Friess and Ruth 10-10-09

Desiree and Ryan found us via the bridal fair and online last year. Desiree had her heart set on an October outdoor wedding at Fort Hays State University. While we spoke on the phone, and again via email many times to go over the details as the date approached quickly, it was a good thing Desiree came up with a back up plan in case of weather. Barry and I headed to Hays the night before as the temperature started to drop quickly with a light mist on the road and the Kansas wind picking up steam. It was decided earlier that afternoon to move the wedding indoors to the Memorial Union. Even though the weather started to change the plans made months in advance, Desiree and Ryan did not let it dampen their spirits.

I started the day with the bride at a local salon (Salon 8) along with the bridesmaids and other family members documenting the events of the morning and preparations. As always, everyone looked great and we then made our way into the cold to meet the bridal party at the FHSU campus.

There, the men and the ladies got dressed and attended to the remaining details of the day. Desiree had a gorgeous classic white strapless gown that fit her to a T and the ladies looked stunning in red.

As guests entered the ceremony site, they signed the guest book and were asked to pour a bit of sand into a large vase at the door symbolizing the unity of friends and family. The couple then finished filling this during the ceremony in place of a unity candle.

The ceremony was personal with family and friends reading poems and singing songs as well as the parents being presented with flowers before the couple exited the ceremony as the new Mr. and Mrs. Ruth!

Guests were given balloons as they left for the reception site and formed a line outside, braving the cold for the couple :). As Ryan and Desiree left to get in the limo (as the horses were cancelled due to weather), the balloons floated away into the sky with cheers from the crowd! Then of course no one wasted anytime getting to the party!
The reception was held at the Schenk Building at Ellis County Fairgrounds. The couple had a great time greeting each of their guests, cutting cake and enjoying a catered meal. The couple shared their first dance and then in great Western Kansas Catholic Tradition, the Grand Wedding March started the festivities and I do not believe there was a single soul left in their seat! Needless to say, everyone had a great time that evening and we were happy to be a part of it! Desiree and Ryan, thank you so much for letting us share in your day with you, we were so very honored to have met and gotten to know you! Check out their prequel below!