Abby + Jake

09.09.23

We are big fans of a whimsical wedding and Abby and Jake’s celebration epitomizes that laid back, romantic, let’s-do-this-thing love aesthetic we can’t get enough of. Abby and Jake chose a stunning stone church for their nuptials and celebrated accordingly at Avent Orangery - one of Kansas City’s most unique venues. Their day was a perfect blend of romantic and organic vibes and they let their venues speak for themselves while incorporating minimalistic decor for an ethereal feel.

Abby chose a dreamy, fun, classic and modern Madi Lane gown (excessively available in KC at Something White Bridal Boutique). She again let her gown do the talkin’ and opted for a minimalistic cathedral length veil and pearl details from earrings to heels. We absolutely love how Abby styled her gown! No notes.

Continue on for all of the September wedding goodness you need today. All photos are captured by previous #swbbkcbride, the amazing, Kristin Pulido. We love seeing our babes unite - more of that in 2024, please!

How did the two of you meet?

"We met in high school! Jake was actually friends with my older sister before me :) Jake and I "talked" throughout his senior year of high school and my sophomore year, but it wasn't until after he left for college that fall that he decided he wanted to date me. On his first college winter break home he officially asked me to be his girlfriend. We've almost been dating for 8 years now!”

Tell us about the proposal!

“Jake made reservations for dinner at the clubhouse at Lake Quivira and told me that my mom said we could use a friend's boat to take to dinner. I really didn't think much of it at the time, but I knew the engagement would be happening within a few months so I told myself that whenever Jake planned things over the next few months to just do it and not ask questions because I really wanted to be surprised when the time finally came. So we took the boat to dinner and I thought that if he was going to do it there he would suggest a walk on the beach after dinner or something, but no, we had dinner and got back on the boat. The sun was setting and it was a beautiful evening, but we headed back to the dock and as we approached I noticed lights and candles and at first I thought the owners were just hanging out on their dock. As we got closer I saw a table set up with roses and champagne and that's when I knew he was about to propose. Once we got onto the dock, Jake knelt down and asked me to marry him! Obviously, I said YES! Our parents were on the other side of the lake watching from afar and came to congratulate us after. He managed to surprise me and coordinate a photographer so I would say he did a pretty good job!”

What was one of your favorite moments from your wedding day?

“Walking down the aisle!! Jake and I did not do a first look. Seeing each other for the first time as I walked down the aisle was something we both wanted and boy was it special!! Jake cried like a little baby and I don't think I've ever smiled as big as I did in that moment walking down. It was such a special feeling being surrounded by all of our friends and family and living out every little girl's dream of walking down the aisle.”

What advice would you give to other brides in regards to dress shopping?

“If you are indecisive like me, I would recommend trying on a variety, not just what you think you will like/imagine yourself in. Something I tried to keep in mind was my comfort level in each dress I tried on. You are in your wedding gown for such a long time and you want it to be comfortable.”

How did you know your gown was the one?

“I cried and I am not a crier. LOL! I had an immediate smile and chills as I was getting into the dress. It felt like me - I could truly imagine myself in it on my wedding day! Everyone's reactions as I walked out sealed the deal too. My stylist, Amber, said "I knew this was going to be the one before you even put it on!" :)”

How did you decide on September 9th?

"We got engaged in August of 2022 and I knew I wanted about a year long engagement to plan a wedding. We are warmer weather people so a winter wedding was not an option. It really came down to what dates Avent had left for 2023 after we toured at the very beginning of September 2022 and loved it!”

Did you have a specific theme in mind while planning?

“I wanted the overall vibe to be very classic and elegant. I knew I wanted black and white and after meeting with florists decided to throw in a little light pink for a pop of color!”