When I learned that the Pine Manor Estate in Carbondale, IL was going to be the location for Jimmy and Melanie’s wedding, I immediately got goose bumps. It’s not just any venue. It’s a luxury bed and breakfast that can accommodate 70 guests! This place is huge! It’s so…. luxurious! Very presidential in ways. A place that’s very fitting for a wedding. When my sister and I walked in the main gate of the estate (yes, my sister tagged along with me for the day to help me out and I was thrilled), I just knew it was going to be a magical day.

One of Melanie’s bridesmaids came down to meet up and showed us the way to the master suite. Goodness, the master suite was bigger than my house! That’s seriously no exaggeration. Melanie had just finished her hair and was getting ready to start her makeup. The bridesmaids were finishing up their mimosas and getting into their dresses. When it was time to get Melanie into her dress, everyone piled into the closet (yes the closet was large enough to fit a bride, her mother, 7 bridesmaids and a photographer). Everyone wanted the first look of the bride in her wedding dress. After all, this is THE dress.

We moved right along into portraits and once I finished up with Melanie and her bridesmaids, I started on Jimmy and the groomsmen. Let me just say that one of my favorite times during the wedding day is when I get to spend time taking portraits on the groomsmen. The guys crack me up and this particular group was willing to do whatever I wanted them to. They even had some ideas of their own. I could hardly get them away from the camera.

After a beautiful outdoor ceremony in front of the lake, we all headed to a beautifully decorated white tent reception. Luckily they had heat flowing into that thing because it was so cold that evening. It was so cold that I could see my breath! That didn’t stop anyone from having a good time though. I had so much fun with all of Jimmy and Melanie’s family and friends. I honestly can’t believe it’s over already.

If you’re still reading this, I’m giving you a virtual high five right now LOL. I got to rambling on this one but it’s Saturday night and I may have had a glass of wine or two. I hope you all are enjoying the beautiful colors of fall and getting ready for the holiday season. Enjoy looking through my favorites from Jimmy and Melanie’s big day.

Love this shot of the girls helping Melanie get into her dress.

Melanie, you’re gorgeous!

They wanted to post with the hand on the hip like girls do LOL

And they had the same ideas as the bridesmaids…

“Let’s all jump up in the air and hold hands” suggested the best man.

Watching all the guests arrive….

Jimmy was pretty excited Melanie was about to walk down the isle.

Probably my favorite father/daughter dance photo to date.

Usually the girls fight over the bouquet. It was the opposite at this wedding. Look at that guy!!!!!