* Downtown Springfield Illinois * Peach & Aqua Wedding Photographer *
I should have known how amazing Stacie and Ryan’s rooftop wedding day in Springfield, Illinois was going to be based on our first meeting during their wedding consultation. Usually I meet most couples at a coffee shop to sit in a quite little corner to hear all about their wedding plans. But, that wasn’t Stacie and Ryan’s speed! We met at a local bar filled with excitement, sports, and we chatted about their vision over a beer. Cheers! I totally loved every minute! We had a lot of the same likes and dislikes plus our conversation just flowed effortlessly. The two of them are so laid back and easy going, which completely carried into their gorgeous peach and teal wedding day this past weekend.
The day started in the same place it ended, which was the beautiful Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield. All the bridesmaids along with Stacie, her mom, and Ryan’s mom were on hand bright and early for hair and makeup. I thoroughly enjoyed being a fly on the wall and hearing stories they recalled from the years their relationships spanned. Getting ready photos included the guys in their gray suits, blush pink vests, and a couple of beers with lunch. The girls in floor length aqua flowy dresses each with a different style accessorized with bouquets of pink, white, and peach berries. And of course Stacie in her amazing lace backed gown with a train of embroidered floral appliqués that seemed to go on for days. Not to mention the dazzling Badgley Mischka heels she wore. Such perfection! After everyone was done getting all gussied up, the whole bridal party (with the exception) of Stacie piled into a white hummer limo and headed over to Washington Park for Stacie and Ryan’s first look. Stacie followed behind us with both of her parents. Now, Ryan isn’t the type of guy that is into a ton of “fancy” things. He wasn’t totally sure what to expect or even the point of the first look. Which was making me laugh when Stacie said she had explained it on several occasions to him. All Ryan knew was that he was so ready to marry his bride to be and then he was ready to party with their guests. Yet, when he turned around and saw Stacie in her stunning white dress he was smiling from ear to ear! His heart was happy! As we wondered throughout the park from the Botanical Gardens, to the gazebo, then over to the Illinois State Capitol, the soon to be husband and wife were surrounded by a a lively bridal party full of love and laughter. Oh and did I mention the June weather was excellent?! I mean, mid 70’s, sunny, with a light breeze at the park.
The light breeze however was a different story once we got back to the hotel and made our way to the rooftop of the hotel. Let’s just say that I became very good at shooting one handed while the other hand held onto my dress! I didn’t want any of their guests to get a show they weren’t expecting! Everyone, including the bride and groom, took the whole windy experience in stride! Just as I believed they would! Other than the wind, the ceremony was amazing! Ryan’s step-father, George, officiated their nuptials. He did a fabulous job mixing love, humor, and faith into the ceremony, which incorporated words Stacie and Ryan had used when writing about one another in pre-marriage meetings into their vows. It was so sweet! After they were announced husband and wife, we made our way down to the ballroom which was simply luxurious! Tall glass vases full of white and pink florals and dripping with crystals on many tables before their delicious plated dinner. Yum! When sunset came, I snuck the newlyweds back up to the rooftop for 10 minutes of overlooking the city and a bride dip thrown in for good measure. Sunset photos are always a must for me with my couples when Mother Nature allows! So glad we made it happen for Mr. and Mrs. Maltby! Congrats and I am so thankful you allowed me to document your incredible day!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
Vendor Shout Out!
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Crowne Plaza Springfield
Florist: Petals & Co.
Cake: Specialty Cakes by Tammy, Inc
DJ: Radio Pro DJ’s
Makeup & Hair: Rachel Hammann & Tye Hale
Brides Dress: Formals of Litchfield
Bridesmaid Dresses: Candice’s Bridal
Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
