Kyle & Courtney's Monastery Event Center Wedding

A wedding day that already felt like family

I knew this family before Kyle and Courtney's wedding because I photographed Courtney's older sister Gwen's wedding. There is something special about arriving on a wedding morning already knowing the people around you by name. That familiarity made the whole day feel personal from the start.

The champagne gown that was supposed to be white

The bridal shop sent Courtney the wrong color wedding gown — champagne instead of white — and the mistake turned into one of the best details of the day. The full skirt, detailed bodice and warmer color gave the dress a real princess feeling, but more importantly it felt completely like Courtney: distinctive, confident and unforgettable.

Julie helping Courtney get ready

One of my favorite moments was Julie helping Courtney get ready. I love this part of a wedding day — the dress is finally on, family is close, and all the preparation turns into something real before anyone leaves for the ceremony.

Greg's reaction became one of the sweetest moments of the day

My second favorite part was Courtney's first look with her dad, Greg. Seeing your dad cry on your wedding day is such a touching moment, and their hug said more than anything I could add to it.

Family music inside The Monastery

During the ceremony, Kelly and her mom sang. It was one of those details that made the service feel deeply connected to the people in the room. The Monastery's long aisle, brick walls, circular chandeliers and candlelight gave the performance and the ceremony a dramatic setting without taking attention away from the family moments.

Candlelight, family and a room that kept changing energy

After the ceremony, The Monastery became a warm reception room filled with long candlelight, dinner, speeches, family dances and a crowded dance floor. The architecture stayed dramatic, but the evening itself kept getting looser and more playful as everyone settled into the party.

Then Courtney changed the whole look

For the reception, Courtney came back in a white mini dress with an off-the-shoulder neckline and dramatic puff sleeves. I dropped my jaw when I saw it. After the full champagne gown, the short second look felt playful, fashion-forward and completely her.

Kyle looked pretty fabulous too

Kyle kept his side of the wedding style classic in a black tuxedo and bow tie. Against Courtney's two very different looks and The Monastery's warm interiors, the contrast worked beautifully all day.

The Monastery Event Center

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