The type of fun-filled, electric energy Bree and Daniel brought to their engagement session last summer was no doubt going to be the type of vibes they had on their wedding day! From their laid back attitudes to their pure excitement simply to be getting married, this sweet couple won my heart pretty quickly. Plus their classic, chic style leveled up their e-session for sure. Fast forward to their big day in Bloomington, Illinois, where this couple currently lives, and all of those qualities transitioned so well to the most important day of Bree and Daniel’s lives! Bree was with her ladies at the hotel laughing, dancing with her mama, and playing games while getting her hair and makeup done. You would think I was a normal day of the week. I guess when you are marrying the love of your life it’s an effortless kinda feeling. Her details were incredible, including the addition of the cape, which attached to the back of her gown with tiny pearls shining throughout. When Bree stepped into this gown, which had floral cutouts around the hips and into her back along with the cape…Ummmm…Can we say, Goddess status?!? Bree was a stunner for sure! 

Daniel and his guys were having their own fun getting ready a few floors away! Since he played soccer for University of Illinois at Springfield (where he and Bree met too), he gained so many close friends and teammates who were in the wedding and traveled from all over the world to be a part of their day! If I remember correctly, there were guys there who were from London, Ireland, and Ecuador, not to mention around the United States. Plus, Daniel’s Polish roots are deep and many of his family members traveled from Poland to be there to celebrate with Bree and Daniel on their special day! There were many wonderful tributes to Daniel’s Polish heritage throughout the day and it was really awesome to see, hear, and even taste some of those acknowledgements. 

Bree and Daniel did not see one another before their ceremony so the first time they laid eyes on one another was when Bree was walking down the aisle arm in arm with her dad. Daniel lit up when he saw her and I didn’t see too many times when he glanced away from her during their beautiful Catholic nuptials at the lovely Saint Patrick Catholic Church of Merna. They incorporated readings from the Bible in English and Polish, which was a lovely touch. This pair exchanged rings, spoke meaningful vows, and sealed it all with a kiss! Introducing the new Mr. & Mrs. Grabowski! Once family photos were finished, we headed over to a local park in Bloomington for bridal party and couple photos of the newlyweds! This crew, along with couple, made sure their spirits was high, and they all looked awesome with the ladies in mauve dresses holding bouquets made of wood flowers. And the groomsmen were in gray suits, while Daniel sported a navy suit. When it came time for Bree and Daniel’s first married photos they were just delightful together! The way they fit exactly in each other’s arms was perfect! Plus the little smirks they sent back and forth is adorable. Now it was party time! 

We headed about 30 minutes outside of Bloomington to Goodfield, Illinois to The Barn III venue. As soon as we pulled up Bree and Daniel, along with their bridal party got into character for a reception at a rustic venue all wearing cowboy hats! Bree even had on her mom’s hat from years ago! So amazing! The newlyweds kicked off the party by toasting with family and friends with a shot of liquor distilled for a year by Daniel’s father. It was delicious…and strong! One for me was good to try! The toasts even brought out a sung Polish melody, which was an honor to hear to love Daniel’s family poured into singing for the newlyweds! Bree and Daniel took a spin around the dance floor together, then Bree with her dad, and Daniel with his mom. And before we knew it, the floor was open and filled with guests! Between the cowboy hats, glow sticks, and Polish dances with many of Daniel’s family members welcoming Bree to the family by spinning and twisting her around the floor…This party was ON! I was able to steal this duo for a few minutes before the sun dropped below the horizon for some intimate and playful moments. I think these might be some of my favorite photos from their day! They spun, twirled, and dipped their way to sunset. And even after dark, I finished off my time with this incredible couple by capturing them in front of Barn III’s magical light show! They have themed light shows throughout the year and we had the wonderful opportunity to end the evening with The Grabowskis in front of this breathtaking barn. Such a tremendous way for Bree and Daniel to begin this next chapter of their love story! Na Zdrowie!

Warm Regards,

 

Ceremony Venue: Saint Patrick Catholic Church of Merna

Reception Venue: The Barn III

Wedding Coordinator: Abby Reel & Rebekah Elder

DJ: Luckie Duckie Entertainment

Florist: Sola Wood Flowers

Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist: Haley Rogers

Cake: Sugar Mama Bakery

Catering: The Barn III

Bride’s Dress: Simply Elegant by Cheri

Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Invitations: Truly Engaging

Transportation: Frye Transportation

Rings: Jack Lewis Jewelers