Church Ceremony and their Reception at the Fairgrounds

Hunter and Cora’s wedding day at St. Fidelis Basilica was nothing short of beautiful, blending timeless tradition with Western charm in the most meaningful ways. From the intricate details of Cora’s wedding accessories to the emotional moments shared with loved ones, their day was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

The day began at a nearby house, where Cora and her bridal party prepared for the celebration ahead. Every detail she chose reflected her western roots, from her stunning turquoise jewelry made by CH Designs to her handcrafted leather bouquet wrap. Her shoes, also made of leather, were a nod to her love for classic western style, and each piece she wore told a story of tradition and authenticity. Cora did all her own leather work for her own wedding even!

Meanwhile, Hunter and his groomsmen were getting ready as well, sharing laughs and enjoying the anticipation of the day to come. The energy was high, and excitement filled the air as the couple prepared to see each other for the first time that day.

We had to take advantage of being at one of the most well known churches in the state of Kansas to take some of Cora’s bridal portraits with the church as the stunning backdrop. While we were outside, there was even some tourists that came just to check out the church and of course took a moment to congratulate her and wish them well.

Before walking down the aisle, Cora shared a heartfelt first look with her father at St. Fidelis Basilica. As soon as he turned around and saw his little girl in her wedding gown, the emotions overflowed. Tears were shed, hugs were exchanged, and it was a moment neither of them would ever forget. It was the perfect way to begin such a special day, surrounded by love and sentiment.

The grandeur of Cathedral of the Plains set the stage for a breathtaking ceremony. As Cora walked down the aisle, Hunter’s expression said it all—pure love and admiration. The ceremony was a beautiful blend of faith and commitment, highlighted by a touching unity candle ceremony, symbolizing their two lives becoming one. With the warm glow of candlelight, they made their vows, promising forever in front of their family and friends.

After the ceremony, it was time to celebrate! The wedding party hopped onto a party bus, bringing energy and fun to the day as they traveled to different portrait locations. We captured stunning portraits of Hunter and Cora, showcasing their love against the Kansas backdrop. The wedding party brought plenty of joy and laughter, making for candid and lively photos that truly reflected the spirit of the day.

Party buses are a great option for your wedding day if you are going to be traveling from one location to the next. They had their whole wedding party join them on the bus in addition to their spouses so it was a whole crew and made for a fun time. We were able to drive to some pasture land nearby for portraits and had transportation from one place to another which made it both fun and functional.

Their celebration continued at the fairgrounds in Hays, where their reception was filled with warmth, joy, and heartfelt moments. The couple shared their first dance, surrounded by the love of their family and friends. They even branded a cowhide together after their entrance. Another unique feature of their day is they chose to have their DJ announce for people to come take a photo with the bride and groom as they got up from their tables to head to the food line. This was a great way for Hunter and Cora to get to visit with their guests and snag a photo with them.

The golden light peering in through the windows made for the dreamiest golden light to be hitting the dance floor during their first dance as husband and wife. You would never guess that this is a building at the local fairgrounds. You don’t need an extravagant ballroom for your first dance to make the memories and photos just as special.

After some reception activities, the three of us snuck away for some sunset photos of the two of them. We found this beautiful open grassland area that the sun hit just right as the two of them got to soak in their day and some of the first hours of the two of them being husband and wife.

One of the most touching moments of the night was the anniversary dance, where couples were invited to the dance floor, and the longest-married couple remained standing. Cora’s grandparents, married for over 50 years, were the last ones on the dance floor, creating an incredibly sweet and emotional moment that left everyone inspired. Hunter and Cora watched as their loved ones dances and I don’t know that there was a dry eye in the room.

Hunter and Cora’s wedding day was a perfect reflection of their love story—rooted in faith, family, and the western lifestyle they cherish. From the heartfelt first look with her father to the stunning ceremony and the joyous reception, every moment was filled with meaning. It was a day of celebration, laughter, and love that will be remembered for years to come.

If you’re planning a wedding filled with heartfelt moments, western charm, or meaningful traditions, I would love to be there to document every detail. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and having timeless, authentic images to relive those moments is priceless. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a historic church, celebrating under the wide-open sky, or dancing the night away surrounded by family and friends, I want to be there to capture every beautiful moment. Let’s connect and create a collection of images that will transport you back to your special day for years to come. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that reflects your love, values, or your cowboy roots, I’d be honored to be the one to tell your story through my lens.

You can take a look at some of my other galleries and take a look around the site to get to know me personally. One of the most important aspects of working together is for me to get to know yall as a couple and for the two of you to get to know me as well. Your photographer is the one spending the most time with you on your wedding day, from the intimate moments just the two of you to the ones surrounded by all of your family. I want us to be friends on your wedding day, not just some random person shoving a camera in your face. Sound good?

Wichita Wedding Photographer | Mel