St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Beaverville + Quality Inn & Suites, Bradley, IL

 Stephanie + Jake’s big day was one that their friends and family had been waiting on for a while. Both the bride and groom were friends of mine from high school (Jake MAY or may not have gotten me kicked off the school bus!) and I was thrilled when they booked me for both their engagement pictures and wedding. 

The start of our day was rainy as we arrived at the house of the bride’s parents. When we arrived the girls were just finishing up with hair and makeup while sipping on mimosas. The little girls were getting their hair done and their flower crowns were the perfect touch. The bridesmaids dressed, and then the bride slipped into her gorgeous low-back lace gown with the help of her bridesmaids. Stephanie received a gift of a bracelet from her mom, and everyone climbed into the limo to drive to the church.

The ceremony was held at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Beaverville, Illinois. This church has always been beautiful, but the recent renovations make it even more stunning! I met the boys in the rectory – which was a unique and old style brick house with tall ceilings and lots of big windows -where we took some shots of Jake getting ready, and pictures of the groomsmen. I loved the look of the house, and the guy’s navy blue tuxes looked super sharp in contrast. While the guys relaxed and tried to keep Jake calm, I got some group shots of the girls outside the church (don’t you love the stone exterior of the church?!).

The ceremony was a traditional Catholic ceremony, which allowed a lot of time for details of the bridal party, guests and Stephanie + Jake. I even shed a tear or two as Jake watched his beautiful bride coming down the aisle, one of my favorite moments! Their vows were beautiful to witness, as tears were shed by all. After the ceremony, we took family pictures in the church, some selfies with Father (who was absolutely fantastic to work with!), and headed to the Kankakee Train Station for bridals. On location at the Station, we were able to get some super group shots and sweet bridals, including some with a fountain rainbow, and a great big blue sky. 

We left the station and ended at the Quality Inn – you may remember it from Trent + Erika’s Wedding – where they have done some renovations that really improve the look of the space. The bridal party was announced in, Stephanie + Jake cut the cake, and everyone ate a delicious dinner. After dinner Stephanie + Jake danced for the first time as husband and wife, tossed the garter and bouquet, and the dancing started!

I could not have imagined a more perfect day for these two! Thank you for letting me spend the day with you! Leave a comment and after 50 these two will receive $50 in print credit on me!

A huge thank you to the vendors who helped make this day possible:

Church: St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Beaverville, IL
Reception: Quality Inn + Suites, Bradley, IL
Hair: Abby Kimmell with Head Hunters Salon
Makeup: Brittany Koryanis Makeup Artistry
Bridal Gown: Stella York from Elite Bridal
Tuxes: Michael Kors from Bliss Bridal and Prom
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Elite Bridal
Bride’s Jewelry: David Tutera from Elite Bridal
Shoes: Touch Ups from Elite Bridal
Florals: The Still Room
Aisle Decor: One Fine Day
Head Table Backdrop: One Fine Day
Gold Tablecloths: One Fine Day
DJ: Music Express – David Gray
Cake: Jorie Cakes

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