I am beyond excited to share all the details of Will and Michael’s art deco, industrial wedding at the famous Tom’s Town Distillery right here in our vibrant Kansas City! Right off the bat, I knew this wedding was going to be something special. When I asked Will and Michael to describe their ideal wedding vibe in three words and “irreverent” popped up, I couldn’t help but get excited. These two are the epitome of fun-loving, creative souls!
A year into the pandemic, these two lovebirds, 6 years into dating, casually started to discuss marriage at their kitchen table. No grand gestures, just a sweet, intimate moment that sealed the deal. But Michael, being the romantic that he is, couldn’t resist a more formal proposal. While Will was sleeping, he set up an escape room-style scavenger hunt throughout their apartment. The clues pieced together to spell out “Will You Marry Me.” Such a sweet, simple, and perfectly Will-and-Michael proposal.
Will and Michael did a hotel buyout at No Vacancy for them and their closest friends. They got to spend the morning together and had family gather there before the ceremony for photos.
Tom’s Town Distillery was the perfect canvas for this celebration. Not only did it boast a fun art deco/speakeasy vibe, but it was also a place where love knows no bounds. A welcoming, same-sex wedding-friendly venue that fit Will and Michael’s vision to a T!
Will and Michael opted for Oscar-style seating during the ceremony. This allowed their guests to grab a drink on their way in before finding their home base for the evening.
One thing that really made this wedding stand out was the living terrarium centerpieces. Will, has the most amazing green thumb and opted for these vibrant plant arrangements instead of the traditional cut flowers. It was such a unique and fitting choice for this one-of-a-kind couple!
Now we have to talk about that incredible neon sign. A badminton birdie, a nod to Michael’s KC roots and Will’s father and Chinese heritage, intertwined with their initials, illuminated the day. Designed by their talented friend Kelly and brought to life by Custom Neons, it became a symbol of their unique love story. Hung on a lush greenery wall by Designwise KC, it set the stage for both their ceremony and the photo booth!
The guests has dinner and afterwards, the speeches stole the show! Michael’s father and Will’s sister had us all laughing, crying, and feeling the love. It was a beautiful reminder of the incredible families that stood behind this amazing couple.
I suggested a spontaneous grand exit (after Roxanna headed out), and it ended up being one of their favorite parts of the night! A tunnel was formed by their cherished guests, arms linked, as Will and Michael left the venue. It was so simple but heartwarming and an absolute highlight of the evening.
Hearing from Will and Michael about their experience warms my heart. Knowing that I was able to be a part of their journey and contribute to their special day is a true honor.
“We hired Sofi as our wedding manager and we were extremely happy with that decision. We knew we didn’t need a full-on planner but from the advice of others, wanted someone to pass off month-of vendor engagement, timeline creation, and day-of logistics to. Sofi was worth it in every way. She’s incredibly responsive, knowledgeable about executing a wedding in KC, and had referrals for bakers, event decor, and other vendors we inquired about. She not only accepts same-sex couples as clients but projects a deep, personal commitment to the belief that our love is worth celebrating. Most importantly, she is an incredibly warm, calming presence during what can be a very stressful period. I could tell she genuinely cared about my well-being and wanted the best possible wedding for me and my partner. We are so thankful we found Sofi and would recommend her to others without hesitation.”
Their kind words about our time together really mean the world to me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to not only make their day run smoothly but also to share in their joy.
Photography | Roxanna Silva Photography
Venue, Bar, & Catering | Tom’s Town Distillery
Centerpieces | Jungle House
Cake | Poppy Cake Studio
Greenery Wall | Designwise KC
Neon Sign | Custom Neon, designed by Kelly C. Tang
Suits | Indochino
Rings | Champagne Gem
Favors | Bear Soap Company
I’m sending all the love and well wishes to Will and Michael as they embark on this beautiful journey together. Cheers to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures! ๐ฅ๐๐
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Here at Philosofi Celebrations, we celebrate love in all forms, and we want you to know you
are invited to join us as we honor each coupleโs unique celebration of love. Our core values of love, wisdom, inclusivity, community, and joy guide every decision we make and interaction we have.
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Images by Lauren Benson, Made by Halle, E. GOLDEN MOMENTS, WEST ROSE,
Roxanna Silva, Photo KC, JUSTIN SALEM MEYER, Natalie Nichole, Jenny Shipley, & Mary Frances photography
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