Maddie & Jackson at Deer Ridge Estate

June 10, 2022 | Tonganoxie, Kansas By Teresa Ellis – Wedding Coordinator, Kansas City

Some weddings stay with you long after the last sparkler fades—and Maddie and Jackson’s early summer celebration at Deer Ridge Estate is one I’ll never forget. As their Day-of Coordinator, I stepped in about two months before their wedding to help bring all the pieces together. From building their timeline to managing vendor logistics, my goal was to ensure the day ran seamlessly so they could be fully present with each other and their loved ones.

Maddie and Jackson share a quiet moment on the dock, surrounded by golden hour reflections.

A Scenic Kansas Wedding with Heartfelt Details

Set in Tonganoxie, Kansas, Deer Ridge Estate offered the perfect balance of elegant and rustic. The weather was kind, the light was soft, and the entire day had a peaceful, joyful energy that reflected Maddie and Jackson themselves.

Their wedding style blended classic garden romance with natural woodsy charm—think creamy whites, soft greenery, light blue-gray tones, and glowing candlelight. A soft breeze rolled through the outdoor ceremony, which took place on a stone platform with a sweeping view of the trees and sky. Indoors, warm wood textures and modern touches made the space feel cozy yet elevated.

Exchanging vows in private, Maddie and Jackson’s first look was filled with joy and anticipation.

Private Vows, Family Love & Tiny Flower Girls

Rather than share personal vows in front of guests, Maddie and Jackson exchanged them privately—a quiet moment that felt just right for the two of them. One of the most touching details of the day was the note Maddie’s father wrote to her. It was a sweet and emotional father-daughter moment that they’ll both cherish for a lifetime.

Family was clearly the heartbeat of this wedding. Maddie’s younger siblings played adorable roles throughout the day:

• The youngest sister (a toddler) was the flower girl and ran straight into Jackson’s arms at the altar

• Her two other sisters followed behind, dropping petals

• And her little brothers, suited up as “Ring Security,” took their job very seriously!

These thoughtful touches made the ceremony feel intimate and deeply personal.

Ring security was serious business — and stole the show.

Behind the Scenes: A Seamless Day in Action

As part of my Day-of Wedding Management, my role is to anticipate issues before they arise and make sure the couple (and their families) never feel the stress. Maddie and Jackson’s wedding was no exception.

📸 When extended family photos started running long just as guests began arriving for the ceremony, I gently guided guests, managed timing, and protected the bride’s private reveal moment.

🕯️ Later, some of the reception candles burned faster than expected. Before guests moved inside, I quickly adapted the centerpiece setup to maintain the visual balance—and no one ever noticed a change had been made.

These are the kinds of things couples shouldn’t have to worry about. My job is to quietly handle them so you can focus on celebrating.

Maddie and Jackson’s first dance was nothing short of magical.

Final Thoughts

Weddings like Maddie and Jackson’s are exactly why I do what I do. Their day was filled with authentic love, meaningful details, and joyful moments—and I was honored to be part of it.

If you’re looking for a Kansas City wedding planner or day-of coordinator who can support your vision and manage the moving parts, I’d love to connect. Whether you need full-service planning or hands-on wedding management, I’m here to help make your day seamless.

This romantic dip-and-kiss moment at the outdoor chapel was a beautiful highlight of Maddie and Jackson’s wedding day.

Vendor Credits

• Venue: Deer Ridge Estate – Tonganoxie KS

• Photographer: Courtney Mitchell Photographer