Mr. & Mrs. Hamilton | A Black and White Timeless Wedding • kendrarphotography.com

This day celebrating Kennedy and Alex was one of the most family, tradition-filled weddings I’ve had the honor to be a part of. Every little thing had meaning and there was a timeless, classic essence to the day. After some trouble finding the correct location (we may or may not have found ourselves driving endlessly up a gravel road in the middle of nowhere surrounded by a junkyard and ominous “private property, no trespassing” signs) we arrived at Kennedy’s beautiful family home in Campton, Kentucky. The property itself made the perfect setting for the rest of the story, being the home Kennedy grew up in.

To start, Kennedy included several heirloom rings from women in her family in her details for me. The sentimental meaning did not stop there— it was only the beginning. The whole time she was getting ready, primping her makeup and hair in her childhood bedroom, Kennedy outlined every intricate detail and story that played a role in her big day, eager to share. It felt as if she were writing this blog for me and her words seemed straight out of a book. It added such a sweet touch as she reminisced on all of the moments that led them here. Everyone sat intently listening and her bridesmaids encouraged her to continue the storytelling, agreeing it was so sweet for her to share like this while getting ready. She just kept reminding us “everything has meaning.” She shared how just like she did with a family member’s wedding, they slept in the same room the night before, this time for Kennedy’s own wedding… just like a slumber party!

Meanwhile, as Alex prepared for the day he shared the easy-going approach Kennedy had. He and his groomsmen gathered around the pool table in the nearby Bed and Breakfast completing their final tasks of getting ready like putting on boutonnieres and jackets. Then it was time for the first look.

After Kennedy and Alex had their moment and could just be together the rest of the day, everything seemed complete and fell into place. Another important element of this day was the cars; a love for cars is something very important Kennedy and her Dad have shared over the years. Both of their chevelles had a role in the day and made for some epic, unique portraits as well. A bride in a car is always a classic pairing, but even better when there is a true connection and meaning behind the image.

When it was time for the ceremony nestled in the clearing behind the house, Kennedy and her Dad literally drove up to the aisle in one of their amazing chevelles with an upbeat rock song adding to the entrance. The ceremony was beautiful and officiated by Alex’s college mentor, which made it all the more special.

In the reception all the meaningful and tradition-filled moments continued. Kennedy and her Dad invited her mom to join them on the dance floor as “You are My Sunshine” played. Kennedy shared that this was a sentimental song her mom sang with her growing up. Kennedy and her parents danced in a family huddle, prompting tears from everyone in attendance. She shared that was exactly how her family had stuck together through tough times in the recent years. The night continued with heartfelt speeches and joyful dancing. We ended the night with Kennedy and Alex hopping in Kennedy’s Chevelle – “the getaway car.” If only you could hear the engine revving through these photos; it was truly so fun and an amazing end to an amazing day.

Kennedy and Alex, I hope you continue to have all the meaning-filled moments and relive them through these photographs. I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to capture your day! Please enjoy a few of my favorites!