Mann’s Chapel, Rossville + Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, Penfield, Illinois

July 3, 2017

To describe my favorite moment from Hannah + Michael’s day would be hard. Not hard to explain each moment, but rather to pick an overall favorite at all. From the moment Hannah’s bridesmaids saw her for the first time, or the sweet vows they wrote to one another, to the surprise song Hannah’s brother sang for her dance with her dad, it was all wonderful. I think though, the moment Hannah walked down the aisle to greet her groom for the first time that day tops it all off. Mann’s Chapel in Rossville is absolutely charming in itself. What it lacks in plumbing and electricity (yep, you read that right!) it makes up for in absolute charm. After the bridal party walked in, the doors at the back of the chapel closed, pausing for just a moment to allow Hannah to step into place. When those doors opened, the biggest smile came across Michael’s face (and everyone else’s in the room for that matter) and you could see the joy and excitement they both had for not just the day, but their lives ahead. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place after the vows they wrote to each other and their daughter Ellie, just before sealing their marriage with their first kiss.

I have known Hannah for years, but it was so great getting to know Michael better, and even more, seeing how wonderful they are together and how much they really love and care for each other. It was an honor to be involved in such a monumental day in their lives, and I know there’s nothing but greatness to come! I hope you both have a fantastic time in Thailand this week on your honeymoon!

Thank you to all the vendors who made this day special:
Ceremony Venue: Mann’s Chapel
Reception Venue: Middle Fork River Forest Preserve
Bridal Gown: Elite Bridal
Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse
Wedding Bands: Champaign Jewelers
Jewelry: Helzberg Diamonds + Tiffany & Co
Shoes: Michael Kors
Hair: Lauree Parker
Caterer: Dragon Fire Pizza
Cake: Stephanie Shively
Florist: Treasured Roots
DJ: Jon Watts