In fact, most of our correspondence was done via email and Skype {yay technology!}. We spent the past few months going over details and making plans, all the while discovering how much we have in common {it’s crazy, folks!}, and I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me to be part of their beautiful day, how honored I am that they entrusted us to capture this special time, and how grateful I am that we have become friends along the way.
Kirsten is the quintessential DIY bride. Seriously. She made this adorable flower girl dress {yep, made} and is responsible for pretty much every fabulous detail in this wedding. Love me some pretty shoes 🙂 If I admitted to you how many different shots of shoes I took that day, you would think I have a serious problem…hm….
Loving that one on the right 🙂Kirsten’s dad gifted her with her late mother’s ring to wear on her wedding day, and this moment was one of the sweetest of the day…
Peonies, roses, and hydrangea? I die. Simply stunning, Kirsten. You make a gorgeous bride.
Remember how I said K was a DIY-er? Ya, she designed this invitation suite. AND calligraphed it! Holy cow girl, you’ve got some mad talent!
Their too-cute flower girl…and Dana’s reaction upon seeing his bride 🙂Troy’s view:And mine:
Smooch! Mr. and Mrs. Wollschlager!Kirsten and Dana were all kisses after the ceremony, so get ready for some lovin’!
The crazy-fun, super cool wedding party…Kirsten’s escort cards {that she calligraphed} were attached to a gorgeous vintage ceiling tile and placed atop spools of thread that Kirsten made especially for the cards.
That cake was one of the most amazing things I’ve seen. And it tasted pretty dang good, too 🙂
The bride and groom customized every last detail, including a gourmet “breakfast for dinner” buffet — complete with shrimp and grits, eggs benedict, and biscuits and gravy — and a special cocktail menu.
This group is FULL of awesome dancers; everyone rocked that dance floor.
Photo booths always make me smile, especially when mustaches are involved.
D + K, there are simply no words. You are the kindest, most thoughtful people, and I am beyond grateful that you chose us to photograph this special time for you. Thank you for welcoming us among your family and friends, for making us feel like one of them, and for the gift of your friendship. Sending BIG hugs to you from Houston, and wishing you the most amazing time on your Grecian honeymoon.
Ceremony Venue: Chestnut Square Village // Reception Venue: The Grand Hotel // Wedding Gown: Allure Bridals, Hope’s Bridal (Atkins, IA) // Bridal Accessories: Cinderella’s Pumpkin // Tuxedos: Al’s Formalwear // Brides’s Shoes: Steve Madden // Bridesmaid Dresses: DaVinci, Hope’s Bridal (Atkins, IA) // Hair and Makeup: April Ruiz, Pure Color // Floral: Market Street Florist // Caterer: Rick’s Chophouse // DJ: Mark Brown, Complete Music, Video, Photo // Wedding Coordinator: Shawna Darsden, Rick’s Chophouse Special Event Coordinator // Cake: The Cake Guys // Videographer: Family Friend // Photobooth: Complete Music, Video, Photo // Centerpiece Glassware and Lanterns: Hobby Lobby // Tree Centerpieces, Bride and Groom Signs, Paper Balls, Placecard Sign and Holders, Pew Markers and Chapel Decor, Ceremony Sign, Thank-you Card: Made by the bride and her family // Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas and the bride // Calligrapher: the bride // Favors: photos from photobooth // Transportation: trolley, City of McKinney
kim says
Truly amazing pictures!!
Louise says
loving all these details! 🙂 great pics!
Scott Tudor says
From the father of the bride. I truly appreciate the work of this amazing photo duo team. These are not just pictures but photographs that express the truest of feelings or emotions. All the family is forever grateful for recording this special moment of two young people starting their walk in life together. Peace and Blessings to you both.
Diane Jackson says
These are breathless! Thank you for commemorating the memories of my niece’s wedding so beautifully. My co-worker was looking over my shoulder and quickly wrote down your website for her brother’s upcoming commitment ceremony. 🙂
Nate Ndjerareou says
Great pictures! Your wedding was “off the hook”. I haven’t had that much fun in years. 3 days of party party party. Great job guys (you too Papa Scott and Blane/Joan). Glad you had a great time in Greece. My inner beach bum was envious. Look forward to seeing you guys in Europe soon, Lord willing!