* Julie & Tom * Abraham Lincoln Hotel * Springfield Illinois * Spring Classy Wedding Photographer *
It may have taken fifteen years, extended time apart during those years, and three beautiful children together before Julie and Tom finally tied the knot last weekend. But, as everyone who knows them told me, they were always meant to be together! Once you see them together you recognize their love immediately! And their energetic, grateful, fun-loving, and kind natures were amazing to be around and capture on their spring wedding day. Julie and Tom chose two pretty incredible locations in downtown Springfield, Illinois to create their wedding day memories. The First Christian Church, which Julie told me during our timeline meeting a few weeks prior to their big event that she saw the wonderful white archways from another wedding I had photographed and her and Tom fell in love with the idea of having their own photos taken there. Which is one reason they booked their ceremony there! Fun right?! Their reception was at the gorgeous Abraham Lincoln Hotel, which always brings the next level of class and beauty to a wedding. We were definitely not disappointed! However, I started the morning with Julie at her and Tom’s gorgeous home in Chatham, Illinois where I had the opportunity to mingle with the ladies, including Miss Aubrey, who is Julie and Tom’s 9-month-old daughter. Talk about baby blues! This little girl has the most delightful blue eyes and she was taking in all the activity happening around her and her mom. It was fun to play with all of Julie’s accessories and add in her daughter’s own details as well as grab a few of Aubrey in her wagon ride before the ceremony! Once it was time to get the bride dressed, all eyes fell on her. Julie was absolutely stunning in her form-fitting beaded dress with an open back! Her mom, sisters, and bridesmaids helped make sure every detail was perfect!
When I arrived at the church, Tom and all his groomsmen were looking very dapper in their gray suits and floral tan ties. His crew of seven groomsmen, two handsome sons, and one overly cute ring bearer, Tom and his guys all brought their A-Game on the wedding day! Of course, Julie and her ladies arrived not to be outdone in fantastic light beige dresses with lavish cream, peach, and subtle lavender bouquets. Julie and Tom choose not to see one another prior to the ceremony, which made the experience of witnessing them see the other when Julie was coming down the aisle so very special. Julie was beaming and Tom was laser-focused on his bride to be. The nuptials were officiated by Doug Kent, who is a long time family friend on Tom’s side. I think having a meaningful supporter officiate the wedding brings the words spoken by the bride and groom to a way deeper place. As Tom spoke his vows he choked back tears while he pledged his love for Julie. It was a very sweet and memorable moment. Once the vows and rings were exchanged the couple shared a kiss and made their way up the aisle as husband and wife!
The entire week leading up to Julie and Tom’s wedding day we had rain. But, not on the most important day! The weather was absolutely perfect with warm spring breezes and sun peeking out from a few puffy pillow-like clouds. Before I took the entire bridal party over to the park for photos I took advantage of the white flowering trees right outside of the church with the now Mr. & Mrs. Beck. These are some of my favorites photos with them from the day as their joy and excitement of finally getting married after their long journey together was written all over their faces! We continued the fun with their dynamic and spirited bridal party at Washington and Lincoln Parks. And before we knew it the reception was about to begin!
The hall at the Abraham Lincoln was dazzling with tall lush floral arrangements, candelabras, eucalyptus leaves, vintage birdcages, and most importantly…homemade desserts! From donuts to heart-shaped Rice Krispie treats and even traditional thumbprint cookies, which is a Polish staple on Julie’s side. After a few thoughtful speeches and a glorious dinner, I talked Julie and Tom into sneaking away for a few minutes to the top of the parking garage of the hotel for sunset photos! Even though I failed to mention we had to climb a few flights of stairs to get there they were willing to push through for the photos! And believe me, it was worth it! The sunlight was perfect over the rooftops and the newlyweds wasted no time giggling together for a few last portraits. It was the most beautiful end to the most extraordinary day! Cheers to The Becks!
Warm Regards,
Lauren
