June 1, 2024 Tie The Knot Signature Issue

Mrs. Joseph Hugo Brecklein Reprinted from the March 1, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Mrs. Morris Dreyfus Reprinted from the June 7, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Miss Mary Schutz Reprinted from the May 31, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Margaret Eulalie Reilly Reprinted from the October 18, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Mrs. Leslie Andrew Welch Reprinted from the June 28, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Mrs. Mord M. Bogie Reprinted from the September 6, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Photo Credit: Strauss-Peyton

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Colden Searles and their Wedding Party Reprinted from the July 5, 1924 issue of The Independent.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Moore Benson of Leawood, Kansas, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Sara Ellen Benson, to Benjamin Arthur Wickey, the son of Tracy Anne Whelpley of St. Louis, Missouri, and Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Michael Wickey of Leawood, Kansas. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Mr. William Blaine Kircher of Fairway, Kansas, and the late Mrs. Kircher, and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Albert Benson. Her groom-elect is the grandson of Mrs. Joseph M. Cassetti of Lakeway, Texas, and the late Mr. Cassetti, and Mr. Gary I. Whelpley of Rochester, New York, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Wickey.

Sara graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School and earned a bachelor of science degree in business marketing from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Sara was presented at The Jewel Ball in 2015, and is a BOTAR, class of 2018. Ben is also a graduate of Shawnee Mission East High School. He earned his bachelor of science and business administration degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Ben is a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Sara is employed with Blackhawk Digital Marketing, and Ben is employed with Enboarder, both located in Austin, Texas. The couple will wed at Mattie’s at Green Pastures in Austin on October 26th.

Bride’s Book

Stephanie Grace Nesslein and Eric McLean Wingbermuehle were united in matrimony on June 17th at St. Francis Xavier College Church in St. Louis, Missouri. The bride is the daughter of Drs. Susan and Gary Nesslein of Prairie Village, Kansas. Stephanie is the granddaughter of the late Helen and Dr. S. George Laing and the late Cleta and Cletus Nesslein. Her groom is the son of Pamela and Bryan Wingbermuehle of Des Peres, Missouri. Eric is the grandson of the late Mary Jane and Edwin McLean and the late Marjorie and Terrance Wingbermuehle.

The evening of June 16th, the groom’s parents feted the couple with a delightful rehearsal dinner at The Whittemore House at Washington University. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a gorgeous reception at The Missouri Athletic Club Ballroom in downtown St. Louis, where the jubilant couple donned new outfits for the stunning party. Samantha Nesslein, sister of the bride, served as the maid of honor, and Jamie Hudson served as the best man.

Following a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple is at home in Overland Park, Kansas, where Stephanie is employed with Markets Group out of New York City, and Eric is employed with Urban SDK, out of Jacksonville, Florida. More at kcindependent.com

Shannon Duggan Photography

The Wedding Party: Eric Bruning, Stanton Nesslein, Kevin Sindelar, Makeilee Allen, Zach Bine, Lauren Stollman, Logan Graham, Sammie Nesslein, Chris Ahlering, the bride and groom, Megan Ahlering, Jamie Hudson, Ellie Haith, Charles Dubuque, Megan Ungashick, Taylor Wagner, Ashley Martel, Pete Vallino, and John Grigone

The wedding party cheered on the newlyweds!

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Wingbermuehle

Nuptial

Frances Marie Wooldridge and Vance Simon Wentz exchanged vows on December 31st at The Kansas City Country Club, creating an always-memorable New Year’s Eve anniversary celebration! Frances is the daughter of Jane and Chris Wooldridge of Overland Park, Kansas, and Vance is the son of Jenny and David Wentz of Leawood, Kansas. The groom’s parents honored the couple at a lovely rehearsal dinner the evening prior to the ceremony at The Rooftop Bar at the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, and the bride’s parents feted the newlyweds with a gorgeous reception at The Kansas City Country Club.

Libby Wooldridge, sister of the bride, served as the maid of honor with help from bridesmaids Brigid Wentz, sister of the groom; Sara Benson, Sidney Schneider, Zoe Tyler, Emily Webb, Caroline Shannon, Sydney Krause, and Natalie Pyle. Joey Wentz, brother of the groom, was the best man assisted by groomsmen Connor Knabe, Zach Schneider, Evan Bloom, Seth Smith, Chase Hanna, Connor McGannon, Kyle Winston, and Jonny Lefko.

The couple made a brief jaunt to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, for a short honeymoon, but they are planning a trip to Portugal in the fall. The bride and groom are at home in Mission, Kansas, where she is employed with Ascentist Healthcare Ambulatory Surgery Center, and he is employed with Tax Favored Benefits. More at kcindependent.com

Bride’s Book

Erin Leigh Patterson and James Davis Parkerson met at the altar to exchange vows on September 23rd at The Umstead Hotel & Spa in Cary, North Carolina. The bride is the daughter of Tracy and Captain Michael Patterson, United States Navy, Retired, of Raleigh, North Carolina. James is the son of Carolyn and Bill Parkerson of Kansas City, Missouri.

The evening prior to the ceremony, the groom’s parents entertained guests at a lovely rehearsal dinner at Vidrio. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted the beautiful wedding reception at The Umstead. Serving as groomsmen to support James Parkerson were Aidan Adler, Jack Copaken, Michael Mardikes, Andrew Parkerson, brother of the groom; Daniel Patterson, brother of the bride; and Matt Ruland. James’ sisters, Grace Parkerson and Julia Parkerson, served as bridesmaids.

Following a honeymoon in Half Moon Bay, California, the couple is at home in Miami, Florida, where Erin is employed with WEP Clinical, and James is employed with H.I.G. Capital. More at kcindependent.com

Melissa Maureen Photography

Aidan Adler, Michael Mardikes, Daniel Patterson, James Parkerson, Andrew Parkerson, Jack Copaken, and Matt Ruland

Mr. and Mrs. James Parkerson

Julia Parkerson, Andrew Parkerson, James and Erin Parkerson, and Grace Parkerson

EVERLASTING

TLove

humbing through our archives from the past 125 years, we can’t help but smile at the happy faces of wonderful people who have graced our pages. With wedding season upon us, we’re spotlighting special couples who are celebrating big anniversaries this year. Read on to see their engagement and wedding announcements from yesteryear, accompanied by a photo of the couples today. Cheers to love in Our Town!

50 YEARS

The Jack Thomas Cluens (she was Gail Louise Greene) toast a rosy future at their wedding luncheon at the Carriage Club following their marriage at Second United Presbyterian Church. Their parents are the Ted H. Greenes and the Jack C. Cluens of Warsaw, Indiana. After a trip to Honolulu and Maui, they are at home in Overland Park.

Reprinted from the September 14, 1974 issue of The Independent.

D45 YEARS

r. and Mrs. Frederick Bruce Lintecum (Laura Judith Hartley) immediately following their wedding in the Second United Presbyterian Church Chapel. The parents of the bride, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Hartley, entertained at a reception at Mission Hills Country Club for their daughter and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Duane Lintecum. They honeymooned at Shangri-La and are at home in Fairway.

Reprinted from the July 21, 1979 issue of The Independent.

“Ushers can be so helpful, especially when one or of them know the family members who will need to be seated in reserved seats. Keep this in mind when choosing people to serve in this important role.”

Kindra Browne, Simple Elegance KC

Norman Hoyt

The Don Bryans

MICRO WEDDINGS: THE EVOLUTION OF THE MODERN WEDDING

By Monica V. Reynolds

When you think of a wedding, what comes to mind? Is it a large formal affair with hundreds of people in attendance? Or, is it an intimate scenario in a backyard with only your nearest and dearest with you? According to the co-owners of Kansas City’s Cakewalk Events, Amy Rizzo and Kristen Bushmoyer, most people’s vision of a wedding is a version of either of these scenarios. However, there is a third option. This emerging trend doesn’t yet have a clearly defined moniker. For now, we might aptly refer to it as the all-inclusive micro wedding. Kansas City artist and entrepreneur Kathryn Hogan had a hand in bringing this trend to the forefront. After renewing wedding vows with her husband in Las Vegas, Nevada, Kathryn wondered why Sin City was the only place a couple could go for a turnkey wedding. Thus, in 2013, Vow Exchange was born.

THE CAKEWALK CHAPEL & EVENT SPACE CROSSROADS

The local wedding events company includes two small wedding venues – one in Liberty and another in Kansas City’s Crossroads District. Kathryn curated an assortment of fashionable off-the-shelf wedding packages and the customers came in droves. After serving more than 1,500 couples in her first eight years of business, she attributes the demand for intimate weddings to a shift in lifestyle. “Diverse couples need diverse options,” Kathryn said. “People don’t get married, buy the house, and have kids in that order anymore. A big wedding feels overwhelming and is expensive. It doesn’t always fit their life goals.” Having taken over the operations at Vow Exchange, Kristen and Amy can attest to Kathryn’s point of view. They see a diverse clientele ranging from young professionals to couples celebrating their second marriage. “People in their late 20s and early 30s are basically trying to start a life, maybe buy a house, or a nice starter home,” Kristen said. “Having a big wedding at the same time – I feel like something had to give and we’re seeing

Kathryn Hogan Amy Rizzo

Kristen Bushmoyer

Jason Piggie Andy Romero Andy Romero

it’s the big, giant wedding. We also get a lot of second-time marriages and those couples still want a really meaningful celebration.”

Cakewalk has maintained Kathryn’s readymade wedding packages, available within the Vow Exchange venues. This alternative approach to a wedding allows couples to relax, enjoy their day, and spend quality time with their guests. “When we say all-inclusive, people can walk in off the street, bring their marriage license, get your dress, and you’re done planning your wedding,” Amy said.

Customizable packages allow couples to pick and choose the services they want within an online portal. Options run the gamut from a 30-minute wedding for two, to a four and one-half hour event, including a ceremony and reception with variations in between. This flexibility benefits couples for whom the financial reality of a Pinterest-perfect,

large-scale wedding comes as a shock. “We have a lot of couples that come to us with misconceptions about what a large wedding is,” Amy said. “Unfortunately, they have already gotten really far down the track of planning it and are basically at the point where they have to throw in the towel on the big wedding.”

The Vow Exchange venues can host anywhere from 60 to 75 guests. According to Kristen, the average traditional wedding accommodates up to 300 people and costs $25,000 to $35,000. By comparison, intimate weddings significantly help to curb costs. “When you have a bigger wedding, you have to pay for a huge venue to accommodate them,” she said. “You also have to pay per person for everybody to have dinner and drinks. It can be bank-breaking. If you’re doing that for 50 people, like our space, it can be pretty affordable.”

Many brides might be tempted to go the DIY wedding route to save money. However, with the high cost of artificial flowers and decor, plus the effort it takes to create and display arrangements, Amy and Kristen agree DIY is not a budget option. “There is a misconception that, ‘I’ll just do a backyard wedding, that will be easier,’ ” Amy said. “I can’t think of anything harder. Maybe you’re not paying for a venue, but you’re paying for so much else just to make it a habitable space.”

Kristen, a self-professed Facebook Marketplace addict, regularly sees DIY wedding decor for sale. “Every weekend I see the DIY wedding stuff on Facebook Marketplace – the acrylic painted welcome sign or the mirror welcome sign with their name stenciled on it,” she said. “They had to put a pretty hefty upfront investment on those items, and I imagine they are banking on the resale.”

Moreover, Kristen pointed to the allure of the Insta-worthy event that many brides aspire to create, which inspires DIY weddings and ballooning event costs. “Prior to social media, you’d see bridal magazines but you weren’t having everybody’s wedding shoved in your face constantly,” Kristen said. “I mean, does that even matter? Aren’t you there to get married to this person that you love and be with your family and celebrate?”

Whether or not a couple strives for a picture-perfect event, big guest lists are no longer expected. The ladies at Cakewalk contend COVID broke certain wedding norms, such as the inherent pressure to invite distant relatives and friends of parents. “You shouldn’t feel guilty about not inviting somebody that you’re not going to see again for the next 10 years until the next generation’s weddings come around,” Kristen said.

Additionally, couples who choose a smaller wedding can spend more quality time together and with their guests. “These are people you really want to see and spend time with,” Kristen said. “The way we have the venue and time frame set up, the couple gets to talk to every person.”

Ultimately, a wedding isn’t about the decor or the number of people on the guest list. Rather, it’s about the couple and the love they share. Amy said she often sees couples get into the weeds, thinking their wedding needs to be custom, but she believes the couples make each event unique. “Everybody is different,” she said. “We have seen literally hundreds of weddings and with back-to-back weddings on the same day. It’s mind-blowing how different the couples and families are. Some people get really dressed up and other people show up in cowboy boots and jeans. There is no right way to do it, and it’s just a cool thing to be in an environment where people feel like they can express themselves a little bit and relax.” More at kcindependent.com

Photographers: Honeybee Photography & Design, Chessa Kae Photography, Kate Moore Photographics, Captured by Lyndsey, and Maggie G Photo

MAGIC MOMENTS

Beautiful BEGINNINGS

THE SECRET INGREDIENT TO EXQUISITE WEDDINGS & EVENTS FOR 26 YEARS Weddings can be overwhelming. With proper planning and execution, we alleviate stress and deliver the wedding of your dreams. We are proud of our awards and recognition, but we became wedding planners because we love creating an unforgettable wedding for you, your family and guests.

Follow us on @simpleelegancekc

Call us at 913-397-9932 • info@iplanyourwedding.com www.simpleelegance.com

More at kcindependent.com

Kristy Marshall Photography

epagaFOTO

James and Jillian Helzberg with flower girl Hazel Gates

Jillian Helzberg and Hazel Gates at Jillian and James Helzberg’s wedding on September 30th

Ericka Schubert Howe and her mini poodle, Abe

Sera Petrras Photography

Sarah and Adam Alli’s wedding party

Bailey Pianalto Photography

Ericka Schubert Howe and James Howe honeymooned in Austria after their October 14th wedding.

Love EVERLASTING

40 YEARS

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Brian Sloan (she was Laura Ann Curry) have the first dance at the reception at Kansas City Country Club following their ceremony at Country Club Christian Church. She is the daughter of Mrs. Susanne Shutz Curry of Kansas City and Mr. Charles E. Curry of Washington, D.C. He is the son of the Robert M. Sloans. After a wedding trip to Canada (Mont Tremblant and Quebec – they stayed at the lovely Chateau Frontenac), they are at home in Lawrence where both are attending law school.

Reprinted from the September 15, 1984 issue of The Independent.

30 YEARS

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Craig Angrist, the former Meredith Lynne Rich, were married on May 28th at The New Reform Temple. A reception was held at The Ritz-Carlton immediately following the ceremony, hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Lewis Rich, the bride’s parents. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Alan George Angrist of Coral Springs, Florida. The lovely rehearsal dinner took place on the evening of the 27th at Oakwood Country Club and was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Uhlmann, the bride’s grandparents. Following a sun-filled cruise to the South Caribbean, the couple is at home in New Jersey.

Reprinted from the July 30, 1994 issue of The Independent.

Your wedding day will fly by in the blink of an eye! One of the best ways to make sure your day goes smoothly is to be able to rely on vendors who will take care of everything behind the scenes while you get to enjoy your special moments. Adding different activities and ways to keep your guests involved during your reception is a great way to ensure amazing memories are made that you and your guests can look back on through the years.

– Helen Krause, PHOTO BOOTH by HK

I Wonder –which recent nuptial celebration still has one of the dads gushing about the entire experience? n n

Reprinted from the August 30, 1924 issue of The Independent.

John Wakefield

REMEMBER WHEN

73 Years Ago

Leaving the Stradthuis at The Hague after their marriage, April 28, in The Netherlands are Mr. and Mrs. Michael Steele Bright Churchman, Jr. The bride was Jean Virginia Wood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Armit Wood. Her husband is a son of Mr. and Mrs. M. S. B. Churchman of Indianapolis. Richard Edgar, the bride’s brother, in the background.

Reprinted from the May 26, 1951 issue of The Independent.

80 Years Ago

Ensign and Mrs. Charles Leslie Thompson, bridal couple of last Saturday, when their marriage was solemnized at old St. Mary’s Church in Newport, Rhode Island. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Maffry; Ensign Thompson, the son of Dr. and Mrs. John Thompson.

Reprinted from the November 11, 1944 issue of The Independent.

Ruth Gross

DOCUMENTING

ed ings

By Anne Potter Russ

Capturing, saving, and presenting the images of a wedding celebration is a process that requires a lot more thought and effort than just throwing a few photos in a scrapbook and calling it a day (although back in the day, that’s what we did!). Today’s couples want to preserve the feeling, the journey, the people, and the pieces that make up a wedding day - from start to finish. Capturing the emotion, whether it is pure joy or sentimentality or crazy fun, takes a keen eye, a big heart, and an organized, spreadsheet-kind-of-person.

Bailey Pianalto immediately came to mind as the go-to photographer in the category of telling a wedding story. What follows is our conversation in Fairway over one herb tea and one latte.

TI: The process of documenting a wedding has changed over the years, what is different now and why?

BP: Couples have seen so much content on social media, and they think they have to capture every single moment, or they might forget something. They are afraid of missing “that one photo,” when really the approach should be looking at the whole day and the entire experience. As a photographer, I suggest that they hire a videographer, if that is something they want. And then, the photography will tell a whole different story.

TI: How do you start the process with an interested couple?

BP: After they have contacted me, I first have to check the date. I can only do about 15-16 weddings a year, and those popular weekends fill up fast, so I have to make sure I’m available. If they want me to travel out of town, I can certainly do that, but it takes a little more time. (One-third of Bailey’s contracts this year are for out-of-town weddings.) Next, I have a conversation with the couple. I want to find out who they are, what they are thinking, and then meet them where they are - in terms of what the wedding day will look like.

It is important for me to find out what the couple’s priorities are for the day. Are they looking for something sentimental, or timeless, or familyoriented, or catching those “in-between” moments? I want to know what is the most important part of the day to them, and are they interested in more candid or posed photos. (At this point, I love to add in an engagement photo session, so I can get to know the couple better. It gives us a chance to build trust and be open with each other before we even get to the wedding.)

Contracts are written for a minimum of eight hours, which allows me to be with the couple one hour before dressing, and then one hour to capture the dance floor shenanigans!

Mother and daughter

Bailey Pianalto

Nathalie’s shoes

Nathalie and Joshua

TI: You do such a beautiful job capturing the objects associated with the day, what is that like?

BP: For me, photographing the “still life” of favorite wedding objects is a warm-up exercise. I see what is important to the bride and groom, and maybe their families. It’s so touching if there are pieces that belonged to a relative or friend who can’t be at the wedding - those always bring about good stories and memories. It’s one of my favorite parts of the day.

TI: When you are in the middle of photographing the actual wedding and reception, how do you prioritize so you get the “right stuff?”

BP: My number one goal is to read the room! I want to catch people’s reactions to things that happen organically. Sometimes, couples need to be directed and told to pose quite a bit - I can do that. And, sometimes couples just go with the flow, and I don’t have to direct, I can just collect. Either way, I use my emotional intelligence and trust my ability to get to know my couples and their families in a short amount of time. By this time in the day, I know what my couple’s vibe is, what they are looking for, and what I think will make them happy with the results.

TI: How did you get started in this business?

BP: I wanted to be an entrepreneur, and I thought I would be a travel blogger! But, I also knew that I loved taking pictures. So, I booked an engagement photo session, and I knew after that session that I was hooked! Then, I had to learn the wedding business. So I made friends with wedding planners, went to bridal shows, and I started tracking (on a spreadsheet) who I had met, who knew who, and who referred me to whom. My first wedding was in 2018, so you can see what is coming - the pandemic. During 2019 and 2020, I sent “at-home” date night packages to my couples who had had to reschedule their weddings, just to let them know I was thinking about them.

Then, 2021 and 2022 were packed with everyone trying to fit in a rescheduled wedding. I got the feel of my business pretty quickly in those crazy couple of years. Since then, I have adored what I do, and I keep in touch with all of my couples. It is so rewarding to catch up with them later and relive the occasion.

TI: What does the future hold for you?

BP: Well, we just built a house, so we are all moved in and settling into our new space, and I just came from spending time in the garden. As far as weddings go, I’d like to pare down the number per year to 12. And, I’d like for half of those to be in town, and half on the road. Next year, I already have some scheduled for The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Chicago, Greece, New York City, and Naples, Florida. I love being able to scout out a new location for a photo shoot. It is so much fun for me when the couple is open to new places and ideas for photos. I absolutely love what I do. More at kcindependent.com

Frances’ vignette

Vance and Frances

A touching vignette

Alex

Bailey Pianalto Photography

73 Years Ago

emember en

Mrs. Thomas Cogswell Donaca, whose marriage was solemnized with much beauty and dignity, March 10, in the Memorial Chapel at Stanford University, Palo Alto, was Beverley Katharine Newman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Albert Newman. Her bridegroom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Donaca of Portland, Oregon. They will live in Fresno.

Mrs. Kenneth W. Tapp, Jr., was Jeanne Tinsley, daughter of the Walter E. Tinsleys of Glencoe, Ill., before her wedding February 24, at the Winnetka Congregational Church. A reception was held at Skokie Country Club in Glencoe. After a Gulf Coast honeymoon, they are at home at 4420 Roanoke Parkway.

All reprinted from the March 17, 1951 issue of The Independent.

Mrs. Buford J. Roney, formerly Joan Foster Purdy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Edward Purdy, spoke marriage lines March 10 at Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral with the son of Mrs. Marie A. Roney of Kansas City, Kansas. After a New Orleans honeymoon, they will reside at 4519 West 69, Mission, Kansas.

Mrs. Ralph Seefred Michael, Jr., née Alma Hall, daughter of Mrs. Howard Shields Hall, was a bride of March 7 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. After a reception at University Club, the couple left for a honeymoon in New York and Bermuda. When they return, about March 27, they will reside at Twin Oaks.

Atzenweiler

Atzenweiler

Ken Newman

EVERLASTING

25 YEARS

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Win Moreland of Overland Park, Kansas, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Susan Win, to Robert Starritt Scott. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Mrs. Frank J. Dean, Jr., and the late Mr. Robert Milton Belisle, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Harry Moreland. Susan is a graduate of Sunset Hill School and Texas Christian University, where she received a bachelor of science degree in fashion merchandising. She is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Susan was a Jewel Ball debutante in 1983 and is a BOTAR, class of 1986. Currently, she is a personal banking officer/branch manager of Country Club Bank. Her groom-elect, the son of Mrs. Hervey Starritt Scott of Prairie Village, Kansas, and the late Mr. Scott, graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School and Baker University, where he received a bachelor of science degree in biology. Bob is a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity and is an account manager with Chicago Title Insurance Company. Susan and Bob will exchange vows on November 27th at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Reprinted from the July 31, 1999 issue of The Independent.

S20 YEARS

arah Adrienne Orr and Gabe Paul Hensley were united in marriage on August 14, 2004 at Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral. Adrienne is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Moffett Orr of Our Town. Gabe is the son of Cheri Lomonte of Littleton, Colorado, and Mr. Harold Nelms “Bud” Hensley of Berkeley, California. The reception was held at The Kansas City Country Club. After a honeymoon trip to Playa del Carmen in Mexico, the couple is now at home in Austin, Texas.

Reprinted from the March 19, 2005 issue of The Independent.

I Wonder –which two daughters might want to ask their mother about the honeymoon cooler story?

REMEMBER WHEN

84 Years Ago

Mrs. Clinton Hayes Gates before her garden wedding in Greenwich, Connecticut, on June first, was Doris Mead, socially prominent daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur B. Mead.

Reprinted from the June 8, 1940 issue of The Independent.

“The day is about you and your partner, and you should have the wedding you both want. This also applies to vendors and budgets. If there is anything that doesn’t give you a warm and fuzzy feeling, just keep looking, it is out there. Finally, trust your gut with the budget. Spend on what’s important to you, nothing less.” – Maurine Lenahan, Hilton President Kansas City

VanDeusen Photography

Isaac Alongi

Rachel’s Reads

It’s often been said that literature helps us find the words for that which we already know. That is especially true when it comes to love. To me, it feels only natural to incorporate the words of brilliant authors into one of the readings at a wedding ceremony. Finding a lovely quote from a book can be such a special way to share feelings and emotions in a way that rings true to a couple. Whether funny or heartfelt, literature has it all and can set the tone for a beautiful ceremony and a loving marriage. Here are a few of my favorite passages that work well for a ceremony reading.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman: “Do I love you? My God, if your love were a grain of sand, mine would be a universe of beaches… I have stayed these years in my hovel because of you. I have taught myself languages because of you. I have made my body strong because I thought you might be pleased by a strong body. I have lived my life with only the prayer that some sudden dawn you might glance in my direction. I have not known a moment in years when the sight of you did not send my heart careening against my rib cage. I have not known a night when your visage did not accompany me to sleep. There has not been a morning when you did not flutter behind my waking eyelids… I love you. Okay? Want it louder? I love you. Spell it out, should I? I ell-oh-vee-ee why-oh-you. Want it backward? You love I… I’ve been saying it so long to you, you just wouldn’t listen. Every time you said, ‘Farm Boy, do this’, you thought I was answering, ‘As you wish’, but that’s only because you were hearing wrong. ‘I love you’ was what it was, but you never heard.”

The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran: “Let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other’s cup but drink not from one cup. Give one another of your bread but eat not from the same loaf. Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone, Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music. Give your hearts, but not into each other’s keeping. For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts. And stand together, yet not too near together: For the pillars of the temple stand apart, And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other’s shadow.”

The Four Loves by C.S Lewis: “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable.”

Paradise by Toni Morrison: “Let me tell you about love, that silly word you believe is about whether you like somebody or whether somebody likes you or whether you can put up with somebody in order to get something or someplace you want or you believe it has to do with how your body responds to another body like robins or bison or maybe you believe love is how forces or nature or luck is benign to you in particular not maiming or killing you but if so doing it for your own good. Love is none of that. There is nothing in nature like it. Not in robins or bison or in the banging tails of your hunting dogs and not in blossoms or suckling foal. Love is divine only and difficult always. If you think it is easy you are a fool. If you think it is natural you are blind. It is a learned application without reason or motive except that it is God. You do not deserve love regardless of the suffering you have endured. You do not deserve love because somebody did you wrong. You do not deserve love just because you want it. You can only earn – by practice and careful contemplations – the right to express it and you have to learn how to accept it.”

The Chaos of Stars by Kiersten White:

“I didn’t fall in love with you. I walked into love with you, with my eyes wide open, choosing to take every step along the way. I do believe in fate and destiny, but I also believe we are only fated to do the things that we’d choose anyway. And I’d choose you; in a hundred lifetimes, in a hundred worlds, in any version of reality, I’d find you and I’d choose you.”

Cheers!

Bailey

Pianalto Photography

TECH SAV VY AND TYING THE KNOT IN 2024

By Monica V. Reynolds

in the digital age knows no bounds, and neither do the ways we celebrate it. This year, Kansas City offers new ways for couples to show their devotion and document their unique love stories. In 2024, planning a proposal no longer requires going it alone, and the term, “wedding content creator,” has evolved.

Riley Canty of Yes Girls, and Vlad Leto, co-owner of Paparazzi Proposals, shared their thoughts on the trend of virtual proposal planners and insights to craft the ideal proposal. Meanwhile, Carmen Desiree of Socially Weddings dished on what she envisions will be a permanent fixture of modern weddings – content creation.

Naturally, one must first propose or accept a proposal before walking down the aisle. It’s a brief moment that will be remembered for a lifetime, which is why some choose to hire the services of a professional proposal planner.

Riley’s company, Yes Girls, is located in Orange County, California, and provides fully custom proposal design ideas for clients across the United States and abroad. Once an idea is selected, the virtual proposal planner handles all outreach, including communication with vendors and venues to provide the client with options. In addition, the planner will design and order all custom décor and ensure that everything included in the design comes together and is perfectly placed for the client’s big day. “All the proposer has to do is show up and enjoy one of the most special moments of their life,” Riley said. “We make sure everything is perfect and beautiful. Planners will take care of any guests who might be in attendance to make sure they don’t spoil the surprise.” In addition, Yes Girls planners can also provide pre-proposal advice.

Similarly, Vlad, whose company is based in New York City, helps individuals across the country choose the right idea, location, and time to pop the big question. His company, Paparazzi Proposals, also assists with sourcing well-placed decorations and ensuring the photographer is at the right place at just the right time to document the moment. “For some people, the proposal is more important than the wedding,” he said.

“The proposer doesn’t know the answer, and the person on the other side of the proposal doesn’t know it will happen. It makes it more interesting and there are more emotions.”

In Vlad’s opinion, proposers who don’t opt for professional help run the risk of thinking their idea is a good one – when in reality it can be disastrous. To that end, Vlad highlighted Christmas or Thanksgiving Day proposals as popular choices but cautioned against them due to the distractions of festivities and family gatherings. Similarly, proposing at a sporting event may detract from the intimacy of the moment. “A proposal isn’t something you need to share with hundreds of strangers,” Vlad said. “It’s more about the two people than about putting on a show.”

Rather than opting for holidays and showmanship, Vlad recommends selecting a date and location that holds personal significance for the couple. “The proposal should be based on the relationship, like the location of a first date or other memories specific to the relationship,” he said.

Overall, executing a meaningful proposal comes down to careful planning. While he says social media may influence the photos or decor of the moment, the finer details count the most. “Don’t rush the planning process,” Vlad said. “Take your time with options and ideas, and ask for advice about the location and time.”

Indeed, special moments from the initial engagement to walking down the aisle require careful consideration and ways to document these memorable moments. This is where

Riley Canty

Vlad Leto

Carmen Desiree

Yes Girls created this beautiful proposal.

wedding content creators come in. This trend blends the tradition of documenting a wedding day with the relatively newer art of a well-timed social media video or snap.

Carmen Desiree is one such creator in Kansas City who focuses on capturing the small, big, and in-between moments of a couple’s wedding day. In the age of social media, people want personalized snaps, videos, and reels to share online. “Everyone wants to share everything on social media,” she said. With a professional content creator, a couple and their guests can relax, put their phones down, and be in the moment. “I capture everything and that’s really nice because a lot can get missed,” Carmen said. “I relieve the stress of capturing the behind-the-scenes moments for them.”

Carmen has been a social media influencer for brands including Netflix, Hallmark, Marriott, and other notable companies. As such, she understands people want the option to personalize their snaps to match their feed aesthetic. With this in mind, she delivers all photos, raw and unedited, within 24 hours after the wedding. “A completely raw and unedited view of the day is something that not a lot of people get,” Carmen said. “A photographer spends hours editing the perfect image. Whereas, with content creation, they can relive moments that aren’t usually captured. I get to capture the little jokes in the background, and all of the laughter, and I think those are really important.”

Additionally, Carmen said couples enjoy the instant gratification of receiving photos immediately following the wedding. Not only do they get to relive the big day, but guests can also receive all of the videos and photos via a cloud folder. “It really helps the day go smoothly, especially when you have 10 people in a wedding party and everyone wants the pictures on their phones,” she said. “This way, the album can be sent out to whomever they want.”

Considering how social media has infused the wedding industry, Carmen, who is also a bride-to-be, pointed to the uniqueness of modern weddings. “I’ve noticed weddings aren’t nearly as traditional as they used to be and social media could definitely play a part in that,” she said. “I don’t think couples are as afraid of stepping out of the norm for something unique and/or fun on their big day. Even for those who may not like social media much, it’s always fun to have a video go viral!”

While wedding trends may have evolved with technology, planning and capturing personalized, meaningful moments remains a fixture of modern love. Couples’ access to specialized proposal planning services and wedding content creation gives those about to say “I do” more unique and memorable ways to create and capture the most special occasions of their lives.

TYG Photography

Yes Girls will curate a couple's perfect proposal.

She said yes!

A happy couple shared a special moment designed by Yes Girls.

FAR FROM HOME Shipboard romance forges path toward ope, earth, ome

Getting paid well to do what you love most is the dream of many. Yet even that has a shelf life if it takes you away from family, friends, and home: if it prevents you from building a life with a backyard and a mortgage and maybe even some kids.

Annie Laura Dauzat and David Cross have spent nearly a decade entertaining guests on glamorous cruise ships, as members of the professional crews of dancers, singers, and actors that present nightly onboard shows for passengers.

But after dozens of picturesque ports in the Americas, Europe, Australia, and Asia; after sun-drenched days in San Juan and Cozumel and leisurely nights in the Bahamas and Quebec; after luxurious trips on Princess, Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean lines, they are ready to conclude this chapter and begin a new one.

In short, they are getting married. And after all this global port-hopping, they could think of a no more auspicious place to tie the knot than in a tiny boutique hotel in New Orleans. No bridesmaids, no groomsmen, no organist: just Annie and David, their vows, and family and friends.

What better evidence of true love than a readiness to give up a life of sea and sun to spend quality time on the ground? “We’re ready to ride off into the sunset,” said David recently, with a laugh, during a break in San Juan on the couple’s 17-month contract on Princess Cruise Lines. “Our plan after the last trip is to buy a house and move back to Kansas City.”

David is a Kansas Citian who earned a bachelor of fine arts degree in dance performance from The UMKC Conservatory, and Annie is a Louisiana native with a bachelor of science degree in musical theater and dance from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. Neither has had a fixed home for very long since graduating.

“Being on board ship and being able to work together has been pretty great,” Annie said. “But we definitely miss family. This past Christmas was our first away from home, and that’s really hard.”

David missed the arrival of his sister’s first baby, which hits him harder today than it might have 10 years ago. “I would like to be around for things like that now.”

Their wedding in June 2025 is the culmination of a beautiful seven-year courtship. But even before David’s wildly romantic proposal last year — on a hilltop in the Canary Islands, with the setting sun lighting up a multihued seascape — they had discussed the possibilities of a permanent bond.

In April 2023, Annie Dauzat and David Cross posed on board the Enchanted Princess, one of three Princess Cruise Line ships they would board during their 17-month contract, somewhere off the coast of Mexico.

The couple relaxed in St. Kitts, during a break in their most recent cruise on the Enchanted Princess.

Annie and David were decked out for “Five Skies,” one of four rotating shows they perform on three different Princess cruises.

“We already knew that we were committed to each other, and that we were going to be there for each other, be each other’s foundation,” David said. “Marriage just kind of solidifies it.”

It was at a dramatic lookout above Las Palmas de Gran Canaria that he finally asked for Annie’s hand, having already secured her parents’ approval, Old-World style. “I had the ring in my pocket all day, and we got off the boat and I immediately started looking around crazily for a good spot,” David said.

The moment was perfect. “The sun was setting and it poured rain for a few minutes,” Annie said. “And then it stopped and the sun came out. It was gorgeous, quite poetic.”

After braving COVID-19, eight months of “long distance”, and David’s double-meniscus knee surgery, they felt well-tempered. “We’ve shown that we can get through almost anything, and I can’t picture doing this with anyone else,” Annie said.

Back in Kansas City, they have planted seeds for careers in the city’s bustling arts scene. Both are involved with Quixotic, having performed in Sensatia, Dark Forest, and Terra Luna and having served as part of the creative team for Whiskey Dynamite.

The couple’s first encounter was humble enough. It was the fall of 2017, and both were contracted as dancers in a theatrical presentation (Illumination Sensation) at the Texas State Fair in Dallas. As they began to chat, they quickly found common ground.

David remembers being captivated by Annie’s eyes, “a really pretty light-blue color that caught my attention.” Annie was intrigued by David’s habit of arriving to work early so that he could sit in his car and talk to his mother on the phone. “I just thought that was the sweetest thing ever,” she said. “Since that moment we just started hanging out together — and we’ve never really stopped.”

Alas, fate intervened before they could be together: David had an eight-month contract on a Disney Cruise that began in January. “It made me really sad,” David said, “because I was getting ready to leave on this contract and would probably never see her again.” Happily, the latter proved not to be true, although this would be the longest period they have been apart to date.

Considering how deeply in love they were, it seemed confounding that it should be so hard to be together. “It’s as if we said, Hey let’s create the most difficult circumstances we possibly can and see if this works,” Annie said. “And if it works under these circumstances, then maybe it can work anywhere.”

If nothing else, they became determined to seek employment together in the future. “It would really be insane for us to take anything separately now,” David said.

Annie and David are professional dancers primarily, though in the onboard shows they are sometimes called upon to sing and act. Rehearsals happen on land before they board ship and each cruise can have between two and four rotating shows (“Rock Opera,” “Spotlight Bar,” etc.).

Not only do these shows draw upon the whole range of styles for which a dancer trains — from ballet to Broadway, jazz to hip-hop — the challenge of performing every night for months at a time is an ideal “seasoning” for any stage professional.

On a Carnival cruise in 2021, Annie and David were able to perform a pas de deux that revealed the trust that was growing between them. They were also becoming aware of interesting differences in their styles.

David started life as a break dancer and has participated in everything from rap videos to the summer intensive of Kevin Iega Jeff’s renowned Deeply Rooted Dance Theater.

Annie has worked in a wide range of musical theater and dance, including aerial and trapeze, but on the ships often finds herself “called home” to perform straight ballet. “David’s style is completely opposite mine, and that is so intriguing to me,” she said. “He is very grounded and yet fluid, ‘ooey-gooey’ for lack of a better word. Whereas I am very ‘up in the air,’ en relevé, high-energy.”

After a pause, she continued: “Now that I think about it, that is a pretty accurate description of our relationship as a couple, too, and of our personalities. I’m big emotions, big feelings, I’m up and jumping around and really into things. And David has a good way of calming me down: ‘Let’s just go with the flow, and ease into things.’ ”

Opposites attract, in other words: “As cheesy as that sounds,” she said. But this symbiotic attraction also brings harmony. “To be able to have a career in the arts that supports you is extremely difficult,” David said, “let alone two people together who are both artists.” Their careers have aligned neatly, and the confluence has helped the couple build savings toward a down payment on their future house.

“We’re really fortunate that it has worked out for David and me to be on the same timeline,” Annie said, adding that the next day they were going kayaking and snorkeling on a nature reserve in St. Thomas. “We feel really blessed to be able to have experiences such as this and at the same time save for when our on-land future together begins.”

More at kcindependent.com

Much to David’s relief, she said yes.

The couple posed recently for their official engagement photos, shown here at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Frank Pham

T’S ALL ABOUT

THE AIR

By Anne Potter Russ

IEzoza Khashimova

n terms of miles, there are 6,826 of them between Stilwell, Kansas, and Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Ezoza Khashimova travels those miles quite often - as do her husband, children, parents, and in-laws. She is originally from Tashkent, and her sisters, brother, parents, and in-laws still live there. She moved to Los Angeles in 2006 to learn English and try to create her dream of becoming a hairstylist.

Ezoza has always been interested in the art of hairstyling, the newest trends, the best products, and the healthiest ways to treat hair and make her clients incredibly happy. While her journey started in her hometown, she found L.A. to be the obvious choice for honing her craft and learning while going to trade shows, working at salons, and meeting with the best in the business. But, L.A. was not going to be home. Although she met wonderful people and mentors, she had also met her future husband through mutual friends, and he lived in Kansas City. They were married in 2010, and she began her career here.

While working in several different kinds of salons in Kansas City, Ezoza’s dream has always been to open her own place, where there is more to offer clients than just a cut and color menu. It has taken years of dreaming and saving, but she has finally created the perfect space for her entire vision. That vision includes not just hairstyling, but catering specifically to brides, and also renting out the facility for bridal parties to have their hair and makeup done, relax, and be able to get ready together for the big day. The result is that Hair By Ezoza is a light, lovely, large, open space in Stilwell, at 160th and Metcalf, welcoming and warm. According to Ezoza, “I am a professional luxury wedding and editorial hair stylist. I want to work with beautiful brides from the inside out, by getting to know them and putting them at ease with my expertise. I love making them feel so incredibly beautiful on their special day! The brides are in safe hands because as a perfectionist, I pay attention to the details. My job is to bring a dream-look into reality.”

When brides are interested in Hair By Ezoza, the process is this: Clients reach out and check the date and ask for a consultation; if a date is agreed upon, a contract is signed to hold the date; then a bridal hair preview is scheduled, so that the requested

style(s) can be tried out and tested; and the big day can include hairstyling for multiple people, makeup services, and refreshments. In addition, Ezoza can provide or work with accessories for the hair, including extensions, and accommodate very specific cultural requests, such as working with veils, and more. At the preview, she will photograph the results, so the bride can share her look with family and friends.

Once the big day arrives, Ezoza can either travel to the bride and her group to style everyone (including destination weddings), or they can rent her facility. Either way, clients will find an ally in Ezoza. She will take away the stress of the day (at least the hairstyling part!), and her expertise will make everyone feel welcomed, listened to, and relaxed.

In addition to the traditional cut and color services she provides, Ezoza also trains other hair stylists, one-on-one. She offers a program whereby a stylist can spend at least five hours with her, learn different styles and techniques, and heighten their own business.

Ezoza and her husband are raising three boys while she is running her business and he is working full time (with occasional help from traveling parents and in-laws). When she had her grand opening of the salon recently, all four of her “men” were in attendance and so very proud of what she has accomplished. There might have been a lot of fancy hair and flowers and champagne for some adolescent youths, but it’s obvious that she is modeling hard work, commitment, and following a dream for her boys. (Dress rental by Curated Gowns/Annie Liu; makeup by @tstylemakeup.)

More at kcindependent.com

REMEMBER WHEN

81 Years Ago The IndependentKansas City’s Oldest Magazine

“It’s your wedding night, and you deserve to ride in style. Make sure to reserve a town car or a private car service in advance for yourselves. Save your rideshare app for your honeymoon adventures.” – The Oliver Building

Annie Lui Photography

Reprinted from the June 12, 1943 issue of The Independent.

WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?

Wedding Stories To Make Everyone Feel Better

We decided to ask friends to share their funny/harrowing stories from weddings and honeymoons, and we were not disappointed! Thank you to all who accepted our challenge and voiced their journeys - it’s always funnier down the road, right?

“We ordered chicken nuggets and could hear them killing a chicken out back and left as quickly as possible.”

Megan, 2009, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

“I got stuck out in the ocean on a jet ski. I couldn’t see due to my contact lens drying out, while my husband drove around me spraying me with water, not knowing I was sobbing. Not funny then, but funny now.”

Alexandria, 2011, Aruba

“As I walked down the very long church aisle on my dad’s arm, I noticed a friend had brought a date. I knew he had only RSVP’d for one and that there wouldn’t be a seat or a place card for his date. This is what I worried about as I walked down the aisle!”

Lisa, 1991, Northbrook, Illinois

“Our friend Frank was running a little late for our wedding at my wife’s parents’ house. About 10 minutes into the ceremony, the doorbell rang. We turned from the minister and said, ‘Hi Frank.’ Then the ceremony resumed.”

Mark, 2001, Shawnee, Kansas

“I spilled a bottle of Champagne in our bed between us.”

Martha, 1977, Kansas City, Missouri

“My dad got his feet tangled in my train and tripped as he left me at the altar to sit down in the pew with my mom, and he yelled, ‘Perfect!’ The minister had to wait to continue because he was laughing so hard.”

Laura, 2013, Prairie Village, Kansas

“Our limo driver decided to go to The Peanut for a few drinks during the wedding ceremony. So, my mom fired him and we got to travel in a beautiful wood-paneled station wagon to our reception, with my uncle as the chauffeur.”

Janet, 1989, Kansas City, Missouri

“I got food poisoning the night/morning we were leaving for our cruise. It wasn’t pretty.”

Kaley, 2012, Overland Park, Kansas

“My husband-to-be’s grandmother yelled at the beginning of our service, ‘The bride is coming!’ when she saw a woman in a salmon-colored dress. But it was my twin sister.”

Karin, 1987, Hamburg, Germany

“In 2008, after the market crash, I was on my honeymoon in Mexico. People kept talking about the ‘depresión’, and I assumed people were discussing recent financial impacts. Nope, we were in a tropical depression, basically a hurricane! I’m sure everyone thought we were crazy as we tried playing ping pong poolside, and the wind was so strong we couldn’t hit the ball to the other side of the table!”

Julia, 2008, Riviera Maya, Mexico

“We eloped and purchased a $200 wedding special outside of Branson. We forgot a camera, so we bought a disposable camera at a gas station right before we got to the chapel. We hired two witnesses and asked one to take pictures. The dry cleaners had lost Paul’s pants, so he had a mismatched suit coat and pants. The pants were huge because he had lost weight, so he had to use a belt to tie and hold them up. I requested a wedding song when I walked down the aisle, and they forgot to play it. We grabbed Mountain Dews after the ceremony at a gas station. Best day and I wouldn’t change it for anything!”

Anna, 2008, somewhere near Branson, Missouri

“After an eventful 2020 wedding, on our way to Lake Tahoe for our honeymoon, we encountered not one, but two record-breaking blizzards! As we were driving, we got rerouted to Sacramento, and we were stuck in traffic because someone’s dog kept laying in the road on the side of the mountain. The rest of the trip was lovely, but getting to the destination was an adventure!”

Danielle, 2020, Lake Tahoe, California

“I have too many funnies. But, Rick had never ridden in a limo, so I rented one. But all of the residents (in my retirement home) ended up in it, so Rick got to arrive in the old Camry.”

Sally, 2002, Kansas City, Missouri

“We had to cancel our planned wedding in Florida due to Hurricane Floyd. We put together a last-minute trip to Hawaii with no family or friends. We bought wedding outfits (matching dress and Hawaiian shirt) at Hilo Hattie’s, because my dress was being shipped to Florida! We were featured in a segment on the Joplin News when we returned home. Hard to believe it was 25 years ago!”

Wendy, 1999, between Florida and Hawaii

“We didn’t have time to eat at our reception, so the caterers made a to-go box for us to eat when we got to the hotel - very late. We unpacked the box and discovered that there was no plastic ware. Luckily, my husband remembered that there was one plastic fork in the glove compartment of the car, and he retrieved it so we could finally eat.”

Anne, 1992, Kansas City, Missouri

“I got locked in the bathroom of a restaurant on our honeymoon for 20 minutes, and my new husband didn’t come looking for me. The bathroom was in the kitchen, so it was noisy, and no one heard me banging on the door. Finally, another patron wanted to use the restroom, and I was freed.”

Anonymous, 1993, Grand Cayman Island

“It was so windy the day of our wedding! We were supposed to get married on the golf course, but they couldn’t even get the chairs set up. So, we got married in the front drive, where there was some protection from the wind. There is a photo of me that looks like I’m almost not standing on my feet because I was being blown away!”

Natalie, 2018, La Quinta, California

“Our officiant skipped my vows because he forgot my name.”

Allie, Kansas City, Missouri

REMEMBER WHEN

84 Years Ago

Truog-McCune Bridal Party: Irvine O. Hockaday III, Judith Harris, George Haydon, Peggy Sue Neal, Mrs. Irvine O. Hockaday III, J. J. Ruddy, Margaret Woods of Lewistown, Pa., William E. Truog, Jr., the bride, Bettie Cole McCune, Courtland W. Nichols, the bridegroom, Morton Darlington Truog, Joan Tureman, William J. Smith, Mrs. William J. Smith, Joseph M. McCune, Jr., Mary Hamilton Bracken, F. Walter McCarty, Jr., and Jean Wight.

Reprinted from the November 16, 1940 issue of The Independent.

80 Years Ago

A glimpse of the Wedding Tableau presented by Emery, Bird, Thayer’s at their Summer Fashion Showing this week.

Reprinted from the November 11, 1944 issue of The Independent.

Love EVERLASTING

10 YEARS

Melissa Goodwin Fate and Casey Jon Sansale exchanged wedding vows on July 5th at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Melissa is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Goodwin Fate of Mission Hills, and Casey is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Edward Sansale of St. Paul, Minnesota. The bride’s grandparents are Mrs. Fred Schoenfeld of Mission Hills and the late Mr. Schoenfeld, and Mrs. Jack Fate of Prairie Village and the late Mr. Fate, and the late Maxine Fate. The groom’s grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hummel and the late Mr. and Mrs Edward Sansale. After a honeymoon in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the couple is home in Fairway, where Melissa is a first grade teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School, and Casey is employed with Cerner Corporation.

Reprinted from the November 15, 2014 issue of The Independent.

5 YEARS

Sara Elizabeth Colt Goodwin and George Thomas Lin were married on June 22nd at Christ Community Church Brookside. The bride is the daughter of Kristin and John Goodwin of Mission Hills, Kansas. She is the granddaughter of Sara Colt of Mission Hills and the late Mack Colt, and Elizabeth and Frederick Goodwin, Jr. of Mission Hills. Her groom is the son of Katherine and Dr. Boyang Lin of Richardson, Texas. George is the grandson of Catherine and George Smith, Jr., of Midland, Texas, and the late Dr. Mary Pin Chang and the late Dr. TongChi Lin. On the evening prior to the ceremony, the groom’s parents toasted their son and future daughter-in-law at a rehearsal dinner at Grand Street Cafe. Following the wedding, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at The Kansas City Country Club. The happy couple enjoyed a honeymoon in Fiji and New Zealand. Sara and George are at home in Nashville, Tennessee, where they are medical students at Vanderbilt University.

Reprinted from the October 12, 2019 issue of The Independent.

I Wonder –which mother-of-the-bride has been gently relieved of her wedding planning duties, and she is actually now delighted?

Sudvarg

Cassandra Castenada

Cirese, Georgous Aesthetic Bar

Calendar OF Events

JUNE

1

Children’s Mercy Kansas City; Big Slick Celebrity Weekend; Weekend event hosted by native KC celebrities Rob Riggle, Paul Rudd, Jason Sudeikis, Eric Stonestreet, David Koechner, and Heidi Gardner. They invite celebrity friends and celebrate with exclusive VIP parties, softball games, and a party and show; Kauffman Stadium and T-Mobile Center. Contact Children’s Mercy Events Team: 816-346-1300 or events@cmh.edu or bigslickkc.org.

2 Folly Theater; 10th Annual Garden Party; Every year, Brian Williams, our development director, hosts the Folly Garden Party in the garden of his historic Hyde Park home to support the Folly Theater’s general operations fund. These funds help preserve our historic theater, book internationally acclaimed artists, and more; Hyde Park. Contact Cassidy Manetta: 816-768-6882 or cassidy@follytheater.org or follytheater.org/fundraisers/folly-garden-party.

3 Alphapointe; C&C Group Alphapointe Pro-Am; This annual golf tournament helps support the funding of activities and programs for youth who are blind or visually impaired, including an Adventure Camp, which helps them build confidence, improve independence, and learn more about competing in a competitive world; Loch Lloyd Country Club; 8 a.m. Contact Jake McLaughlin: 816-237-2059 or jmclaughlin@alphapointe.org or alphapointe.org/about/events/cc-groupalphapointe-pro-am.

3 KidsTLC; KidsTLC Open; Get ready to “play it forward” while helping to transform the lives of children and families in our community. Golfers will enjoy a decadent day on the rolling links, complete with lavish food stations, custom cocktails, elite gifts, and creative competitions; Shadow Glen Golf Club; 9 a.m. Contact Rojanae Williams: 913-424-4384 or rwilliams@kidstlc.org or kidstlc.org/kidstlc-open.

3 Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City; Trent Green Golf Classic & Julie Green Pickleball Tournament; Join Trent Green and other local celebrities on the golf course to support families at RMHC-KC. With shotgun starts at both 7:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., a day of food, prizes, and fun is in store for everyone! Afterward, join us on the pickleball courts for our 2nd Annual Julie Green Pickleball Tournament; 7:30 a.m. Contact Allison Malott: 816-541-8314 or amalott@rmhckc.org or rmhckc.org/golf.

6 The Children’s Place; Gratitude Bruncheon; Enjoy a delicious brunch while celebrating the impact of The Children’s Place and a few of the many people who have made a special difference in the last year; 10:30 a.m. Contact Denton Williams: 816-363-1898 or williamsd@ childrensplacekc.org or childrensplacekc.org/gratitude-bruncheon.

7 Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA); 3rd Annual Play Like a Kid Field Day Fundraiser; Relive school memories with CAPA! Teams of five adults register to compete in 10 rounds of silly field day games with a swag bag, sack lunch, tasty frozen dessert offerings, fun trophies, and more! Fun for offices, civic groups, and organizations; Franke Soccer Fields; 10:30 a.m. Contact Kat Hellige: 816-252-8388 or khellige@capacares.org or capacares.org/events.

7 Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium; Jazzoo; Party animals from across the metro will gather to enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment — all while raising money for the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Funds provide food for the animals in our care and educational opportunities for the youth of our community; Kansas City Zoo. Contact Susan McFee: 816-595-1234 or askthezoo@fotzkc.org or kansascityzoo.org/jazzoo.

7 Sheffield Place; 14th Annual Sheffield Place Golf Tournament; The tournament will feature drawings, a silent auction, games, prizes, and more! Shoal Creek Golf Course; 8 a.m. Contact David Hanzlick: 816-483-9927 or dhanzlick@sheffieldplace.org or sheffieldplace.org.

I Wonder –whose wedding proposal involved the parking lot of a local strip mall? n n

9 Geeks For Kids; Wheels & Wishes; Join us for the biggest day of our year - when more than 70 kids receive the #Power2Play! Watch as they drive their adaptive cars for the first time, listen to their stories, tour our Car Design Studio, and learn what we have planned for the next generation of vehicles and assistive devices; Porsche Kansas City; 4 p.m.; $125. Contact Rebecca Kidwell: 816-914-3115 or rkidwell@learn scienceandmathclub.org or geeks.learnscienceandmathclub.org.

10 Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City; Legacy Golf Tournament; The Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Legacy Invitational is designed for community and business leaders as one of the premier client entertainment events in our area. Golfers can expect an incredible gift salon, a cigar emporium, challenge holes, on-course food and drink, a 19th hole reception, and more; The National Golf Club; 8:30 a.m. Contact Brittany Davis: 913-777-2617 or brittany@bbbskc.org or bbbskc.org/events.

10 sacred - Sexually Abused Children’s Relief Endeavor; 4th Annual Golf Classic; Get ready to tee off and change a life at the 4th Annual Golf Classic. Enjoy a fun and fabulous day filled with friendly competition at our second largest fundraiser, which helps to provide critical financial resources to sexually abused children and their families; Eagle’s Landing Golf Course; 7 a.m. Contact Gina McCord: 913-314-3160 or gina@kidsaresacred.org or kidsaresacred.org/calendar-of-events.

11

Newhouse; New Day Breakfast; New Day Breakfast attendees hear stories of strength and resilience and learn about the lifesaving work at Newhouse over a delicious hot breakfast. Start your day at this free, one-hour event feeling inspired and knowing you’ve helped give survivors of domestic violence at Newhouse a new day; 8 a.m. Contact Christopher Stibbs: 816-462-0508 or chris@newhousekc.org or newhousekc.org/events.

13 Operation Breakthrough; 2024 Big Dreams - Bright Futures Annual Event; Begin the evening with cocktails from an open bar, bid on hundreds of silent auction items, and enjoy entertainment by the children of Operation Breakthrough; Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown; 5:30 p.m.; $250. Contact Lee Duckett: 816-756-3511 or leed@operationbreakthrough.org or operationbreakthrough.org/ events/2024-big-dreams-bright-futures-annual-event.

14

KCUR 89.3; RadioActive: SpeakEasy; Enjoy a cocktail reception with open bar, multi-course plated dinner, live music and dancing, and the satisfaction from knowing you are supporting non-profit, local journalism that benefits our community! Special Guest: Ari Shapiro; Loews Kansas City Hotel; 6 p.m.; $250. Contact Clarate Heckler: 816-235-2862 or checkler@kcur.org or kcur.org/radioactive-a-benefit-forkcur.

15 The Jewel Ball; A debutante presentation of longstanding civic and cultural significance. A benefit for two of Kansas City’s greatest assets, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Symphony; The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art; 6:30 p.m. Contact Holly Milledge: hamilledge@gmail.com

15 The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City; The Fairy-Tails Ball; We will celebrate with live and silent auctions, dinner, drinks, and entertainment by Kansas City’s own RockShow!; Uptown Theater; 6 p.m.; $125. Contact Madison Brown: 913-263-3158 or prckcevent.org or mbrown@prckc.org

15 The Society for Friendship with China; 2024 Kansas City International Dragon Boat Festival; The 20th annual familyfriendly festival features Dragon Boat Races, Chinese culture showcase and interactive activities, performances, entertainment, and free children’s activities; Brush Creek at the Country Club Plaza; 10 a.m.; free of charge. Contact Joan Pu: 816-838-8814 or ypee00@kcmo.org or chinagardensociety-kc.org/dragonboat.html.

16

Village Shalom; Father’s Day Run; Back after a five-year hiatus, the Father’s Day Run is a great way for the entire family to kick off the holiday together. The event includes a 10K, 5K Run/Walk, and a Kid’s Fun Run benefiting Village Shalom’s Financial Assistance Program; 7:30 a.m. Contact Michaela Kidd: 913-266-8454 or development@villageshalom.org or villageshalom.org.

21

Make Music Alliance and Kansas City Parks & Recreation; Make Music Day Kansas City; Part of the international Fete de la Musique, this event is a celebration of sound, occurring annually on the same day, June 21st, in more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries. Attendees can experience all genres of music metrowide. Locations include The National WWI Museum and Memorial, Kansas City Zoo, Jazz Museum, Loose Park, Mill Creek Park, Union Station Kansas City, Up Cycle Piano Shop, and KC City Market; Pack a picnic and enjoy the day!; 10 a.m.; free. Contact Nancy McGuire: 913-219-1330 or nancemcguire@gmail.com or makemusicday.org/kcmo.

22

The Arts & Recreation Foundation of Overland Park; Stems: A Garden Soirée; Stems: A Garden Soirée is the garden party of the summer and the premier networking event in Johnson County! Guests enjoy a beautiful summer evening sipping wine, tasting foods from top local restaurants, and enjoying live music, entertainment, and a fireworks display to finish the night; Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens; 7 p.m. Contact Jennifer Cairns: 913-322-6467 or stems@artsandrec-op.org or stemssoiree.org.

22 Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission; Kansas City Guns N Hoses; Kansas City Guns N Hoses is a fun boxing event pairing our area’s firefighters and police officers in the ring to raise funds for the programs of the Crime Commission, primarily the Surviving Spouse and Family Endowment (SAFE) program. The event includes great food, drinks, and a mobile auction; Kansas City Municipal Auditorium; 5 p.m. Contact Tami Holthus: 816-960-6800 or tholthus@kc-crime.org or kc-crime.org.

27

FosterAdopt Connect; Office Chair Games; A thrilling team building experience where teams of six compete in track and field style competitions all while rolling in an office chair! This is a one of a kind event in Kansas City and it’s growing every year! It’s corporate team building for a cause; The LEX at Municipal Auditorium; 4 p.m. Contact Bethany Duber: 816-582-7855 or bethany.duber@fosteradopt.org or fosteradopt.org/all-events/list.

30

Jackson County CASA; Carnival for CASA at Faulkner’s Ranch; Join in the fun at the ranch! Ticket includes lunch and all the western-themed attractions, including a petting farm with goats, corn cannon, wagon ride, zipline, bounce house, giveaways, and more; Faulkner’s Ranch; noon. Contact Lara Klover: 816-785-4097 or lklover@jacksoncountycasa-mo.org or jacksoncountycasa-mo.org.

by Charlie Podrebarac

OurTown

C ELEB RATI ONS C ELEB RATI ONS SIGNATURE ISSUE

WILL DEBUT SEPTEMBER 7 TH.

Send us your best photos from your summer days! Send photos and information by Friday, July 26th to anne@kcindependent.com.

Publisher • Rachel Lewis Falcon

Editor • Nancy Sachse

Art Director • Lisa M. Shea

Non-profit Director • Annie England

Director of Sales and Production

• Lauren Cashman

Performing Arts Editor • Paul Horsley

Content Manager • Anne Potter Russ

Director of Program Guide Operations • Christin Painter

Office and Circulation Manager • Laura Gabriel

Digital Media Strategist • Brittney Young

Feature Writers • Monica V. Reynolds and Anne Potter Russ Cartoonist • Charlie Podrebarac

If you are interested in promoting your business to more

JULY

12

Band of Angels;  Art That Blows;  Bid on one-of-a-kind art pieces made from unplayable instruments to help Band of Angels raise money for summer music camp scholarships. Join us for an unforgettable night of art, music, and philanthropy and make a difference in the lives of young musicians; The Abbott; 5 p.m.; $40. Contact Mike Meyer: 913-491-6636 or info@bandofangels.org or artthatblows.com.

15-26

Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City; Summer Bowl for Kids’ Sake; Summer Bowl for Kids’ Sake is the biggest feel-good party of the summer! Form a team of six, fundraise online, and then choose the celebration date that works best for your team. Enjoy free bowling, pizza, drinks and prizes! Sessions take place throughout the month of July; Park Lanes; 6 p.m. Contact Brittany Davis: 913-777-2617 or brittany@bbbskc.org or summerbowl.org.

26

Arthritis Foundation; Art for Arthritis; Art for Arthritis pairs children with various forms of juvenile arthritis with local, professional mentor artists to create beautiful works of art to be sold at the live auction. The event features a silent auction, dinner, and a celebration of arthritis warriors across Kansas City; 6 p.m.; $125. Contact Brooke Hilst: 816-536-6756 or bhilst@arthritis.org or arthritis.org/kcart.

26 Infant Loss Resources; Tee It UP for Infant Loss Resources Golf Tournament; The 17th annual Tee It UP for Infant Loss Resources Golf Tournament will once again bring a full course of golfers to not only play but enjoy breakfast, snacks, and drinks on the course, BBQ lunch, on the course contests, prizes, and a silent auction. It is a fun day for all!; Swope Memorial Golf Course; 8 a.m.; $120. Contact Cindy Sims: 913-269-5717 or cindy@infantlossresources.org or infantlossresources.org.

27 Starlight;  Starry Night at Starlight; Highlighting an annual class of All-Stars (Kansas City’s most dynamic charitable movers and shakers), the night features local food, themed outfits, an open bar, photo opportunities, and tickets to a Broadway show at Starlight; Starlight Theatre. Contact Andrew Lang: 816-997-1129 or  andrew.lang@kcstarlight.com or kcstarlight.com/starrynight.

AUGUST

3

Hope House; believe-illuminating hope; believe-illuminating hope will feature live and silent auctions, raffles, inspiring stories, gourmet food and drinks, and the opportunity to come together in support of domestic violence survivors. Make an impact in the lives of those affected by domestic violence in our community; Loews Kansas City Hotel; 5:30 p.m.; $200. Contact Bri Otto: 573-286-7363 or botto@hopehouse.net or hopehouse.net/calendar-of-events.

9 The Victory Project; The Victory Project’s Kicks N Fits Gala;  In your best Sporting cocktail attire and Adidas kicks, come out to Children’s Mercy Park for this annual gala. The event features curated cocktails from Sporting KC’s master mixologist, an extensive silent auction featuring exclusive SKC items, a plated dinner, and a high-energy after party; Children’s Mercy Park; 6 p.m. Contact Lexie Clark: 970-310-1144 or lexie.clark@sportingkc.com or victorykc.org.

16 Te Deum; Lumine; Lumine is a lively celebration of the light Te Deum’s music brings to Kansas City. Guests enjoy beer and wine, hors d’oeuvres, and an intimate performance. Don’t miss the champagne toast and connect with musicians and music enthusiasts in celebration of a new season of soul-stirring performances; Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art; 6 p.m.; $100. Contact Shannon Solis: 785-393-9913 or shannon@te-deum.org or te-deum.org/lumine.

16 KC Pet Project; Love Finds A Way; This is the second gala hosted by KC Pet Project and our needs are greater than ever before. More than 16,200 pets were cared for and sheltered at the shelter in 2023. The evening will include cocktails, dinner, a live auction, a raffle, and more. Cocktail attire; Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center; 6 p.m. Contact Suzie Post: 816-683-1342 or  development@kcpetproject.org or kcpetproject.org/lovefindsaway.

I Wonder –if there are photos of the suitcase full of accoutrements that were taken on the bachelorette voyage?

The on Society

WONDERS OF

Love

“There are no seven wonders in the world in the eyes of children; there are seven million.” – Walt Streightiff

Hazel Gates, flower girl to Jillian and James Helzberg, might have already experienced 700 wonders in her day - weddings are wondrous things. But, being a curious, innocent child, she figured there might be one more extraordinary thing behind the curtain. Hazel is a reminder to all of us to keep our eyes open and our inquiring minds sharp… take time to peek through the curtain.