Jon & Stephanie Tolbert

August 20, 2022 Vow Renewal

Paducah Country Club

Jon & Stephanie have been married for 10 years, but being a military family has prevented them from hosting the wedding ceremony of their dreams, until August 20, 2022. Jon’s military career in the Army has taken them all over the world, from Germany to the Middle East, and Stephanie traveled with him through it all. Those of us that live in the United States don’t often think about the lives that our military families lead. We are so blessed to have family’s like Jon & Stephanie’s that answer the call to protect our freedoms. 

Through the years, they welcomed their daughter’s Anslee and Addyson. In September of 2021, Stephanie contacted me to schedule some family photos while Jon was home during leave from service in the Middle East. I was so excited to provide photos for this family that has sacrificed so much for our country. I have so much respect and admiration for the members of our nation’s military. Anslee and Addyson were (and still are!) two adorable little ones that looked so happy to have their mom and dad together. They hugged and laughed all throughout that session, and I was fortunate to capture those moments for their gallery. 

On Saturday, August 20, 2022, I walked into the Paducah Country Club and noticed that Stephanie had a framed photo sitting on their gift table. The table was adorned with beautiful greenery, white flowers, soft fabrics and twinkle lights under a swath of green gossamer fabric. The photo immediately caught my attention as one from their family session.  My heart melted, I was so humbled and overjoyed at the same time. 

Guests sat at tables surrounding the arbor while watching Jon & Stephanie proclaim their continued commitment to each other. The ceremony began with Anslee and Addyson walking down the aisle, hand in hand, to their Dad standing at the arbor. 

Stephanie made her grand entrance wearing an absolutely stunning floor length strapless gown. The fit and flare silhouette was adorned with white lace atop an ivory satin. She chose delicate gold details like the rhinestone clip in her hair, the pear drop earrings and matching necklace. Carrying a fresh flower bouquet, she glided down the aisle to meet her husband. They chose not to see each other prior to the ceremony, and the looks on their faces, as they saw each other for the first time that day, reflected the deep love they share. 

Surrounded by friends and family, Jon & Stephanie spoke about the life they’d created together over the past ten years. They shared the memories of living abroad, bringing their children into the world, and how proud they were of all they accomplished. They promised to continue loving and supporting each other, and shared a sweet kiss at the end of their vows. Their smiles were so infectious that I couldn’t stop smiling, myself. 

After the conclusion of their ceremony, Jon, Stephanie, and I went outside to take some photos of the two of them. I love the quiet moments after the ceremony, when it’s just the couple and I together. The joy that radiates from the couple photographs beautifully. 

The families in attendance enjoyed a delicious meal provided by the caterers at the Paducah Country Club. 

After the meal, Jon & Stephanie invited everyone to view the cake cutting. The cake, provided by Karen’s Cake Creations, LLC, was absolutely delicious! Karen is a very talented individual, and I love her cakes as well as her personality! Before jumping ship to cake making, Karen did photography for a short time. She photographed my own wedding, and I cherish the photos she captured. 

Photographing the cake cutting was my last event of the evening. The party continued well after my departure, and I’m sure they created many new and lasting memories. I am so thankful for Jon & Stephanie, not only for hiring me to photograph their vow renewal, but for their service to our country. May God continue to bless your marriage and your lives! 

Thank you, Jon & Stephanie, for allowing me to be a part of your special day! I am forever grateful to you both!