Where to start with this day? I really looked forward to Stephanie and Cole’s wedding day, that is, except for the 4+ hour trek across Kansas at o’dark thirty towards Hays. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – something about central and western Kansas fascinates me. It’s GORGEOUS. Yeah right, Sarah? No, it truly is. And just as amazing are the people. Not only does everyone know everyone, but true small-town Americana still exists. People wave as complete strangers drive by. In tiny Schoenchen, Kansas, where Stephanie and Cole both reside and where they were married in the sole church in town – St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, houses aren’t referred to as “the gray house on the corner” or the 4th house down from the stopsign”, they are referred to as so-and-so’s house.
I first worked with these two when I drove to Hays in June for their engagement session. It remains one of my favorites. I was excited about some of the ideas I had for the wedding, and I was thankful we had the time to hit one or two of the locations. Even among the big celebration that was the day – the exit from the church on a tractor, the mean two-stepping at the reception (I was afraid I was going to get MOWED DOWN), and the insane western Kansas wind, the feeling of family and togetherness among everyone in the town and everyone in attendance (wait, I think everyone in town WAS in attendance!) was amazing.
Here’s a little taste of their day.
While the girls were dressing at the church, the guys were at a house next door watching….John Wayne movies.
Stephanie’s baby nephew, Brody, was the star of the show while the girls were prepping (he was also the ringbearer) – I’ve never seen such a happy baby!
Yes. They really did this. 
Ceremony: St. Anthony’s Catholic Church (Schoenchen, Kansas)
Reception: Ellis County Fairgrounds
Hair and Makeup: Rejuvenations Spa
Limousine: Nite Passions Limousine
Video: Video Memories Productions
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