Jessica and Heath Brunton

Tied the Knot: October 15, 2016

Jessica (Kumpfer) Brunton, 27, daughter of John and Carol Kumpfer III of Overland Park, Kansas, earned a BA in speech language pathology from KU. She is currently working as a nanny as she prepares to begin work on her master’s degree in speech pathology.

Heath Brunton, 28, son of Kevin and Kristine Brunton of Topeka, Kansas, received a BS in civil engineering from K-State University. He works for Wynne Homes, a local homebuilding company, alongside Jessica’s dad and brother.

While attending K State, Jessica and Heath met through mutual friends and started dating in March 2010. Their relationship blossomed, and Heath proposed on January 8, 2016. “We had gone out to dinner to celebrate Heath’s new job,” Jessica relates. “He had the ring with him the entire night and thought about proposing in the middle of the restaurant, but he knew how much I dislike being the center of attention. Once we got home, he presented me with a framed picture of the quote ‘Will you marry me?’ as he bent down on one knee and proposed. We shared a toast to us and went to my parents’ house to surprise them, and the next day we shared the exciting news with Heath’s parents.”

The blissful couple tied the knot October 15, 2016. Emily Carter served as Maid of Honor; bridesmaids were Lyndsay Cochran, Stephanie Curran, Natalie Curran and Courtney Drane. Levi Brunton was Best Man, and groomsmen were Brady Bean, Andy Diegel, Bill Kumpfer and Drew Proctor. Serving as ushers were Jake Brunton, Tyler Elliott, Nathan Figgs and Zach Figgs. The Kiewiet children, Grace, Evelyn and Clara, were the precious flower girls, and their brother Will was the ring bearer.

“The blending of modern elegance with old world traditions made our wedding and reception unique,” Jessica describes. “My simple, elegant gown and the veil with intricate handmade detail reflected the traditional and elegant look that I desired. At our reception, my Slovenian and German heritage was evident through the music and foods of the historic neighborhoods of Strawberry Hill and Dutch Hill. Many of the traditions were a part of my parents’ and grandparents’ weddings. Growing up, these ethnic weddings were what I became accustomed to and therefore wanted to pay tribute to my family history in my own wedding. A strolling accordion/polka band and ethnic songs played during the greeting of our guests and through the dinner hour.

“Guests had a taste of a few ethnic dishes; one was my grandfather’s recipe that the caterer made to perfection! One song that was played is the Darovajte, which means ‘to give.’ The song traditionally introduces the bride, groom and wedding party and leads them in song to a donation line to allow their parents, siblings, godparents and guests to congratulate and give their gifts to the couple. In return, the bride and groom gift guests with food, drink, cake, music and dancing. After experiencing a bit of the old world, we switched to a DJ for a more modern music style. A perfect blend of old and new was reflected throughout the evening.”

Jessica and Heath honeymooned in beautiful St. Lucia, enjoying the sun and sea. And they have learned that they are expecting a new arrival, a baby girl, at the beginning of October! ■

Bridal Gown
Nolte’s Bridal

Bridesmaids’ Gowns
Nolte’s Bridal

Groom’s Tux
Tip Top Tux

Groomsmen  Tuxes
Tip Top Tux

Hair by
Scott Schaefer Salon

Videography
Tower Studios

Florist
The Fiddly Fig

Band
Kolograd

DJ
Matt Meiron

Caterer
Blue Hills Country Club

Cake
McLain’s Bakery

Ceremony
Church of the Nativity Catholic Church

Reception
Blue Hills Country Club

Jeweler
Mazzarese Jewelry

Wedding Coordinators
Michael Nolte and Jennifer Pestinger