Crystal Bridges Museum of Art Wedding | Josie + McKenna

I met Josie and McKenna during college when we were all in the same sorority together, Alpha Chi Omega at the University of Arkansas! McKenna was the president of our sorority my freshman year, which is a huge deal. Josie also served as president for a year, because they’re both some of the most incredibly high-achieving women I know.

I had the honor of photographing Josie’s proposal to McKenna (you can view the blog post here!) in St. Louis at Busch Stadium, where they had their first date together. That fall, I also had the privilege of capturing McKenna’s surprise proposal back to Josie in Fayetteville, Arkansas where they first met.

These two are the kind of people who just radiate joy – both incredibly kind, generous people who appreciate design, good food, and moments that feel genuine and real.

Their wedding day at Crystal Bridges felt like walking through a dream. I’ve photographed at a lot of venues across Arkansas, but there’s something truly magical about the way this museum transforms for weddings. The soaring glass ceilings, the way light plays off the water features, those deep blue gallery walls with golden frames – it’s a photographer’s paradise.

McKenna wore this absolutely incredible floral gown from Lows Bridal that looked like it belonged in one of the museum’s collections – the way it moved through the gallery spaces with her cathedral veil floating behind her was just chef’s kiss. Josie’s custom, cream suit by Blaze Milano was the perfect complement, modern and classic all at once, and completely them, which I loved more than anything.

My favorite part might have been watching them walk though their wedding day completely calm, and totally enamored with each other. That’s just who they are—present and appreciative of every moment.

With their laid-back personalities and genuinely down-to-earth, incredibly fun people, they somehow made a world-class museum feel cozy and intimate. Their ceremony in the Great Hall had everyone emotional, and the way they incorporated personal touches throughout the day had me teary the entire time. Watching McKenna’s father walking both her and Josie down the aisle was a moment I will truly never forget.

For couples dreaming of a wedding that feels both artistic and deeply personal, Crystal Bridges needs to be top of your list to check out. The way this venue transitions from prestigious museum to intimate wedding space is incredible, and the photo opportunities are absolutely endless. From the glass bridges over the water to the woodland trails, every corner offers something special. The museum offers custom wedding packages depending on what you’re looking for, and even offers full catering so you have less to worry about! You can view Crystal Bridges’ Wedding Collections here!

I’m beyond grateful to have been part of this day, watching two people so clearly meant for each other celebrate their love in a space that perfectly reflects who they are. If you’re considering a museum wedding or looking for a photographer who gets just as excited about artistic spaces as you do, let’s connect here!

Vendor Team:

Venue // @crystalbridgesmuseum

Catering // @crystalbridgesmuseum

Dress // @lowsbridal

Suit // @blaze_milano

Coordination // @taylor.amandareedweddings @amandareedweddings

Florals // @pigmintdotcom

Cake // @ricksbakery

Hair & Makeup // @vandylandmakeup @manebymj @hairbydulcesito

Stationery // @dayflowerdesigns @shindigpaperie @tramcolwinstudio

Bridal Party Attire // @shoprevelry

Getting Ready Location // @21CBentonville