As you all well know, 2020 has been full of surprises, changing plans, and new experiences. Especially for couples getting married in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. And Rachel and Todd’s wedding was not exempt from this new way of wedding planning. Their wedding was originally scheduled for November 14th, 2020 and as their photographer, I couldn’t have been more excited! After their super laid-back engagement session and getting to know Rachel and Todd more as a couple I was looking forward to capturing all their special moments on their wedding day! Yet, life had other plans. Because of the uncertainty of what late fall might bring in terms of Covid-19 cases, the couple decided to actually move their wedding date up to September 19th, 2020. Unfortunately, I already had another wedding booked that day and the idea of missing out on Rachel and Todd’s day brought a few tears if I’m being honest. However, sometimes things work out for a reason, and luckily I had a backup plan! My incredibly talented sister and photographer, Kate Spencer, just happened to be available on September 19th and knew how much I loved this couple! She graciously stepped up in my place to photograph Rachel and Todd’s big day at Plum Creek Golf Course in Winchester, Illinois!! AMAZING, right?! And how about Rachel and Todd for being so open to this idea and allowing both Kate and I to take care of them!? I’m so thankful! So although I was not physically able to attend their wedding, you cannot deny by looking through their photos how much love, joy, and excitement these two and their families shared on the most important day of their lives!

Rachel and her bridesmaids started the day getting ready at her childhood home and clearly were soaking in having everyone together! The girls wore emerald green dresses which paired perfectly with the moody boho tones of the gorgeous flowers throughout the day! When Rachel stepped into her lace, long-sleeved gown that’s when the magic happened! She was absolutely stunning in her form-fitting dress with an off-the-shoulder neckline, buttons on the sleeves and all the way down her back. Seriously she was a dream as a bride! Todd and all his groomsmen got ready in their navy suits with matching bowties, except for Todd who wore a cream tie to set him apart. Todd was his usual laid back self and very excited to be marrying Rachel! Both the bride and groom were almost giddy to have so many loved ones surrounding them on their wedding day!

Rachel and Todd chose to do a first look before the ceremony, but before Todd has his chance to see Rachel her dad, Brad, had the opportunity. Both first looks were so cute as Rachel snuck up on both the wonderful men in her life! She also did a quick first look with her grandparents before bridal party portraits began! Adorable reactions from everyone! Kate started with the bridal party all together, which I totally love the emerald green and navy together! And how about the smallest members of the bridal party? So sweet! I had the hardest time picking and choosing Rachel and Todd’s photos because there are just too many favorites! Between the two of them laughing and snuggling in with one another it was almost impossible to decide!

Then it was time for the ceremony, which was held on the first hole at Plum Creek Golf course. The modern arbor and ruby red potted plants drew guests into their seating and as Rachel made her way down the aisle with her dad to Todd, emotions got the best of them. Both Rachel and Todd’s parents joined them at the arbor and a few tears were shed as they put the pair in each other’s hands. So sweet. The couple spoke their vows, exchanged rings, and sealed their new lives together with a kiss! Now Rachel and Todd are MARRIED! You could really see how overjoyed they each were when they became husband and wife! Kate took the newlyweds out for a few more portraits at sunset and it was perfection! An open field, beautiful golden light, and the new Mr. & Mrs. Chapman were all flawless!

Following portraits, it was time for the party to get started! There were funny toasts from the bridal party as well as lovely dances including one with Rachel and her dad really getting down to one of their favorite songs! It looked to me like everyone had an amazing time! Congrats to Rachel and Todd as they begin their married lives together! I’m extremely happy for you two and I appreciate you allowing myself and Kate to be a part of your special day!

Warm Regards,

Huge shout out to all the vendors who worked so hard to make Rachel & Todd’s day so special!

• Ceremony & Reception Venue: Plum Creek Golf Course
• Wedding Planner: Sheri McLaughlin
• DJ/Entertainment: Chris Himmel
• Videographer: Lydia Stuemke
• Cake: Holly Cakes
• Catering: Hamilton’s Catering

Isn’t Rachel the most beautiful bride?

So many wonderful first looks!

Some of my favorites!

MARRIED!!!!

See what I mean when I say there are SO MANY good ones!?!

Cheers to the new Mr. & Mrs. Chapman!