As I write this blog post my mind keeps flashing to Zazu in the lion king when he very briefly sings . . . It’s a small world after all! Because sometimes it really is a small small world.
My bride Cassie was a nursing student at the University of Central Missouri where she met her now husband Derek. (P.S. for those of you that don’t know, that’s where I received my photography degree) Not only do we have that commonality, but Derek was in ROTC and was friends with Tanner Smith, brother to Allie Smith, who was one of my college roommates. Funny enough I never knew Cassie until she called me up one day asking about wedding packages. So Zazu was right, it really is a small world after all, and in this particualr case I am so glad it is.
Cassie & Derek are one of my all time favortie couples. Cassie is so laid back and sweet, and Derek is very funny and outgoing. It was a true pleasure to shoot their wedding and once you take a glance at the pictures below, I think you might just understand why.
The day started at Spring Hill suites where both Cassie & Derek got ready.
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My birthday was the day after Cassie & Derek’s wedding. Cassie is so unbelievably sweet that she actually got me a small gift. I couldn’t believe it and it just made me love her even more.
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This is me getting that awesome ring shot above!
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Isn’t Cassie such a knockout? I mean come on now people! 
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Dad came in the room right before we headed to the hotel. It was the first time he saw her all dolled up and in her wedding dress. . .
. . . Meanwhile my friend, and second shooter for the day, Rosie Warner was capturing the guys . . .
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This church was by far one of my favorite churches. The outside stole my heart first, with its bright red doors. And once I stepped inside I was ecstatic about the circular layout. The altar was in the middle with seats going all the way around. This was nice because it allowed me to actually get some photos of the bride and groom’s faces!
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Wedding Party!
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I said I was going to blog Derek making this face! So this is me sticking to my word! haha
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After shooting some of the wedding party and bride and groom around the church we headed to Forest Park to shoot some more!
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And with a few moments still to spare we headed to a restaurant/bar. Everyone in the wedding party grabbed a drink, while I grabbed just a few more wedding party shots.
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Then it was off to the reception. In case you hadn’t already noticed Derek is in the Army, so the new Mr. & Mrs. Hirtz entered into the reception via the Arch of swords (Saber) ceremony!
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I’m not sure whose idea it was, but all the military guys decided to participate in the bag dance. If you’ve never seen this done I won’t spoil it for you! But I promise you it is quite entertaining.
All in all it was a wonderful day for a wedding. I had worried about the weather turning bad, but the rain stayed away until everyone had entered the reception, and then when I packed up my stuff to leave for the night it had already stopped.
Cassie & Derek I wish you the best, and hope you enjoy your honeymoon later this summer.
Cake- Sugaree Bakery
Florist- Les Boquets
Caterer- Kenrick’s Catering
Transportation- Best transportation
Reception Venue- 560 Music Center
DJ/Entertainment- Complete musica & Video
