I knew going into Caitlin and Jake’s summer wedding it was going to be a good one. During their engagement session, they showed me their laid back, ready for a fun time energy and I was absolutely down for it! So when their big day arrived at the gorgeous Whispering Woods venue in Harvard, Illinois, about an hour outside of Rockford and close to the Wisconsin boarder, I wasn’t surprised by the loving, supportive, and hilarious people they surrounded themselves with. From their welcoming families and incredible bridal party, I already felt the love and was ready to capture it all for this adorable couple. Caitlin was calm and cool when I met up with her in one of the cabins on the venue’s property. She was taking in all the small moments with her bridesmaids, mom, and friends. She was going for a classic, simple, wedding infused with some of their favorite “Nerd Stuff” (Caitlin’s words, not mine). See, Caitlin and Jake are huge Star Wars fans, as well as other popular franchises, and they peppered them throughout their wedding day. The many nephews and nieces sported Pikachu, Fortnite, and Star Wars bowties and hair bows, while Jake even had a subtle Star Wars pattern in his tie. Plus the groomsmen were gifted themed socks and cufflinks. How fun!

When it came time for Caitlin to get dressed she was absolutely beautiful in her lace bodice dress and flowy skirt! For another romantic touch, she added a floral headpiece with colorful and textured flowers. Her bridesmaids wore varying styled dresses in a dusty blue color that has quickly become one of my personal favorite colors. And before Jake and his groomsmen (made up of his brothers, Caitlin’s brother, and friends) all got dressed, he gifted them loud and bright Hawaiian shirts! Told you these guys were a blast! They did exchange out the crazy shirts for more formal navy suits for the big event. Caitlin and Jake decided to see one another prior to the ceremony. Their first look was sweet and lovely, just like this awesome couple! Then it was time to get the full bridal party together. They all looked incredible in their different shades of blue and the delightful bouquets Caitlin’s crew held. Before heading over to the ceremony spot, I stole the couple for a few more photos around the pond as well as an alluring willow tree. These two are meant to be together and it’s obvious! Now it’s time to get them married!

The ceremony was set in a stunning spot with tall pine trees on either side of the floral covered arbor. It was truly a magical setting. Caitlin made her way down the aisle arm in arm with her father towards an awaiting Jake, who couldn’t have wiped the smile off his face if he tried. Jake’s brother performed the nuptials with sweet sentiments with a bit of humor sprinkled in. Caitlin and Jake exchanged vows, rings, and a kiss to seal the deal! Congrats, Mr. & Mrs. Wagner! May I also mention, that throughout the day, everyone was keeping their eyes on the radar as a huge storm was threatening to ruin the day right around ceremony time. However, due to so many prayers and the trust this couple had to move forward with their plans, the storm literally split and went right around the venue. We did get rain during the cocktail hour, but after a quick shower, the sun came back out until it was dark. You know they say rain on your wedding day is good luck!

The reception was filled with many more favorites of the newlyweds including tables named after beloved breweries, accents of hunter green, a Star Wars cake topper, as well as lightsaber bridal party entrance. And while we are talking about the cake, it was made by Caitlin’s previous teacher, who she had for many years in a row as her class grew to the next grade level. Over the last few years, they have reconnected and call each other friends. Her teacher shared with me that she called the students her “Little Peeps” and as a surprise to Caitlin, she snuck the tiniest of yellow Peeps (like the Easter Peeps) onto the top of the cake. The reaction of the bride was so meaningful to both of them. The couple listened to many funny and thoughtful toasts, the bride and groom shared their first dance along with lovely dances with Caitlin’s father and Jake’s mother. And don’t worry, there was plenty of dancing, however this couple envisioned relaxing and spending time with their guests as much as possible. Jake’s brothers and family members even busted out their black leather jackets with various nostalgic emblems. I asked the backstory of the jackets and apparently years ago at a thrift story they had a huge box of these jackets. So they bought them and bring them out at special events and hand them out to new “club members” including Caitlin’s brother, who was given his jacket to celebrate. Hilarious! Before I left for the evening, I stole the couple, along with their bridal party of one more nod to Star Wars with some lightsaber photos. I adore Caitlin and Jake and wish them all the blessing in the galaxy for their marriage! May the Force be with you both!

Warm Regards,

Venue: Whispering Woods

Bride’s Dress: David’s Bridal

Wedding Coordinator / Florist: Apple Creek Flowers

Makeup Artist: MXA Beauty Bar

Hair Stylist: JoJo Garber

Cake: Hansel & Gretel Bakery

Catering: BBQ King Smokehouse

Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Transportation: First Student Charter