Katie & Aaron // The Elms, Kansas City Wedding

I grew up in Lawrence, KS, and always love getting the opportunity to head back closer to my hometown for weddings. Katie & Aaron's wedding at The Elms Hotel near Kansas City was so, so special and fun! If you're considering The Elms Hotel for your special day, here's everything you need to know.

Venue Overview

What to Expect:

  • Historic Charm: The Elms Hotel, built in 1888, is a historic building but updated with modern amenities.

  • Beautiful Gardens and Outdoor Spaces: Perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

  • On-Site Accommodations: Convenient for you and your guests, with various room options available.

Where You Can Get Married:

  • The Grand Ballroom: Ideal for large receptions with its elegant decor and spacious layout that can hold up to 300 guests.

  • The Regent Ballroom: A bit smaller than the Grand Ballroom but another indoor option for ceremonies or receptions for up to 225 guests.

  • The Elms Gazebo: Beautiful outdoor space in the gardens. Can set 300 guests (both covered and uncovered) or 140 guests covered.

Key Details

  • Location: The Elms Hotel is located in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, about 45 minutes northeast of Kansas City.

  • Website: The Elms Hotel

  • Booking Info & Pricing: Visit their website or contact their events team for booking and pricing details.

  • LGBTQIA+ Friendly: Unsure, I could not find any information on their website, so make sure to double check with the venue when inquiring.

  • Native Land: This area is historically inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Missouria.

  • Size: The venue can accommodate both large and small weddings, with various spaces available for different-sized gatherings.

  • Features:

    • Historic charm with modern amenities

    • 16 acres of lush, park-like grounds shaded by elm trees

  • Main Pros:

    • Beautiful garden area

    • You and your guests can enjoy The Spa, dining at Three Owls at The Elms, and amenities like our hot tubs, lap pool, sauna, steam room, and a variety of recreational activities during your stay in Excelsior Springs. 

    • On-site accommodations for guests - no driving around!

  • Main Cons:

    • Can be booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding season

    • You must use their restaurant for dinner

    • Might be haunted - or maybe that’s a pro for you :)

  • Congestion Level: Low!

  • Ease of Parking: Ample parking available on-site.

  • Best Time of Year: Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, but the venue is great year-round.

  • Multiple Locations for Photos: Yes, including gardens, historic interiors, and other outdoor spaces.

  • Extra CNP Tip: Make time to relax and enjoy the spa services before your big day. It’s a great way to unwind and prepare for the festivities.

An emotional bride, Katie, gets ready for wedding day at The Elms in Kansas City
Close-up images of rings, perfume, and cufflinks, captured by Catherine Norwood Photography
Close up images of wedding dress and flowers from Catherine Norwood Photography
Katie and her bridal party are happy getting ready together at the Elms in KC
Bride and flower girl share a sweet moment together at the Elms in KC
Katie and her bridal party are happy getting ready together at the Elms in KC
Katie and her bridal party are happy getting ready together at the Elms in KC
Katie and her bridal party are happy getting ready together at the Elms in KC
Bride, Katie, smiles for the camera in her wedding dress, captured by Catherine Norwood Photography
Bride, Katie, smiles for the camera in her wedding dress, captured by Catherine Norwood Photography
Bridesmaids watch as Katie poses in her wedding dress, captured by Catherine Norwood Photo
Groom and groomsmen get ready for wedding day at the Elms in KC
Interior shots of final wedding setup at The Elms in KC, captured by Catherine Norwood Photo
Bride and Groom walk down aisle with their loved ones
Katie and Aaron celebrate their wedding at the Elms in KC, captured by Catherine Norwood photography
Wedding party poses with bride and groom in the gardens of the Elm Hotel
Bride and groom embrace after their ceremony, captured by Catherine Norwood Photo
Loved ones celebrate Katie and Aaron at their wedding reception in Kansas City
Loved ones celebrate Katie and Aaron at their wedding reception in Kansas City
Katie and Aaron enjoy their wedding day surrounded by loved ones, captured by Catherine Norwood Photo

I care deeply about capturing the story of your relationship and your life together. That's why booking more hours with me means a lower hourly rate - I want to make sure it's accessible for you.

When it comes to wedding photography, you've got choices with me. Whether you opt for hourly packages (I suggest at least 8 hours for this venue) or the All Day package, you'll get a blend of stunning portraits and candid moments captured in a documentary style. I'll be there to preserve all the joy, authenticity, and timelessness of your special day in photos you'll cherish forever.

Catherine Norwood Photo is proudly LGBTQIA+ owned and inclusive of all stories.

Catherine Norwood

I am Catherine Norwood, a designer and photographer from Lawrence, Kansas. My job experience ranges from childcare to leading a media team at a summer camp. I also am an experienced freelance photographer, capturing senior and family portraits, headshots, and portfolio pieces for a beauty stylist. Through my previous work experience I have photographed and worked with a diverse group of people. Through each piece I design and in each moment I photograph, I not only aim to create something visually intriguing and intellectually stimulating, but something that will better society. By working with both photography and design I keep my perspective fresh and I constantly find new ways they can enhance and work with one another. As a designer and photographer, I don't only look to reach past the lens and screen to create positive relationships with the subject, but to also capture various cultures and areas so I can help others become socially aware of their surroundings.

 

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