Most of the couples I photograph on their biggest day, I have in front of my camera at least once before they tie the knot. But, that wasn’t the case with Abby and Tim, who currently reside in Salt Lake City, Utah. I only had the pleasure of meeting this adorable duo the week before their big day as we went over their timeline to ensure all the we were on the same page. Many people would think, if you had the opportunity to get married with the beautiful backdrop of the mountains of Salt Lake City, Utah for your wedding why wouldn’t you take it? For Abby and Tim the answer is pretty simple. Family. Since both of them grew up in central Illinois with Abby graduating from Glenwood High and Tim from SHG (I know…Big rivalry) it only made sense to come back home for their wedding. Tim has a huge family and it meant so much to both of them to return home for their nuptials. This even included a visit to see is his 96 year old grandmother in the nursing home! Seriously…The cutest! Abby and Tim treated everyone they encountered as if they have known them for years. Which is why, I guess, I felt absolutely at ease and relaxed all day as I started off at The Bridal Loft of Springfield with Abby and her besties. These girlies were laid back, listening to tunes, and reminiscing on the good old days as I captured her classic details. The champagne and gold touches throughout the day along with the white florals were so timeless and lovely. And Abby’s gown with all of the floral appliqués was simply stunning! When it came time for Abby to get dressed she was a show-stopper! A true vision! I can actually hear her now telling me to “STOP” and giggling as she is the most laid back, humble person, which I gathered just from the short time I knew her. Then it was off to the church for the ladies!

Tim and the groomsmen all gathered in the morning to hang out and get ready. His crew was made up of his brothers as well as super close friends. The guys all looked dashing in their black suits with matching black ties. Very enduring! When it was their turn, they headed over to The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where the nuptials were being held. But, before the ceremony began, Abby allowed her father, to have a sneak peek of her in her dress. It was a fun moment in the back of the church for father and daughter. Then it was time for her dad to make the long walk with her down the aisle arm in arm. Tim was waiting at the altar for her with his high school SHG priest, who said the mass for the couple, which was very special to both of them. The ceremony was filled with readings and sentiment, while the couple exchanged rings and sealed it all with a kiss! We then headed over to the Horace Mann Building for some beautiful bridal party photos with this energetic squad! And my goodness did we have a blast! They had me cracking up the entire time! Once I finished up with Abby & Tim’s party, it was then time for their closeups. These two high school sweethearts just fit together! Tim towers over Abby, but she nestles right into his chest like her spot has been timeworn perfectly next to his heart. They do not seem to take things too seriously and enjoy the moment. They wanted to capture the memories throughout the day with photos, but their main priority was spending time with family. Especially since they live so far away they were taking full advantage of being surrounded by their loved ones.

That leads me to our next little adventure on Abby and Tim’s big day…A delightful journey to a nursing home on the west side of Springfield! We took a quick visit, party bus and all, over to visit Tim’s 96 year old grandmother, Nanny, with all of his brothers, sisters, and mom to say, “Hello”! It was such a fantastic and sweet experience seeing everyone so excited to see their grandmother and how huge of a smile it brought her when she saw her bus full of visitors! One of the best parts of the day, hands down! Then it was off to Erin’s Pavilion to get the party started at the reception, where the bridal party set the bar high with their entrance into the hall! The newlyweds shared their first dance followed by Abby and her dad as well as Tim and his mom taking spins around the dance floor. The couple was toasted with some wonderful speeches before party kicked it into high gear. A few clouds rolled in at the end of the evening covering up most of the sunset, but I still took this amazing duo outside one more time for some end of the night photos before I headed out for the evening! I simply loved every second of Abby and Tim’s day! I adore their story. I adore their energy. And I adore the new Mr. & Mrs. Brenneisen. Cheers!

Warm Regards,

Ceremony Venue: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Reception Venue: Erin’s Pavilion

Florist: Petals & Co.

DJ: Music Source

Makeup Artist: LB Beauty / Emily Gibbons

Hair Stylist: Second Home Hair Salon / Brenna Cordum Morris

Cake: Kaitschuk Farm

Catering: Hamilton’s Catering Service

Bride’s Dress: Bridal Closet

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Generation Tux

Invitations: Minted

Transportation: Perfect Choice Transportation