Rain, Dancing, and Sweet Moments at Haseltine Estates | Rachel & Caiden’s Wedding
A Joy-Filled Wedding at Haseltine Estates
Rachel and Caiden’s wedding at Haseltine Estates in Springfield, Missouri was full of joy, dancing, and a little unexpected weather that made it even more memorable. I’d been looking forward to this one for a while—my cousin actually got married here a couple of years ago, and I’ve helped cater several weddings on the property. But getting to photograph one myself? Even better.
Getting Ready in the Loft
We started the morning in Haseltine’s getting-ready loft, a bright, open space that’s perfect for detail photos and those quiet, reflective moments before the day kicks off. Rachel shared a sweet first look with her dad before we jumped into separate wedding party portraits. Since Rachel and Caiden chose not to do a first look, we kept them hidden from one another while still getting a lot done early.
The Ceremony: A Little Rain, a Lot of Heart
All week, the forecast threatened storms. And just minutes before the ceremony, it started to sprinkle. But Rachel and Caiden made the call: we were going ahead with the outdoor ceremony as planned. Guests gathered under umbrellas as the couple exchanged vows beneath the trees—and honestly, it couldn’t have been more perfect. The light rain made the whole moment feel extra intimate and romantic.
Portraits in the Rain
Right after the ceremony, we moved quickly into portraits while the rain was still soft. Rachel and Caiden were total troopers, and so were their families and bridal party. We even managed a few umbrella shots that turned out to be some of my favorite images from the day. And yes, my camera survived the drizzle.
A Dance-Filled, Weather-Proof Reception
Despite the weather, this reception had some of the most contagious energy I’ve ever seen. Caiden’s family brought serious dance floor skills—yes, even in the rain. The Wobble, the Cupid Shuffle, and a whole lot of laughter made this celebration one for the books.
And I have to give a shoutout to the desserts: Caiden’s stepmom made everything by hand, including the wedding cake. It was gorgeous, and honestly one of the best I’ve tasted. (And I’ve had a lot of cake.)
A Wedding That Felt Completely Them
At one point, Caiden told me that the irony of the rain wasn’t lost on them—because he and Rachel actually love rainy days. And somehow, the unexpected weather made everything feel even more personal. This wedding was joyful, heartfelt, and absolutely true to them from start to finish.
Planning your own wedding at Haseltine Estates?
Keep an eye out for my upcoming post on the best wedding venues in Missouri, or browse other real wedding galleries for more inspiration.
Vendor Dream Team:
Venue: Haseltine Estates
HMU: Sublime Bridal Aesthetics by Mercedes Bell
Food: Arris Pizza
Floral: Baisch & Skinner
Dress: Norman’s Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Cake: Kelly Dalton Spoon Full of Sugar
Photography: Shalyn O’Neal Photography
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