[Wedding] Katie & Jon – The Palace at Somerset Park

Some weddings feel a little more personal than others, and Katie and Jon’s winter wedding at The Palace at Somerset Park had connections everywhere I looked. I photographed Katie’s sister Kristin when she married Billy several years earlier, so getting invited back to photograph another wedding for the same family was incredibly special. The Palace has a little history for me too. Karis and I were married here almost two decades ago. I’m not entirely sure how THAT happened so quickly, but here we are.

Katie and Jon got married in February, and while it didn’t snow that day, there was still plenty on the ground. Honestly, that’s kind of the perfect scenario. We got the bright winter light and snowy backdrop without anyone getting pelted in the face. Then it was back inside for a candlelit ceremony, a warm ballroom, and a first dance in the clouds.

I also need to acknowledge Jon’s commitment to the cause. Apparently, this man survived on a diet of chicken and broccoli for an ENTIRE YEAR leading up to the wedding. Was it worth it? I mean…look at the photos. The man showed up ready. I’m just glad there were better food options at the reception.

The night eventually turned into exactly what a wedding should become: a packed dance floor, lots of laughing, and a whole lot of celebrating. And somehow our paths almost crossed again immediately afterward. Katie and Jon honeymooned in Las Vegas at the exact same time I was there for a photography conference. We tried to connect but unfortunately couldn’t make it happen. Then again, maybe nobody needs their wedding photographer popping up on their honeymoon. What happens in Vegas, right?

After doing this for as long as I have, getting invited back by the same family is still one of the biggest compliments I can receive. Years after Kristin and Billy’s wedding, I got to see so many familiar faces again, catch up on where life had taken everyone, and celebrate the next couple in the family. Congratulations, Katie and Jon!