* DoubleTree by Hilton * Bloomington Illinois * Fall Navy & Wine Wedding Photographer *
Some relationships start in high school. Some start later in life. And some, like Alexa and Dillon’s, started during their college years at MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Illinois. Alexa was a volleyball player and studying nursing while Dillon was a pitcher on the baseball team, who decided to go into law enforcement. Their time together in college was so important in their relationship they chose to go back and visit campus for their engagement session you can see HERE last fall! We relived some of their glory days on the volleyball court as well as the baseball diamond! Speaking of diamonds, Dillon popped the question and the planning began for their phenomenal wedding day, which concluded at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington, Illinois this past weekend!
Alexa was already looking lovely before she got into her dress the morning of the wedding at the salon surrounded by all her ladies! But, when it came time for her to get into her wedding gown she was stunning! Her dress had wonderful floral appliques and the top and a tulle skirt that went on for days! She was absolutely gorgeous! Her bridesmaids also looking incredible in their shade of wine mismatched dresses. I adore this look as it gives each of the bride’s closest friends a chance to show off their own style! But, I think one of the most touching moments of the day was when Alexa’s mom, Stacie took a few minutes with her daughter to gift her a special handkerchief before the ceremony. The amount of thought and work that went into this one of a kind gift was very touching. I personally held back tears as Stacie explained all the different pieces of fabric that were included on the handkerchief such as cloth from both of Alexa’s grandfather’s shirts, a piece of her own hat she wore when she was born, as well as from her baptismal dress. Alexa and her mom shared a very moving moment that I don’t think either will forget. Then to add even more emotions to the day we followed that up with a first look with Alexa and her father, John. Alexa has such a bond with her parents and I was grateful to capture it all for them.
Alexa and Dillon chose not to see one another before the walk down the aisle so we had to be very careful to keep them separated in the morning. Dillon and the guys were looking handsome in their Navy suits and wine accents pieces like their vests and ties. Dillon also has a very special relationship with his mom and dad, Margo and Ed, which was apparent throughout the day I spent with them. And Dillon and his guys all have a goofy and fun-loving time when they are all together. The vivid socks and personalized shirts they wore under their suits tells that tale pretty easily! As we were finishing up photos right before the ceremony there was the unfortunate forecast of rain basically all day and the downpour was continuing. But, when the time came for Alexa and her dad to make their way down the aisle towards Dillon the anticipation of the moment was not anything short of incredible and magically…the rain stopped! Dillon, who was fighting back tears when he saw his bride, couldn’t have been more elated to see his future wife walking his direction! Their ceremony at Epiphany Catholic Church in Normal, IL was full of insightful readings, faithful vows, and even a little humor. And before long, the new Mr. & Mrs. Hodges were announced as Married! YAY! Following the ceremony, Alexa and Dillon made the decision to make a run for it to Miller Park in Bloomington and see if the rain that had stopped would continue to bless us with a little break long enough for the bridal party and their couple photos! We made our way over in front of an amazing Pavilion where we were able to capture the energetic bridal party as well as two special guests that made an arrival at the park by request of the couple! Alexa and Dillon’s two furbabies, Bowser and Asher came for a few photos! I couldn’t believe how much their puppy, Asher had grown since the couple’s engagement session last fall when they had just adopted him! They were so excited to be a part of their dog parent’s day! Then it was time for Alexa and Dillon’s close-ups and to all of our surprise…The sun came out! The newlyweds shined together and are undeniably in deep in love with one another! The sweet kisses and gentle way they look into each other’s eyes is fantastic!
Once the photos were finished, we headed over to the DoubleTree Hotel for their reception to continue the celebration with family and friends! The hall was dazzling with touches of the color wine and splashes of pinks, reds, and golds in the flowers and decor! Their guests came ready and excited to enjoy the party with the couple! Between the sweet dances, dollar dash, a full dance floor, and a quick dress change by the bride the party went well into the night! I’m overjoyed I could be part of such an incredible couple’s start to forever! Thanks so much to Alexa and Dillon and I wish you both nothing but the best in the years to come!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
Huge Shout Out To All Alexa & Dillon’s Vendors!
Wedding Ceremony: Epiphany Catholic Church https://www.epiphanyparish.com
Reception Ceremony: Doubletree by Hilton https://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/illinois/Wedding Coordinator: Doubletree by Hilton Ashley Walter Florist: Pollen & Pastry https://www.pollenandpastry.com Cake Artist: Pollen & Pastry DJ: Party On Productions https://www.partyonproductions.biz Makeup Artist: Fringe Salon http://www.fringesalonandbeautylounge.com Hair Artist: Fringe Salon Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal https://www.davidsbridal.com/ Tuxes: Men’s warehouse https://www.menswearhouse.com/store-locator/4624?utm_source=google&utm_medium=listing&utm_content=4624&utm_campaign=IL
