There are some couples whose joy is absolutely contagious, and Karlie and Sloan are exactly that. From the moment I met them, I knew their wedding day was going to be filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and so much color. Every detail they planned reflected who they are, fun-loving, joyful, and full of life and I couldn’t have been more excited to capture it all.
As a Lubbock wedding photographer, one of my favorite parts of this job is getting to tell each couple’s unique story. Karlie and Sloan’s love story is one I’ll never forget.
A Texas Tech Love Story
Their story began exactly where many West Texas memories are made, at a Texas Tech football tailgate.
A mutual friend decided it was finally time for them to meet, and after exchanging names, Sloan smiled at Karlie and confidently said,
“Karlie Venhaus, I’m going to marry you one of these days.”
What could have easily been brushed off as a bold pickup line became the beginning of their forever.
Sometimes, you just know.
Why They Chose Eberley Brooks
Although Karlie no longer lives in Lubbock, choosing Eberley Brooks for their wedding was an easy decision.
Years ago, she came across photos of the venue on Instagram and promised herself that if she ever got married while her heart was still connected to West Texas, Eberley Brooks would be the place.
It became even more meaningful because Lubbock is where their relationship truly began. The city holds so many memories from the first two and a half years of dating, making it the perfect place to begin their next chapter together.
It’s one of the many reasons I love photographing weddings at Eberley Brooks. It provides such a beautiful backdrop while allowing every couple’s story to shine.
A Wedding Filled with Color and Joy
Karlie’s vision was simple: color, happiness, and celebration.
Her bridesmaids wore beautiful light blue dresses while the floral design featured bright shades of pink, orange, yellow, blue, and lush greenery. Every bouquet and arrangement perfectly reflected the joyful atmosphere they wanted their guests to experience.
The entire day felt lighthearted, vibrant, and full of genuine excitement.
Meaningful Family Traditions
Some of my favorite wedding details are the ones that carry generations of love, and Karlie incorporated several incredibly meaningful heirlooms into her day.
She wore her great-grandmother’s sapphire ring and carried her great-grandmother’s brooch attached to her bouquet—a beautiful way to keep someone so special close to her heart throughout the day.
Their reception also featured framed wedding photos of both sets of parents beside a sign that read:
“Love lived is love learned.”
It was such a beautiful reminder that the example of faithful, lasting love they witnessed growing up helped prepare them for the marriage they are beginning together.
Those personal touches are often the details that become some of my favorite photographs because they tell such a rich story beyond the wedding day itself.
Choosing Wedding Vendors Who Feel Like Friends
One thing Karlie shared that I absolutely loved was how intentional they were about choosing their wedding vendors.
She wanted people whose personalities matched their work. Vendors who were lighthearted, joyful, and genuinely enjoyable to spend the day with.
Your wedding photographer is with you through nearly every moment of your wedding day, so choosing someone who not only creates beautiful images but also brings a calming, encouraging presence makes such a difference.
Reading Karlie’s kind words truly meant the world to me:
“I found Kirsten through Eberley Brooks’ preferred vendors list, but what made me choose her was the bright, joyful photos she takes. I love how light and vibrant every image feels. I knew we were the perfect fit. I’m so thankful I chose Kirsten because I know she’ll be such a happy, calming presence on our wedding day.”
Those words are exactly why I love what I do.
Congratulations, Karlie & Sloan!
Karlie and Sloan, thank you for trusting me to document one of the most important days of your lives. Your excitement for marriage, your love for your family and friends, and the joy you share with everyone around you made your wedding unforgettable.
I hope every time you look through your gallery, you’re reminded not only of how beautiful your wedding day was, but of the incredible love that started with one unforgettable sentence at a Texas Tech tailgate.
Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Taylor! I can’t wait to watch your next chapter unfold.
Vendor team
Venue: @eberleybrooks
Photographer: @kirsten_prater_photography
Videographer: @revererntweddingfilms
Planner: Misty at @eberleybrooks
Florist: @havilahfloral_
Makeup/Hair: @makeupxsaradavislively and @mosaicbeauty
Dress: @ruthettes
Suit: @generationtux
Caterer: @pjscatering.fromtheheart
Cake: @aunt_t_sweets
Bartender: @chic.staffing
Band: @dustinandshae
Looking for a Lubbock Wedding Photographer?
If you’re planning your wedding in Lubbock, at Eberley Brooks, or anywhere across West Texas, I’d love to tell your story with bright, joyful, timeless images that capture every genuine moment.
I’d love to celebrate alongside you! To inquire with me, fill out the contact form on my website at: https://kirstenpraterphotography.com/contact
My headshot photo credit: Haley D Photo
