This Cowtown Wedding Had a Beautiful Garden Conservatory Feel

By Laura Kostelny

Sarah McLaughlin & Kurt Hanson

June 22, 2024

After dating off and on at the University of Texas, Sarah McLaughlin and Kurt Hanson eventually went their separate ways. But it didn’t take long for the Texas Exes to find themselves back together after they both relocated to Dallas. Two and a half years later, Kurt asked for Sarah’s hand—but he didn’t bother asking where or when the big day would be. “I always knew I’d get married in the spring in Fort Worth,” Sarah says. The Cowtown native wanted the feeling of home—“something very personal and comfortable,” she says. Planner Caroline Fair knew just the place—The Crescent Hotel in Fort Worth—and the person to pull it off. “I connected her with Jackson Durham,” she says. “Leah Spillman really brought Sarah’s vision to life.”

Steppin’ Up

The celebration called for a personalized pair of boots by Marcio Garcia, a bootmaker based out of El Paso, Texas. “We are ranching people, so I love cowboy boots,” says Sarah. “And my new initials are kind of funny.”

Handpicked

Guests found their seat assignments on a wall bearing branches and blooms.

Garden Variety

“In the tent, we hung Southern smilax vine to soften the structure and give it more of a garden conservatory feel,” says Jackson Durham’s Leah Spillman. A botanical-hued bar, landscape-inspired linens, and plentiful plants on the tables added to the vibe.

Guests 320

First Dance “[Your Love Keeps Lifting Me] Higher and Higher” by Jackie Wilson

Something Old A veil purchased in Belgium by Sarah’s great-grandmother and worn by every McLaughlin bride since

Credits

Ceremony Site

St. Andrew's Anglican Church (Fort Worth, Texas)
Photographer

Sarah Kate, Photographer
Bridal Gown Designer

Mira Zwillinger
Bridal Gown Retailer

The Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus
Hair & Makeup

Ashley McNabb Artistry
Groom’s Attire

J. Hilburn
Bridesmaids’ Dresses Designer/Retailer

Bella Bridesmaids
Groomsmen’s Attire

Various
Flower Girl Dress Designer

Susanne Lively
Reception Site

The Crescent Hotel (Fort Worth, Texas)
Flowers

Jackson Durham Events
Stationary

Carly Creative Co.
Cake

Creme de la Creme Cake Company
Catering

The Crescent Hotel
Music

Jessie's Girls, Dennis Smith Entertainment
Lighting

Stage 2 Lighting
Videographer

Lusso Films
Transportation

AJL International
Wedding Rentals

Bayer Brothers Sets; Posh Couture Rentals
Wedding Planner

Caroline Events
Wedding Designer

Jackson Durham
Additional Vendors

Laurie Harper (calligrapher); Merin Guthrie, Kit (exit dress alterations)