Connor & Kaylin’s Intimate Belvoir Winery Elopement

Some wedding days feel like they were written for the couple. Connor and Kaylin Simpson’s elopement at Belvoir Winery in Liberty, Missouri, was exactly that—small, intentional, and full of personality (and just the right amount of mischief, thanks to their toddler daughter, Georgia).

A Quiet Gazebo Ceremony

It was an overcast early-summer day, the kind of soft gray light photographers dream about. The front lawn’s white gazebo made the perfect spot for Connor and Kaylin to exchange vows, surrounded by just a few of their closest family members. It felt peaceful—no rush, no big production—just two people promising forever.

Georgia, their spirited toddler, kept everyone laughing during the ceremony and portraits. She had one very specific condition for cooperating with photos: cold, hard cash. So yes… she earned herself a crisp dollar bill mid-session, and the photos are priceless.

Portraits and Personal Touches

After the “I do’s” and a round of family portraits, I stole Connor and Kaylin away for some photos on the front lawn. Then came the part of the day they were especially excited for: a visit to the abandoned part of Belvoir Winery.

This wasn’t a random choice—Connor and Kaylin love ghost hunting and haunted building shows, and they’ve spent a lot of time at Belvoir exploring these spaces. Walking through the weathered brick and quiet, crumbling walls felt like stepping into a piece of their shared story.

A Place with a Past

Belvoir Winery isn’t just beautiful—it’s layered with history. Originally built in the early 1900s as the Odd Fellows Home, the property once housed an orphanage, a school, a nursing home, and a hospital. The restored winery buildings now host weddings and events, while several structures remain abandoned, giving the grounds their famously haunted reputation. Ghost stories from Belvoir have even been featured on shows like Ghost Hunters, Kindred Spirits, and Ghost Adventures.

A Rainy, Romantic Ending

Just as we finished exploring the abandoned buildings, the skies opened up and rain started to fall—a perfect, cinematic end to the day. Connor and Kaylin didn’t mind a bit. If anything, it felt like the weather joined in their story, adding one last moody flourish before they headed off to start their married life.

This day was exactly why I love photographing elopements—space for personality, history, family, and a little bit of magic (and in this case, a dollar bill).

I’d love to capture your intimate wedding or elopement – reach out at abbyreephotography.com to inquire!

Check out Connor and Kaylin’s featured gallery on The Budget Savvy Bride!