Julie and Ryan’s wedding day had finally arrived! The two had a special day planned, which began at Julie’s parent’s home, where the bride made her preparations in her childhood bedroom. Julie’s eyes welled up as she took a glimpse of herself in the mirror– she could barely believe it was time to marry Ryan!
A quick touch of lip gloss…
…and Julie was ready to be seen by her father for the first time. Have you ever seen a prouder papa?
Julie comes from a family of musicians (her brother played guitar during the ceremony, which you’ll see in a bit), and she couldn’t resist plucking a few strings with her dad before heading out.
Julie’s neighbors were outside to see her off. This special couple has known Julie since she was a little girl.
We stopped by a local bookstore that was right next to the church. Julie’s parents used to take her and her brother when they were little. She has many fond memories of this store!
Meanwhile, Ryan was with his groomsmen at the reception venue, relaxing and enjoying some time with the guys before the ceremony.
The groom played navigator in the limo heading to the church- this was one day he didn’t want to get lost!
With a few moments to go before the start of the ceremony, I took several portraits of Julie in the bridal suite. Moments later, she was being escorted down the aisle of the church by her father.
Ryan couldn’t keep his eyes off of Julie as she made her way to the altar. His eyes welled up and he bit his bottom lip… the absolute picture of happiness!
Julie’s father took his seat while her brother finished his guitar solo. The couple took their hands and the minister began the ceremony. It was a beautiful ceremony, too, full of love and meaning for the newly-formed family.
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Julie and Ryan were married!
When the newlyweds exited, they were showered by their guests with streamers, cheers and applause.
Ryan’s nieces and nephew, all three of whom participated in the ceremony, were especially excited about shooting off the streamers.
We wasted no time making our way to the reception venue and beginning our portrait session! Julie and Ryan held their party at Dunham Woods Riding Club in Wayne, IL. This private country club and historic inn was a joy to photograph- especially for a fall wedding. There were barns, fences, groves of trees… see for yourself in some of my favorites from our session!:
The bridal party couldn’t help but get involved with pictures, too!
I was thrilled when both Julie and Ryan agreed to wade out into this field (in their wedding clothes, no less!) for a picture. I think they turned out beautifully!
As the sun set, we made our way to the reception hall, where after dinner, Julie’s dad kicked off speeches. The Maid of Honor and Best Man followed suit, delivering their toasts in honor of the newlyweds.
When speeches concluded, Julie and Ryan took to the dance floor to share their first dance together as husband and wife.
They each took turns with a parent dance…
…and then the party really got started! The couple and their guests were ready to boogie, and that’s exactly what they did. Get a glimpse of all the fun with these images from Ryan and Julie’s dance party:
Ryan and Julie, it was such a special day! Congratulations on your marriage and thank-you for including me in the festivities!
