Nikki & Rob, with the company of their closest friends and family, were married in the beautiful Botanical Gardens at Lake of the Woods in Mahomet, Illinois. As with any outdoor spring wedding, the chance of rain is always a possibility, and boy did they get lucky! On my way into Mahomet, the sprinkles were coming down, but by the time I got to the gardens, it had stopped. No sooner than they got to their car after the ceremony, it started to sprinkle again! The timing was absolute perfection.
Prior to the ceremony, we were fortunate the rain held off because it allowed us to capture all of their family formals; as well as portraits of Nikki and Rob together. The morning with them was tranquil and the love they shared for each other was abundantly clear. Something I really loved about this wedding was the attire Nikki and Rob wore. Nikki found the prettiest gold-toned dress adorned with gold rhinestones that glittered in the light, literally radiating joy! I loved the unique selection and would encourage any of my brides to wear what THEY want on their wedding day, not what society says is the norm. Nikki found her dress at Michelle’s Bridal & Tuxedo (where I got my wedding dress!) and said she had a wonderful experience with them. Rob wore a very complimentary warm-toned suit and together, they were quite the romantic power couple!
We meandered around the gardens a bit before Nikki went into hiding with her brother Robert, who would soon be giving her away. From their location, she watched their guests trickle in and take their seats in front of the waterfall and iconic red bridge of the Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens.
Once everyone was seated, the musicians started to play and Nikki was accompanied down the long path to her future husband, Rob. Their ceremony was sweet and simple and perfect. A friend of theirs streamed it so her dad could be present since he wasn’t able to travel for the occasion. A gesture I am sure he appreciated greatly.
As husband and wife, Nikki and Rob headed to Company 421 in downtown Mahomet for their brunch reception. If you’ve been on my blog before, you’ll recognize this venue as it is quickly becoming a regular place of celebration for my clients seeking an intimate occasion. I was able to jet off from the ceremony before the guests, which allowed me to photograph the space in all its beauty before guests started to arrive. From the exposed brick to the showstopping chandelier, I am always taken aback by its charm and warmth.
The owners Hillary and Tyler do a wonderful job ensuring there is a welcoming atmosphere every time I am there. This was my first brunch wedding there and I’ve gotta say, I really love the feel of an earlier wedding. Guests were free to mingle and enjoy drinks from the open bar during cocktail hour before lunch was served. I feel like there is something so carefree about a brunch wedding that leads to a very laidback experience for everyone present.
I was commissioned to be there for the ceremony and cocktail hour, but I am sure the rest of their reception was just as perfect as it started. I grabbed a cupcake on my way out and as I looked back at their room one final time, I couldn’t help but smile. That room contained some of their nearest and dearest. What a blessing.
Nikki and Rob, thank you for allowing me to document such a special time in your life. It was truly my pleasure to serve you. I hope you look back on these pictures for years to come and feel the love and support from those around you.
VENDORS
Venue: Company 421
Planner: Hillary Rae Events
Linens and decor: Lottie Brogan Linens
Florals: Boka Shoppe
Catering: Project 47 Smokehouse
Bride’s Dress: Michelle’s Bridal and Tuxedo
Photographer: Lisa Shreffler Photography