Mr. & Mrs. Marcum | An Intimate Lake Cumberland Wedding • kendrarphotography.com

As a frequent lake goer and camping (more like glamping) enthusiast, Kelly and Ian’s wedding day felt like home to me. This day was full of intimate, elopement-like vibes and I was HERE for it! We traveled to Lake Cumberland to capture their day surrounded by closest family and friends. Kelly and Ian got ready in the cutest condos at Woodson Bend Resort, where her parents actually own a condo. As I walked into the girls’ getting ready area, instead of the sometimes expected chaos, Kelly and her girls were calm and relaxed as they prepared for the day ahead. Kelly had talented friends and family assisting with hair and makeup, making this portion of the day even sweeter. Meanwhile, Ian and his groomsmen had started the day out by playing a round of golf at the resort’s course before some fun getting ready shots. As the finishing touches were done, it was time for the moment they’d been anticipating.

Kelly approached Ian and they shared a sweet moment in their first look before we began portraits. Did I mention how beautiful Kelly’s bouquet was? Again, the florals were done by another talented family member. After some portraits in the beautiful first look spot, everyone packed up to head to the ceremony spot– a lookout at the picturesque Daniel Boone National Forest. Ironically, as all the guests and bridal party arrived, the bride and groom somehow ended up at two different lookout spots! After a few phone calls and laughs, we all made our way to the same spot; both lookouts were scenic featuring the natural arch in the background, so you couldn’t go wrong with either. I mentioned this wedding felt like an elopement, which is the case because everyone gathered around on either side of the lookout steps to watch this intimate ceremony. Musicians played in the background as the bridal party, then eventually Kelly made her way down the path. There could not be a more beautiful backdrop to say “I do” to your person”. As the ceremony concluded, we captured family and bridal party photos in this same spot. The bridal party, consisting of only two bridesmaids and groomsmen was another element of this day that added to that small, intimate feeling. Then Kelly and Ian took my breath away as we did more just married portraits, during which they willingly spun around, sweetly interacted, and did all the poses for me, with the arch and mountains showing off behind them. These made for some of my favorite images of the day!!

To end this day with an even bigger celebration, we headed back to Woodson Bend Resort where more family and friends gathered for the reception. Some of my favorite parts included the live band – once again a family friend who also had a condo on the property. Kelly’s sister shared how sentimental and special this place and Lake Cumberland had been to her family, for over fifty years now. Their Dad went with his family as a kid and the tradition has continued until now. That made Lake Cumberland and Woodson Bend the perfect venue, as it held such meaningful memories for Kelly’s family, now including the best memory of all. The whole reception had such a backyard, close-knit feeling with the live band, twinkle lights, and games like corn-hole set up. Toward the end of the night, we hopped on a golf cart with Kelly and Ian to capture some beautiful sunset portraits on the course. Ian had already scoped out some spots for us and did an amazing job finding a willow tree with the glowing sunset behind it. On our way we were shocked by all the deer we encountered out on the golf course. How cool??! After stopping at several spots, we headed back to the tent for the remainder of the reception. The intimate, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere continued into the night!

Kelly and Ian, I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to capture your day! I felt so welcomed by you all and your families. It was the sweetest day and celebrated you all perfectly. Please enjoy a few of my favorites!