Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but Courtney Kukuk—a recent bride at Fairview Acres Barn and a valued staff member—proved that with the right approach, stress-free weddings are possible. In this FAB Chats episode, hosted by Cassidy, Courtney shared her unique perspective as both a bride and staff member. Here’s what we learned from her experience and actionable tips for engaged couples.
Note: Click on the timestamps throughout this blog to hear more insights and tips directly from Courtney Kukuk in her FAB Chats episode.
Who Is Courtney Kukuk? (03:07)
Courtney, a first-grade teacher from Galesburg, has a special connection to Fairview Acres Barn. Not only did she celebrate her wedding here, but she also works as part of the venue’s staff. Her unique insights allow her to see every wedding from multiple angles—bride, guest, and team member.
1. The Importance of Connecting with Your Vendors (04:18)
One of Courtney’s most memorable moments was meeting Cristy during her initial tour of the barn. She said, “We weren’t just picking a venue—we were choosing people we wanted to spend our day with.” This connection made their decision easy.
Tip: When selecting your wedding vendors, prioritize those you feel comfortable with. Courtney emphasized that the barn’s staff “felt like family,” which helped make her day stress-free. The team’s dedication is one of the many reasons Fairview Acres Barn is known for hosting stress-free weddings.
2. Why Venue Layout and Organization Matter (13:21)
One standout feature of Fairview Acres Barn for Courtney was the venue’s thoughtful design. From individual cubbies for personal items to separate rooms for hair and makeup, every detail was planned to reduce stress. “The natural light in the bridal suite was perfect,” she said, “and even if it rained, I knew we’d have gorgeous indoor photos.”
Tip: When touring a venue, consider its layout. Is there enough space for your wedding party to get ready comfortably? Are there backup options for bad weather? Courtney’s advice: “Pay attention to the details—they make a huge difference in creating stress-free weddings.”
3. Scheduling Time for Just the Two of You (17:16)
Courtney and her husband, Cody, took a break from the reception to capture photos by the barn’s pond during sunset. This quiet moment became their favorite part of the day. “It felt like the first time we could just be together without distractions,” she shared.
Tip: Plan a private moment for you and your partner during the day. Whether it’s sunset photos or a quiet walk, this time allows you to take it all in and create stress-free memories.
4. Teamwork That Goes Beyond Expectations (20:04)
Courtney raved about the barn’s staff, who stepped in during unexpected moments. For instance, when a groomsman overheated, the team quickly provided towels, fans, and electrolytes. She said, “They handled everything so seamlessly that I didn’t even have to worry.”
Tip: Choose a venue with a dedicated team that prioritizes not just you but also your guests. This level of care is crucial for achieving stress-free weddings.
5. Advice for Future Couples: Be Present (31:18)
Courtney’s number one piece of advice is simple but powerful: “Be present and enjoy the moment with your person. Everything else will be taken care of.”
She also recommended taking advantage of Fairview Acres Barn’s decor shed. Instead of buying decorations, Courtney selected items provided by the venue, which saved time and reduced stress.
Tip: Trust your venue’s resources and don’t sweat the small stuff. Let the experts guide you so you can focus on what truly matters—your love story.
Why Fairview Acres Barn Stands Out (47:55)
According to Courtney, it’s not just the picturesque barn or the venue’s amenities that make Fairview Acres special—it’s the people. “The staff is the heart and soul of the barn,” she said. “They don’t just create weddings; they create stress-free weddings and experiences that leave lasting impressions on everyone who walks through the door.”
From helping couples customize their day to ensuring guests feel valued, the team at Fairview Acres goes above and beyond to make every wedding unique.
Final Thoughts
Courtney’s experience as both a bride and staff member offers invaluable insights for anyone planning their wedding. From choosing a venue with heart to trusting your vendors, her story is a testament to how Fairview Acres Barn creates a stress-free and joyful wedding experience.
Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Schedule a tour of Fairview Acres Barn today!
For stunning photography that captures your big day perfectly, Courtney and Cody highly recommend Eric Osborn Photography. Eric’s professionalism and ability to capture authentic moments add even more magic to your wedding.
Check out the Full FAB Chats episode with Courtney below.
