Janesville WI Wedding | Rock County Fairgrounds
After a military deployment shifted their wedding plans last year, we were so happy to join Nate and Kendra again this fall as they finally got to celebrate their marriage with all of their family and friends at the Rock County Fairgrounds.
In July of 2022 Nathan and Kendra said “I do” with a small wedding ceremony in Janesville and a few of their close family members. Nate’s brother officiated the wedding, making this day even more special for everyone. Their day also served as a chance for loved ones to spend time with Nathan before he left for almost a year long deployment. It was bitter sweet for sure, but the pair was happy to finally be husband and wife.
We kept in touch over that year and as plans changed we continued to work together. The wedding reception they had originally planned would no longer be an option, so back to the drawing board they went! Kendra was calm and collected, and adapt and overcome each new situation. Her ability to do that, and with such grace is one of the things that makes her a good military spouse, one that I can so clearly tell Nathan adores.
On the day of their wedding reception, Kendra and her girls took their time getting ready at a church across from the fairgrounds while Nate and the guys stayed on family property. Everything about the morning was calm and happy. Without a ceremony, there were less nerves and our timeline was wide open.
Eager to spend the day together, they opted for a private first look where Kendra surprised Nathan with a special anniversary gift. His reaction was so precious, and it was fun to take a few moments with the two of them and catch up on how the first year of marriage had treated them, and to hear all about the things they look forward to next.
Before the party got started, we had a chance to capture those wedding party portraits that they had missed the first time. It was a fun opportunity to finally celebrate with the people who were always meant to stand up with them! We headed to private property and spent some time in the sunshine and brisk air to capture their gorgeous color palette.
We wrapped things up just in time to head to the fairgrounds where the two could greet guests and graze on a spread of snacks. All of the food and decor was done by family and friends, and it was so incredible to see how much love could transform a space. The evening was very relaxed as guests slowly trickled in and lined up for photos with their favorite couple.
After a brief blessing from Nathan’s brother, guests dug in to pulled pork, cheesy potatoes and classic sides. The space was pretty quiet as everyone enjoyed their meals, and headed back for seconds (and even thirds). The food was a definite crowd pleaser!
After a few special first dances, guests slowly made their way to the dance floor. Some were a bit shy, but once Kendra started leading the line dances she attracted a crowd! Again, the energy in the room was just happy. There was no stress, no rush, no pressure. People were happy to be in each-others company and soak in the moment.
Just before we left, Kendra surprised everyone with another special dance. She called all mothers and daughters to the dance floor to share a song. Watching the generations of women on the dance floor had a handful of us in tears. It was beautiful, and something I most certainly hope to see again. After all, mommas get so little time in the spotlight with their daughters on wedding days- and those few minutes on the dance floor surrounded by others sharing the same bond was something I’ll never forget.
Nathan and Kendra, we are so grateful to have had the opportunity to celebrate with you not only once, but twice. Thank you for allowing us to be the ones to capture this special wedding reception day in Janesville for you. Sending you all the love and good vibes on your next journey together!
