A serendipitous theme runs through the love story of Kaelyn and Luke Hancock.
Several years ago, she was at the Tin Roof celebrating a friend’s birthday. He, too, was celebrating the birthday of one of his friends. Kaelyn, who attended UofL, was well aware of Hancock, a member of the 2013 championship basketball team, but had not met him. “He came up to me and said, ‘I want to take you to dinner.’ We had a great conversation and he seemed really nice. I thought, I’m going for it. We exchanged numbers and the rest is history,” says Kaelyn. “We then met for drinks at a hole in the wall place where we played pool and darts, things we both enjoy. We talked for hours. I beat him at pool, but maybe he was letting me win. I’m just not sure.”
In cahoots with their friends, Luke planned a special night to propose to her. The driveway of their home was strewn with rose petals and lighted with candles. She wasn’t completely surprised by the proposal but was delightedly caught off guard by the timing. Their friends recorded the moment on their phones. Having those memories is very special to the couple.
When they were looking for a wedding and reception venue, they visited The Gillespie, but hadn’t decided on a date for the big event. They learned The Gillespie was available October 19 of this year. Nothing could have been more perfect. They were engaged on that date last year.
“I had competed in pageants for a long time and had worn some amazing dresses, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted in a wedding dress. I saw some gorgeous dresses but hadn’t felt the connection. Finally, my bridesman, my mom and a few other people were with me when I tried on a beaded lace gown. They all said it was incredible,” says Kaelyn. As much as she loved the gown, she requested design modifications like an illusion mesh top and sleeves with lace appliques to make it truly her own creation.
Kate and Luke envisioned a classic wedding that incorporated touches of their UofL school pride. Shades of red were interspersed for pops of color in whites, ivory and greenery in the ceremony and reception décor. She included calla lilies in her bouquet because they were her grandfather’s favorite flower.
The UofL Cardinal Bird mascot made an appearance during the reception and did the famous UofL cheer. Even die-hard UK fans got into the spirit.
“Though the couple recited vows back to the officiant, they saved vows they had created for each other until they were alone. “We wanted that to be more of an intimate thing and I didn’t know if I could get through them without sobbing,” says Kaelyn.
The reception dinner menu had a Southern influence and was followed later that evening by a late-night nosh. Signature drinks---Tres Jolie, Gin and Josie and My Cousin Vinny---were a tribute to the couple’s two teacup poodles and one pit bull.
“While guests were having cocktails in the mezzanine, Luke and I shared a meal alone. That gave us a chance to take in the entire day. I’m so happy we did that,” remembers Kaelyn.
“Our wedding was everything we wanted it to be. Both of our mothers were over the moon. It was awesome and beautiful.”
Wedding Coordinator: Kellye Linebach of Engagements LLC
Venue: The Gillespie
Officiant: Chris Morgan, UofL FCA chaplain
Catering: Mike Nusbaum, United Catering
Wedding Cake: Sweet Surrender
Groom’s Cake: Desserts by Rebecca
Photography: Jordan Pantoja
Videographer: Antonio Pantoja
Linens: The Gillespie and Millennium
Bridal gown: Twirl Boutique
Bridesmaids’ gowns: Rebecca’s Wedding Boutique
Tuxedos: The Black Tux
rings: Davis Jewelers
Flowers: Nanz & Kraft
Hair: Allie Barnes-Kreft
Make-up: Dawn Phillips
Stationery and paper goods: Julie Diamond and Jessi Page
DJ/Photo booth: Masters of Music
Rehearsal dinner: Goodwood Brewing
