page 126 X metropolitan weddings
X WINTER / SPRING 2025
written by | Tonya Shoats photographed by | Ashton Turnbull photography
Legacies of Love
In a world where love often finds unexpected paths , Emily and Connor ’ s story shines with a beautiful blend of family legacy and personal connection . The couple met at the University of Central Missouri in the fall of 2019 , forging their bond amidst the chaos of the pandemic . Their shared values of love and family laid the foundation for their wedding day .
The two connected through a professional fraternity during their college years . Their chemistry was instantaneous ; Connor recalls , “ We were able to communicate really easily . There was an instant connection .” After dating for two and a half years , Connor proposed in November 2022 during an anniversary photo shoot at the lake where they first met . Wedding planning began right away .
Their venue search started at the Metropolitan Wedding Expo , where they explored options and met potential vendors . “ The Expo was a great way to see what was available in our area and get inspiration for our wedding ,” they shared . They fell in love with Sparrow Lane ’ s charm and beautiful spaces — a perfect match for their vision of a relaxed celebration . They coordinated most of the planning themselves , with family support and the help of a day-of coordinator to ease any last-minute stress .
In June 2024 , Emily and Connor tied the knot in a ceremony filled with flowers and greenery . Their vision was clear : a relaxed and organic atmosphere that felt inviting and natural . Reflecting on the day , Emily described it as “ the best day , surrounded by our favorite people ,” emphasizing the importance of having a celebration that represented them . To commemorate their love , the couple included special touches that honored their families throughout their wedding day . Emily embraced traditional tokens that symbolized continuity and remembrance .
For “ Something Old ,” she wore her mother ’ s wedding veil , a tangible reminder of the love that preceded her . For “ Something New ,” Emily adorned herself with a gold bracelet gifted by her grandmother and diamond earrings from Connor . The significance of these items went beyond aesthetics ; they represented the enduring love and support of family across generations .
The “ Something Borrowed ” tradition held special meaning for Emily . She wore her mother ’ s pearl earrings , gifted by her father on their wedding day , and her grandmother ’ s necklace . “ Wearing those pieces made me feel deeply connected to my family ,” Emily shared . “ They brought a sense of their presence with me as I walked down the aisle .”
Emily also incorporated “ Something Blue ” with her great-grandmother ’ s Bible , nodding to her family ’ s spiritual heritage . A touching detail was the inclusion of a 2001 penny found by her late grandfather and a 2024 penny from her father , symbolizing the past and future generations walking alongside her .
As part of her preparations , Emily wore her mother ’ s repurposed wedding gown as her getting-ready outfit , creating a seamless connection to her family history . Adding to the sentimentality , she used her late grandmother ’ s crochet hook to fasten the buttons on her dress — an intimate moment blending past and present .
The couple ’ s rings also held deep significance — Emily wore her husband ’ s grandmother ’ s ring , while Connor sported his bride ’ s grandfather ’ s ring . “ Using our grandparents ’ rings felt like carrying their love into our marriage ,” Connor said . Their ceremony featured several cherished family traditions . They toasted with passed-down toasting glasses , and the cake-serving set came from Emily ’ s parents ' wedding day . A stunning crystal vase , used at multiple family weddings , adorned the décor .
One of the most heartfelt moments of the day came when Connor ’ s father officiated the ceremony , emphasizing the couple ’ s commitment to family ties . “ Having my dad officiate made the day even more special ,” Connor shared , noting that the sense of family enveloped every part of their celebration .
A whimsical touch was added when Emily surprised Connor by dressing the ring bearer as Chewbacca , bringing laughter to the day . Emily ’ s mother also ensured the groom had his favorite churro-inspired cake , creating a personal surprise that made the reception feel like a true family affair .
Another heartwarming moment came when Emily honored her mother during the bouquet toss . Instead of throwing her bouquet , she presented it to her mom , saying , “ It was my way of honoring her and acknowledging everything she has done for me .” This sweet gesture encapsulated the spirit of their wedding — celebrating love and family bonds .
As they reflected on their wedding day , Emily and Connor emphasized the importance of perspective amid the hustle and bustle . “ Remember that it ’ s your day ,” Emily advised other couples . “ Don ’ t get too caught up in what other people expect . Make sure it feels like both of you - the couple .”
Their wedding day was not just a celebration of their love but a testament to the bonds of family that have shaped them . With every detail infused with meaning , Emily and Connor ’ s wedding was a beautiful reflection of their journey together — a legacy that will continue for generations to come . Xxoxo