Brooke and Carter’s late November wedding at the Artisans Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds was nothing short of a dream! This couple might win the award for most chill on their big day as both Brooke and Carter were very laid back about every aspect of their wedding. After Brooke and the girls finished up hair and makeup in the morning, they headed to get ready at the Inn at 835. There was laughter and a few tears throughout this time, but mostly joy and giggles! When it was time for Brooke to step into her dress it was pure magic! Her lace form-fitting gown was beautiful, but when she put it on it leveled up for sure! And for a little extra glamour, Brooke added matching lace sleeves that really created her boho vision. Brooke did a first look with her bridesmaids as well as her father, who fought back tears. However, after they collected themselves they busted out a secret handshake for good measure. Carter couldn’t be left out of the getting ready photoshoot as he got ready with his father and groomsmen just upstairs from Brooke at the Inn. He looked pretty dapper himself in a classic black tuxedo complete with black bowtie. His dad helped him polish his look before the bride and groom had their first look out front of the B&B. 

Before all of the big events began, Brooke and Carter decided to have a first look followed by completing all of their photos. Brooke gave her soon-to-be husband a tap on the shoulder and once Carter turned to see Brooke the smile never left his face! These two are truly a beautiful love story in the making and it is such a pleasure to be capturing it all for them. We then headed off to downtown Springfield to start their portrait time with their bridal party. Again the guys in their stylish tuxes and the girls wore amazing terracotta dresses. And can we talk about their incredible bouquets?!? Orchids and pompous grass, yes please! This bridal crew brought the fun to portraits on a beautifully mild November day. Once we were done with the bridal party it was time for Brooke and Carter’s close ups! I can’t overstate it enough…This couple was so laid back, up for anything, and willing to do anything I asked for the shot! What a dream! We hung out a bit by the lovely marble building for a bit then headed over to get a little nature for this nature-loving couple. The berry trees and the sunlight spoke to me and made for the perfect little vignette. Brooke and Carter are absolutely stunning together and this time with them was probably my favorite part of the day. 

We then headed over to the Artisans Building where the couple was set to wed. They had a simple wooden archway with that pop of orange and grasses. As their guests filled the chairs it was time for this couple to make it official. Brooke’s dad escorted his daughter down the aisle to Carter and everyone had a smile on their face! Their nuptials were short and sweet including lots of funny stories of the pair as the ceremony was officiated by Brooke’s sister, Ali. After exchanging vows, rings, and a kiss these two were pronounced husband and wife! Cheers to the new Mr. & Mrs. Connolley! We then rushed the newlyweds back outside to catch the little bit of a sunset we could before it set below the horizon. They dipped, they twirled, and shared quiet moments with just the two of them soaking in the fact that they were officially married! 

Then it was time to get the party started! The reception was filled with amazing toasts, special dances (including Brooke and her dad busting out some fun moves halfway through their father/daughter dance), and even a gelato cart among other sweet treats! And when the dance floor opened it was full all night! Brooke, Carter, and their family and friends made the reception a complete blast! I feel so blessed to have been a part of their incredible day and I loved every minute with these two. Congrats to The Connolleys!

Wedding Venue: Artisans Building

Florist: Petals & Co

Wedding Planner: Simply Detailed Wedding & Event Planning

DJ: The Elite DJ Service by Dave Isaacs

Videographer: Skyview Studio

Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist: Willow & Birch

Cake: Karleen Langhein

Catering: Cured Catering

Bride’s Dress: Gowns Bridal And Formal Boutique

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Mens Wearhouse

Transportation: 1UP’n Limos

Gelato Cart: Park-N-Chill

Reception Rentals: Create A Scene Events & JnR Expo