I first met this beautiful couple in the fall of last year. They were referred to me by another bride….I LOVE when that happens!! We had an early engagement session that fall and waited almost a full year to celebrate their wedding this September!

A special thanks to Christine Brizendine of Dabble Me This Photography for joining me on this wedding!

First things first….check out Lauren’s gorgeous Ella wedding dress!!

It was so great to see all of Lauren’s bridesmaids gathering around her that day. Lauren had gotten special personalized hangers for each of her girls!

While the bridesmaids got dressed, Christine and I snuck out to the bride’s back yard to shoot some details. Her backyard was not only beautiful, but it allowed us to get some very fun and unique shots of her accessories.

I absolutely love shooting the bride getting ready. I get to be the fly on wall watching and capturing everyone’s excitement as they watch their friend put on their dress for the first time.

And how about this SWEET sweet picture of her dad kissing her as he sees his daughter in her wedding gown!

We left the bride’s house and headed to St. Matthew’s Parish in Glendale Heights, IL for a wonderful mass. Just before the service started, Lauren asked me if I could get a shot of her with the groom without him actually seeing her….this was the result!

The entire service was incredibly beautiful!

We then headed to Indian Lakes Resort to capture some fun shots of the bridal party and the bride and groom by themselves. This is hands down my favorite part of the day!

I was so excited to get to shoot this reception. I had been to The Cotillion in Palatine once before but as a guest and just loved how classy the whole venue was! Lauren and Ryan’s details just added to the beauty of the place!

This sweet cake was made by the Cake Institute.

Some of my favorite moments of the reception….

Lauren’s grandparents showed everyone what real LOVE, unaging love, is really like!

Lauren and Ryan, thank you again for allowing me to capture your special day!! And Christine…this goes without saying but you rock!! 🙂

-Keren