From Fireworks to Floral Magic: A Multicultural, Guest-Centered Wedding Day in Missouri
At Emerson Fields, we have seen hundreds of weddings at our all-white wedding venue near Columbia, MO. And, with decades of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of creating a space where couples can celebrate without feeling rushed, surrounded by their loved ones. Our estate is strategically located in the beautiful countryside of central Missouri, offering tranquil surroundings while ensuring convenient access to major highways, making it an ideal destination for couples from near and far.
Let’s set the stage for Kelli and Javier’s wedding at Emerson Fields. It was the perfect blend of their floral-forward design, familial details, and deep cultural touches making every part of the day feel unmistakably meaningful. Kelli, a physical therapist, and Javier, who works in software development, had been together for eight years before getting engaged, and their wedding day reflected the depth of that journey.
Kelli and Javi first met as student-athletes in college, spending time together while working in the athletic training room. Their friendship grew over the years, and after graduation and time spent in different places, they reconnected—officially starting their love story during a memorable road trip that began in Napa, California.
The couple’s first experience at Emerson Fields was at a family member’s wedding, and they immediately connected with the thoughtful layout and versatility of the venue. They loved the on-site dressing suites, the peacefulness, and especially the open vendor policy, something Kelli says was non-negotiable. This allowed them the freedom to make the day their own. Their weekend-long package gave them access to the venue Friday through Sunday. They hosted a welcome party and dinner on Friday, an outdoor ceremony under the covered pavilion, cocktail hour by the lake, and a vibrant indoor reception on Saturday.
Having a spacious and versatile venue secured was a top wedding planning priority for this couple. The Emerson Fields team—led by Amelia—offered helpful guidance and recommendations. Our strong relationships with talented vendors across Missouri ensured that Kelli and Javi’s day came together with ease. From timeline logistics to floral installations, the team behind the scenes made it seamless.
Kelli’s monochromatic floral-forward design and elegant vision came to life through Sugarberry Blooms. The romantic contrast of soft draping and linens with bold pink and fuchsia florals created a lush and unforgettable atmosphere.
“Kelli had a specific vision of a monochromatic design, centered around her love of flowers! We used this as the core element of our design, keeping the other details, like draping, soft and neutral. This made a beautiful juxtaposition in the design. Vibrant pink and fuchsia blooms against the all-white walls of Emerson Fields were unforgettable.”
Kelli and Javi intentionally incorporated meaningful elements from their American and Venezuelan backgrounds throughout the entire weekend. A welcome party on Friday evening honored the many guests who traveled across states and countries to celebrate with them. It was the kind of night that made everyone feel at home; a perfect start to a weekend full of meaning and celebration.
The wedding day on Saturday began in the peaceful setting of Emerson Suites, our on-site lodging. The bridal party spent the morning in the cozy-calm, swapping stories and sharing in slow, meaningful moments as they got ready. Champagne was popped (peep the customized painted bottle), brunch was served, and all of the ladies enjoyed the pampering by the beauty team; Hair Flair by Shelby Jo and Uplifted Bride. Kelli moved to the main venue’s dressing suite to get into her gown, and after bridal portraits, she had a sweet first look with her father and then with her groom. Javi and his guys made a game day entrance, complete with custom Nike Air tennis shoes gifted to each of the groomsmen. Sweet love notes were passed, and the bride and groom gifted each other a spectacular wedding day gift that the planning team took care of coordinating.
As the day unfolded, the Emerson Fields team, Wright Pro Wedding Planning, and Sugarberry Blooms worked to bring the floral-forward vision to life, transforming the pavilion into a romantic ceremony space with natural light, soft shade, and a drapery installation rented from D-Zines Weddings.
Kelli recalls one of the most memorable moments for her: walking down the aisle and seeing Javi. She vividly remembers the crowd becoming a blur—like a scene from a movie—her eyes focused only on her groom. After exchanging vows and a few laughs, the couple was married and left the outdoor pavilion in a rush of excitement and confetti! Trent Broglin, their photographer from St. Louis, MO, took portraits in the lush surrounding meadow. He brought a custom backdrop of vibrant pink and captured the couple’s first newlywed moments in an unforgettable way.
Guests were ushered into the breathtaking reception space after the ceremony and were greeted with a customized drink wall that the bride and her father had made. Champagne bubbled and guests buzzed about the gorgeous floral and fabric installations in the venue.
During cocktail hour on the veranda, guests enjoyed margaritas and mojitos by the lake. There were yard games, a live musical ensemble, and happy conversations that filled the outdoor air. The reception kicked off with an electric wedding party entrance and Mr. & Mrs. Medina walking in hand-in-hand. The cake was showcased in the center of the dance floor and was immediately an attention-grabber. The two-tier, beautifully crafted cake by Kristina Pantaleo featured abundant piping and intricate bows. Kelli & Javi cut the cake and sipped champagne with smiles spreading from ear to ear. The menu for dinner beautifully blended their cultures, featuring carved beef tenderloin alongside traditional tequeños, a nod to Kelli’s Missouri roots and Javi’s Venezuelan heritage.
After dinner, guests were treated to a spectacular fireworks show over the lake, an espresso martini bar, and cotton candy spun on the veranda. There was something for young and old alike. The fireworks were especially meaningful for Kelli, who grew up celebrating the Fourth of July at her grandmother’s house every year. Emerson Fields has a pyrotechnic team that puts on a fantastic show and it sparkles over the lake at night.
After fireworks, the DJ dropped some party plays and got everone on the dance floor for a couple of hours. Then came the celebration’s vibrant finale, La Hora Loca. This lively Venezuelan tradition filled the dance floor with light-up wings, whistles, and joyful chaos. DJ mixes of country and salsa reflected the couple’s cultural fusion, and Kelli, wearing glowing light-up wings, led the party. Guests from all walks of life came together in one joyful, unified dance.
“Kelli and Javi’s wedding was one of the most joy-filled weekends we’ve had the honor of hosting. Watching two families from different cultures come together so seamlessly was a beautiful reminder of why we do what we do. ”
“Getting ready for that with my light-up wings and seeing everyone who loves Javi so dearly soooo excited. I remember everyone dancing to the first song ‘Leo Leo Leo’ and being so happy because everyone felt connected—no matter if they were from Venezuela, family from Texas, high school friends from Brookfield, my college friends, work friends… everyone was dancing and nobody knew a stranger.” Kelli said.
Cindy Scott Artistry captured the celebration painting a live portrait of the joy and love that filled the entire evening. Guests flocked to see her final masterpiece and the couple was in awe! This leveled up the entertainment for the night for sure.
Throughout the planning process, wedding planner Madyson Wright was a constant source of calm and creativity. She supported, guided, and encouraged Kelli and Javi through every step, helping bring their dream to life and ensuring the execution of a smooth, beautiful day. Madyson’s hand was seen in every elegant detail, from draping to the timeline.
From welcome bags to customized espresso drink toppers, every piece of Kelli and Javi’s celebration was carefully considered and deeply personal. Their wedding wasn’t just a party—it was a reflection of their love, their people, and their journey. Every guest felt seen, celebrated, and connected.
Kelli and Javi’s wedding day was a heartfelt tribute to their story and the merging of two lives, families, and cultures. Their intentional choices and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to witness it.
“We dreamed of our perfect wedding day and want you to know that it was exceeded! The venue, lodging, and atmosphere that you have created at Emerson Fields rivals any venue I’ve ever been to. What takes it beyond is the ability to customize and transform the space to truly make it personal, plus choose the vendors to help make so many visions a reality! We know that you and your team went above and beyond to ensure everything ran smoothly, and we truly felt like we were in the best hands. Our guests from both near and far, our families, and even distant friends have all continued to rave about their experience, too. We feel so fortunate that Emerson Fields was the place we began this new chapter as husband and wife!””
From the outdoor wedding ceremony to the energy-filled dance floor, Emerson Fields made a welcoming space for Kelli and Javier to celebrate in their own way, honoring their heritage, embracing fun ideas, and creating lasting memories. If you’re looking for a venue that offers more flexibility and gives you the freedom to make it yours, let’s talk about hosting your wedding here!
These amazing vendors made everything possible for Kelli & Javi:
Videographer - @matthewjayfilms
Full Planning and Design - @wrightproweddings
Hair Stylist - Shelby & Caiti with @hairflair_by_shelbyjo
Makeup Artist - Kaylee & Paige with @upliftedbride
Bridal Gown Shop - @truesociety_bellavogue
Bridal Gown Designer - @martinalianabridal
Bridal Alterations - @lecozynest
Bridal Veil - @mimisbridaltandc
Bridal Shoes - @dolcevita
Jewelry - @genovesejewlers
Groom Attire - @the_tailored_gent
Groomsmen Attire - @generationtux
Bridesmaid Dresses - @shoprevelry
Cake and Custom Desserts - @cakesbykristina19
Brunch - @kochsgeneralstore
Custom Draping - @wrightproweddings
Linens and Tableware - @a.b.heltonfinelinenrentals
Ceremony Draping - @dzinesweddings
Specialty Flatware - @a1partyeventrentalcomo
DJ & Event Host - @denny.perdue
Live Musicians - @elevatedjs
Live Painting & Custom Painted Bottle - @cindyscottartistry
Catering and Bar Service- @raspberrys_bbq
Custom Signage - @pretty.lil.things
Cotton Candy - @coopscottoncandy
Transportation - @moxdocandnorm
Lodging- @emersonsuites
Thank you to Shelbey O’Connor, Madyson Wright, and Amelia Holder for contributing to this publication.