“Every wedding must be an occasion of joy that human beings can do such great things, that they have been given such immense freedom and power to take the helm in their life’s journey.”  These were some of the first words spoken in Eliana and Onsi’s ceremony, read by a friend of the couple and officiated by their pastor who knows them very well.  It struck me as absolutely beautiful- the whole day did, really.  All day long, people spoke of this couple.  Of Onsi and his love of philosophy and good conversation. Of Elaina and her sweetness and grace.  And of the two of them together.  Young, but sure. Tried and tested through distance.  Each other’s perfect balance, match, and home.  There were so many faces smiling and hugging and talking all day long of these two and of their lives together- everywhere I turned, people were celebrating.  It was truly a breathtaking day.

My sweet and extremely talented friend Kim of Kim Nehrt Photography and Design second shot with me and I loved working with her! She is extremely experienced, and made it all so easy.  The florists, videography team, and Elaina and Onsi’s planner (who isn’t in business currently but did this for them- and it is truly a loss to the wedding world) just added to the color and warmth of such a beautiful day.

The quote from the top, and this final quote were both readings in their ceremony, from A Wedding Sermon From A Prison Cell by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I have since read it, and highly suggest it.

“As God today adds His ‘Yes’ to your ‘Yes’, as He confirms your will with His will, and as He allows you, and approves of, your triumph and rejoicing and pride, He makes you at the same time instruments of His will and purpose both for yourselves and for others. In His unfathomable condescension God does add His ‘Yes’ to yours; but by doing so, He creates out of your love something quite new – the holy estate of matrimony.”

It is the best description of “matrimony” that I have ever heard.

These details…one can never go wrong with Badgley Mischka bridal shoes!Central Baptist Church in Springfield is a most beautiful place to shoot a wedding ceremony!
A hanger for the groom too?? Love it!Onsi’s coat was truly awesome!Kim, I love these of Elaina that you got!This has become one of my favorite moments of weddings this season…First look time!These moments are unforgettable.This bridal party was so easy to work with!! Loved them!Elaina, you are gorgeous!  Elegant beauty in definition! Loved these just married portraits!We were at the beautiful Artisan Building for the reception, which I truly love!Bananas Foster for part of dessert? Good deal!I have never seen a dance floor that was so lively as this one….loved it!The band, Upbeat Orchestra from Chicago, TOTALLY blew me away and kept that dance floor rocking!!Elaina and Onsi, thank you so much for asking me to capture your day- it was truly an enormous honor for me.  I think you two are beautiful together, and am beyond thrilled for you!

I was thrilled to work with this fantastic creative team for Onsi & Elaina’s wedding!

Venue: Artisan Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds

Videographer: Chris Costello

Flowers: True Colors Floral

Cake: Incredibly Delicious

Hair: BJ Grand Salon & Spa

Caterer: 5 Flavors Catering

Band: Upbeat Orchestra

Event Rentals: Signature Event Rental