The day was finally here! It felt like such a long time since I last saw Keely and Jake at their engagement session. Now their summer wedding day in the Peoria, Illinois area was here and I couldn’t be more excited! I met up with Keely and the girls at the home she and Jake share for a morning of hair, makeup, and lots of laughter. I already saw a few friendly faces as I photographed Keely’s sister, Mackenzie’s wedding a couple of years ago as well as some other lovely bridesmaids from past weddings. It makes my heart so happy to work with families many times over. Keely’s details were absolutely gorgeous and the amazing textures and colors of her flowers were impeccable! The bridesmaids wore different shades of greens and pinks to go along with the enchanted forest theme. Before we knew it, we made our way to the beautiful Camp Wokanda venue to get Keely dressed. She was glowing as she stepped into her tulle dress with delicate leaf appliqués which flowed when she moved. Absolutely stunning! Jake brought the style as well dressed in a deep emerald linen suit and a floral green and cream tie with matching pocket square. What a statement!

It then came time for Keely and Jake’s first look! We found a little path in the woods tucked away for these two to have a private moment. You couldn’t have wiped off the smile from Jake’s face if you tried after he saw his bride to be. They decided to read their private vows to one another and their heartfelt words were emotional, touching, with a little dash of humor. So sweet! Then it was time to get the whole bridal party together for some fun. This crew was a blast to work with and were so helpful throughout the day. Jake’s crew wore timeless button-down white shirts and the same floral green and cream ties with khakis. And his groomswoman looked awesome and wore a lovely green dress similar to the bridesmaids. Once the enjoyment was done with the bridal party, it was time for these two to say, “I Do”!

The ceremony was held in a little nook in the forest with a rustic wooden arbor draped with white linen and colorful florals. Keely walked up the aisle with her parents as she made her way to Jake. One sweet idea they incorporated into their ceremony was a ring warming. Keely and Jake’s rings were passed around to all of their guests to say a little prayer for this couple and bless their marriage. These two said their vows to one another, exchanged rings, and sealed it all with a kiss. The new Mr. and Mrs. Morgan walked back up the aisle as guests threw dried flowers before Jake dipped his new wife! How lovely!

Before entering the reception, we took a few minutes with the newlyweds for more photos. The sunlight was pouring through the trees as these two were ready to celebrate their union. To keep with this couple’s love for sharing a beverage like they did at their engagement session with a bottle of wine, Jake and Keely popped a bottle of champagne to rejoice in their marriage. Now it was time for The Morgans to make their way into the reception. These guys were all ready to have a good time with a choreographed first dance including spins, dips, and even lifts! With emotional toasts followed by a dual parent dance with Keely’s dad and Jake’s mom the reception was off to a sweet start. Then the party began! The dance floor was packed all night as this couple’s loved ones celebrated into the night. I adored capturing Keely and Jake’s special moments and I wish them all the best in their blessed marriage!

Warm Regards,

Venue: Camp Wokanda

Bride’s Dress: Elite Bridal

Florist: Kira’s Flowers

DJ: No Hassle Entertainment

Videographer: Fancy Fox Studios

Makeup Artist: Leiana Hilton

Hair Stylist: Loft Bridal

Cake: Trefzgers Bakery

Catering: Barrack’s Hospitality Group Banquet Center and Catering

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Jos A Bank & Dockers

Invitations: Minted

Decor: Rustic Love Rentals