Mikaela and Scott’s wedding day the Saturday after Thanksgiving brought out some joyful emotions, a bunch of laughter among family and friends, plus a touch of winter magic! These two loved the feel The Rustic Venues in Girard, Illinois provided for their celebration. A space where both the bride and groom, along with all of their loved ones could get ready in the morning without running into each other. Plus an options for photos and their reception to host all of their most treasured people. My morning began with Mikaela and her ladies in the bridal suite as she was getting her hair done and the suite was bustling with all the last minute things the girls do on wedding day. This bride was fairly laid back and simply ready to get to the part where she sees here groom, but since they chose not to see one another prior to the ceremony, she and Scott did have a little bit longer to wait. Mikaela’s mom, Shauna and sister, Sophie (and Maid of Honor) helped her into her dress and she was simply stunning! The dress was a classic “A-frame” with a sweetheart neckline and off the shoulder straps. She had a little belt with some bling to match her rhinestone boots to bring her whole look together! Mikaela was allowing her father to see her with a first look, which was incredibly sweet. They took in one other’s outfits, shared some laughs, and Mikaela gifted her dad with an embroidered handkerchief. While all this was going on, Scott and his groomsmen were only a building away, getting ready for the big day themselves. The guys wore navy suites, with matching navy ties and vests. Scott stood apart with a gold vest and looked dapper with his guys as they prepared for the ceremony.

The nuptials themselves were actually being held off of The Rustic Venues property in Springfield at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. See, Scott and Mikalea were being married by Bishop Paprocki, who coached Scott in hockey as well as coached next to him once Scott graduated. Scott told me the Bishop remarked, “Since I had become Bishop, many people don’t ask me to celebrate the sacrament of marriage because they think I’m too busy. I mean I am busy, but I am still happy to be asked”. Blessed Sacrament is an impressive cathedral with amazing stained glass windows and a long dramatic aisle. Scott waited for Mikaela at the end of that aisle to make her way with her dad and fought back the tears as she neared. The couple listened to many lovely scripture readings, the Bishop sharing more about their relationship, they exchanged rings, and they promised forever with a kiss. They were officially pronounced Mr. & Mrs. Wheat!

By the time we were making the 40 minute drive back to The Rustic Venues, the cold autumn afternoon had given way to skies allowing for some falling snow. Of course no one loved the idea of driving in the snow. Luckily, everyone made it back safely and Mikaela and Scott had the beautiful barn at the venues for us to keep us warm while we had portrait time. This bridal crew was a blast, keeping our time together light-hearted and fun. I loved the look of the girl’s rust orange dresses next to the guy’s navy suits in the rustic barn. We took some time with the newlyweds inside to give them a few moments together. Then I caught a glimpse of some golden glow happening outside and I convinced everyone to head out to see. The wind had died down, there was the perfect dusting of fluffy white snow on the ground, and the sun had peeked out from behind the clouds! We grabbed a few bridal party photos, including the groomsmen throwing Scott (which he fully gave the “OK” for and was their idea…Not mine)! Before it was just Mr. & Mrs. Wheat for some of my most FAVORITE photos of all time! Mikaela and Scott were just enjoying the moment and the sun and snow were paid actors for their wedding day photos! I’m thrilled we got these two outside for a few photos considering this pair LOVES the outdoors in their every day lives.

Before we knew it, the reception was off and running! And boy, did Mikaela and Scott’s crew kick it off right! They entered in with some of the most unique entrances I’ve seen setting the bar high for a top notch party! Mikaela and Scott heard many lovely speeches in their honor, they cut their delicious cake, as well as locked together lockets in a private ceremony. The newlyweds shared their first dance followed by dances with Mikaela and her dad and Scott and his mom. Mikaela didn’t officially throw a bouquet, however she chose to give her mom a bouquet along with telling her how much she is grateful to her for all she has done for her in her life. It was a delightful and special moment shared by mother and daughter. Then it was time to get the party started!

Mikaela and Scott’s wedding day was an incredible beginning to a new chapter for a wonderful couple, who have set a foundation of faith, family, and joy. I’m so thankful I could be a part of capturing it all for them and their loved ones. Congratulations to The Wheats!

Warm Regards,

Ceremony Venue: Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church

Reception Venue: The Rustic Venues

Videographer: Twenty One Seven Studios

Florist: Flourish Flower Company

DJ: Complete Weddings and Events

Hair Stylist: The Refinery

Cake: Hy-Vee

Catering: Fat Albert’s BBQ

Bride’s Dress: LA Formals

Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Savvi Formalwear

Invitations: Zazzle