Erin told me she and Brandon chose to get married at Lincoln Memorial Gardens in Springfield, IL for several reasons. This place was very special to Erin because she and her grandmother used to go on hikes together when she was younger and she loved the connection to nature. Brandon knew of Erin’s love for nature and this location in particular, which is also why he chose to ask Erin to marry him within the trees of LMG. These two have known each other for some time and were actually high school sweethearts. However, the timing wasn’t right and in college they went their separate ways. After time apart, they reconnected almost 4 years ago and have been inseparable ever since. And on a beautiful fall Friday, on the first day of October, Erin and Brandon, surrounded by a small gathering of family and friends said, “I Do” to one another and forever!

The morning began for the ladies at Willow & Birch Salon where I got to see Erin’s gorgeous dress and all her amazing accessories! Erin is a local physician so she decided she was going to keep her maiden name of Schafer after tying the knot. However, she wanted to add a nod to Brandon’s last name of Luparell now that they would be married so they inscribed “Schafarell” on both of their wedding bands as well as on the hanger used for Erin’s dress. Love that! After the salon, Erin and her sweet bridesmaids headed over to the State House Inn, where both the ladies, Brandon with his Best Woman, Sam, and his groomsmen all got ready. The color scheme of burgundy and navy were beautiful and then add in the amazing bouquets with Erin’s favorite flower, the Dahlia, along with wildflowers just like from their engagement session on top of the guys sporting handmade dice boutonnieres created by the groom from his favorite game, Dungeons and Dragons, and it really made the day have such a personal touch. Then it was time for Erin and Brandon’s first look which was absolutely the sweetest! I mean as soon as Brandon saw Erin, his jaw dropped and the tears began to flow. Erin was simply stunning in her lace, long-sleeved gown with a dreamy floating skirt. And her gold and pearl hair piece really gave her the final pop to her look and crafted the perfect nature-inspired vision. Finally seeing Erin and Brandon together on their wedding day was such a joy!

We took the entire bridal party over to the Gietl Bros building, right behind the State House for some photos and they really all looked amazing in front of the ivy covered brick! This bridal party crew were all troopers as the first day of October wasn’t exactly “Fall feeling” in temperatures. It was in the 80’s and stayed there throughout the day! Yet, not even hot temps could keep Erin and Brandon from snuggling in close and showing off the love they have for each other! We then headed out to LMG for this couple to finally make it official! Their ceremony was in the great ring that overlooks Lake Springfield. Their nuptials were filled with emotion and affection as both Erin and Brandon spoke from the heart reading their vows and basically making everyone, including myself, start to well up with tears. These moments reinforce why I love my job so much! The pair were finally pronounced husband and wife and they made their way up the aisle hand in hand! Following the ceremony, we took a little time for a few more photos with the bridal party, but most importantly of the newlyweds! Erin said all she wanted beautiful nature photos with her and her new hubby and, my goodness, I would say that is what they got! The tall trees, the white flowers, an incredible couple in front of my lens couldn’t have been more perfect!

Finally we headed to Arlington’s for the couple’s intimate reception and family-style event! They kept the night simple with a few toasts, cutting the cake, and some special dances before the floor was open and the party began. I enjoyed every moment I had with Erin and Brandon on their journey to marriage! I’m thrilled for them and the love they have for one another! Cheers to Mr. & Dr. “Schafarell”!

Warm Regards,

Huge Shout Out to all of Erin & Brandon’s vendors who made the day so amazing!

• Ceremony Venue: Lincoln Memorial Gardens
• Reception Venue: Arlington’s
• Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Simply Detailed Wedding and Event Planning
• Florist: Pollen and Pastry
• Makeup Artist: Willow and Birch Salon
• Hair Stylist: Willow and Birch Salon
• Cake: Pollen and Pastry
• Catering: Arlington’s
• Dress Place of Purchase and Designer: White Traditions Bridal House // Lillian West
• Groomsmen and Groom Attire: Men’s Warehouse
• Invitations: PaperSource
• Transportation: 1 Up Limos
• Musicians: Kamen Petkov

Erin was a stunning bride, right?! Brandon cleaned up pretty well too!

Prepare yourself for an emotional first look!

I think it’s time to get these two married!

The newlyweds!

Reception Time!

Are you engaged and looking for your wedding photographer? I have limited 2022 dates left so reach out to me today and tell me about your wedding vision!