Intimate & Historic Paducah Wedding

Lauren (she/her) and Dean's (he/him) intimate, historic wedding in Paducah, Kentucky is literally what wedding photographers dream about. Not only was it filled with gorgeous details and dreamy light, but they have such a big love for each other and everyone around them, and it really came through in their images. I feel so lucky to have been a part of their wedding day.

Driving down to Paducah from Louisville was a wonderful way to start the day. It's easy to get used to how stunning Kentucky is, but as I drove through the rolling hills in Western Kentucky I was in awe. I always get "warmed up" on a wedding day with detail shots— Lauren's dress was so perfectly her. I couldn't even imagine how she found one to fit her style and personality so seamlessly, but soon I learned that her mother Amy made it by hand and it all made sense. In eleven years of photographing weddings, I don't think I've seen a handmade dress - let alone one sewed by the bride's mother! All of their details felt that personal and I absolutely loved it. Dean said, "Lauren being a graphic designer by trade really helped keep the aesthetic timeless and classic. She has a great eye!" and I couldn't agree more. 

For their ceremony, "we wanted to incorporate both our religious upbringings in the service. It was important for me to include some Filipino traditions, the coins, cord, and veil, in the service to honor my heritage and our commitment to each other. We skipped the candle lighting and some other traditions (sand, ribbon, etc) and trimmed down some of the Christian traditions to just what we wanted and felt was right."

My favorite moment of the day ended up being their favorite moment as well, which makes me incredibly happy. After the dance floor had been going for a little while, the sun was getting pretty low, so I snagged them and we snuck out to the fire escape to watch the sunset. I always try to give me couples a breather to reflect on the day and really take it all in at some point and I'm so glad they enjoy it as much as I do. 

I'll leave you with some words of wisdom from the couple, "I got this advice from a bunch of people for our wedding day, but I'll pass it along: The day goes by so quickly so it's important to stop worrying about everything and slow down and notice all the details and the little moments. Also to make sure to take time to be alone together and enjoy some moments alone together as newlyweds."

Venue: The Grand Lodge // Florals: Flower and Furbish // Wedding Gown: Made by Lauren's Mom, Amy Smith // Bridesmaid Dresses: Weddington Way // Groomsmen's suits: Indochino // Caterer: Tomi Blom with The Grand Lodge // DJ: Sound Services DJ Entertainment // Cake: Artisan Kitchen // Make-up: F.A.C.E. Makeup Artistry // Hair: Megan Bandera // Bow Tie: Tie Bar // Cufflinks: BHLDN //