Cate Kelly
& Stuart McLaughlin
Photography by Caroline Jurgensen Photography
Childhood friends turned soulmates, Cate Kelly and Stuart McLaughlin said “I do” against the stunning backdrop of the bride’s family ranch. Cate and Stuart have known each other their whole lives, first as neighbors, then schoolmates and then college friends. After college graduation, they moved to different cities and eventually came together after both moving back in 2018. Fast forward to Stuart’s surprise proposal on Kate’s front doorstep, and, as the couple embraced their newfound engagement, they began envisioning the details of their upcoming fall wedding.
One of the most cherished and central aspects of the wedding was its location at the family ranch. The significance of exchanging vows in a place that holds so much meaning resonated deeply with the entire family. “Changing into my dress in my grandparents’ room, walking down the aisle from our house and having the reception in our backyard was really special,” Cate says.
FLOWER POWER Radiant hues of yellow, green, white and blush created a stunning scene that embraced the ranch’s fall landscape. THE LOOK Cate stunned in a Monique Lhuillier gown, while her bridesmaids chose their own dresses. In true Texan style, the groomsmen sported black suits and cowboy boots.
Radiant florals in hues of yellow, green, white and blush transformed the ranch into a whimsical haven. The final result was a breathtaking tapestry of flowers and intricate details, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of the ranch with the couple’s vision.
Readings by their close friends set the stage for a heartfelt ceremony, officiated by their long-time ranch hand and pastor. From the intimate ceremony to the personalized touches that adorned every aspect of their celebration, Cate and Stuart’s love story was a true reflection of their first dance song, “You Can’t Hurry Love.”
SWEET SURPRISE Inspired by Stuart’s passion for smoking meats, Fancy Cakes by Lauren crafted a cake that replicated his beloved smoker, complete with billowing smoke. “It was a surprise for Stuart and he loved it!” LET IT ROCK The couple processed out to “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” a fun and unique twist on the traditional processional. CENTER STAGE “The band, Party on the Moon, had everyone on the dance floor from right after dinner until we did our exit,” Cate says.
Vendors
Event Planning + Design: Caroline Events, GRO Floral & Event Design
More Vendors
Videography Candlelight Films Photography Caroline Jurgensen Photography Rentals POSH Couture Rentals, Sandone Productions, Shag Carpet Prop Rentals, Perch Decor, Center Stage Floors, Stage 2 Lighting, Nüage Designs, United Rentals Stationery Carly Creative Co. Catering Art 2 Catering Hair + Makeup Ashley McNabb Artistry Bridal Wear Monique Lhuillier, Nardos Bakery Fancy Cakes by Lauren, Creme de la Creme Cake Co. Fireworks + Effects Pyrotex Music Julio Rivera, Big J. All Day, Dallas String Quartet Catering Oysters XO