A Modern Classic Wedding at Hotel Kansas City | Gracely & Will

Gracely and Will’s wedding was a masterclass in modern elegance and meaningful design, set inside one of the most iconic historic venues in the Midwest—Hotel Kansas City. Every moment, from the rooftop first look to the lush reception, felt editorial, intentional, and completely unforgettable. Their day honored architecture, fashion, and the people who matter most—with a touch of bold glamour.

WRITTEN IN THE STARS

Will in the peak of his Law School Degree was studying at the University of Kansas while Gracely was finishing her Biology degree at Creighton University. Their relationship emerged in the midst of their studies, where the two met through social media. Despite the long distance, Will and Gracely committed their weekends to spending time together no matter the length of the road trip. Their weekends were filled with church and brunch, pickleball, dinner date nights, quick trip gettaways when they could, and well of course, a few flash card quizzes here and there. The two bonded over their love for the Lord, competitive attitude, and longing to find a best friend to do life with.

“My wedding inspiration was simply “Classy Old Money” Black Tie affair. I wanted the evening to feel more like an evening party among our closest friends.”

Layflat Details | A Study in Style and Sentiment

Gracely’s bridal details were curated to perfection, styled on layers of soft textures and vintage heirlooms. Cream roses and satin heels sat beside strands of pearls, a crystal-cut perfume bottle, and a gilded mirror tray that reflected the understated luxury of the day. From her sparkling engagement ring to a the use of a black-and-white magazine editorial into the flatlay, each piece told a story—bridging heritage and high fashion. The overall aesthetic was timeless, refined, and editorially inspired, with nods to classic elegance and a modern muse.

Bridal Morning | Soft Light and Stylish Anticipation

Gracely’s morning began in a serene hotel suite flooded with natural light. Wrapped in a silky robe, she moved gracefully through hair and makeup while the city buzzed outside her window. A pair of eleegant bridal heels rested nearby, along with her intricately embroidered gown. The anticipation built slowly as her mother helped her step into a dress that fit like poetry—delicate lace, a sculpted silhouette, and a dramatic train that followed her like a whisper. It was a bridal morning grounded in calm, connection, and classic beauty.

Groom Morning | Editorial Cool Meets Classic Black Tie

Meanwhile, just rooms away, Will’s morning had a distinctly editorial feel. In a sleek suite with masculine lines and moody lighting, he adjusted his cufflinks and fastened his watch, a striking black-dial watch that set the tone for his elevated look. Dressed in a perfectly tailored tuxedo and suspenders, Will looked every bit the modern gentleman—relaxed, composed, and ready to see his bride. The contrast of crisp whites, inky blacks, and sharp tailoring added a cinematic energy to his portraits.

First Look on the Starlight Terrace

The first look unfolded atop the Hotel Kansas City rooftop, with panoramic skyline views and a sense of stillness before the day truly began. Gracely approached Will from behind as her veil floated behind her, caught softly by the breeze. The moment he turned and saw her, time seemed to slow. With skyscrapers framing the scene and muted skies overhead, their quiet exchange of smiles, tears, and embraces set the emotional tone for the rest of the day. It was personal, powerful, and picture-perfect.

Hotel Portraits | Where Architecture and Elegance Meet

This venue told a story of its own, and we leaned fully into it. The couple took portraits among the historic spaces of the hotel—against gilded elevator doors, in the shadow of the dramatic stairwell chandelier, and on the checkered tile floors that echoed Old World grandeur. Their body language was effortlessly poised, the styling intentional, and the hotel’s rich wood tones and intricate ironwork elevated each frame. These weren’t just portraits—they were editorial moments captured in a living piece of history.

“We loved being able to spend time together prior to the ceremony taking pictures and enjoying the day together, sharing the small moments.”

Ceremony Space Photos | Artful Simplicity with Floral Impact

Before guests arrived, the ceremony space stood in quiet readiness. Rows of gold chairs surrounded a floral arch, layered with white and green textures that echoed the building’s classic bones. Soft petals lined the aisle alongside the delicate chairs, creating a subtle vibe that reflected the intimacy of the setting. The design was clean, refined, and romantic—letting the love in the room take center stage.

Ceremony | Intimate, Intentional, and Deeply Felt

As guests entered the ceremony, there was a palpable warmth. Gracely walked down the aisle with confident grace, framed by florals and golden light. The couple exchanged their vows that had everyone—from parents to lifelong friends—holding back tears. Their family surrounded them for a prayer as they stood beneath their beautiful florals. It was quiet yet deeply moving moment, set against the historic backdrop of the hotel with nothing but meaningful stillness in the air.

Reception Reveal & Details | Dramatic Tablescapes

The reception space was transformed into a vision of tailored opulence. Black linens and gold Chiavari chairs anchored each table, with sculptural floral arrangements reaching upward among flickering taper candles. Layered place settings included cut-crystal glassware, monogrammed napkins, and custom menus. The palette of black, ivory, and green offered a bold twist on classic, while ambient lighting gave the space a warm, editorial glow. It felt more like a scene from a magazine than a ballroom.

“While you plan for months on end, you never know how the final space will come together. Will and I were speechless walking into the reception space. I am thankful for Robin Byrd who absolutely outdid herself with the florals, table arrangements, and overall ambiance of the room. It was a dream come true.”

Rooftop Cocktail Hour | City Lights, Signature Sips, and Designer Details

Guests were invited back to the rooftop, where a custom cocktail hour awaited. Signature drinks were served on silver trays by black-tie waitstaff, alongside elevated bites like lobster crostini. The skyline stretched around them, laughter echoed between high-rises, and designer details—like Louis Vuitton bags and tailored suits—added a layer of luxury to every frame. It was a perfect fusion of high style and heartfelt celebration.

Dress Change in the Suite | From Romantic to Runway

Back in the bridal suite, Gracely made her second entrance in a sleek, strapless gown with a structured silhouette and fashioned her hair up into an effortless look. She paired it with a statement pearl choker and a playful confidence that lit up the room. The look was fresh, fashion-forward, and ready to turn heads as she reentered the celebration with effortless grace.

Grand Entrance & Dinner

As the couple made their grand entrance into the reception, the energy lifted. Guests rose with applause, champagne flutes in hand, as Gracely and Will moved through the room like a true editorial duo. Toasts followed over candlelit dinners, with heartfelt speeches, belly laughs, and clinking glasses weaving together a tapestry of love and legacy.

Reception Festivities | Sweet Celebrations and a Full Dance Floor

From the cake cutting—classic and chic with minimalist icing—to the packed dance floor that followed, the night unfolded in waves of energy and emotion. The chandelier-lit space pulsed with music, movement, and celebration. Friends and family danced like no one was watching, and the newlyweds didn’t stop smiling for a moment.

“Will and I cannot stop talking about how much of a dream our wedding day was. Looking back on pictures we catch our self asking one another “how was that our wedding.” Looking back on our wedding day I can honestly say I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Gracely and Will’s wedding was more than a celebration—it was a seamless blend of heritage and high fashion, of timeless architecture and personal expression. Every moment, from the quiet rooftop embrace to the electric energy of the dance floor, reflected a couple deeply rooted in love and style. Hotel Kansas City served not just as a venue, but as a canvas—allowing their story to unfold with intention, elegance, and unforgettable charm.

This is the kind of wedding that reminds us: when every detail is considered, and every moment is truly felt, the result is nothing short of iconic.

“We could not have asked for a better vendor team to work with. From start to finish, the individuals we worked with were top notch. All vendors heard our vision for the evening and brought it to life! I can’t imagine working alongside anyone else on our special day. Each and everyone truly executed the day flawlessly.”

THE VENDOR TEAM

“Thank YOU to Amber, Ashley, and team for making me feel stunning on my wedding day. Your words of encouragement, excitement to shoot, and kind compliments created a catalyst for an incredible hype squad.

I would choose this team time and time again without a shadow of doubt. At the end of the day I would say Amber, Ashley, and team genuinely cared about the two of us and people like that can be challenging to find.

Thank you times a million!”