Brady Drake
Photos by Madi Hope Photography
Web: madihopephotography.com
Facebook: /madihopephoto
Instagram: @madihopephotography
When did you get married and how would you describe the day in two sentences?
Saturday, September 13, 2025. The wedding was an elegant masterpiece that was brought to life by a vision we both had. It was sincerely a page out of the story Bridgerton.
What made you choose your venue? And what venue did you choose?
We were convinced the Synclaire Events Venue was right for us due to its timeless and simplistic architecture. The building is a white canvas open to endless possibilities of creativity. We were also drawn to the fact that the Synclaire Events Venue is a newly renovated historic building, giving a glimpse into a regal past. Once we met with Jenna, we knew that the Synclaire and its team was all in to craft a special event.
Thinking back to your wedding, what did you love most about the experience at the venue?
We loved how each part of the event had its own designated area. The Synclaire’s staff were extremely friendly and eager to help with any task.
What’s one fun story or unique memory from your reception?
We had a special moment during our reception with two couples who have 50+ years of marriage. In which both couples provided Anna and I advice on how to obtain an ever lasting relationship. Ah, we can’t forget to include the fact that our two kitties Scout and Gemini graced us with their presence in the form of their very own fatheads.
What’s your best wedding planning advice for future couples?
Give yourself a long enough timeline to weigh all of your options. Also, be meaningful in the choices you pick and try not to settle. It is your big day make it into what you have dreamt of
What was the most difficult part of the planning process?
As much as you’d like to please everyone’s opinions around you, remind your self’s whose special day this is. Set boundaries on what you are comfortable with and stick to them.
What problems or situations surprised you about the planning process?
A situation that surprised us was coming to the realization of staying within your budget. It can be difficult to pick and choose your vendors. Understand areas to save and understand areas to splurge.
What was the easiest part? And what was the most fun?
Decorating, picking out your color palette and seeing your vision come to life!
What did you envision your wedding to be like before the planning process started and how did that change throughout?
Our wedding turned out exactly the way we envisioned it to be. We stuck to our “non-negotiables.” However, we remained flexible during the process. Stay open minded to allow for the unexpected and cut expenses where necessary.
What were your top priorities for planning the wedding right after the engagement?
Choosing the venue and the photographer.
Did you take any special steps to maintain a budget?
Staying within a budget can be.. INCREDIBLY DIFFICULT. But create one and honor it.
What was the most valuable lesson that you learned that you would like to pass on to others?
Please make sure to try and slow down this time. The day of will come a lot faster then you think. Make sure you really soak in every moment you can. From the one on one moments you make with one another to the moments you make with everyone else there to celebrate you.
Everybody says that you should have fun and enjoy the wedding planning process, but it is easy to get stressed! Any recommendations on how to stay calm during the stressful parts?
Remember to work together with your partner and not to do anything alone! It can also help to wedding plan over dinner or drinks to keep things light and take off some of that stress that can come along with it.
We are spoiled by your sincere eagerness to help with our wedding. Not only did you all take the time and consideration to listen to Anna and I. But you contributed and brought your finest and truest attention to detail. From our first consultation, to midnight emails, all the way to the day of. you give your full 100 percent. For that we are more than thankful.
