* Lincoln Illinois * Intimate Backyard Military Wedding Photographer *
I first heard from Elizabeth at the end of April in regards to her upcoming June wedding in Lincoln, Illinois. Usually I hear from a bride way in advance, however Elizabeth and Matt had a big change of plans. See Matt is in the Navy and is stationed out in Hawaii (not too shabby of an assignment, right?) Elizabeth had explained they planned to be married out in Hawaii, yet they realized some of the most essential people in their lives would not be able to bare witness to their nuptials due to the long trip. The pair made the important decision to move the wedding from the beaches of Hawaii to the backyard of Matt’s childhood home in Illinois.
I arrived for the ceremony about an hour earlier than planned due to a big red spot moving across the radar closer to Lincoln! The weather was threatening right before the bride was scheduled to walk down the aisle and I wanted to get there as soon as possible. But, the blessing of beautiful weather was given to the couple and the sun (and heat) came out in full force for the rest of their special day! YAY! When it came time for Elizabeth to put on her dress it was somewhat magical! She was glowing and was simply stunning! The details in her dress, especially the back were incredible and ones I will not forget for a long time! Matt greeted his lovely bride at the end of the aisle in his Dress White uniform and looking pretty sharp himself. The ceremony was full of readings, emotional vows, and sealed with a kiss!
After the ceremony we headed over to the Kickapoo Creek Park next to a charming suspension bridge for family and bridal party photos. Although Elizabeth and Matt’s wedding was very small and my time with them was only for a short time, I wanted the newlyweds to have lasting memories with their photographs they could cherish forever. The new Mr. and Mrs. Hays are wonderful together with a sweet banter and warmth between one another. When they look at each other you can feel the devotion they have as husband and wife. We were able to capture many amazing images along the bridge as well as in the surrounding areas. And of course we had to finish everything off with a classic Navy Dip! Thank You so much to this delightful couple for allowing me to be a part of your special day!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
