Every once in a while, as a wedding photographer, you get to cross a dream venue off your bucket list. For me, that dream venue was the stunning Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel at Powell Gardens. Nestled just outside of Kansas City, this architectural gem has always captured my imagination with its elegant lines, abundant natural light, and serene surroundings. So, when Garrett and Arielle reached out about photographing their spring micro-wedding there, I couldn’t have been more thrilled.
The Details
Garrett and Arielle are a Kansas City couple who wanted a wedding that truly reflected their personalities and love for each other, and they pulled it off with style, grace, and a flair for vibrant detail. Arielle has an impeccable eye for color and design, and she worked closely with Ever Wild Florals, a top-notch local florist, to create a bright, vivid atmosphere that complemented the chapel’s unique structure. The florals were simply breathtaking—deep pinks, lush greens, and bursts of orange that seemed to dance in the spring sunlight streaming through the chapel’s glass walls.
Arielle’s look was equally stunning. She chose a dreamy tulle gown from High Vibe Bride that was all romance without feeling overly traditional. Her cathedral-length veil, embroidered with vibrant flowers that matched her bouquet, added just the right amount of drama and personal touch. Garrett looked equally sharp in a classic blue suit, but what really stood out were his socks—a fun and heartfelt nod to their beloved pets, featuring little illustrations of their dog and cats. It’s those little touches that made the day feel so uniquely them.
The Ceremony
The ceremony was intimate, with just their parents beside them and a dear friend officiating. It was everything a wedding should be: heartfelt, sincere, and filled with so much joy. After a few meaningful words, they signed their marriage license and sealed the moment with a kiss. I loved capturing those candid, spontaneous moments—the way Arielle laughed when Garrett twirled her around after their first kiss as a married couple, or the tears in their parents’ eyes as they watched their children begin a new chapter together.
After the ceremony, we moved to the garden lounge for a cake cutting and champagne toast. The cake, also adorned with the lush florals from Ever Wild, was a beautiful work of art. There were a few touching words shared by their parents and close friends, adding a layer of warmth and intimacy to the celebration. We all felt like we were part of something special—something that wasn’t just about the day itself, but about celebrating a love that was authentic and true.
The After-Party
From there, we explored the gorgeous grounds of Powell Gardens for portraits. We wandered through the lily pad pond, and took some of my favorite shots in the indoor botanical gardens, where the lush greenery provided a timeless, natural backdrop. Arielle and Garrett were so easygoing and joyful, making my job as a photographer feel effortless. Every photo felt like a reflection of who they are as a couple—fun, relaxed, and so in love.
The celebration continued with an intimate dinner at Bristol in the Power and Light District of downtown KC. I met Arielle and Garrett on the way inside, and we took a few more portraits in the golden hour light, the cityscape around us adding a modern, urban feel to their day. The way the sunset painted the sky between the buildings was perfect—it felt like a moment made just for them.
As they joined their four guests for a private dinner, I couldn’t help but reflect on how special the day had been. Garrett and Arielle crafted a wedding that was so beautifully their own, blending classic elegance with vibrant, modern touches. It was an honor to capture every moment of their story, from the serenity of Powell Gardens to the lively streets of Kansas City.
Congratulations, Garrett and Arielle! Your day was a dream, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it.
With love,
Erin
Humbly Hewn Photography
