When my friend, Erin, asked me to photograph she and fiancé, Josh’s wedding last fall I was incredibly honored. I worked with Erin during my corporate years and always enjoyed her wittiness, humor, and genuine character. Erin and Josh were planning an intimate ceremony at Venue 1929 in Springfield, Illinois and when I asked her what her date was she told me Halloween! When I checked my calendar originally, and said, “Erin, Halloween falls on a Thursday this year?!” I asked her if this was correct and she said, “Yep, we are getting married on a Thursday!” Ok then, let’s do it!

Erin and Josh have been together for years and have a lovely family already! Josh’s daughter, Ellie, is an incredible big sister to their son, Holden, making up their beautiful family of 4. Erin has always LOVED the Halloween season, yet not necessarily thought she would get married on the holiday. However, she and Josh wanted a fall wedding. But, when they realized a lot of the Saturday autumn dates and venues were booked they didn’t really want to wait another year to tie the knot. When she saw her favorite holiday landed on a Thursday and the Venue 1929 owner was game to throw a wedding on a weeknight…Everyone was in on the plan!

I arrived to capture a few quiet moments before guest began arriving of Erin’s sister helping her into her gown. She was absolutely stunning, which was no surprise to me! One of my favorite parts of the day was when Holden saw his mama in her dress for the first time. So sweet! Then it was time for Josh to get a glimpse of his bride. On the balcony of the venue, Josh laid eyes on Erin during their first look and had the biggest smile on his face! After a long embrace and some kisses it was time to officially get these two married!

Venue 1929’s space was delightfully decorated for both the ceremony and the reception. Guests took their seats at their tables, which were sprinkled with various patterned china plates, deep plums, pinks, and red florals in glass vases, as well as touches of gold. Even though Erin and Josh’s wedding date was on Halloween, it wasn’t “overly” Halloween themed. Yet, you could find a few ghouls and spooky decor items at the bar for a little bit of fun. The ceremony was to take place at the center of the room in front of the fireplace filled with candles and an aisle lined with greenery. A dazzling chandelier of lights and casscading greenery hung above the fireplace. When the nuptials began, there were a few very lovely moments incorporated. Ellie and Holden were the couple’s bridal party and walked down the aisle together. Also, Erin’s dad Mark and his longtime friend, Jim both helped officiate the ceremony. Erin’s dad, played a dual role, and walked her down the aisle to a waiting Josh, who couldn’t take his eyes off of her. The ceremony touched on their love of family, one another, and faith. It was short and sweet, but full of joy, heartfelt moments, and emotions. Erin and Josh exchanged rings and vows then sealed the deal with a kiss! Cheers to the new Mr. & Mrs. Dill!

I snuck the newlyweds outside for a few photos before it got too dark. The temperature on a Halloween evening weren’t too terrible and there were some pretty oranges in the trees to play with. Thank goodness Erin and Josh trusted my vision since we were downtown, on an overcast night, next to a busy road, with no time to go to another location. By the way their photos came out I truly don’t think you would know any of that! These two had that newly married glow to them as they snuggled in close, twirled, and dipped before the Halloween night took over. We did even get a little peek of the sunset at the end of our time outside, which made for a few fun silhouettes. The Dills headed back inside to be introduced along with their cutie kiddos to a room full of loved ones. They shared their first dance, they cut the cake, and after a delicious meal they were toasted by Erin and Josh’s fathers. But, before the dance floor opened up for the evening, Ellie and Holden got the party started with a choreographed sibling dance of their own to “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”, which was the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen! So cute!

Erin and Josh’s autumn nuptials, which just happened to land on Halloween, were anything but spooky or scary. Their day was filled with joyful and emotional memories, which encompassed the love for their family and each other. I had a wonderful time being a part of it and so grateful Erin and Josh thought of me for their special day!

Warm Regards,

Venue: Venue 1929

Florist: Petals & Co

DJ: Kyle Ortman

Makeup Artist: Meraki Salon and Spa

Hair Stylist: Meraki Salon and Spa / Taryn O’Neal

Catering: Hy-Vee

Bride’s Dress: David’s Bridal

Invitations: The Knot