One of the best things about photographing weddings is that there is never one wedding the same as the other. They are all different in their own ways, with unique moments and details special to only the couple. This was certainly true for Julie and Patrick; they really invited us in to take a journey through their relationship with them which was so fun for us. I actually had the pleasure of meeting them because I got to photograph Julie’s cousins wedding. It’s always such a treat for me to photograph multiple people in a family, it’s comforting to see familiar faces throughout the day, and know that you are not just another vendor at their wedding.
Julie and Patrick are the couple that makes you feel like you have known them your whole life, their happiness was infectious! Our day started at Julie’s parent’s house, where we all were beyond impressed with Patrick from the start and the multiple gifts he had waiting for his bride. One of those gifts being the perfect little blue box with jewelry for his bride to wear for their special day. It was beyond sweet and Julie was simply glowing at just thought of her groom. I knew in that moment this was going to be a really special day.
We got to learn so much about them as a couple as we traveled to a few locations to photograph their pictures.
We started at beautiful park with the wedding party and then ventured on to a hill with significant meaning at Rotary Park here in Naperville. They had one of their very first dates on this hill and I thought it was beyond sweet that now, years later, we were going back to take pictures of them together as husband and wife.
After the parks we were off to Chipotle! That’s right, Chipotle! This delicious burrito establishment had years of memories for the couple. Their bridal party definitely lucked out as everyone was able to take a breather, and dig into some chips and guac as we documented the couple for their burrito break! Patrick actually worked as a manager at Chiptole and hired Julie years prior, so naturally it was a must to get some shots burrito in hand! I loved the idea the minute they told me. It was fun and unique to them and they were inviting us in to their love story, how lucky are we?
We were headed to the reception next and let me tell you, this was such a blast for us! The banquet room was beautiful at the Abbington, rich with details and a room filled with a group of people ready to party.
There are those few distinct receptions that stick out in my mind where you remember everyone on the dance floor and this wedding was one of them! This group could dance and we had the best time photographing them gettin’ down!
It was honor to have a little peak into their love story and document their beautiful day!
Much Love!
Samantha
