* Peoria Illinois * Gateway River Building Wedding Photographer *
The saying goes that if it rains on your wedding day it’s good luck! Well it definitely rained on Libby and Mitch’s wedding day at The Gateway Building in Peoria, Illinois. However, their luck kicked in early as the pouring rain cleared right before we were set to start bridal party photos. YAY! You would never know if Libby had any smidge of concern about the weather though. She was as cool as a cucumber! When she put on her gorgeous gown that morning she was glowing! Her style, along with her ladies was pure elegance and class. When I saw Mitch for the first time that morning he was relaxing with all his groomsmen along with his parents and the jokes were flying around the room! That is why this couple is so lovely. They roll with the punches and constantly have smiles on their faces.
Their first look along the river with the beautiful bridge behind them was one I will remember for a long time. Libby told her bridesmaids that most likely her and Mitch will cry. I was a little skeptical about Mitch shedding some tears. He is so laid back and fun. A bit of a country boy if you will. But, Libby obviously knows him better than me. As soon as he saw her looking stunning in her dress and veil, it was over! The two of them tried to keep it together giggling with each other to stop the tears, but it was too late. It was one of the sweetest first looks I’ve ever had. They are absolutely smitten with one another and this fact is apparent to anyone who meets them. Once they got the happy tears out of the way, it was straight smiles the rest of the day! Their bridal party (the girls in navy, long dresses and the boys in gray suits with navy accents) were all amazingly fun, full of energy, and ready to help Libby and Mitch rock their big day! We took plenty of time to capture great moments shared with their crew along with many of the soon to be married couple before their late afternoon nuptials near the river. The ceremony was underneath the causeway of the Gateway Building. Family and friends filled the seats to witness the joining of two fabulous people and show their support as they started this new chapter in their lives. There were tender words spoken between Libby and Mitch in their short and sweet ceremony. They were so very excited to finally be married and it was wonderful to see all their plans come to fruition.
I was lucky enough to steal the pair one more time for a few more photos before they made their way to the reception. We had planned this time for sunset photos, yet due to the rain looking like it was going to make it’s way back towards us we didn’t have too much of a sunset. Although that did not stop us from getting the cute newlyweds to snuggle up and create some incredible memories to cherish forever. The moody blue clouds behind them actually helped make the couple stand out and show off their love for one another. Plus, silhouettes against the dense hazy skies were just as fascinating as when the sun is peaking out! They doubled down on their luck on wedding day as a thunderstorm rolled in as the reception was getting underway. I’ve heard a more elaborate saying that if it rains twice on your special day, yet it cleared at the perfect times to allow for the couple to enjoy a spectacular day….You are lucky in love! This was so true for Libby and Mitch!
The experience I had with Libby and Mitch over the course of their journey toward wedding day was an extraordinary one. They put their full trust in me as their photographer and that means the world. They made my job easy with their cheerful and carefree personalities and I feel so blessed I was chosen to capture their love for one another and their precious memories. Cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Behrends!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
