Paul and Claire Ryser
Claire and Paul Ryser first met in their teens, but they didn’t get to know each other until college at the University of Central Missouri. “We had overlapping college classes and were put on a group project together,” Claire reminisces. “Paul proposed at the end of summer, surrounded by our friends and family, right before the fall semester began. We were so young and ambitious and set a date for June 2, 2007, just a few weeks after our graduation. I started my photography business that same year.”
Ten years later, the couple knew they had something worth celebrating. So on June 1, 2017, they threw a party and invited the people who had supported them. “We wanted to include those who have been an important part of our lives and a key part of helping my business be the success that it is, ten years later,” Claire notes.
“We’re not religious and we highly value the sciences. We find ourselves in awe of nature and the natural laws of the universe so naturally, we decided to let that play a part in styling our celebration,” she describes. “Our table names were named after our favorite scientists and authors and had notable quotes from their more famous writings. The Little Theatre displayed “The Cosmos Are Within Us. We are Made of Star Stuff” on the large outdoor marquee, reminding us all that we have a lot worth celebrating. The color palette in our floral design was selected based on images of exploding stars, nebulas and colors from the night sky. Ashley with Good Earth Floral Design brought nature indoors by surrounding our ceremony spot with ferns, floral arrangements and dozens of candles. It was truly magical.
“Little Yellow Leaf hand painted gold leaf on each individual piece of stationery and used a watercolor that was inspired by images of our galaxy. The sequined black tablecloth were perfect for bringing in a twinkle and representing the billions of stars and galaxies, and the infinity candle holders represented the number of unknown galaxies awaiting discovery.
“We should never stop wondering. It’s what keeps our passion and curiosity alive, for life and for one another! Ten years later, we’ve kept that wonder and awe alive in our marriage, and that’s definitely something to celebrate!” ■
Photography
Marissa Cribbs Photography
Bridal Gown
Terani Couture
Groom Suit
Todd’s Clothiers
Hair Styling
Rosey O Hair Co, B-Envied Salon
Makeup
Staci Broski, 7th Row Productions
Florist
Good Earth Floral Design
DJ
Fernando Productions
Videography
Brandon Parigo Films
Caterer
Aramark
Cake
Classic Cakes KC
Venue
The Little Theatre
Décor
Ultrapom Event Rental and Events by Elle
Stationery
Little Yellow Leaf
Live Event Painting
TooRooster Artistry