* Ali & Anthony * Artisan Building * Springfield Illinois * Winter Wedding Photographer
Starting off 2019 with this incredible wedding couldn’t have been scripted any better! Ali and Anthony are a phenomenal couple who’s love is written all over their faces! Ali is similar to me in the sense that we are both planners by nature. Which I think is why we worked so well together. The reception was planned at the gorgeous Artisans Building in Springfield, Illinois. However, I was starting the day with my fantastic bride bright and early at the Northfield Hotel. When I arrived at the hotel for getting ready photos on the morning of the wedding, I knew right off the bat the day was going to be wonderful! Ali was all smiles and giggling with her bridesmaids, mother, and her adorable little flower girl, Emma! She had all of her details laid out and ready to be photographed! From her amazing pink shoes with “Love” embroidered on them to the memorial pin with her grandmother’s photo (which she added to her bouquet) and even her delicate diamond earrings! LOVE me some details! Ali told me she was getting nervous as the time ticked closer to the first look, but on the outside, she was cool and collected! When it came time to get her dressed she looked absolutely radiant! With her mom, Lisa’s help along with her maid of honor and bridesmaids, she became the most classic beautiful bride! Before heading out to the rendezvous spot at the Illinois State Fairground to meet Anthony, Ali’s dad, Bobby had the opportunity to see his daughter for the first time! The pride and love on his face was such a blessing to have witnessed. I’m so grateful I could be a fly on the wall for that moment of the day when a father saw his baby for the first time!
Ali and Anthony had decided to do their first look on the fairgrounds before heading off to do all their bridal party photos. Anthony was looking very dapper in his gray suit and ivory vest with matching tie. As you will see the height difference between Anthony and Ali is immense! However, I think it only allows Ali to fit perfectly into Anthony’s arms and get a bit closer to his heart! He gets a really good wrap around her for the best squeeze possible! So cute! After they shared their very special first look, the couple wanted one more spot on the fairgrounds to visit. The famous Vose Corndog stand, which is family owned on Ali’s side! The only thing better would have been if the corndog stand was open! YUM! We then headed over with the whole bridal party to Lincoln’s Home in Springfield for a few more fun photos. Ali and Anthony had told me from the beginning they loved this spot with the white picket fences, wooden walkways, and gas lamposts. Now keep in mind on this gorgeous February day, the sun was out. However, it was freezing! I think the temperature was only around 20 degrees! The bridal party, in their touches of purple, were awesome and braved the cold like champs! When the bridal party had enough I sent them onto the bus and spent a little longer with the soon to be newlyweds. Anthony simply adores Ali, which is pretty easy to see! The way he looks at her and her playful glances back just put a smile all over everyone’s faces, including me! We grabbed a few more of the pair before heading to Little Flower Church for them to officially become husband and wife! When my fingers started going numb from the cold…I knew it was time to go!
The ceremony was a traditional Catholic mass with all the lovely scripture readings, sweet hymns, and meaningful vows. I even caught an adorable moment with the ring bearer, Liam towards the beginning of the nupitals where he was showing off this relationship status to the world! I definitely had to keep myself from laughing out loud! To funny! Once Ali and Anthony exchanged rings and a kiss they were pronounced husband and wife! YAY! Once we had finished family photos we all headed back over to the fairgrounds and the Artisans Building to get the party started and indulge in their signature purple frosted donuts! Guests were also treated to many wonderful toasts plus a first dance that warmed hearts. The father/daughter dance with Ali and Bobby was one I’ll remember too as they took a spin around the floor with a few choreographed moves and fun music! Totally Awesome! And did I mention there were donuts?!
The wedding day was perfect and I’m so very thankful I could be a part of capturing Ali and Anthony’s memories! I’m looking forward to seeing their love story continue as a married couple! Congrats to the new Mr. & Mrs. Mikels!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
Huge shout out to Ali & Anthony’s amazing vendors!
Ceremony Venue: Church of The Little Flower http://www.littleflowerchurch.net
Reception Venue: Artisan Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds https://www.agr.state.il.us/spacerental/property/artisans-building/
Wedding Coordinator: Delightful Soirees, https://www.facebook.com/delightfulsoirees/
Florist: Petals and Company, https://www.petalsandco.net/
Band/DJ: Lights Out Karaoke and DJ https://www.facebook.com/Lights-Out-Karaoke-and-DJ-151755198200674/
Hair Artist: Gatsby Hair Boutique, https://www.facebook.com/Gatsbyhairboutique/
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal, https://www.davidsbridal.com/?utm_source=Yext&utm_medium=OrganicSearch&utm_term=186&utm_content=Link&utm_campaign=WebsiteListing
Tuxes: Seno Formal Wear, https://www.senoformalwear.com/stores/179/springfield-il
Caterer: Nelson’s Catering, https://nelsonscatering.com/
Driving Services: Countryside Rentals https://countrysiderentals.wordpress.com/?fbclid=IwAR37iyhau1YzrUDmP51nTeDKTzA-PxoHCkcMKH6pSiApx-30-fwd_TTLbw4%2F
