Happy Veterans Day everyone! It’s also Friday, which means it’s the weekend and I hope you all have made some fabulous plans. I’ll be wrapping up my third and final day of fall mini sessions and then editing the rest of the weekend. I’m finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel with my “to do” list of editing and I’m finally able to show you this beautiful wedding.

Mike and Shelby were married last month at the beautiful St. Paul’s Lutheran Church out at Wine Hill. I always love taking pictures there at the church. It has some pretty light and even though I prefer shooting outdoors, I’ll actually admit that the indoor portraits aren’t that bad at all. It’s because there’s huge windows that let in all that natural light though. But since Mike and Shelby choose to get married in the fall, we just HAD to shoot most of the portraits outdoors. I ended up making the bridal party hike through a field behind the church out to this beautiful area by some trees. That was the only shady area around and since most wedding day portraits take place around noon, you HAVE to find shade if you don’t want shadows and squinty eyes. I’m so glad they trusted me because I got some of the best photos there at that location. I always say… light trumps locations! When you find good light, take as many photos as you possibly can.

The evening ended at The American Legion in Steeleville, Illinois. The hall was decorated with lanterns and white tablecloths. The head table had a big white wall with lights and a big “H” for Huey hanging on it. There were so many delicious dessert choices to choose from including homemade cookies and cheesecake! You don’t see cheesecake very often at wedding receptions!

This wedding was very special to me for so many reasons, but one of the biggest reasons was because it was my 100th wedding that I’ve taken pictures of. I will remember this wedding for a very long time. The whole day was so special and I had so much fun celebrating with Mike and Shelby’s families and friends. This crowd was a dancing crowd too, just wait till you see below! Here are a few of my favorites…

Shelby coming out with her gown on…. the look on the bridesmaids faces was priceless!

Dad coming in to check out Shelby…..

Gotta love a good “daddy-daughter” moment.

Time for the FIRST LOOK.

A few ceremony details.

First kiss as Husband and Wife.

Shelby, you were a STUNNING bride!

So much joy 🙂 I love that part of my job.

There’s always that one bridal party member who rocks the “excited” shot. Can you spot him LOL.

One of my new favorite ring shots!

Reception details.

First dance as Husband and Wife.