American Legion Wedding – Sparta, IL

My neighbors are married!!! That’s right, Kadie and Jr are neighbors of mine (behind my house) and the house they purchased is just too cute! I can remember driving by that house growing up and I was always curious to know what the inside looked like. Well I got my chance the morning of Kadie and JR’s wedding because Kadie and her bridesmaids were getting ready there. OMG it’s the cutest little house! There’s great natural light, it’s an older home but updated and has amazing character. It just has that cozy feeling, you know. I just know that Kadie and JR are going to make some wonderful memories in that home together.

Both the ceremony and reception were taking place at the American Legion in Sparta, Illinois. When I pulled up to the legion I saw white chairs lined up facing the lake with a beautiful wooden arbor. It was a windy day so nothing else was out there yet and when I say windy I mean like 30+ mph winds! It was crazy! The sun was out and made for a beautiful day and even though it was super windy, nothing was going ruin their special day. There’s nothing more nerve wrecking than planning an outdoor ceremony and having the chance it might rain! When it was almost time to start, the florists went out to put the flowers up on the arbor as secure as they could. The flowers were amazing and looked so beautiful up there. It was the perfect backdrop and the perfect setting for Kadie and JR to say their vows to one another.

After finishing up some bridal party portraits, we all made our way indoors to start the reception. Kadie and JR know how to throw a party! There were so many friends and family surrounding them and everyone was ready to celebrate. Toasts were given, the cake was cut, first dances were danced and a newlywed game was played. When it was time for me to wrap things up and make my way home, I went around the room telling them goodbye. I always make it a point to go to my bride and grooms before leaving to make sure they don’t need anything else before I leave. Sometimes I feel like a wedding planner/coordinator but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Wedding photographers are with their couples most of their day, probably more than their own parents, so it’s important to make sure that they are taken care of. It’s all about the experience and I hope that Kadie and JR had the best experience. Not only with me but with everything that day.

I’m so excited to share my favorites from Kadie and JR’s wedding day with you. It was hard narrowing them down but these tell the best story. Honestly, looking at these photos you can hardly tell just how windy it was! I hope you all have a fabulous week!