Every wedding day I shoot is beautiful.  There are memories from each that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, whether it’s a moment that I see between the couple, something that happens between a parent and a child, a special speech, a tradition I haven’t seen before, a particularly meaningful detail or interaction with a grandparent, or something the officiant shares.  Emily and Josh’s wedding had every single one of those elements, and years from now I will still be saying it made a big impression on me.

Beyond adoring Emily and Josh’s easy, fun, deep love for each other from the moment I first talked to them (and loving that their relationship is rooted in a long term friendship), one thing that struck me the most during the planning process was that they truly wanted this day to be all about their family.  Their wedding parties were all their siblings.  They wanted their parents, nieces, nephews, and siblings included in every moment of the day.  And honestly– it just felt like how it should be.  Surrounded by those who will truly be a part of their lives forever, by those who have been there since literally day one.  It really moved me, and it shows in their gallery.  One with a record number of photos (in part, because Emily was extremely detail oriented in the best way possible and REALLY prioritized photo time!).

Another thing I will take away long term was something their officiant said.  He talked about how in the lifetime of a marriage, couples have to make a choice as time goes on to continue to invest in each other- to broaden and enrich the depth of their love for each other.  That that is a part of our responsibility when we choose to get married. I loved the way he said it, and truly know that Emily and Josh will prioritize this in their marriage (which will be even more beautiful than this immensely beautiful wedding).

Both Emily’s and Josh’s parents were warm, kind, and extremely joyful on this day, and that is the same emotion we saw from all of their loved ones.  I loved getting to meet everyone, and can’t wait to share my favorites!  It truly was all SUCH an honor to witness.

First look time!!

Emily’s classic bridal look just blew me away! It snowed a lot just 3 days before and I was so thankful– it was BEAUTIFUL in their photos!  And they were all such troopers in the cold! Favorite! Husband and wife! I just love these all so much! I LOVE the Abraham Lincoln Museum Venue– and it’s White House backdrop!  Emily and Josh, it was a complete pleasure and honor! I am SO happy for you both and hope you enjoy reliving your perfect day from PARIS!!  Bon Voyage!

To see Emily + Josh’s beautiful engagement session, click HERE!

Ceremony Location: First Presbyterian Church

Reception Venue: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library + Museum

Wedding Planner + Florist (this team is AMAZING- cannot recommend them enough!): Simply Detailed Wedding + Event Planning

Videographer: ForeverMoore Films

Wedding Dress: Pronovias from Elite Bridal

Veil: Bridal Veil Designs

Bridesmaid Dresses: Hope’s Bridal

Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Hair + Makeup: Willow + Birch Salon

DJ: Elite Entertainment

Caterer: Nelson’s Catering

Cake: Hyvee

Officiant: Rev. Mark Ferrell

Invitations: Cards Paper Love