page 108 X metropolitan weddings
X Summer / fall 2024
written by | meg daniel photographed by | Holland House photography
Surrounded by Family & Love
Reba and Trenton met in college at Drury University . After dating for about three years , they went on a trip to Las Vegas with both of their families . In front of the large Ferris wheel , Trenton dropped to one knee and asked Reba to marry him . Strangers were clapping , family members were overjoyed , and Reba and Trenton were engaged .
The first task was to find a venue . Reba ’ s family is from Wisconsin , so they knew they wanted somewhere that either had overnight accommodations or was close to hotels . Once the couple saw the Venue at Stockton Lake , they knew this was the perfect place . Not only was the space beautiful , there are 30 on-site cabins that can be used to house your guests as well as a honeymoon suite . This was the perfect spot to be surrounded by their family and celebrate a beautiful weekend together .
When searching for a photographer , they found Lacie with Holland House Photography . Reba loved her natural looking pictures and says , “ Lacie is just the kindest person ever ! She is phenomenal and I love her style .” Reba and Trenton did an engagement session which was included in their package and were able to get to know Lacie , feeling even more comfortable .
Reba had scheduled a bridal session at the Dress Bridal boutique for later that month , but the salon owner called to reschedule since they were moving their store during that time . Reba said , “ Well my Mom is driving into town right now from Wisconsin , and I know we were not planning on buying a dress on this visit , but could you fit us in this weekend ?” The store manager was so accommodating . “ I had no intention of buying a dress that day , but once I put on this mermaid style gown with spaghetti straps , it just felt right . When you know , you know !”
Trenton picked out navy sport coats from Paul Phillips Formalwear for both himself and his eight groomsmen . The eight bridesmaids wore dusty blue dresses , while the motherof-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom wore dusty rose dresses . The couple used this color palette to decorate the venue , while adding greenery and touches of gold .
Shannon ’ s Custom Florals knew exactly how to create the look Reba and Trenton wanted . Reba showed her some ideas from her Pinterest board and Shannon was able to utilize those ideas and offer suggestions . She created floral pieces for the arbor used during the ceremony , then was able to bring those floral pieces inside for the reception , repurposing them to decorate the staircase . Shannon was amazing and easy to work with .
Reba and Trenton chose to have a first look , and it was a very special moment . Her mom and sister walked Reba to her groom and when he saw her for the first time , he broke down and cried .
Reba ’ s father walked her down the aisle . But as the venue was packed with guests , and the bridal party was at the altar waiting for the bride , her dad turned to her while pointing to the parking lot and said , “ Look right there . My car is parked right out front . This is your last chance . If you want to , no questions asked , we can go . Or , let ’ s walk you down the aisle .” Reba chose to walk down the aisle to her beloved Trenton .
At the reception , the family and guests enjoyed delicious barbeque from Bubba ’ s Barbeque , where Trenton worked in college . They also had cocktails mixed by Shakers Bartenders . A Moscow Mule or Whiskey and Coke were their signature drinks , but guests could also choose from wine , beer or seltzers . The star of the show was DJ Landon from Elevate Entertainment . He was fantastic and had the bridal party , family and all the guests on the dance floor all night . At the end of the evening , everyone left the reception area while Reba and Trenton enjoyed one last private dance , just the two of them .
After spending the night in the Venue at Stockton Lake ’ s Honeymoon Cabin , they enjoyed a trip to Mexico planned by 417 Travel .
Reba advises engaged couples to step back and enjoy your day . What you want for your wedding is the most important thing to keep in mind . Remember , it is your big day . Xxoxo