Courtney & Ryan | Graystone Valley Wedding, Walnut Shade MO

I had been counting down the days for this one. My anticipation was through the roof. Courtney and Ryan have been one of those couples that just wrap themselves around your heart. They both have such contagious smiles that just light up any room they are in.

When I arrived at Graystone Valley, my typically bubbly bride was a little quieter than usual. You could tell it had hit her: today was the day. The nerves. The joy. The weight of it all. Her girls kept things fun and relaxed. While the guys were in the other room laughing and hyping Ryan up. I kept wishing I could clone myself just to be in both places at once. Truly one of those groups you want to hang out with all day…the kind of wedding party I wish I could clone for every couple—laid-back, joyful, and so easy to be around.

Courtney’s heart is one of the biggest I’ve ever known. She made time for intentional moments with each person who has shaped her life—starting with a sweet, private moment with her mom while getting into her gown. She wanted to hold that memory just between the two of them. And then she brought in her Nunny for a first look and oh my heart—tears everywhere, including mine. From her bridesmaids to both of the men who’ve played a fatherly role in her life, she honored everyone with a presence and grace that was just so very her.

Courtney and Ryan chose to wait until the ceremony for the big reveal, but still wanted a special moment together before. So they met in the shade of the venue for a first touch. Ryan was quite literally dancing with joy the moment he felt Courtney draw near. They read their private vows to each other through smiles and tears, and somehow, somehow, Ryan managed not to peek (even though I know it took everything in him).

And then the beautiful ceremony.

That breeze that had been with us all day stayed strong, keeping the summer heat at bay. The whole thing was simple and heartfelt—sweet and deeply personal, just like them. After vows and rings, they sealed it all with a pinky promise and a kiss.

Surprisingly, one of the most unexpected, emotional parts of the day—for me—came after the ceremony. I knew some of my past couples would be there, but as the guests lined up for the bubble send-off, I realized… not one… not two… but three JYP couples were there to celebrate the amazing newlyweds. That meant I got to hug four couples whose love stories I’ve had the honor of capturing. This moment felt like coming full circle. A reminder of why I continue to say yes to days like this. These people. This love. It fills me in ways I can’t explain.
After the ceremony, we had just a short window for portraits—but I swear, I could photograph these two for hours and still have more I’d want to capture. Even with limited time, every moment was filled with so much genuine joy and connection that it honestly didn’t matter. What we did get was magic.
And of course, when there’s a wedding full of firefighters and EMTs, you know there’s going to be a little extra fun involved. Ryan made sure we had a firetruck on-site, and we were able to sneak in a few photos that honored the community he’s part of—and the people who showed up to support them both.
The reception was everything it needed to be. Dinner, speeches, drinks, and dancing. Beautiful. Easy. Joyful. Full of hugs, laughter, and even more dancing. Nobody was in a rush to end the night—and honestly, neither was I.
Courtney + Ryan, Thank you for choosing to share your day with us and for trusting me with your story. I adore you both more than you will ever know, and I am so grateful to call you friends.
Lots of Love,

Jessica

 

 

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Groom: Ryan Wood
Beverage Service | Brown Derby Wine Center
Bridal Gown | Normans Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses | Birdy Grey
Catering | Ott’s Pasta
DJ | Cole Mega
Floral Artistry | Branson Party Rentals
Makeup Artistry | Blush Beauty Co.
Officiant | Nolan Hardison
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    Alyssa + Brody | Summer Wedding at Haseltine Estate, Springfield MO

    I feel like I’ve been counting down the days to this wedding forever—and it was so worth the wait. From the moment I met Alyssa and Brody, I knew their day would be something special. These two high school sweethearts have built such a beautiful life together, and it was an absolute honor to witness this next chapter with them.

    Their wedding at Haseltine Estate was everything you’d hope for—sunny, joyful, and filled with so much love (and yep…just a bit steamy 🥵). But honestly, you wouldn’t have known it by the smiles on everyone’s faces. The whole day was relaxed and full of laughter from start to finish.

    Alyssa and the girls spent the morning being pampered in the bridal suite, while the guys hung out in the man cave with zero stress in the air—just good vibes all around. After Alyssa’s mom helped her into her dress, she shared a sweet, emotional moment with her dad that had everyone misty-eyed. Then we made our way to the mansion for Alyssa and Brody’s first look… and oh my heart. These two light up when they’re together. Their smiles are absolutely contagious—Being around them just makes everything feel a little lighter and brighter.

    We took full advantage of the dreamy mansion interior to hide from the heat and snuck in portraits before inviting in their wedding party and family. Everyone rallied like champs for outdoor portraits, and the energy was so positive the entire time.

    Their ceremony was simple, sweet, and perfectly them. The sun poured in around the arbor as they said their vows—and I swear the whole space just felt wrapped in warmth and love.

    Afterward, we grabbed a few more photos before the newlyweds snuck away for a quick break. The marriage license was signed, everyone cooled off in the AC (Brody even grabbed a quick shower—smart man!), and the newlyweds just took a moment to soak all the joy.

    And then…it was time to party! The wedding party popped champagne and cheered the couple into their reception with a crowd full of smiles and a lot of happy noise. The night was filled with heartfelt speeches, delicious food, yummy desserts, and a packed dance floor that never let up. It was the kind of night you don’t want to end.

    Alyssa and Brody—thank you for including me to be a small part of your perfect day! Your love is the kind that brightens the life of everyone around you, and I’m so, so happy I got to witness it firsthand. Here’s to forever, you two.

    Lots of Love,
    Jessica

     

     

    Alyssa & Brody’s Dream Team
    Catering | Dining by Design
    DJ & Photobooth | Live Events Missouri
    Floral Artistry | Rebecca’s Garden Studio
    Hair & Makeup | Gloss Makeup and Hair
    Marquee Letters | Alpha-Lit Springfield
    Wedding Coordinator | All A’s Events
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      Morgan + Justin’s Glass Hauss Wedding | Blue Eye, MO

      From the moment I met Morgan & Justin at their engagement session last summer, I fell in love! These two were meant to be. They have the kind of easy connection and playful sweetness that makes my job such a joy.

      This past weekend, it was finally time to celebrate their big day at the beautiful Glass Haus in Blue Eye, Missouri, with Table Rock Lake shining in the background. It was bright, sunny, and simply perfect.
      Morgan & Justin’s wedding was the absolute best kind of fun — the kind that leaves your cheeks aching from laughing so much you lose track of time.
      We kicked off the day with everyone getting ready — Justin and the guys were hanging out in the groom’s suite, cold beers in hand and the game on TV. Meanwhile, upstairs, the ladies were getting pampered, sharing mimosas and laughter as hair and makeup came together. Kids ran around giggling, adding a whole extra level of cuteness to the morning, plus keeping a 3-month-old happy on a wedding day is always its own adventure, but all the kids brought SO much joy to the day.
      After Morgan’s mom helped her get dressed, Morgan shared the sweetest first look with her dad — no shoes needed, just a few tissues for those happy tears. Then she and Justin had their own first look on the balcony. It was such a sweet moment, and we snuck in a few portraits before gathering their wedding party and family for photos.
      Before we knew it, it was ceremony time. The sun was beaming down as they exchanged vows and rings, sealing it all with a kiss while their favorite place in the world was the backdrop behind them. Their two beautiful girls joined them for the walk back down the aisle, making the most beautiful end to their ceremony.
      After a few more family photos, Morgan and Justin joined their guests for cocktail hour. Inside and out, everyone mingled, kids played games, and laughter carried through the breeze.
      The newlyweds made a big entrance, causing the reception dinner to kick off with warmth and more smiles than I could count. After they ditched their wigs and sunglasses, their first dance was sweet and full of smiles. Morgan’s parents gave the most heartfelt welcome, thanking everyone for celebrating this next chapter with them and blessing the meal alongside their grandkids. It was a true testament to how loved these two are.
      After dinner, they mingled and cut their cake, topped with the topper used at Morgan’s parents’ wedding. Their guests sampled the amazing dessert bar while we dashed outside for what may have been the quickest golden hour session I’ve ever shot. But honestly, with these two, it didn’t take much. The sunset above the lake made the perfect backdrop for a few snuggles, a lot of laughter, and kisses that made everyone on the balcony cheer.
      When we came back inside, Morgan and Justin were greeted by a surprise: their friends and family had dressed up in inflatable costumes for a hilarious performance just for them. It had everyone doubled over laughing and set the tone for the rest of the night — dancing, drinks, and an overflowing dance floor.
      I truly don’t think the day could have been any more perfect for these two and all the people who love them.
      Congratulations again, Morgan & Justin — what an incredible day to start the rest of your forever. I am so thankful to have met you and to have been able to share in this next chapter in your story! I can’t wait for the next one!
      Lots of love,

      Morgan & Justin’s Dream Team

      Cake & Catering | Simply Delicious Catering
      Floral Artistry | Rebecca’s Garden Studio
      Hair Artistry | Ashley Marney
      Makeup Artistry | Airbrush by Andie LLC
      Rentals & Decor | Eventful Rental
      Wedding Planner | Misty Willinger Events
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        Kendelle + Logan’s Engagement Photos at Roaring River State Park

        I have to say—this session was worth the wait.
        We originally had to reschedule due to pouring rain, and wouldn’t you know it—the new date called for storms again. But somehow, the skies cleared and gave us the most peaceful, perfect evening at Roaring River State Park. And honestly? It couldn’t have suited these two any better.
        Kendelle and Logan have such a calm, grounded energy. They’re both veterinarians who first met in vet school—starting as acquaintances before discovering something much deeper. Eventually, Kendelle decided that Missouri—with Logan—was where her heart truly belonged. And now here they are, planning their intimate fall wedding and building a life together.
        We wandered through the hatchery and along the creek, soaking in the golden light and the sound of the water nearby. Every step felt easy. The way they look at each other—it’s quiet, steady love. The kind that doesn’t need to shout to be heard. The kind that feels like home.
        And just before we called it a night, Kendelle kicked off her shoes and stepped right into the river for a few final photos. It was the perfect ending to a beautiful session—joyful, relaxed, and completely them.
        I’m already counting down the days until their wedding.
        Lots of love,
        Jessica
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          Courtney + Ryan, Downtown & Fellows Lake Engagement Photos in Springfield MO

          I first met Courtney several years ago when I photographed her sweet sister’s wedding, and I’ve adored her ever since. So when she reached out after Ryan proposed, I may or may not have done a happy dance. Okay—I definitely did…
          Recently, we met for dinner to chat about all the things around engagement and wedding plans. Courtney is a planner at heart (my kind of girl!), and I finally got to sit down and meet Ryan properly. Let me just say—they’re an absolutely adorable couple, and I couldn’t wait to get them in front of my camera.
          We originally had their session planned for the weekend, but thanks to all the flooding and rain, we had to push it back. And honestly? I think it worked out for the best because Wednesday night ended up being perfect. We kicked things off downtown and immediately started having the best time. These two were up for anything. There was so much laughter, sweet smiles, and giggles. Ryan was thrilled when I told him he could kiss his beautiful bride-to-be as much as he wanted, which, let’s be real, he was going to do anyway. Their connection is so genuine and joyful—you can tell they just love being together.
          After exploring downtown, we headed out to Fellows Lake, where we got to meet up with their pup Milo! Milo is just as photogenic as his parents, and he was fully committed (as long as the treats kept coming). He was such a good boy and totally stole the show for a bit. Once he was all tuckered out, Milo went home, and we finished the evening playing in the field and chasing every last drop of golden light. I was having so much fun, I didn’t even want to put my camera down.
          My heart is seriously so full after this session. Courtney and Ryan have a love that radiates in every image—and I cannot wait for their big day! It’s going to be one for the books.
          Lots of Love,
          Jessica

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            Jessica Yahn is a professional engagement, portrait and wedding photographer from Springfield, Missouri! She provides photography services throughout Missouri and the Midwest. Jessica has been part of the Hawaii, Washington & Missouri wedding and portrait industry for over 9 years where she specializes in editorial and lifestyle imagery.

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            Jessica Yahn is an Award-winning Wedding + Engagement photographer based in Springfield Missouri; serving Springfield, Branson, KC, Columbia, STL, & weddings worldwide!

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