Speed Art Museum Wedding

Today I’m sharing a truly beautiful wedding I had the privilege of photographing this fall. Katie (she/her) and Ruben (he/him) curated a celebration that was elegant, artistic, and a whole lot of fun.

As a Louisville, Kentucky wedding photographer, I was beyond thrilled to capture the timeless beauty and romance of this day. The Speed Art Museum’s stunning architecture provided the most picturesque background, further enhancing the “classic meets modern” vibe. The play of light and shadow, the intricate details— everything was gorgeous.

Katie was radiant in her chic gown from Jenny Yoo and Ruben looked extremely dapper in his classic tuxedo.

For their ceremony, Katie and Ruben stood in the exact same spot where Katie's parents and grandparents exchanged their wedding vows. This really added an extra layer of sentimental magic to the whole event.

Katie and Ruben wanted their wedding to have an elegant and timeless feel, while still being true to themselves. The flowers, lovingly crafted by Botanica, were not just beautiful, but almost sculptural— the design added an elevated & artistic touch to their decor.

The festivities continued with a vibrant cocktail hour, where the melodies of a mariachi band filled the air, creating an atmosphere brimming with joy and excitement. During this time, I had the chance to capture candid moments of laughter and heartfelt embraces as family and friends were able to reconnect.

Each guest was greeted at their seat with a Please and Thank you cookie, a sweet gesture that perfectly encapsulated their warm and gracious personalities— while also celebrating a Louisville favorite! 

Best Kept Secret Live filled the reception with energy & excitement and kept the dance floor packed all night long. One of my last photos of the night was Katie & Ruben embracing beneath the shimmering disco ball— surrounded by all their family and friends.

I hope as you scroll through these images, you feel some of the warmth and joy that permeated Katie and Ruben's celebration. If you’re looking for a photographer to document your own wedding day, I would love to help you capture memories that reflect your unique personality and style! Contact me here or check out some of my other favorite Louisville wedding venues here.

These Louisville, Kentucky wedding vendors made the day possible:

Wedding Coordinator: Stephanie MacDonald with Planned Perfection // Reception Band: Best Kept Secret Live // Floral Design: Botanica // Catering: Wiltshire Pantry // Katie’s Wedding Gown: Jenny Yoo // Wedding Party Attire: Men's Warehouse & Birdy Grey // Rings: Donna Jewelry // Katie’s Makeup: Color in the Ville // Wedding Party Makeup: Southern Bridal Styles // Ceremony Location: Anchorage Presbyterian // Photography: Sarah Katherine Davis Photography // Venue: Speed Art Museum // Cookies: Please and Thank You // Videography: Joyce Barbour for Sarah Katherine Davis Photography

Intimate Rooftop Wedding at 21c Art Museum

I've been wanting to photograph a wedding at Louisville's 21c Museum Hotel for literally the last decade, so when Jessica & Arnaud shared their plans for an intimate rooftop ceremony followed by dinner in the art galleries I freaked out just a little bit. Jessica's BHLDN gown was minimal and gorgeous (and it had pockets!) and Merci Bouquet did a stunning job with the florals! I love how they incorporated an elegant, subtle nod to fall. 

Jessica & Arno met last year in Spain at a friend's wedding— Jessica is from Louisville and Arno is from Luxembourg, so they got to know each other through hundreds of text messages, video chats, and meetups in New York. They paid homage to their initial meeting by using sand from San Sebastian during their ceremony. The ceremony itself was romantic, heartfelt, and bilingual! I loved getting to practice my French listening for words I knew. One of my favorite things throughout the day was the way Arno lightly touched Jessica's back or arm as they chatted with friends and family— it was such a small simple gesture that spoke volumes.

My dear friend and calligraphy artist Michelle first connected Jessica & myself. She also did the gorgeous welcome sign, guestbook sign, and the name cards for the tables. She is talented and sweet and wonderful - you can find her on Instagram as Michelle Marie Calligraphy.

If you are looking for more intimate wedding inspiration, Jess & Brian's treehouse elopement was incredibly sweet. If you are after more art museum vibes then Jessica & Ethan's modern Speed Art Museum wedding would fit the bill. Also, it has now come to my attention that people named Jessica have amazing weddings. Now you know! You can also learn more about 21c and other unique wedding venues on my comprehensive list of the best wedding venues in Louisville here.

Venue: 21c Museum Hotel Louisville // Florist: Merci Bouquet // Cake: Sweets by Millie, Catering: Proof on Main // Photography: Sarah Katherine Davis Photography // Calligraphy: Michelle Marie Calligraphy // Gown: BHLDN