When I first met Abbey and AJ it was pretty easy to see I would fall in love with this couple instantly! They are the perfect balance of crazy hilarious and easy-going calm. Abbey is the crazy hilarious half and AJ is the easy-going calm half! I was constantly saying on this journey to the altar with these two how much I loved Abbey and her wild side! Leading up to the wedding she would sign every email with “Your #1 Bride” which made me giggle every time! And on her wedding day, she was so joyful, screaming “YEAH” when something would make her happy or randomly dancing about! AJ was calm, yet planning everything out in his head. He wanted to ensure we stayed on time to get all the photos we had talked about prior to their big day and having a groom like AJ was an absolute pleasure coming from a serious planner like myself. These two together make the perfect pair and after years of the timing being off to make their relationship work the universe finally brought them together when it mattered the most and here we were on their wedding day!

Abbey was simply stunning in her floral appliqué gown with this amazing dotted trim! The skirt of the dress had just the right about of shimmer when the light caught it right. She was absolutely beaming as her mom, Kathy helped her with the buttons and then her bridesmaids all gathered around in their peach dresses to make sure her look was perfect! When the time came, I met up with AJ at Blessed Sacrament church before the ceremony and we were setting up the first look. Typically, I find a spot in the shade for this, however the courtyard at the church was significant because Abbey’s beloved grandmother, Fritze, who had recently passed away had a stone dedicated to her in the walkway of the courtyard and they wanted to, in a way, share this moment with her! It was really sweet of them to think of that and I think the emotions of the whole moment got to AJ. When he saw Abbey for the first time, his jaw dropped and he couldn’t take his eyes off of her! The two of them hugged, kissed, and took in every detail. How luck am I to get to witness these intimate moments with my couples?! Then before the ceremony I got the whole bridal party together in front of the church for photos. Blessed Sacrament always makes a beautiful backdrop for photos on a wedding day!

Ceremony time came and Abbey made the long walk down the aisle to AJ in her signature Abbey style, waving to guests and saying Hello! Her soul is really so pure and full of love! She and AJ listened to readings, said their vows, exchanged rings, and sealed it all with a kiss! They were finally pronounced Mr. & Mrs. Peterson! YAY! After family photos, the whole bridal crew loaded onto the bus and we headed over to the Illinois State Capitol, where Abbey works and were able to sneak in before they closed for the day! We were even able to get up to the 3rd floor of the capitol where some gorgeous light was for bridal party photos as well as onto the actual Senate Floor! How cool is that?! Before heading to our next stop I took the couple to the front of the capitol outside by themselves. Giving couples time for photos alone really allows the fact they are married to sink in a bit. The laughter and goofiness these two share is always so fun to capture! We then headed to the gazebo at Washington Park, where everyone could be a little less formal and enjoy the friendships they shared. And lastly we made our way over to Abbey and AJ’s favorite watering hold, Flyod’s downtown for a drink! These two have so many memories from when AJ used to work there and Abbey used to come in and get his attention. Even signing her number to him from across the bar! Boy was this crew a fun one!

The Abraham Lincoln Hotel never disappoints and was dazzling with white and peach florals, gold chargers on the tables and a dessert table filled with cupcakes and macrons which were delicious! Abbey and AJ had told me they weren’t planning a ton of formal events because they were ready to party with The Shenanigans band all night! So after their first dance, along with mother/son and father/daughter dances, and some lovely toasts the party was in full swing! Before I stole the couple for sunset photos on the rooftop of the parking garage though, they welcomed a surprise special guest…Honest Abe himself made his way through the crowd of guests taking photos and making the evening memorable. Sunset photos were a blast with Abbey and AJ as they were reliving their favorite parts of the day and giggling with one another! Those golden hour vibes are the best with a delightful couple like these newlyweds! When I left for the evening, Abbey and AJ were dancing and singing along with the band and their guest on a packed dance floor! #ClubAJP was in full force! Sending so much love and blessings to this incredible couple! Cheers to the new Mr. & Mrs. Peterson!

Ceremony Venue: Blessed Sacrament Church

Reception Venue: President Abraham Lincoln Hotel

Bride’s Dress: Gowns Bridal & Formal Boutique

Florist: True Colors Floral

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Melissa Ritter with President Abraham Lincoln Hotel

Band: The Shenanigans

Makeup Artist: Katy Wernsing

Hair Stylist: Amelia Bugos

Sweets: Cupcakes from HyVee & Macarons from Mad Macs

Catering: President Abraham Lincoln Hotel

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Invitations: Bride’s friend & co-worker, Claire Bitner

Transportation: Perfect Choice Transportation

Abbey was a stunning bride!

AJ’s turn!

Loved the energy from this crew all day!

Time to tie the knot!

MARRIED!!! Off to the Illinois State Capitol!

We were privileged enough to get on the Senate Floor for photos!

Quick stop at their favorite watering hole! Floyds!

Party Time!