I had not known Kate and Ethan for very long before I met them at the Brick Ballroom. In fact, other than our email correspondence, I only met Kate the day before the wedding during her bridals at the Ledger (stay tuned for that blog coming soon!). I’ll admit that I get some extra pre-wedding jitters myself when I haven’t met my couple; this is one of the reasons I encourage having an engagement session, but our schedules just didn’t work out with us living in different parts of the state. But those jitters completely erased when we officially met because the joy and excitement radiated off of both Kate and Ethan.
They surrounded themselves with people who shared their joy. Every person we interacted with that day was happy to share in the support and hope of Kate and Ethan’s future. The love was abundant, the atmosphere was exciting, and the day was one to remember forever.
My Favorite Moments of the Dolan Wedding at the Brick Ballroom
- Private Vows: a common theme with me, but always a positive. Immediately following their first look, Kate and Ethan took time to share their vows privately. No pomp, no circumstance. No nerves about speaking in front of a crowd. Just the two of them and their heartfelt feelings. Bonus points because they wrote their vows down, too. Reading from your phone just isn’t quite the same.
- Prayer: another common theme here, and for good reason. I will not underestimate the power of prayer. Having those closest to you cover your marriage in prayer is the greatest way that I can imagine your union to begin. Kate’s bridesmaids prayed over her in the bridal suite as guests were being seated and Ethan’s groomsmen surrounded him in prayer right before they walked down the aisle. Then Kate and Ethan’s families joined for a moment of prayer during the ceremony. Blessings upon blessings upon blessings!
- Photo with Each Table: To ensure that they thanked everyone who came, Kate and Ethan went individually table by table to take a group photo during their reception. As soon as we snapped the photo, that table was released into the buffet line for dinner. It was such a clever way to get face time with each guest but without being bombarded at the head table. Bonus points because this actually allowed Kate and Ethan to eat dinner!
- The People: I already mentioned how every person there shared Kate and Ethan’s joy. The people invited, but especially the bridal party and the vendors involved in making the day happen, can really make or break the atmosphere. The Brick Ballroom was truly buzzing with energy and joy that night.
Sweet words from Kate about working with Shipman Photography:
“Morgan was wonderful! She was so kind and intentional. She knew how to make you comfortable and help if you’re a little camera awkward like me! having her husband there to get extra pics from different angles was great!”
NWA Vendors to Thank
Venue: The Brick Ballroom
Coordination: Steven Cowell with The Brick Ballroom
Florals: The Blush Dahlia
Cake: Whisk & Spool
Photography: Shipman Photography
Hair: Morgen Rusher
Makeup: Megan Duncan
DJ: Ozark Mix
Dress: The Bridal Cottage
Catering: The Event Group
Rentals: Kindred Provisions
Want to have us photograph your wedding? Inquire here. I am so excited to talk to you!