Kennedy and Jacob are getting married next October — and I couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate this incredible couple!
Their story began in the Air Force, where both of them proudly serve. Kennedy is a helicopter crew chief, currently enlisted as E-4 (Senior Airman), and Jacob just advanced to E-6 (Technical Sergeant)— something he’s very proud of (and loves to remind Kennedy about!). They’re both based out of Las Vegas, but their love story stretches far beyond duty stations and ranks.
What makes this session so special for me personally is my connection to Kennedy. I’ve known her since she was a seventh grader in my band room, clarinet in hand and full of spark. Later, she became one of my high school photo students, and she’d often stop by just to say hello. Somewhere in my files, I still have a photo of us — one from her middle school days, and another years later during the pandemic, both of us in masks. So when she reached out to ask if I’d photograph her wedding… I was completely floored and deeply honored.
Kennedy has chosen such a wonderful man in Jacob. He’s a man of faith, steady and kind, someone who points her toward Jesus and walks beside her in that faith daily. Their connection runs deep — from the verses tattooed on their arms to the way they encourage and uplift each other. Kennedy’s tattoo reads “God is within her, she will not fail.” Jacob’s sleeve and chest are adorned with verses from Psalms and John — reminders of courage, sacrifice, and love.
Their wedding will be held next year at Christ the King Church here in Des Moines, with a joyful reception to follow at The Tap Room. Even though they’re based in Las Vegas and Jacob’s family is in Texas, Kennedy’s family is rooted here in Iowa and Nebraska — making it the perfect place to bring everyone together.
We planned their engagement session while they were in town for a friend’s wedding, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Seventy-five degrees, sunny, with a soft breeze — the kind of day photographers dream about. We started near The Tap Room, wandered through a few cozy downtown spots, and finished the evening near the Ola Babcock building by the Capitol. The light was golden and magical — I could’ve photographed them until the sun disappeared completely.
Their love is joyful, steady, and full of purpose. Kennedy and Jacob are truly grounded in faith and grace — and watching them interact felt like seeing two best friends who can’t wait to walk through life hand in hand.
Jacob planned an incredible proposal in Las Vegas — timing it just right so they could watch the sun set and the city lights come alive. The view, the light, the five-course dinner… it was all perfect. And of course, Kennedy’s beautiful engagement ring sparkled through the entire evening.
Kennedy and Jacob, congratulations! I can’t wait to see you again next year for your wedding day. You two are such a gift — to each other, and to everyone who knows you. Safe travels home, and thank you for letting me end my shooting season on such a joyful note.
PS You can view the rest of our time together HERE.
