An Elegant Affair at Orchard Ridge Farms, Rockton, IL

Happy Thursday, and welcome to this May throwback for #tbt!

The day started with a drive, but some of the best ones do! When you first drive onto the property, you’re met with a gorgeous home that looks like you pulled it straight out of the wine hills in Italy. But instead we’re in northern Illinois! Moving farther back, you come up to a massive barn inspired hall, with windows lining almost every inch – a photographers dream. Inside the wood beams adorned with chandeliers and an impressive fireplace greet you front and center. As I walked through the space and out to the patio leading to the ceremony space overlooking the pond, I was excited to see what other magic the day would bring.

In typical fashion I met up with the girls in the bridal suite. Everyone was hustling and bustling to get ready, and the team for hair and makeup was going non-stop. The bridesmaids had the cutest matching mauve pj sets to chill in, a perfect way to incorporate the wedding colors throughout the day! The guys in the house had it a little more laid back, as per usual, and relaxed a bit before getting into their classic black and white tuxes – maybe my favorite combo ever.

Despite the many clouds in the sky, the sun popped up throughout their ceremony, which was sweet and simple. Shout out to Brianna’s MOH for holding her veil safe from the wind. 😉 Don’t think I didn’t catch that!

Between the ceremony and reception, we hopped on the Orcahard Ridge golf cart and made our way into the orchard itself! Jeff’s allergies allowed us a small window amongst the early May buds, but the shots right after sunset with my lights outside might take the cake. I love the way OCF (off camera flash for you non-togs) makes the subjects POP on any kind of day in any lighting situation. Essential knowledge for a wedding photographer to have, if you ask me. 🤘🏻

Anyways, the party started and I don’t think it ever stopped! I met probably the most energetic, pumped up DJ and he kept that floor packed all night and even orchestrated a conga line – which is a HOOT to photograph BTW.

Brianna + Jeff, thank you for trusting me with your big day. It was magical and not ONLY because of those night time shots we got before we left, but because you and your families were so welcoming. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the Borghesi’s! 🖤 – Em

VENDORS // The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms // Here Comes the Bride Inc. // Essence Designs // Azazie // Minted // New York Jeweler // Event Floral // Julie Michelle Cakes // Luxe Productions // EK Cakery // 808 Cheesecake //