Hell yes.
When I met Chelsea and Kelly, it was kismet! I was giving away a free engagement session that one of their friends ended up winning. They gifted the session to Chelsea and Kelly, and we hit it off instantly. The energy was so positive and warm, and we all felt like old friends. Later, they told me they already knew I would be their wedding photographer!
Fast forward to October 2021, and I documented their wedding at Will Rogers Gardens. This day was so beautiful from start to finish. Not only were Chelsea and Kelly’s design decisions impeccable, but the intention behind each choice was so meaningful. In fact, this amazing wedding was featured in Rock N Roll Bride Magazine! Seeing their day in print was so special, and I can’t wait for you to see their day.
Intentional Planning for a Wedding at Will Rogers Gardens
As they planned their wedding day, Chelsea and Kelly made decisions that felt authentic to them. Rather than waiting to see each other until their ceremony, they chose to get ready together at Bradford House in Oklahoma City. They began the day with a relaxing bath inside a pink clawfoot tub. Later, Chelsea told me that it was the perfect way to start the day feeling calm and relaxed! What’s more, the colorful modern style of the hotel made the perfect backdrop for all their getting-ready photos.
Then, after arriving separately at the venue, the two had a first look. Although they had already seen each other, this was when they revealed their dresses! Both told me that choosing a dress to reflect their personal style was one of the most fun parts of planning. After the reveal, they read private vows and love letters. It was such a beautiful, intentional moment that was the perfect way to kick off the wedding.
The couple’s celebrant was one of their closest friends, Kelly Parker. Kelly has been a witness to their love story from the beginning! She watched them meet, become friends, date, and fall in love. Because of her sweet friendship with the brides and knowledge of their relationship, it was so special to hear her perform their ceremony. And, this was just one of the ways Chelsea and Kelly chose to include their closest friends on their wedding day! After their reception, they closed out the night with their chosen family at a local dive bar, The Flea.
An Earthy Color Palette and Two Unique Dresses
For their wedding at Will Rogers Gardens, Chelsea and Kelly chose a color scheme that reflected the venue. Their ceremony arch featured a gorgeous blend of desert-inspired hues, with stripes of cream and terracotta. In addition, the brides’ bouquets by Curbside Flowers played off the earthy boho color scheme. Peach peonies and burnt orange chrysanthemums filled the arrangements with warmth, while creamy white roses and anemones contributed contrast.
The brides also showed off their impeccable style when choosing their dresses! Chelsea wore the Genevieve Ruffle Gown by Needle & Thread in a soft shade of champagne. The skirt’s and sleeves ruffles were whimsical and perfectly reflected her personality. Meanwhile, Kelly looked effortlessly elegant in a vintage-inspired lace gown with flowy bell sleeves.
Getting to know Chelsea and Kelly has been an absolute privilege. I’m so glad I could document their love story, both during their engagement session and their wedding at Will Rogers Gardens! To this day, we all love to hang out in the form of drinks, coffee, and pep talks. Whenever I run into these two out in the wild I get so happy! As an Oklahoma intimate wedding and elopement photographer, I love shooting couples who believe that fun and authenticity are more important than following traditions. If that’s your heart for your wedding day, I’d love to hear from you!
Vendors:
Photography: Lexi Hoebing
Planning + Coordination: A Pearl Event
Getting Ready Location: Bradford House
Ceremony Location: Will Rogers Gardens
Floral Design: Curbside Flowers
Furniture Rentals: Marianne’s Rentals
Dessert: Raspberries n’ Creme, Pie Junkie
Invitations + Stationery: Prim Paper Co.
Chelsea’s Dress: Needle and Thread
Decor: Thrifted by the couple
Featured In: Rock N Roll Bride Magazine
this is my elopement venue!! i just stumbled upon your instagram and blog! seeing this post makes me so excited to elope at this venue.
That’s so exciting, Amanda! So glad you found the perfect venue for you two and that my post was helpful to see it! There are so many great spots there in the gardens. And if you need a photographer you know where to look! 😉