I’m in the business of joy! Capturing joy, creating joy, and surrounding myself in the joy my couples are sharing with one another and their families on their biggest day. The joyfulness on Breanna & Brock’s wedding day was palpable and exactly how I imagined. From the moment I met these two I knew happiness and fun would be a huge part of my journey with them. I mean come on…They brought a cheerful yellow bicycle complete with a basket full of flowers to their engagement session at Ewing Manor in Bloomington last fall! Their e-session was one of the most fun ones I’ve had to date! And I know the excitement and love these two share will continue on into their marriage.

Bre and Brock’s wedding was in the Quad Cities area in Moline, Illinois. I began my day with Bre and all the beautiful ladies, who were ready to help her marry the man of her dreams. Bre was calm and excited their day had finally arrived, telling her ladies she looked at the date on her phone and it instantly hit her today was the day she was getting married! And although the weather outside wasn’t quite cooperating with a 90% chance of rain for most of the day, this beautiful bride wasn’t showing any concern. We did make a change in the location where we originally planned to photograph Bre and Brock’s first look along with their bridal party due to the rain. We chose to head to Schweibert Park, which was right on the river and included a covered open pavilion just in case the rain persisted. Brock was looking awesome in his navy suit and dusty pink tie just before he saw his bride-to-be for the first time. And Boy…Was he in for an incredible view! Bre was stunning in her ivory gown complete with sparkling jeweled belt, classic silhouette, and buttons descending all the way down her back. When Brock saw Bre the first time he’s kept saying, “WOW, You look so amazing!” It was such a special moment. Once that magical moment happened another one took place…The rain stopped! Although the overcast skies continued, the rain held off for the entire hour we had notched out for photos! Seriously a miracle! This was my favorite time with this couple all day as they were simply in their own world sharing this time together with one another before they said their vows. We moved quickly with the bridal party, who were just as excited to see Bre and Brock together and right as we were finishing up the sprinkles started again. But, this adorable couple’s portraits were complete so I was happy! Now let’s get them married!

Bre and Brock had envisioned an outdoor wedding at their venue, The Rock, in Coal Valley. However, with the skies darkening they decided to move the ceremony inside. Brock’s smile, I don’t think ever left his face from the time he saw Bre during their first look until she made her way down the aisle with her father, Jim and step-father, Mike who lovingly gave her away. Their vows were emotional, touching, and full of so much compassion. In front of a packed room these two sealed their marriage with a kiss and exited to bubbles! I was able to sneak the newlyweds away after family photos for a few more photos so we could embrace the rain with the addition of an umbrella, which ultimately played a part in their day, but by no means ruined it. In the end, Bre and Brock finished the day sharing the same last name and pledging to always be by one another’s side. And that is the reason I love my job! They wasted no time after a delicious dinner getting the party started and when I say the dance floor was packed the whole night…I mean it! From babies to grandparents, the dance party was underway with the new Mr. & Mrs. Merritt were right in the middle of it all!

Breanna and Brock have been an amazing couple to work with and I’m so very grateful they allowed me to be a part of their journey! I wishing them countless blessings in their married life!

Warm Regards,

Shout out to Breanna & Brock’s amazing vendors!

Venue: The Rock

Florist: Weddings by Kimberly

Cake Artist: Hy-Vee of Moline

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse

Hair Artist: Fran at Your Suite Hair

Makeup Artist: GG Makeup Artistry

Bride’s Dress: Adore Bridal in Morton

Breanna is a stunning soul! On her wedding day, and every other day.

I loved how Brock checked out every inch of Bre’s look on their wedding day!

Can we get all the praise hands emojis for no rain during portrait time?!

First looks with both Bre’s dad, Jim and step-father, Mike were so special!

They’re MARRIED!

A few more with the new Mr. & Mrs. Merritt!