Katherine & Ryan | The Estate at Independence

The Estate at Independence is an impressive estate club with hints of historic architecture perched on rolling, grassy hills. I loved to watch this Estate Wedding come alive with the arrival of family, friends and fun!

Katherine and Ryan did their engagement photography at Libby Hill Park…which was a great time to get to know them in a quiet, intimate session. Which was great because when the wedding day arrived they had a bridal party of SIXTEEN! I absolutely love large bridal parties and this crew was fantastic! We got some amazing bridal party photos deep in a wooded grove on the back edge of the estate.

Katherine and Ryan chose to do a first look. (Which is always good for opening up and relaxing the wedding day timeline!) There was a private balcony on the top floor which made for a very intimate first-look. Katherine looked absolutely stunning in her Ava Laurenne dress and Ryan being the dashing one gave her a hand-written note to read (and cry through!).

When I saw Katherine’s wedding gown I knew it needed an equally amazing backdrop for the dress shot. It took some negotiating…but the staff at the estate was kind enough to clear the Fall Line room and let me take a ladder to the chandelier and hang the dress on it. I was so glad they did…it was one of my favorite shots!

The ceremony was held in the outdoor pavilion and had sweet, personal touches. The ceremony music was played by a friend and keyboardist and Katherine’s brother did a selected reading for them. And yes, many on stage and in the crowd were tearing up as Katherine walked down the aisle.

I can truly say I was touched by the kindness of Katherine and Ryan. Early in the day after everyone was done getting ready, I watched as Ryan was so attentive to the needs of those around him. No one lacked refreshments or conversation when Ryan was around. The toast of the best man echoed the same. Ryan loved looking outside of himself and sought the good of others…even on his wedding day. And to imagine that Ryan was paired with Katherine’s gentle sweetness!

Katherine took special time to greet and connect with all her guests. Her first priority during the reception was to greet every guest and thank them for coming. I’m not surprised that Katherine chose to be a nurse. When Katherine sat down to talk with someone she connected with them on a personal level. You could see the love and care she had to everyone.

The reception was so much fun! The live band gave an amazing performance which had the dance floor packed all night. The dancers were laughing and taking selfies. But the biggest hit was the basket of glow sticks to light up the dance floor. Other guests opted to enjoy a more peaceful evening with a drink out on the terrace.

After the reception, Katherine and Ryan exited through a line of sparklers and were whisked away by their limo. Only to arrive again moments later. There was Katherine and Ryan making sure all their guests had rides. They even invited guests into in their limo! Kindness is truly a beautiful gift to give!

It was truly a joy to be with this amazing couple. I pray that God blesses this sweet couple!

Vendor Team:
Wedding Coordinator / Megan Campbell
Venue 🏦 / The Estate at Independence
Florist 💐 / Flowers by Zoie Weddings & Events
Dress / Ava Laurenne Bride
Tux / THE BLACK TUX
Hair & Makeup💄 / FBJ Weddings
Bakery 🎂 / Sugar Willow
DJ and Band 🎶 / Jackass Flats

If you enjoyed this wedding (a true labor of love) you can inquire more about my offerings as a Lakeland, Florida wedding photographer.