Ashley & Lucas | Embassy Suites by Hilton | Peoria, IL Wedding

I met Ashley & Lucas for the first time at their consultation back in June, & within seconds I could feel the chemistry between the future Mr. & Mrs. This quickly sparked a connection in me to the couple, & my mind went into a frenzy of what being a part of their wedding would look like – as you will see I knew I had to be there to capture it!

The newlyweds contacted me about photographing their big day fortunately right after being on the other side of a medical journey Lucas had just been on. Without letting me in on it, I could tell while chatting with them that Ashley was right by his side the whole time holding his hand. This was then confirmed all day long, through toasts, blessings, & just by witnessing the love they have for one another while celebrating with them.

When I explained the benefits of a first look during the hashing out of wedding details, Ashley wasn’t sure about it. She was leaning more towards the traditional route of waiting to see each other when coming down the aisle. However, Lucas was team first look. In hind sight looking back on the moment he saw her for the first time, & editing those extra portraits they have, I think it was because he knew he wasn’t going to be able to patiently wait to see his beautiful bride. The images we were able to take before the ceremony verified all assumptions I had of the couple leading up to the wedding day.

I know it is incredibly cliché & I am sure we all think it happened to us – as least it did for me 😉 – but these two really did marry their best friend! Lucas looks at Ashley like there isn’t another girl in the world, & Ashley can’t help but smile when she looks at her now husband. They had us, & the whole wedding party rolling during all portraits with their goofiness, & infectious love.

As the day winded down, & the dance floor was filled with loved ones dancing their butts off, we found ourselves not wanting to leave. The couple’s family, & friends were so welcoming, & loving. Ashley is an only child so the love, & joy her parents felt as witnessed their daughter become a wife was so evident. You couldn’t help but feel the excitement they have to be adding a son to their family. Not to mention Father of the Bride had Dad jokes (& such a special bond with daughter that was undeniable) I just couldn’t get enough of.

Cheers to being husband & wife, & too many many happy, & healthy married years!

Embassy Suites by Hilton Peoria, IL Wedding Photographer_0001.jpg