Jen and Mikes wedding day was cold, gloomy and wet but that didn’t stop the excitement of the day. I brought my photographer friend Breanne Conner with me to help with the day and to do some second shooting. We arrived at Crowne Point Plaza in Burr Ridge excited to meet the groom for the first time and excited to see Jen again! When we got to the room where all the girls were getting ready, it was full of friends and family that would be standing beside Jen on this amazing day. After greeting everyone, it was time to collect the guys and meet the groom for the first time. Reaching the door where the guys were staying we met up with Mike and his best guy friends. We all gathered in the lobby of the hotel which was amazing and had the most beautiful natural light. As the guys finished gathering everyone and straightening ties, I pulled Mike to the side and photographed some portraits of just him. Mike was soft spoken and sweet. After photographing the gentlemen and seeing them on their way to the ceremony, we made our way back upstairs to photograph the girls.

The girls where busy gathering last pieces of their dresses and accessories. As they finished with their final touch ups Breanne and I photographed details and Jen’s beautiful dress. As time was passing the excitement of the day became more noticeable. We gathered in the lobby again to take a few photos of the girls collecting around Jen, laughing and talking about the upcoming ceremony. After saying goodbye to the girls as they headed to the bus on their way to the ceremony, Breanne and I picked up our things and headed that way as well. Talking the whole time about how beautiful the colors of the bridesmaids dresses were and how amazing Jen looked in her dress.

The ceremony took place at St. Terrence Catholic Church in Alsip. The church was beautifully decorated for Christmas which went so well with the theme of the wedding. As family and friends assembled to witness this special day, I checked in on Jen, she was nervous but excited to begin the first day of the rest of her life with Mike. The service was beautiful with readings from the bible, a unity candle, and witnessing the love from everyone who came to share the day with Jen and Mike.

The reception was held at Cog Hill in Lemont. I had never photographed there before but Breanne had, so she was familiar with the layout which is always comforting. Walking into the venue was like walking into a Christmas wonderland, it was decorated so beautifully. I could imagine Santa’s cabin being decorated in the same decor. The rooms where warm and inviting. Christmas music played as everyone congregated in the bar area and greeted family and friends as they arrived for the festivities.

I tried to pick out my favorite part of the day but there were parts throughout the entire day that I loved, I couldn’t pick just one. Everyone was so welcoming and nice. The ceremony and reception were beautiful. Jen and Mike are such sweet people. I am so glad I was chosen to spend the day with them. Jen and Mike, I wish you a long life of health and happiness.

Dress – Wolsfelt’s Bridal

Invitations – Wedding Paperie

Ceremony – St. Terrence Catholic Church

Reception – Cog Hill Golf and Country Club

Videography – Jorelle Gates Photography

Florals – Kay Sordel

DJ – Katscratch Entertainment