I get couples planning from all over the place and many from out of state, but Alyssa and Mike take the cake for furthest couple away as they planned the big day from Germany!

With help from family and friends locally they put together an absolutely gorgeous day! We started at Wilder Mansion where everyone was getting ready. This place is amazing! I would love to shoot there again (hint hint for anyone reading this! ).  After a wonderful first look we explored the park for photos. Their ceremony was on the grounds at Wilder Park. Their ceremony photos are some of my favorites of the day. Their smiles, laughter and expressions were contagious.

There was a threat of rain and storms looming all day, but none as apparent as when we ended the ceremony and looked up to find dark clouds rolling in. Luckily everyone was able to get in their cars before the torrential downpour came. I’m starting to think I’m cursed when I shoot at Wilder Park because last time we were there we got stuck in pouring rain as well!

But a little rain wasn’t going to stop the festivities at the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis club. Although the cocktail hour was moved inside guests enjoyed mingling and popping in the photo booth complete with cardboard cutouts of the couples cat! Robyn and I definitely got in there for some photos!

Congratulations to Alyssa and Mike and thank you for allowing us to be a part of your day! Here are some of my favorites from their day!

Ceremony Venue : Wilder Park Garden

Reception Venue : Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club

Getting Ready Location : Wilder Mansion

Hair & Makeup : My Friend’s Place Salon

Flowers: Shamrock Garden Florist

Cake : Oak Mill Bakery

Invitations: William Arthur from Papyrus

Catering: My Chef Catering

Bridal Gown : The Dress by Nicole

Bridesmaids Dresses : The Dress by Nicole

Tuxes: GQ Formalwear

DJ and Lighting : Matt Klich from Your Night Productions

Second Photographer : Robyn Matthews

This might have been one of the coolest details we’ve seen. This white fabric was part of a parachute from WWII and was also used  to create Alyssa’s grandmothers dress you see in the photos. She wraped a piece around her bouquet to carry for the day!

Sometimes you need a little help from your girls!