Many words come to mind when I think back on Cheyenne and Collin’s Memorial Day weekend wedding on their family farm in Ashland, Illinois. Joyful, relaxed, family-oriented, gorgeous, puppies, & celebratory! I was meeting this beautiful couple for the first time on their wedding day and I was welcomed in with open arms by Cheyenne within moments of meeting her at their lovely farmhouse, where she and her ladies were getting ready for the day. There was so much laughter and joyfulness coming from Cheyenne and her bridesmaids as well as Collin’s mother, Val, who joined to help get this delightful bride dressed in the morning. The girls were also joined by many four-legged family members of the couples including their newest member, Buck, who was a wedding present from Cheyenne to Collin. See, Collin had a dream before the wedding he and his bride had a mini Golden Doodle named, Buck and he immediately told Cheyenne! Well she took that as a sign and went out and found a puppy that fit the bill and drove 5 hours to make Collin’s dream come true! So sweet! We laughed that Buck even matched the wedding decor and color theme! His face was so cute, I almost stole him, but I don’t think my couple would have been happy with me!

The time came for Cheyenne to step into her gown and she looked absolutely stunning! Her lace mermaid gown with tulle train floated around the room and was just the perfect touch of glamour and rustic for her farm wedding. Her bridesmaids were in various styles and shades of champagne as they helped with her final touches before her walk down the aisle. Collin got ready downstairs with his brother, Corey by his side. Jeans, a crisp white buttoned down shirt, and a tan blazer were his outfit for the day, matching with his brother and father, Eric. Cheyenne and Collin did not see one another prior to the ceremony and before we knew it, their loved ones were arriving and making their way down by the pond for their nuptials. However, Cheyenne had one other person she wanted to give permission to see her before everyone else and that was her grandmother, Betty. So we set up a little first look with Betty and Cheyenne, which was so sweet. She was thrilled to see her granddaughter in her white dress.

We all made our way down to the dock overlooking the pond, where an elegant arbor with florals and fabric, blew in the gentle winds, stood and the couple’s guests gathered. Collin, his brother, and their adorable ring bearer Bernard made their way down the aisle and awaited Cheyenne. She appeared at the top of the hill with her matron of honor and bestie, Haley, who walked her halfway before grandma Beatty stood and took her the rest of the way to her awaiting groom. Cheyenne told me their ceremony was going to be quick…like 5 minutes quick. And she was not kidding! But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t filled with love, maybe a little laughter when a few words were flubbed due to some jitters, and total excitement when they were pronounced husband and wife! Yet, hands raised with exuberance and they are introduced as Mr. & Mrs. Andrews!

We took some photos on the dock with their full bridal party after a few family photos as well as some couple photos. Then I was able to steal the newlyweds for a bit and really capture them in their element around the farm and in one another’s arms. We even added Cheyenne’s spectacular cathedral length veil with floral details, which added a whole extra level to their photos! These two were just so comfortable in each other arms and it was so fun to see them together. It then came time for their reception in the barn, which had been transformed into a gathering space for family and friends with candle light, lanterns, photos of the couple, and soft fabrics. This duo shared their first dance and listened to their matron of honor, Haley and best man, Corey give toasts. Funny story which I found out. Haley, has been Cheyenne’s bestie for about 11 years. She met and married the best man Corey after their friendship had begun. Yes, the brother of the groom! So now Haley and Cheyenne, who have been best friends forever are now sister-in-laws! They always said it would be fun to marry brothers! Mission accomplished, ladies! The couple also did something in my years of photographing weddings I haven’t seen before. Part of their guest book was to have each guest take a polaroid of themselves and hang it up in a frame. However, little did the guests know the couple had plans for these photos. Collin chose 3 photos at random to come up and give a speech on the spot to the couple. The newlyweds LOVED the surprise…I’m not sure their guests felt the same, however everyone was a great sport and gave very heartfelt toasts to the couple. After dinner Cheyenne danced with Collin’s father and Collin took his mother for a spin around the dance floor. Then the besties, now new sister-in-laws celebrated with a fun dance together!

Around sunset I stole Cheyenne and Collin one more time for photos as the sun dropped below the treeline. We had a gorgeous glowy light that was perfect for these two and they took full advantage of it enjoying every second hand in hand! We also made sure to include Buck as well as all of their sweet pups for a few photos! These guys were up for anything at sunset so it literally was pure magic as they were so playful. And when it got dark outside, they had a special surprise for their guests on this holiday weekend to officially kick off the summertime. Sparklers and fireworks! I adored getting to know Cheyenne and Collin and I’m honored to have captured their incredible day! Cheers to Mr. & Mrs. Andrews!

Warm Regards,

Venue: Couple’s Family Farm

Bride’s Dress: Girls in White Satin

DJ: Melonie (Family Member)

Makeup: Glam by Jordyne

Hair: Chris Rolson / A Hair Co

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse