WOW Wedding

REAL WEDDING

Erin E Photography   Amanda Harper  

Alex Francke met Peter Sohn during their freshman year at UK. They met in a theatre class where they had to write and perform a play together. Their instant friendship quickly turned into dates.

Alex, who was born and raised in Lexington, holds the distinction of being the only person to hold the title of Miss Kentucky for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Throughout her time representing the Commonwealth, Alex traveled the state speaking with schools, community organizations and healthcare centers on behalf of Kentucky Proud, the Miss America Organization and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. While Peter is not a native Kentuckian, he has proudly called Lexington home for the past seven years. “To us, Keeneland seemed like the perfect destination for our in-town and out-of-town guests,” Alex explained. “We wanted a place that was naturally gorgeous, large enough to hold all our family and friends in the same space, and that would create the most beautiful backdrop for our special day.” They also appreciated that Keeneland Hospitality worked with them to create a menu that could accommodate the bride’s food allergies without sacrificing quality or character. From a Kentucky Hot Brown tarte to the Korean skirt steak bulgogi, the menu reflected both of their families.

It was important to Alex and Peter to really appreciate the little moments in the midst of their big day. “We decided to do a first look so that we could ensure we got to spend time alone together. It was the perfect decision, as we both loved getting to talk and be present before the ceremony and reception went flying by in the blink of an eye,” Alex explained. “It was in that moment it really set in that after six years together, we were finally getting married, and it was the most joyous, sweet moment ever!”

The ceremony was the cornerstone of the whole day for this couple. They were proud to use Peter’s late grandmother’s Bible on their communion table, which the couple will keep as a family heirloom. “For us, the most important part of our wedding was being united in matrimony before God and our family and friends. We knew we wanted the ceremony to be the core tenant of the entire celebration, and for the words shared there to be what stuck with people as they traveled home after the wedding.” Alex added, “I was grateful to hear so many people telling us that our ceremony touched their hearts and gave them a renewed picture of what marriage is.”

The couple loved working with their vendors to bring their vision to life. The lush, romantic details helped transform the reception and ceremony spaces, offering an airy, elegant vibe. The bride created the signage herself and loved letting her creativity shine. She also put a lot of work into ensuring that their out-of-town guests would have the most comfortable, enjoyable weekend possible. Clearly, this hard work paid off; “Three garments were ripped on the dance floor, so I guess you can say our guests really had the time of their lives dancing the night away!” For other couples planning their weddings, Alex reminds you to have perspective when disagreements inevitably arise. “As everyone who has planned a wedding knows, there are many points along the way that can lead to disagreement, tension and sometimes fights with your family, friends, and your fiancé. Throughout the not-so-fun parts of the planning, it was important for us to take a step back and remember that conflict-resolution is a necessary life skill we will need for marriage,” Alex explained. “We used those disagreements to meet with couples who mentored us and talk it over with them, so we could expand our perspective on the situation and hear from people who are older and wiser than us. Those disagreements led to great conversations that have helped us build a strong foundation for our marriage.” She also encouraged other couples to show their appreciation along the way. “Never forget to express gratitude for the people who are experiencing this season with you,” she advised. One clever way she did this was to work with a jewelry designer to create custom bracelets and ball markers for the wedding party and the couple’s parents, each with special messages. It was details like these that helped make this wedding day a heartfelt, expressive and joyous celebration for everyone.

PHOTO | Erin E Photography VIDEO | LW Films CEREMONY VENUE | Keeneland Keene Barn

RECEPTION VENUE | Keeneland Entertainment Center CATERING | Keeneland Hospitality CAKE | Baby Cakes

WEDDING PLANNER | Amber Bowling FLOWERS | Patrick Howard DRAPING | Pizzazzle Events

RECEPTION RENTALS | Bryant’s Rent All CEREMONY STAGE | A Design Decor GOWN DESIGNER | Martina Lima BRIDAL STORE | Rebecca’s Bridal Boutique

BRIDAL PARTY ATTIRE | Birdy Grey GROOM TUX | Logan’s of Lexington

GROOMSMEN ATTIRE | The Black Tux HAIR | Hair by Maddie Wofford MAKEUP | KJ Artistry

STATIONERY | Minted BRIDAL PARTY JEWELRY | Created Bracelets RINGS | Shelia Bayes Jewelers DJ | 2Ten Entertainment

BRIDAL PARTY ATTIRE | Birdy Grey GROOM TUX | Logan’s of Lexington

GROOMSMEN ATTIRE | The Black Tux HAIR | Hair by Maddie Wofford MAKEUP | KJ Artistry

STATIONERY | Minted