Not many couples arrive to their wedding by plane.
Nina and Jacob’s day was different from the beginning. It was personal. Thoughtful. And it didn’t follow a script. The entire day was inspired by their love of travel, a story that made sense from start to finish.
Their wedding was recently featured in People Magazine, and for good reason. It was full of heart, full of joy, and truly unforgettable.
Why They Chose an Aviation-Themed Wedding
Jacob isn’t a commercial pilot, but flying is part of his life. It also played a part in how he and Nina stayed close during their long-distance relationship . A lot of their relationship happened hours apart and travel became something that connected them. So when it came time to plan their wedding, aviation wasn’t just a cute idea. It was part of their story.
What the Day Looked Like
The ceremony took place at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church in Bella Vista, Ark. It was a beautiful and traditional start to their wedding day. The ceremony itself was heartfelt.
Then came the plane.
Nina and Jacob wanted to arrive to their reception from the sky. Quickly after the ceremony they took off, flying around Northwest Arkansas. They flew by their house, checked in on the cocktail hour, and enjoy time together as newlyweds.
A Moment I Keep Thinking About
Right before the couple was set to land, the guests gathered around on the balcony waiting to watch the grand entrance. All of the guests were in awe, grandparents were recording the moment to look back on and little kids were watching and making bets on if they were kissing up in the sky!
As a wedding photographer, that’s the kind of moment I wait for. It’s not something you can stage. It just happens when the space and timeline are open enough for people to be themselves.
How to Make a Themed Wedding Feel Elegant and True to You
An airplane themed wedding could go in a lot of directions, but this day felt real and grounded.
Here are a few reasons it worked so well:
- They chose a meaningful theme that was part of their real life
- The design stayed simple and modern
- Aviation details were used with purpose
If you’re planning a concept wedding (whether it’s an airplane wedding or something else) this approach is a great example to follow.
FAQ: Planning an Aviation Wedding
Can you actually land a plane at your wedding?
Sometimes, yes. You’ll need the right location and a lot of planning ahead. Start with a venue that allows it, and check local airspace rules and insurance needs. It’s not something you can figure out last minute.
What are some ways to include aviation without it feeling too themed?
Keep it minimal. Think travel-inspired invitations, soft blues or neutrals in the design, and clean signage with subtle nods to flying. You can also consider a guestbook styled like a flight log or escort cards designed like boarding passes.
Do you need to get married at an airport or hangar?
Not necessarily. A wide open field or modern outdoor venue can work just as well, especially if the plane is just one part of the story.
Does this kind of concept affect the photography?
It can actually help. Open skies, clean layouts, and intentional design choices all give more room for storytelling and editorial-style portraits. The challenge is making sure the details support the couple’s story without distracting from it.
Featured in People : Why This Story Got Picked Up
Nina and Jacob’s wedding was honest, it had a clear story, and a clear point of view. That’s what editors look for. People featured their day because it was genuine, showed personality and was true to them.
View the full People Magazine article here:
https://people.com/pilot-groom-flies-bride-to-aviation-themed-wedding-reception-exclusive-11768112
Getting published is always an honor, especially when couples like Nina and Jacob get their stories shared.
What Part of Your Story Do You Want People to Remember?
Not everyone has a plane. But everyone has a story.
When couples ask me how to plan a unique wedding, this is usually where we land. What matters most isn’t the theme. It’s the feeling. What do you want your day to say about you?
That’s where you start.
Connect with
Malachi Westbrook Photography
I photograph weddings for couples who want to remember what their day felt like. My work blends documentary moments with editorial style. Based in Arkansas and available nationwide.
If you’re engaged or planning to get married soon, I’d love to hear more.
Or if you just want to follow along, you can find me on Instagram!
