**COZY BACKYARD WEDDING**
#LisSimonBride Leanna and Kendra's wedding, celebrated at their charming home, provided a rustic backdrop for their special day—a cozy backyard affair embraced by warmth and attended by their cherished loved ones.

LOVE STORY

They met by happenstance in a grocery store in Utica, New York. In the less romantic beer aisle, Leanna cracked a silly joke, and Kendra laughed. They happened to end up in the checkout together, where Leanna paid for Kendra's groceries. Afterward, in the parking lot, Leanna grabbed Kendra's number.

THE PROPOSAL

Kendra proposed on April 23, 2021, and Leanna popped the question on May 22, 2021.

Keeping two engagement rings hidden from each other was no small feat. The couple had unknowingly planned to propose on the same day. Kendra had already informed her family of her intentions, and on the very same day, Leanna sought their blessing for Kendra's hand in marriage. This secret dance continued with friends and family, including moments of revealing their engagement rings hidden in their dressers.

The elaborate proposal saga unfolded when Kendra orchestrated a surprise at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. During a picnic setup, Leanna's cousin, a musician, appeared out of nowhere playing "Simply the Best" on the saxophone. Turning around, Leanna found Kendra on one knee, asking her to marry. A month later, Leanna took Kendra to June Farms for an ATV ride through expansive farmland. At one of the stops, Leanna walked her to the top of a hill and proposed. Of course, Kendra said yes.

As the couple resumed their ATV adventure, they made an unexpected stop at a barn. Here, Leanna had orchestrated a heartfelt surprise, gathering their closest friends and family to celebrate the joyous occasion.

THE DRESS

Bride is wearing OKO

The experience was incredible! Unbeknownst to Kendra and Leanna, they found themselves on the same wavelength yet again, both purchasing their dresses from Angela’s Bridal, a beloved bridal shop in Troy, New York. The owners of the shop managed to keep their purchases a secret, adding to the excitement of the moment and making Kendra and Leanna feel truly beautiful.

WEDDING & RECEPTION

10.13.23

Leanna + Kendra hosted both their ceremony and reception at their home, which boasted 2 acres of wooded land. They spruced up the area with a patio, lights, and a charming aisle to their wedding arch. Their dedication and love were evident in every aspect, making their special day truly enchanting.

Their celebration sparkled with tunes from DJ TruMaster, handpicked by Kendra. Set under a massive clear top tent amidst twinkling lights, guests enjoyed the added fun of multicolored foam glow sticks. As the night progressed, the couple swapped formal attire for matching white sweatsuits and sneakers, dancing happily beneath the starlit sky visible through the tent. It was a night of music, laughter, and cherished memories.

FAVOURITE MOMENTS

Four years after Leanna's father passed away, they honoured his memory by planting a maple tree and scattering his ashes beneath it before their rehearsal dinner. Positioned to overlook the ceremony space, the tree became a touching tribute. Additionally, a black walnut slab from his restaurant became their head table, honouring his legacy.

“The music was truly incredible and being able to celebrate such an amazing day with all of our favourite people. We could not have asked for a more perfect day- from the ceremony to the cocktail house to the reception– it was all our favourite”

PREPARATIONS & INSPIRATIONS

The couple aimed for a "rustic/boujee" or "backyard boujee" vibe for their special day, as per the guidance of their wedding planners. They found their perfect match in Katie O Events, relying on them for inspiration and guidance. While they did seek some unique touches, like graffiti cannons, from Pinterest, the expertise and creativity of their wedding planners truly made their dream vision a reality.

HONEYMOON

Leanna and Kendra went on a pre-honeymoon journey to Saint Lucia, staying at the Ladera Resort. Following their time in Saint Lucia, they traveled to Portugal, exploring Lisbon, the Douro Valley, and Madeira. This adventure took place just a few weeks after their wedding.