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Erin + Hunter | Erin’s Pavilion | Springfield Illinois |Fall Wedding Photographer

Weddings

October 30, 2020

If I’m being honest, I’ve been waiting for Erin and Hunter’s wedding day for a long time! Shortly after I photographed Erin’s brother Ryan’s wedding to Caitlin in February 2019, I heard from Erin who had just said “YES” to Hunter to be his wife. These two hadn’t even booked their venue yet and they were inquiring to see what dates I had open for their big day! You guys…They booked their date based on what I had available! What an honor! After their engagement session, I knew we would have the best time on their wedding day! Erin and Hunter are incredibly laid back and ridiculously in love with one another! The perfect combination! Their big day at Erin’s Pavilion in Springfield, Illinois was going to be amazing, no doubt in my mind!

Of course, 2020 and the craziness with the Coronavirus played a role in Erin and Hunter’s wedding just like so many other couples. However, they decided to keep moving forward with their fall date and simply reduced their guest list and chose not to have a bridal party. Although these options may not have been what they envisioned for their wedding I think ultimately they loved every minute of having a small, intimate wedding. Erin got ready at the beautiful Willow & Birch Salon downtown with her mom, Carol, sister-in-law, and also LWP Bride, Caitlin, as well as a few other close friends. And I will not lie…When I saw Erin’s dress for the first time, it totally made me giddy! Not as much though as when Erin actually got into the gown! The off-white dress had lovely floral lace details along the train, bodice, and delicate sleeves. Buttons ran down the illusion back of the gown and added such elegance. Erin was truly a vision! Hunter couldn’t be totally outdone by his bride and cleaned up pretty nice himself! He donned a navy suit with a maroon bowtie and pocket square. He also represented his favorite football team, The Chicago Bears, by sporting colorful navy and orange socks along with Bears cufflinks.

Erin and Hunter chose to do a first look with one another before their afternoon ceremony. Hunter waited patiently in front of the Old Illinois State Capital for Erin to give him a little tap on the shoulder to reveal her bridal look to him! Both of their sweet smiles beamed as they finally had the opportunity to see their future spouse. Following their first look, they gifted me with almost two hours of portrait time with just them! And we took full advantage! After the capital, we visited a fun downtown brick building with colorful ivy and old windows. Erin and Hunter just popped off the background and their excitement for their special day was on full display! We then headed to Washington Park to capture the phenomenal autumn colors. I think the magic really happened with Erin and Hunter snuggling up close with the delightful orange leaves behind them! Now it’s time to get them married!

The mild October day allowed Erin and Hunter to have their dream of getting married outside at Erin’s Pavilion come true! With guest’s chairs social distanced, they stood under the arbor and spoke their vows to one another. Pumpkins lined the aisle as the pair exchanged rings before sealing it all with a kiss. And there you have it…Introducing the new Mr. & Mrs. Sinele!!!

The reception hall was decorated with rich navy, oranges, maroons, and creams. Pumpkins and fall floral could be found all over and really created a welcoming feeling. The couple danced their first dance together and then each took turns with loved ones. Erin’s two brothers stepped up to dance with their sister as I’m sure their dad watched from heaven with the biggest smile on his face. And before a huge cloud crept over the area, I ushered the newlyweds outside for a few final photos at sunset! The pure joy Erin and Hunter had on their faces made the day now that they could say they were finally husband and wife! Congrats to The Sineles! Thank You for allowing me to capture your gorgeous day!

Warm Regards,