Ice Cream Wedding Cart at Life’s Finer Moments // Kate + Alan
From the moment they met to the picturesque sunset that capped off their special day, every detail of this Life’s Finer Moments wedding reflected the unique core of Kate and Alan’s love.
How They Knew S/He was “The One”
Alan and Kate's journey began with a summer camp in 2021. Alan, the groom, fondly recalls a game and hiding in the dark when Kate tripped over some cabin furniture but rolled around laughing rather than being embarrassed. He liked what a “goofball” she can be. From shared laughter in the dark to deep conversations helping a mutual friend, their connection in ministry blossomed into a glimpse for Alan of how they could do ministry together in the real world of everyday life.
Kate was captivated by Alan's selflessness and care for others, especially evident in his service to the kids at camp. His consistent character and dedication to helping others made him stand out. What started as a friendship evolved into something more during an overseas mission trip, where Kate realized Alan was “the standard” by which she would measure other men.
Praise and Worship: A Ceremony Focused on the Lord
The couple shared a desire to make their ceremony a worshipful experience, and they did just that. The praise and worship ensured the focus remained on the Lord and His glory. Popular and familiar songs were chosen, and the program included lyrics, allowing all guests to join in the celebration. A singer and guitar player guided everyone in creating a truly worshipful atmosphere.
Sweet Surprises: Cold Stone Ice Cream Wedding Cart
One unique element of Alan and Kate's wedding was the ice cream cart from Cold Stone. Alan's family owns and operates Cold Stone, and the decision to use the catering cart for their wedding was both sentimental and a no-brainer. This ice cream wedding cart was manned by a former employee for the evening and added a touch of sweetness in more ways than just literal, to the celebration. It was not just a catering dessert choice but a representation of the couple's shared moments at Cold Stone even before they dated and a nod to a favorite treat.
Chasing the Sunset and Dancing Under the Stars
The couple chose to incorporate dancing on the patio with the ice cream wedding cart. The images captured on the patio wall with Alan's mom, friends dancing, and enjoying the evening showcase the genuine joy that permeated every moment. Kate said, “The sunset was honestly a beautiful surprise! We looked at when it would set but I had no idea it would be that pretty. I wanted to have dancing on the patio to incorporate Cold Stone and enjoy being outside. I love that so much of our wedding got to be outside in the Lord's beautiful creation!”
Choosing Their Wedding Party: A Tale of Friendship and Faithfulness
The selection of the wedding party reflected deep connections and friendships. Alan's choices were easy, rooted in shared experiences with his brother and crucial moments in his faith journey with “the boys that had kickstarted my faith.” Kate, surrounded by friends from college and beyond, valued “their faithfulness and encouragement to her walk with Christ.” She adds, “They have shown love in our friendships and are really special to me.”
Personal Touches and Tips for Future Couples
The couple's advice for personalizing the day is simple but profound. Alan emphasizes making the day about the couple, reflecting their personalities and shared memories. Alan says, “One of my favorite parts about our wedding was how much it screamed US at the end of the day. Even though we were dressed up and fancier then we will probably ever be in our lives again, deep down it was still us.” Kate highlights the importance of having friends involved, making it easy and fun. They utilized the kitchen to fulfill her love of quesadillas and shared generously with the guests! They encourage future couples to prioritize what they like and what's important to them, rather than conforming to tradition.
Recommendations: A Night Before Stay in Cabins and Take Advantage of the Spacious Outside
As a testament to the venue's offerings, Alan recommends using the cabins as night-before stays, creating memorable moments with friends. Kate appreciates the amount of outdoor time and dancing on the patio. Kate echoed the benefit of using the cabins and downstairs of the venue for the night before and getting ready!
Alan and Kate's wedding at Life's Finer Moments was a beautiful tapestry of love, faith, and personal touches. They were provided the perfect backdrop for their unique story, and every detail reflected the couple's personalities and values. Whether it’s an ice cream wedding cart, or the bride’s love of quesadillas, be sure you find a venue that allows you to infuse your personality into every aspect of your celebration!
Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: Gia Vargas
Florist: Cora Manica
DJ: Joe May
Food Cart:Cold Stone
Dress: Celebrations of the Heart
Officiant: Ty Neinke
Hair/Makeup: Avalon Salon
Backpacking Through Life // Abby +John
A hiking adventure allowed this bride and groom to begin backpacking through life trails together starting at our barn wedding venue!
Meeting Among the Mountains
Picture this - backpacking in the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, surrounded by mutual friends. That's where John and Abby's love story began! Who would have thought that a hiking adventure would lead them to Life's Finer Moments?
A Proposal Full of Surprises
Fast forward to the proposal - talk about romantic genius! John decided to recreate their first date, taking Abby to Manhattan, Kansas’s “Top of the World” for some stunning photographs. Little did she know, her best friend, a photographer, hid in the bushes and captured the entire magical moment. Bravo, to John, for the surprise of a lifetime!
The Much-Anticipated First Look
Zooming in on the big day, the couple was most eager for their first look on the lodge deck. The anticipation, the nerves, the sheer excitement - our venue's view overlooking the patio and hiking trails was a prime “stage” for a moment that will forever be etched in their hearts.
Choosing Life's Finer Moments Venue
John and Abby say they were drawn to the aesthetics of our lodge, the warm Christian vibes, and the exceptional support from our amazing staff. We love that our venue resonated with their backpacking theme making Life's Finer Moments the perfect nature backdrop for their love story.
Simplistic Outdoor Bliss
In a nutshell, their wedding theme was pure simplicity, with a focus on the great outdoors. Picture rustic charm blended with the elegance of nature – perfection for this couple, right?! After all, they share a love for backpacking, and that element spilled over into their special day.
Three , but Wait, SIX
John and Abby have been on this incredible love journey for three years; knowing each other even three years prior to that! That's a love story filled with laughter, adventures, and countless shared moments.
Words of Wisdom for Future Couples
As the newlyweds embark on this beautiful hiking trail of life, they've got some great advice for future couples. “Ask questions, lots of them! Especially to all venue options, and trust us when we say the Life's Finer Moments staff was very helpful to us as they’ve hosted a lot of weddings before.”
So, there you have it - a glimpse into Abby and John's combined backpack and unforgettable day at Life's Finer Moments. Click for more tales of love, laughter, and happily ever afters! 💖✨
Wedding Vendors:
Photographer:@KW Creative
DJ/Band: Lane Jeanneret
Cake: Jeannete Roholeder
Stationary:Teresa Jeanneret
Hair/Makeup: CELEYSCREATIONS
Suit: Mens Wearhouse