A METROPOLITAN LOVE STORY
Alex & Madison Hockman
June 3, 2023
Written By | Tonya Shoats
Photographer | Lighter Focus Photography
Within the picturesque landscapes of Table Rock Lake, Madison and Alex’s love story blossomed amidst the glory of nature. Their journey, from chance encounters to heartfelt vows, reflects a union as vibrant as the colors of their summer wedding palette.
Madison, a high school English teacher hailing from Central Illinois, and Alex, a law student originally from Columbia, Missouri, found their paths intertwined during their pursuit of higher education. Fate brought them together at Missouri State University, where their initial meeting sparked a connection. Madison laughs as she recalls that she had all but given up on finding love during her college years. The men she had met were not what she was waiting for. But once she decided to stop looking, that was when true love finally found her. Madison vividly recalls their initial encounter, a moment suspended in time where she found herself unexpectedly captivated by Alex’s presence. “I don’t know what it was, but we just hit it off instantly,” she reminisces.
As their love blossomed, they discovered that they both had fond childhood memories and family ties to Table Rock Lake. “Getting to know each other, we learned that we both spent a lot of time down at Table Rock Lake. I grew up going to the lake and visiting family. It became not only a special place just to me growing up, but a special place that we could now share together,” Madison explains.
For Alex, the decision to take their relationship to the next level was marked by a moment of clarity and unwavering determination. “I knew that I wanted to date this girl,” he reflects, recounting when he laid his heart on the line. What followed was a couple of years of courting, communicating, and creating a solid foundation for a lifetime of commitment and mutual care. “We were dating long-distance,” remembers Alex, “because Madison had one more year to finish her Masters degree and I was starting law school. So that time apart was a good challenge for us, and we were able to maintain good communication, which gave me even more confidence in my decision to propose.” Of course, Alex proposed at the very lake that bound their love story together, a place imbued with the echoes of their shared history and boundless love. He gathered his courage, along with both of their families, and proposed to her on a scenic hill, overlooking the glistening waters of Table Rock Lake.
As they began the adventure of wedding planning, Madison and Alex found help in the support of family and the expertise of trusted vendors. When it was time for Madison to choose where to have their wedding, Integrity Hills Chapel at Big Cedar seemed a natural choice for their venue.
Guiding them through the intricacies of wedding planning was Erin Schroeter, their dedicated event coordinator with Big Cedar Lodge. Erin’s expertise and attention to detail allowed Madison and Alex to navigate the planning process smoothly, ensuring that every aspect of their wedding exceeded expectations. Big Cedar Lodge also prepared a meal that had all who attended leaving with rave reviews of their dining experience.
On the day of their wedding, emotions ran high as Madison made her grand entrance. For Alex, the sight of his bride walking down the aisle was a moment he would forever cherish, a testament to the bond they shared and the journey they had begun together. Amidst the joy and laughter, Madison and Alex will always remember dancing in the fountain with friends and family in celebration. From heartfelt vows to tearful dances, every moment was proof of the enduring power of love and the promise of a future filled with shared dreams and amazing memories. Madison explains, “Every little girl dreams of her wedding, but I really don’t even think I could have dreamed up something that good. It was honestly better than I could have even imagined.” With Table Rock Lake as their witness, their love story continues to unfold, with future plans to someday share it with their own children and grandchildren, love at the lake.
XOXO, MET WED
Alterations – Designs by Nadine
Beverages & Bartending Services – Big Cedar Lodge
Bridal Gown – Breeze Bridal
Cake / Dessert – Sprinkles and Sugar
Caterer – Big Cedar Lodge
Floral – Shannon’s Custom Florals
Photographer – Lighter Focus Photography
Venue Ceremony – Integrity Hills Chapel at Big Cedar Lodge
Venue Reception – The Stables at Integrity Hills at Big Cedar Lodge
Videographer – Wedding Stories by Korey
Wedding Planner – Big Cedar Lodge
Wedding Rings – LC Betz
