Hilary & Gene | A Downtown Louisville Museum Wedding • kendrarphotography.com

Even though the skies were gray and tornado sirens echoed in the distance, nothing could dampen the high spirits and beauty of this extraordinary day in Louisville, Kentucky. As I walked into the bridal suite, I was greeted with an abundance of joy by my sweet bride, her friends, and her family. From that moment, I knew it was going to be an absolutely fun and memorable day.

I first met this amazing couple several weeks ago during their engagement shoot in Louisville. From that encounter, I felt like I had known them for years, as if we were lifelong friends making me even more excited for their big day! That morning the bridal party got ready at the stunning Distill Hotel, located in downtown Louisville. The bride stepped into her exquisite dress, and we shared a sweet moment filled with laughter and reminiscing with her bridesmaids about past memories and the ones that were about to be made.

Once the bride and her bridesmaids were dressed, it was time for the father-daughter first look. Her dad’s reaction was priceless, a moment every little girl dreams of. Hilary said the sweetest words to her father, bringing tears to my eyes and creating a special moment they both will never forget.

Next, we headed over to the Frazier Museum, where both the ceremony and reception would take place. This venue was so cool as it housed a lot of Kentucky facts. We were fortunate to get a break in the rain, allowing us to capture some outdoor portraits as Gene saw his bride for the first time. His reaction was so sweet and genuine; his happiness was palpable. The love between the couple was evident in every glance and smile. We then proceeded to the rooftop for more photos of the adorable couple and their bridal party. We over looked the Kentucky river and 360 views of downtown.

Following the portraits, it was time for the ceremony. Though it was initially planned as a rooftop event, the indoor location turned out to be perfect. The room featured stunning tall windows, and the florals lining the aisle and arch were breathtaking. This was my first Jewish ceremony, and I cherished every moment of it. The traditions added such special touches for both families.

After the ceremony, we took family formals and additional portraits of the bride and groom on the rooftop (We could not get enough of that view). We even caught a glimpse of sunlight while we were up there. Meanwhile, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour on one floor of the museum, learning more about Louisville—a thoughtful touch for the out-of-town guests.

Then it was time for the reception and the grand entrance. What an entrance it was! Gene, being part of the military, had military friends who formed a sword arch, and Steve Buttleman the Kentucky Derby bugler played the trumpet for their entrance followed by “My Old Kentucky Home” to kick off the reception. The trumpet used was the original from the 150th Kentucky Derby, adding an even more special Louisville touch. Following the grand entrance, we experienced more Jewish traditions, such as breaking the bread with Hilary and her brother, and the hora dance (the lively chair dance) that got the dance floor buzzing.

The incredible live band kept the dance floor packed all night with energetic guests. I even found myself dancing with my camera a few times—it was that much fun!

I truly cannot express how much I enjoyed this wedding and couple. From the wonderful traditions and incredible team of vendors to the sweetest friends and family who made me feel so welcome, and the absolutely kind and loving couple—it was a day I will never forget. I feel so honored to have been a part of it.

Hilary and Gene, I hope you enjoy a few of my favorite moments and have a lifetime of love and happiness! Thank you for letting me be a part of this beautiful chapter in your lives!