* The Homestead * Tallula Illinois * Farm Wedding Photographer *
Driving out to The Homestead Reception Center in Tallula, Illinois for Kristin and Charlie’s big wedding I was pretty excited! Not only to bear witness to this lovely couple officially becoming husband and wife, but also because I have heard so much about this incredible venue that I had never had the pleasure of shooting at before! I was a tad nervous about the forecasted warm Memorial Day Weekend weather admittedly, with highs into the 90’s! Those temperatures were accurate! It was HOT! However, when I arrived at The Homestead, Kristin was like a busy bee helping put all the finishing touches on the unique reception hall constructed in a barn. She thought of everything! The details were fabulous from the popcorn stand, to the table numbers expressing deeper meaning in her and Charlie’s relationship, to the help from their guests with “Bucket List” adventures the pair could try in the future. Every direction I turned there was another detail I had missed. So marvelous!!
The details woven into Kristin and Charlie’s day didn’t just stop with the reception space, but moved into the doors used in the ceremony hiding Kristin from Charlie’s view, as they did not see one another prior to the “I Dos”. Charlie built the beautiful doors himself along with a couple other signs that Kristin requested. Kristin’s gorgeous bouquet included sweet trinkets to represent loved ones who could not be present for their big day. And can we talk about the ladies and their stunning dresses? Kristin glowed in her lace wedding gown with her bridesmaids next to her in their sequins rose gold dresses and simple Baby’s Breath bouquets. The elegance out on the farm was delightful! Charlie and his guys were not to be outdone arriving in their heather grey suits and vests. Even in the hot temps these boys looked cool!
The ceremony was short and sweet with Kristin and Charlie expressing their love for each other with hand written vows read aloud, a few giggles between the two, and a joyful kiss to seal the deal! The pair walked up the aisle hand in hand as Mr. and Mrs. Von De Bur! YAY! The next few hours were full of photos, catching up with family and friends, sharing in a delicious meal, and of course capturing memories at sunset! Oh and I can’t forget the grand finale of sparklers to send us right into summer! Guests surrounded the newlyweds with gleaming sparklers as they exited The Homestead! Picture Perfect way to end a day filled with emotion, support, and charm! Cheers to all the new adventures these two will share in marriage!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
Special Thanks to all the Vendors who made Kristin & Charlie’s day amazing!
Venue: The Homestead Reception Center http://www.homesteadreceptioncenter.com
DJ: Superior Sound Entertainment http://www.superior-sound-entertainment.com
Caterer: Hamilton’s http://hamiltonscatering.com
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Latter Day Bride https://www.latterdaybride.com
Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Warehouse https://www.menswearhouse.com
Cake Artist: Kelsey Brandenburg
Hair Stylist: Allie Ribley
