Savvy Weddings: Emily and James Snow
At Savvy Bridal, we’re honored to play a part in love stories that span miles, memories, and meaningful moments. Today, we’re sharing the beautiful wedding journey of Savvy Bride Emily and her husband James Snow—a couple whose love story began in Boston, blossomed in Nashville, and was sealed with a heartfelt celebration in Arkansas.
Their story is one of friendship turned love, cross-country adventure, and a garden-inspired backyard wedding that reflected everything they hold dear: family, connection, and authenticity.
From New England Beginnings to Midwest Roots
Emily and James first crossed paths in Boston while serving in AmeriCorps. As coworkers-turned-friends, their connection deepened slowly and meaningfully over two years.
“It just felt so right,” James shared. “In past relationships, nothing ever clicked the way it did with Emily. I just knew.”
When Emily accepted a teaching job in Nashville, James—despite never having ventured west of the Appalachians—followed her. It was a leap of faith that confirmed what they both already knew: this was forever.
The Kansas City Chapter and a Surprise Proposal
After a few years in Nashville, Emily and James relocated to Kansas City. Not long after settling in, James decided it was time to make it official.
Over July 4th weekend, he asked Emily’s parents for their blessing. By September, he planned a day full of her favorite things, starting with homemade breakfast tacos. Later, while shopping with arms full of bags, James paused and told Emily, “There’s something else I want you to have.” He dropped to one knee and popped the question.
“I think it took me a really long time to respond,” Emily laughed.
“She was freaking out in a positive way,” James added with a smile.
A Family-Centered Wedding in Arkansas
Though Emily initially looked into local venues in Arkansas, none could accommodate their full guest list. Her parents offered a deeply personal alternative: their backyard, surrounded by lush woods, transformed into a whimsical wedding space.
“Given how close I am with my family, it was a perfect fit,” Emily said.
The setting was exactly what the couple needed—a blend of elegance and ease. They embraced a charming garden tea party theme, complete with mismatched china, an ice cream truck, yard games, and lush greenery.
The Dress: A Dream Come True at Savvy Bridal
Finding the dress was just as personal as the venue. Emily was joined by her mother, grandmother, and sister (via FaceTime) for a one-day gown shopping trip in Kansas City.
After visiting a few shops without much luck, they made one last stop: Savvy Bridal.
“It was such a special experience,” Emily shared. “We were the only ones there, and the service was incredible. It meant the world to me to have the women who raised me there in that intimate moment.”
While she originally imagined a boho gown, Emily fell in love with something entirely different: a backless mermaid-style dress with delicate straps adorned with overlapping leaf appliqués.
“It was completely opposite of what I pictured, but it felt so right,” she said.
The gown perfectly complemented their nature-inspired wedding and added a sophisticated touch to the laid-back celebration.
A Wedding Woven With Meaningful Details
Nearly every element of the Snows’ wedding was a labor of love by family and friends:
- The ice cream truck? Owned by a bridesmaid’s family.
- The decor and table settings? Sourced and styled by loved ones.
- The music? A deeply personal and unforgettable highlight.
For Emily, one of the most emotional moments came during the processional, as a string quartet—assembled by a close friend—played Kishi Bashi’s “Manchester.”
“I heard that song at a concert in 2011, and I just knew I wanted to walk down the aisle to it someday. Hearing it live, sung by one of my best friends, while standing next to my dad… that was pure magic.”
Favorite Moments from the Day
Emily’s clarity and excitement peaked during that walk down the aisle. But James’ most cherished moment came after the formalities ended.
“It was during the post-ceremony photos. We were looking into each other’s eyes, just soaking it all in. It hit me—we’re married. This is the best day of my life.”
A Love Story Rooted in Purpose, Place & Partnership
From service in Boston to building a home in Kansas City, and saying “I do” under the Arkansas trees, Emily and James Snow’s wedding day was a beautiful reflection of everything they value: connection, community, and love that grows stronger with time.
At Savvy Bridal, we were honored to help Emily find a gown that matched not just her vision—but her story. Her dress was a celebration of style, strength, and sentimentality—just like her love story.
We are seeking real #SavvyBrides to feature on our Instagram and blog! If you recently purchased your gown at Savvy Bridal Kansas City or Savvy Bridal St. Louis and have your wedding photos, we’d love to feature you!
Submit your love story and 8-10 of your favorite wedding photos below for a chance to be featured. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Share your Love Story here.
