Late September has a way of delivering the best wedding days — comfortable temps, soft light, and just the right hint of fall. Maria & Niko’s wedding fit that vibe perfectly from the very start. The weather was that right mix of warm sunshine and cool breeze, the kind that makes you want to stay outside just a little longer. Set along the water at The Hamilton’s at The Lake in Jacksonville, IL, the day felt calm, intentional, and so them. Surrounded by trees, water, and wide-open space, it was the kind of setting that naturally slows everything down — which fit Maria & Niko’s approach to their wedding day perfectly.

One of my favorite moments happened early on with their private first look by the lake. Maria and Niko wanted this moment documented, but from a distance — just the two of them, soaking it all in without anyone else hearing their words. It was quiet, emotional, and incredibly sweet. These two intentionally built little pauses like that throughout their day, choosing to truly experience every moment together instead of rushing through it. Afterward, we jumped into bridal party photos, using the lake and natural scenery as our backdrop. Maria loved movement (flowy dress moments forever), so we leaned all the way into that — twirls, a little “Ring-Around-The-Rosie”, laughter, and lots of motion that made her whimsical wedding vision come to life. We wrapped up with portraits of just Maria & Niko, who were more than ready to start this next chapter together after knowing each other since high school.

Their ceremony took place overlooking the lake, with friends and family gathered close. It was short, sweet, and full of heart — exactly how they wanted it. After exchanging rings, they sealed it all with a kiss and officially became husband and wife, surrounded by so much love.

The celebration continued inside for the reception, and the energy instantly shifted into party mode. The couple cut their cake, followed by heartfelt toasts from Maria’s twin sister and maid of honor, the best man, and both dads — cue all the emotions. Maria & Niko then shared a beautifully choreographed first dance. Maria took a spin with her dad while Niko danced with his mom, and then the night truly kicked off with Greek dances that Maria and her bridesmaids had been practicing ahead of time. We snuck the couple out briefly for sunset photos as the sun dipped over the lake (easily one of my favorite moments of the day), and then it was straight back to a packed dance floor that stayed full all night long.

Maria & Niko’s wedding was joyful, intentional, and deeply personal — the kind of day that reminds you what it’s all about. 💛

Venue: Hamilton’s at The Lake

Coordinator: Isabelle Reed South

Florist: Ling’s Moment

DJ: Epic Entertainment

Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist: BJs Grand Salon and Spa

Cake: Incredibly Delicious

Catering: Hamilton’s Catering 

Bride’s Dress: Girls in White Satin

Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Robert Redding & Men’s Wearhouse