The rustic style of The Homestead Wedding venue in Tallula, Illinois was an incredible backdrop for Carmen and Casey, who both love the outdoors and the country way of life. Their big day was filled with so much joy and many heartfelt moments throughout, while keeping laughter and love their top priority. Carmen and her ladies, mostly made up of her besties and Casey’s sisters, were prepping in the morning when I arrived and were full of so much energy and excitement. Carmen’s signature purple color was chosen to bring the day together in the bridesmaid’s dresses, flowers, accents, and even in her engagement ring, which Casey picked out for his bride to be. When the time came for Carmen to step into her gown, she was a stunner for sure! Her gown had a lace, sleeveless bodice and a simple satin skirt. She topped it off by wearing her own touch of country with her cowboy boots. Carmen was absolutely beaming with her ladies beside her.

Casey got ready down the hallway of The Homestead with the help of his groomsmen, nephew, and Carmen’s dad. Unfortunately, the day of their wedding, Casey’s dad became very sick and had to go to the hospital. Casey’s dad and mom had a tradition of officiating their children’s weddings and they were set to preside over Casey and Carmen’s big day as well. Sadly, it was not meant to be, however, he was on everyone’s minds and in their prayers as their wedding day carried on. There was a bit of rain in the forecast, yet with this pair choosing a late March wedding date, they had it in the back of their mind the spring weather could play a part in the direction of where we did a lot of their photos. Luckily they are a “Go with the flow” kind of couple and were absolutely fine with doing photos inside where Rosebud & Co. had knocked it out of the park with the flowers on their arbor with pops of purples and whites, giving us an incredible background for a spring feeling vibe. From Carmen’s emotional first look with her dad. Followed by Casey seeing her for the first time on their special day, the space was perfect. We got a little variety after some family photos by moving over by the hallway of old horse stables and ambient lights. During the couple’s engagement session, Carmen’s two horses came up for a visit while we were out at her parent’s family farm. So the horse stables were the perfect fit for a spot for this duo. Then it was time to get these two married.

The ceremony was set inside in the barn surrounded by all their loved ones. Carmen made her way down the aisle with her dad towards Casey, who stood next to his mom. Casey fought back tears as his bride approached, which was such a sweet moment to witness. Pam, Casey’s mother, did a phenomenal job melding laughter and heart together as she officially united these two as husband and wife. They exchanged rings and vows, then sealed it all with a kiss! They were pronounced Mr. & Mrs. Muncy!

The newlywed’s reception got started soon afterwards, however before the festivities could begin a very important part of the day to Casey was taking place…The carving of the hog! Yes, I said that right! Casey is from Arkansas and where his family comes from a good ole fashioned hog roast is a must have to celebrate the right way! The couple was not officially cutting the cake so instead they did an impromptu cutting of the hog! That might have been a first for me! It was a delicious meal though! After a few wonderful toasts, their first dance, and the father/daughter dance the floor was open for some fun. I was able to convince, Carmen and Casey to sneak outside for 10 minutes, when the rain stopped for a few photos before it got too dark. We didn’t get too much of a “sunset”, however just capturing this nature-loving couple in their element was worth it. Congrats to the new Mr. & Mrs. Muncy! I’m wishing you a lifetime of happiness and love!

Warm Regards,

Venue: The Homestead

Florist: Rosebud & Co.

DJ: Troy Armstrong

Videographer: Abby Sisti

Makeup Artist: LB Beauty

Hair Stylist: Missy McGlothlin

Cake: Victoria Degroot

Catering: Twyford BBQ

Bride’s Dress: Girls in White Satin

Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Girls in White Satin