I am a wedding and portrait photographer who keeps things light, fun, and full of energy. I’m based out of Springfield, Illinois however I love traveling all over the midwest and beyond.
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Mid-September decided to crank things way up for Haley & Zach — we’re talking 90s, sunny, and basically a bonus summer day — but honestly, the heat just made everything feel even more golden and glowy. Paul’s Paradise in Pleasant Plains gave us the prettiest backdrop with its wide-open space and cozy, tucked-away feel. The whole place just felt calm and happy… like it knew something big was about to happen.
Before the ceremony, Haley & Zach chose to do a first touch — and oh my gosh, cue the happy tears. They stood back-to-back, holding hands, reading their private vows without actually seeing each other. It was such a quiet, emotional little bubble in the middle of the day, and I swear you could feel how much they adore each other. After that, we jumped into separate bridal party photos under the pergola. The bridesmaids absolutely rocked their green satin dresses, each one a different style, all paired with florals full of texture and color. The guys looked clean and classic in tan suits, and Zach’s emerald green suit? Obsessed. He pulled it off perfectly.
Their ceremony took place under the pergola with family and friends surrounding them, and it had all the good stuff — lots of happy tears, plenty of laughs, and a very special ring bearer: their dog Sebastian, who took his job very seriously (and very cutely in his tux). When they sealed it all with a kiss, the whole crowd was beaming.
Bridal party photos afterward were such a blast. This crew came ready to hype their people up. The colors, the energy, the laughs — every shot felt alive. And then it was time for Haley & Zach to have their moment. These two are just… effortless together. They fall into each other so naturally. Haley looked like absolute magic in her gown, and Zach’s deep green suit was giving full main-character energy. The sunlight kept finding them in the sweetest ways, and I could’ve photographed them for hours.
Their reception was elegant but still full of heart and personality. Their first dance was soft and sweet — one of those moments where the whole room kind of melts around them. Toasts from Haley’s mom, her sister, and Zach’s best man brought all kinds of emotions. Then Zach danced with his mom, and Haley followed with a moment that had everyone in their feelings. Since she lost her dad, she shared a dance with two amazing family friend’s dads who stepped into that father-figure role in her life. It was beautiful and meaningful and just… wow.
Right before sunset, I snuck the newlyweds out to a little lane near the tree farm for golden-hour photos — seriously one of my favorite parts of the entire day. The light was soft, the world felt peaceful, and Haley & Zach were glowing. After that, the dance floor took over and stayed packed all night long. What a way to end the evening celebrating this incredible couple! Cheers to The Breens!
Warm Regards,

Venue: Paul’s Paradise
Florist: Bloom Wine Bar and Florals
DJ: Complete Weddings + Events
Videographer: Steve Weber Films
Makeup Artist: Kinzie Turner / Golden Groove Salon and Beauty Bar
Hair Stylist: Emma Mulholland
Cake: The Bride
Catering: Hamilton’s Catering
Groom / Groomsmen Attire: Savvi Formal Wear / The Crafted Stag
Transportation: Freds Bus