Congratulations to Lauren & Ben on your amazing wedding and a million best wishes for a very happy future. After getting to know them, I have no doubt that will be the case. Their love for each other is so apparent and shone through in every part of your day. The atmosphere for the wedding was described as a little rustic and then for the reception, they incorporated that rustic feeling with a little bit of shabby chic. When they first started planning, they wanted a small, intimate space. The Vow Exchange was perfect for that (they also loved that it was already completely decorated and would make the day simple). Then 1617 Event Space worked perfectly for the reception so that more friends and family could share the day with them. They lucked out with an absolutely perfect summer day, celebrated with close family and friends at every turn.
The ladies started their day at Posh KC where they had hair and makeup done. Then we went to Hotel Phillips to put on the dress and veil, and to do the first look with Lauren’s dad. The guys started out at Top Gold and got ready at Ben’s apartment. Both Lauren and Ben gave each other a card and gift (Lauren cried and Ben had a huge smile on his face).
Portraits with the girls:
And the guys:
The Vow Exchange Photography
Pre-ceremony at The Vow Exchange, Ben nervously pinned on his father’s boutonniere (and paced around) and Lauren hid in the back room, excited to walk down the aisle. 
How cute are those ring bearers? 
What a lovely ceremony!
A newlywed bride blowing a kiss to her new groom:
Kauffman Center of the Performing Arts
After the ceremony and family formals, the newly weds and the bridal party headed to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts to take some portraits of the good looking crew. 
1617 Event Space
I asked Lauren what her favorite part of the planning process was and this is what she said:
My favorite part was working with my mother on the decorations and my grandma coming for a week to make the flower arrangements. It has been a very special time because I don’t see my family very often because of the distance! And also, planning to spend the rest of your life with your best friend is always fun and tearful 🙂
As you can see, they did an outstanding job!
Their grand entrance and first dance:
Mother-son dance and Father-daughter dance:
Toasts:
Lauren and Ben love the city and streetcars! So, it is only fitting that they get some fun portraits with the city lights and streetcars. A perfect way to end the coverage of their night.
Amazing Wedding Day Vendors:
Hair & Makeup: Posh KC
Ceremony: The Vow Exchange
Reception: 1617 Event Space
Catering: Nara
Bride’s Preparations: Hotel Phillips
Cake & Cupcakes: Babycakes
Bridal Gown: Simply Yours Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Wedding Rings: Vinca Jewelry
Jewelry: Something White Bridal Boutique
DJ: Robert DeGeorge
Decor, Invitations & Flowers: DYI by Bride, mother, grandmother, & family