Kay + Jay | The Apollo on Emma, Springdale AR Wedding

This past weekend, I got to celebrate Kayln and Jay at The Apollo on Emma in Springdale, AR, and it was such a perfect day from start to finish. The wedding party got ready together upstairs, and I loved how laid-back and full of joy the whole atmosphere was. Jay is so calming with his quiet nature and kindness and Kay’s smile and spirit are absolutely contagious. You couldn’t help but feel happy just being around them.
After getting ready, Kay and Jay shared the sweetest first look. Jay waited at the bottom of the stairs, and the emotion hit both of them as soon as he turned to see his beautiful bride. Jay then led her down into the lobby, where Kay got another emotional surprise—she hadn’t had a chance to see herself in a mirror yet! That second “first look” moment brought even more sweet tears. After soaking in a few more moments together, they snuck away just as their guests began arriving.
Their ceremony was beautiful, filled with personal vows that had everyone in awe of the love between them. But before diving into their vows, they lightened the moment by playing a quick game of rock-paper-scissors to decide who would go first—just another way they kept their playful spirits within the day. And here’s the best part: they had a little secret to share! Back in March, they had a “practice run” and secretly eloped to keep the nerves at bay. At the end of the ceremony, they announced the surprise to everyone, holding up their framed marriage certificate as proof. Even though this was technically round two, the excitement between them was just as fresh and real as ever, especially with all of their favorite people there to celebrate.
After some portraits, their guests welcomed them back into the reception with bubbles, kicking off the party in the best way. Everyone mingled, enjoyed a delicious dinner, and just soaked up the joy in the air. Later in the evening, Kay and Jay cut their surprise wedding cake, and their loved ones shared heartfelt toasts that had everyone laughing and tearing up. The couple shared their first dance together and spent the rest of the night dancing and laughing with their favorite people, making memories they’ll hold on to forever.
Kay & Jay, thank you for letting me be part of your amazing day. Your love, energy, and joy are perfection! I feel so lucky to have captured these moments for you! I can’t wait to see where life takes you two next.
Lots of Love,
—-
Bridal Gown | Augusta Bridal
Hair & Makeup | Shiloh, Salon 529
Officiant | Emily Wilson
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    The Lee Family | Ozark MO Family Photography

    This past weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the Lee family. We returned to Ozark, MO where we captured some of their wedding photos. I first met Sara and Derek for their engagement session, and now, as they approach their fifth wedding anniversary, it felt extra special to meet their two sweet babies for this family session.
    Miss Ellie was ready for her close-up with her big, beautiful eyes—so curious and full of wonder. Little Mr. Daniel, on the other hand, wasn’t quite as sure about this whole photo thing, but we still managed to capture some sweet moments, and his adorable smile snuck out a few times!
    It’s always a joy to see families grow and to be part of these moments that celebrate not only their love as a couple but also their journey as parents. Thank you, Sara & Derek, for letting me document these precious memories with you.
    Lots of Love,
    Jessica

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      Andi + Jason | Springfield MO Wedding at Regalo Orchard

      Oh, what a perfect way to wrap up September! This past weekend, I had the honor of capturing Andi and Jason’s wedding at Regalo Orchard, and it was truly a celebration of love and family. It feels like the theme of this month has been beautifully blended families, and Andi and Jason’s day was the sweetest ending to that theme. No chance of rain or autumn winds could have slowed down this celebration!
      We began the day with Andi getting her hair done at Neon Dreams Salon / Stephanie Gomez I have to say, I absolutely loved this salon’s vibes and atmosphere—it was the perfect fit for Andi’s fun and laid-back personality. After her hair was done, we grabbed another cup of coffee and headed over to her suite at Hotel Vandivort where she finished getting ready. While Andi and Jason didn’t have an official bridal party, Andi was surrounded by her mom, sister, and close friends all morning and afternoon, creating such a warm and supportive atmosphere.
      Once she was ready, it was time to head over to Regalo Orchard and Event Venue where her groom was waiting. Jason, with his quiet and relaxed nature, was ready and eager to see his beautiful bride. Even though Andi had jokingly told him she’d marry him in pajamas, he still showed up looking sharp and ready to go! He threw on his jacket, and it was finally time for the happy couple to see one another for the first time that day.
      After sharing a quick moment together, Andi and Jason were ready to hide away and take a deep breath (and a quick shot!) before the ceremony. Before we knew it, the time had come for them to officially start their forever together.
      Jason entered the ceremony with his children by his side, followed by Andi’s beautiful walk down the aisle. Andi then gave the most heartfelt speech, explaining that this day wasn’t just about her and Jason—it was about their journey as a family, coming together as one. It was such a beautiful moment, full of love and emotion. The four of them then took part in a family unity ceremony, blending their own colors of glass beads that would later be melted down into a one-of-a-kind glass sculpture—symbolizing the blending of their lives into something truly unique.
      Andi and Jason then shared their vows, exchanged rings, and were pronounced husband and wife! The joy on their faces as they shared their first kiss and walked back down the aisle was contagious.
      After a few portraits with their loved ones, it was time for the party to begin! The wind finally settled down just in time to decorate the tables beautifully, setting the stage for an incredible evening. The laid-back vibe of the day continued, with everyone enjoying a delicious dinner and drinks as they mingled and laughed together.
      As the night went on, loved ones shared speeches filled with love and support, and there were plenty of tears and laughter. Andi and Jason then took to the dance floor for their first dance as newlyweds, followed by a sweet father-daughter dance. From there, the dance floor opened up, and everyone danced the night away until the very end.
      Andi and Jason, thank you so much for allowing me to be part of your beautiful day. Your love and the love you have for your family is truly something special, and I am so honored to have captured these moments for you.
      Lots of Love,
      Jessica Yahn

      —–
      Accommodations | Hotel Vandivort
      Bartending | The Social Sip
      DJ | Ashley Jean Poole
      Makeup Artistry | Ashley Jean Poole
      Nail Artistry | Amanda Hankins, Luxe Nails and Spa
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        Brittany + Parker | Timber Line Barn, Buffalo MO Wedding

        What started as a gloomy, rainy day turned into a beautiful, breezy end-of-summer celebration for Brittany and Parker’s wedding at Timber Line Barn. The shift in the weather perfectly matched the energy of the day — full of joy, laughter, and so much love. This easy-going couple made the entire day flow with comfort and ease, which made it all the more special for everyone involved.

        The day kicked off with everyone having a blast getting ready. The guys hung out downstairs, chilling in their overalls, having a blast together. However, let’s just say some of their getting-ready photos might need a NSFW warning! All the girls were upstairs in the bridal suite getting hair and makeup done. Brittany was surrounded by her favorite ladies — her bridesmaids, her mom, grandma, nieces, and her and Parker’s two daughters. The kiddos ran back and forth between the two groups, their smiles and laughter filling the entire place with so much happiness. Once Brittany was dressed in her stunning black gown, she shared a first look with her son and dad, followed by a first touch with Parker. But they both saved the most special moment for the ceremony, where they would finally see each other for the first time that day.
         
        The ceremony was filled with love and emotion. Parker entered the ceremony carrying his mother’s ashes, a beautiful reminder that she was there with him in spirit, and her presence was felt throughout the entire day. Parker’s face lit up as he watched his beautiful bride approach. Their vows were filled with the kind of love that everyone dreams of finding. They also included a meaningful handfasting ceremony with all three of their children, symbolizing the beautiful blending of their family.

        The reception was an absolute blast and filled with so much love and joy. After a delicious dinner and a dessert spread full of variety, the evening continued with heartfelt toasts that were both sweet and funny, perfectly reflecting the love and laughter that surrounded Brittany and Parker.

        The dances brought back so much emotion and showed the kind hearts of this sweet couple and their loved ones. After sharing their first dance as husband and wife, Brittany and Parker invited their children to join them on the dance floor for more special moments. Brittany’s dance with her dad was especially touching, as she later welcomed her sisters to join in, creating a beautiful family moment.

        But perhaps one of the most emotional parts of the night was when Parker was surprised with a special dance of his own. One by one, the women in his life took turns dancing with him, each sharing their love and support, before he ended the dance back in the arms of his beautiful bride.

        It was impossible not to smile and tear up throughout the evening, and we couldn’t help but be swept up in the happiness that filled the room. The night ended with a stunning sparkler exit, closing out a day that was truly magical from start to finish.

        Brittany & Parker, thank you for letting us be a part of your incredible day. It was filled with so much love, laughter, and unforgettable moments that we will treasure just as much as you do! I can’t watch the next chapter in your story!

        Lots of Love,

        —–
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          Skylar + Garrett’s Wedding | Weathered Wisdom Barn, Preston MO

          Oh, where do I even begin? Let’s see if I can get through this without crying. (Don’t count on it!) Skylar and Garrett’s wedding at The Weathered Wisdom Barn was as beautiful as it was emotional, filled with love, laughter, and the sweetest moments that touched everyone’s heart. And to make the day even more special, one of my long-time favorite couples was part of the wedding party, making my heart feel incredibly full.
          The day started with so much fun and joy as everyone got ready. Laughter filled the rooms, and you could feel the excitement in the air. Skylar shared a first look with her bridesmaids, her dad, and her papa, but she saved the most special moment for Garrett when she came down the aisle.
          The ceremony was nothing short of emotional. Skylar and Garrett’s beautiful blended family took center stage, with their sweet daughter Rhilee walking down the aisle, carrying a basket lined with the baby blanket of their son, Liam, who they lost too soon. Garrett kept trying to sneak glances past the ceremony doors at his stunning bride, and let me tell you, Skylar looked absolutely radiant as she made her way down the aisle.
          Their vows were filled with such love and emotion and there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. But Garrett had one more surprise up his sleeve — he gifted Skylar an entirely new wedding ring set. If you know Skylar, you know she loves her rings! I’m not sure she’ll have enough fingers for all the beautiful jewelry in her future!
          The family unity ceremony was another heartwarming moment, celebrating their beautiful blended family. Skylar, as Riley’s bonus mom, shared her own vows with Rhilee, and there wasn’t a single person in the crowd who wasn’t reaching for tissues. It was a perfect, tear-filled moment that truly captured the love they all share.
          And just when we thought the day couldn’t be any more magical, the newlyweds were pronounced husband and wife and exited their ceremony to the most incredible sight. A large rainbow stretched across the sky, a beautiful reminder that their little angel, Liam, was still with them, watching over this perfect day. It was a moment of pure love, hope, and connection that left everyone in awe.
          The reception was just as heartfelt and fun, with a delicious dinner catered by The Chop Shop Burger. Laughter and love filled the room as everyone enjoyed cake, speeches, and a few special dances with some of Skylar and Garrett’s favorite people. It was a perfect celebration of their love and the incredible bond they share with their family and friends.
          Skylar & Garrett, thank you for choosing me to be part of such a special day. Your love, your family, and your strength touched everyone who was there. I am so honored to have been able to capture these moments for you and I cannot wait to watch your love story grow!
          Lots of Love,
          Jessica

          Bridal Gown | Essense of Australia
          Bridal Gown | Normans Bridal
          Bridesmaids Dresses | Normans Bridal
          Cake | Debbies Custom Creations
          Hair Artistry | Miranda Schweitzer
          Makeup Artistry | Kyndal Dinwiddie
          Officiant | Kyndal Christine Hawkins
          Photobooth | Complete Solution
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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.

            Southwest Missouri Engagement & Wedding Photography
            Available for Travel & Destination Weddings!

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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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