Arick and Elizabeth’s wedding day was the kind of day that made me walk away with a full heart and a giant smile on my face. It was equally both deeply reverent and adventurously fun! We went from the most beautiful "Ave Maria" and Marian dedication one moment, to out climbing in trees the next. Yep, wedding dress, heels and all! This day fully reflected who Arick and Elizabeth are: joyful, prayerful, and full of life in every single way-- and what a delight to get to photograph it all!
Getting Ready With Bridesmaids and Flower Girls
The whole morning was filled with whimsy, starting at the salon where Elizabeth works. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more delighted bride on her wedding day-- Elizabeth was so joyful, laughing with her bridesmaids and bouncing to each of her sweet flower girls to help them with their hair. Even the bridemaids' bright and fanciful dresses contributed to the romantic, whimsical tone of the whole day. I had so much fun capturing all the laughter and excitement in that space. It was so clear that Elizabeth was loved by so many (and loved them in return), and that just became more evident throughout the day.
A Sacred First Touch in the Adoration Chapel
One of my favorite moments was when Arick and Elizabeth met for a “first touch” in the Adoration Chapel. Instead of doing a "first look" and seeing each other before the Mass, Elizabeth stood behind Arick, gently resting her hands on his shoulders while they prayed together and read the letters they had written to each other. It was a tender, holy moment in their final preparation before embracing their Vocation together.
A Beautiful Catholic Nuptial Mass Filled With Family
Their nuptial Mass was absolutely beautiful. Elizabeth’s brother served at the altar, her sister filled the church with the sound of her cello, and both of their mothers did the readings, making the liturgy feel so deeply personal. After Communion, Arick and Elizabeth partook in one of my favorite Catholic traditions and presented flowers to Mary while a dear friend sang Schubert's "Ave Maria." The whole Mass was reverent and heartfelt, and I loved witnessing how their families played such meaningful roles throughout.
Whimsical Wedding Reception at Blackberry Farm
And then…the party! Their reception at Blackberry Farm was SO much fun. We did bridal party portraits on the historic 100-year-old merry-go-round (yes, it was as fun as it sounds), and it perfectly captured their adventurous spirits. Their first dance? Choreographed and completely jaw-dropping. These two are incredible dancers—and it makes sense, since they met dancing! The dance floor was packed all night long with friends and family who clearly love to dance as much as they do. I laughed, I danced a little behind my camera, and I had the best time capturing all of it.
Happily ever after...
Arick and Elizabeth’s wedding day encompassed the full spectrum of celebration. From tender moments of prayer between just the two of them, to a Mass attended by hundreds of loved ones. Moments of deeply reverent worship, followed by climbing in trees, or Arick's groomsmen throwing him into the air. The celebration truly mirrored a marriage: many different, but complementary aspects coming together to create something new and wholly beautiful. I was truly so struck by the whimsy of it all. Not just the romantic florals and butterflies that donned all their decorations, but the deep love, grounded faith, and bold authenticity that directed the whole day. I walked away with the biggest smile on my face, and honestly, it hasn't faded yet. Arick and Elizabeth, thank you SO MUCH for letting me photograph and witness such a joyous day. I loved every second of it!
Vendor Team
Arick and Elizabeth assembles an AWESOME team of vendors who were such a joy to work with!
Church: Holy Cross, Batavia, IL
Reception Venue: Blackberry Farm
DJ: Jack Murray
Florals: Town & Country Garden
Hair and Make-up: La Voda Salon Staff (Nina & Dawn)
Video: Kyle Petit
Live Painting: Kathryn Claahsen Art