A Classic, Charming Wedding at Van Noy Mansion in Kansas City, Missouri

Monica Leiker (30 and a pediatric nurse practitioner) and Eric Rondeau (31 and a physical therapist) have large families and knew their wedding venue needed to allow both sides to gather comfortably in a beautiful setting. The couple eventually fell in love with the Van Noys mansion in Kansas City, Missouri. “We knew we wanted our reception in a tent, and the mansion allowed for that. We both love old buildings and houses, so this just felt right,” Monica says. The tent provided an “outdoor oasis,” with room for large centerpieces and florals. The large chandelier hanging from the center of the tent was made by the groom’s father. That, and natural sunlight, provided most of the lighting for the reception. It was important to Monica and Eric that the their families mix and mingle with one another. They ultimately decided on an extended cocktail hour: “We wanted this to be a time for everyone to have fun and explore the mansion and the grounds, and visit with friends and family.” The reception also featured yard games for all the guests to enjoy. The couple met at the reception site before the wedding ceremony to take pictures and talk. “It was very important to us that we spend at least a little time together without a lot of people around,” the bride says. Monica suggests that other couples carve out a little intimate time to spend alone on their wedding day too.