There is something to be said about soulmates. By definition, a soulmate is a person ideally suited to another as a close friend or romantic partner. I feel as though Jessica and Malakai perfectly fit this notion. When they look at one another they aren’t just seeing their faces, they look deep down inside to each other’s soul. It’s quite honestly a wonderful thing to witness. Jessica & Malakai have been together for over three years now and recently tied the knot at the beautiful Arrowhead Country Club in Edelstein, Illinois. When I arrived at the golf course, Jessica was in high spirits surrounded by all her lovely ladies, who were busy getting ready for the day. Jessica was not only glowing because it was her wedding day, yet this sweet girl had a pregnancy glow about her as well! Jessica and Malakai are expecting a little one to arrive soon and on the day of their wedding, they would be also revealing the gender of their baby! And just when you thought the day couldn’t get any more special, right?! The pair also had another big decision to make as there seemed to be a little weather pattern moving into the area and creeping closer to the start of their ceremony. Although Jessica and Malakai had planned to wait and see one another for the first time at the ceremony, my fear was rain could ruin our time outside, meaning all of their portrait time would be compromised if we waited. YIKES! Luckily for me, these two are incredible and were absolutely on board with moving forward with a first look and completing all of their photos before the ceremony.

Jessica took a moment before walking up behind Malakai and giving him a little tap on the shoulder. When he turned around the biggest smile appeared on his face and he took in every bit of his bride to be! It was lovely! When Jessica is able to snuggle in close with Malakai she simply melts into him with everything she has. He towers over her and is her protector. And as a fireman and thoughtful man, Malakai takes his job as protector very seriously. Yet, this pair had a blast during this time too laughing with one another and soaking up all their time with their bridal party made up of family and best friends. Even Jessica’s niece, Kinzley and nephew, Boston got into the fun as they were playing the roles of flower girl and ring bearer. What cuties! Jessica’s ladies wore various styles of dresses in a beautiful wine color. Their white, red, and eucalyptus bouquets were the perfect pop to bring their looks together standing next to the bride. Malakai and his guys were looking very dapper in their gray suits and wine colored vests with contrasting tan ties. They all looked phenomenal together and had a great time spending these moments together! I finished up and again took some quiet time with the soon to be Mr. & Mrs. Szczepaniak for a few more photos before they headed in for the beginning of the ceremony.

The nuptials were to take place at the bottom of the hill overlooking a gorgeous pond. Two arbors with draped white cloths lush flowers and greenery were set up for Jessica to make her entrance and to add to the already fantastic backdrop. About 10 minutes before the ceremony, I watched the raindrops begin to fall and move across the pond in our direction! The guest who were down in their seats raised their umbrellas or began to scatter. When I ran back up to the clubhouse for my own umbrella and one for the couple, I heard someone tell Jessica there would be a short window without rain and if she wanted her ceremony to be outside this was it! She replied, “Let’s do it!” We all headed back outside and at this point, the rain had stopped just as the radar showed. Jessica, along with her father, Mark, made their way down the grassy aisle to a waiting Malakai. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her as she walked towards him. They spoke their vows, which each had written from the heart and included talk about their future and meeting their baby soon, which made me teary-eyed for sure. As they were reading their vows, I couldn’t help but notice a crazy looking cloud inching it’s way closer to where we all stood. By the time Jessica and Malakai began to exchange rings, the skies opened up! Rain began pouring down and everyone scrambled for their umbrellas! However, the couple giggling under their umbrella finished the symbolic exchange, shared a sweet first kiss as husband and wife, and ran down the aisle for the safety of cover! All with huge smiles on their faces! They were MARRIED and no amount of rain could bring them down!

Following the downpour and family photos inside, Jessica and Malakai were ready to start the party with their closest family and friends! But, before all the toasts and the dancing began, the rain had miraculously stopped and we had a little peek of the sun between the clouds. Jessica and I had also be SUPER excited to toss around some pink rose petals, which they had used at the end of the ceremony for a few photos with the newlyweds. So fun! And of course, before we headed inside I grabbed a few silhouettes of the couple since the sun allowed! Talk about a good luck omen! When we returned to the reception it was the last big moment of the evening…The Gender Reveal! Surrounded by all of their loved ones, Jessica and Malakai found out they would be the proud parents of a little BOY! As the blue confetti rained down on them they finally were able to open the sonogram that was under wraps for a couple of weeks and meet their son! I’m thrilled for them!

Congrats to Jessica and Malakai on their gorgeous wedding day! I’m so grateful I would be a part of it and I’m looking forward to watching their beautiful family grow! Cheers!

Warm Regards,

Shout out to Jessica & Malakai’s amazing vendors!

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Arrowhead Country Club

Florist: Peoria Hy-Vee

DJ: Complete Weddings & Events

Hair Stylist: Lakin Vanderheydt

Makeup Artist: Taylor Scharp with Salon 5th Avenue

Bridal Gown: Our Heart 2 Yours Bridal Boutique

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse

Officiant: Jeff Brandes

I simply adore these two together!

Knowing the possibility of rain was coming I’m so glad these two decided to move up portrait time so we could capture their love to remember forever!

Oh that cloud!

Although the rain poured down, Jessica and Malakai ran down the aisle with a smile on their faces and MARRIED!