* Decatur Illinois * Navy & Maroon Fall Wedding Photographer *
Positive attitudes are key on a wedding day! Erica and Austin had no shortage of positivity on their wedding day in Decatur, Illinois last weekend! Erica had a smile on her face from the moment I saw her at the salon in the morning until our last hug when I left for the day! For a girl, by her own account, who barely wears any makeup she looked gorgeous after she got all dolled up! Either way, with a smile like Erica’s, she’s beautiful inside and out. Once everyone was at the church I finally got to meet Austin, who had not been at the bridal show when I met and booked Erica over a year ago! He too had a big smile on his face and was happy to see friends and family that were in attendance for their special day. Austin and his best man, Andrew wore navy suits with accents of maroon and looked very handsome! Austin chose a maroon bowtie to polish off his stylish look. Erica’s ladies, Ariel and Yesenia, were also in navy with beautiful dresses with laced tops and flowing skirts. When it came time for Erica to get dressed she was nervous yet ready. Erica looked stunning in her beaded form-fitting gown! The incredible dress had a high neckline, which Erica said was her favorite part, as well as a fantastic shear back with a hint of sparkle. She also added a phenomenal cathedral length veil! LOVE! Then to add an extra amazing accessory, Erica carried a small sequins purse, which belonged to her grandmother. Erica was really a vision!
When the time came for the ceremony the ornate church was packed! Erica turned the corner at the back of the church with her father and made their way up the candle-lined aisle toward her awaiting groom. Austin had a huge smile on his face and was thrilled to see his bride! The ceremony was filled with traditions, organ music, and joyful vows. They sealed the deal with a kiss and headed back up the aisle as husband and wife! Following family photos, we took a few pictures out front of the church with its arched doorway then headed to downtown Decatur and Central Park. The small bridal party looked wonderful in front of the Transfer House and the red metal roof! We had to fight a small crowd of high school students there for homecoming photos. But, when you have a glowing bride and her new husband…They get first dibs! The day had been mostly overcast until this moment when the sun finally made an appearance! It was the perfect time to grab a few last photos of the new Mr. & Mrs. Craig before making our way to the reception.
The couple held their celebration at the Mt. Zion Convention Center, which was awesome! The room was huge and had perfectly placed decor for the head table, cake, and guest tables! We all enjoyed a delicious meal before ushering Erica and Austin outside one more time as the sun began to set. We captured some lovely intimate memories of the pair as they took in a few quiet moments before the party really began. Sunset photos are always my favorite because it allows the newlyweds time to reflect on the day and simply let it sink in that they are now married. Erica and Austin made their way back in to spend more time with their family and friends, who witnessed them cut their cake, spin around the dance floor for their first dance, and they even enjoyed a specially choreographed dance by Erica’s three cousins. It was amazing! Again, throughout the whole wedding day, Erica and Austin had fantastically positive attitudes! They were positive they found the love of their lives. They were positive their hearts were full. And they were positive they would be side by side in marriage forever at the end of the day! Cheers to the Craigs!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
Special Shout Out To All Of Erica & Austin’s Wedding Vendors!
Ceremony Venue: St. John’s Episcopal Church http://www.saintjohnsdecatur.org
Reception Venue: Mt. Zion Convention Center https://www.mtzconventioncenter.com/image-gallery/
Videographer: Wilkerson Studios http://www.wilkersonstudios.com
Florist: Wethingtons https://www.wethingtonsflowers.com
DJ: Complete Weddings & Events https://www.cmusic.com
Hair Stylist: Signature Salon http://signaturesalon.us
Makeup Artist: Signature Salon http://signaturesalon.us
Reception Decor: Lottie Brogan Linens http://www.bestweddinglinens.com
Cake: Pollen and Pastry https://www.pollenandpastry.com
