Danielle & Corey

I knew sitting down to write this blog it would be the hardest one I would have to write during this 2018 wedding season.   This wedding is very personal for Marc and me because the bride is our very own wonderful niece, Danielle.  Now Marc and I have only been married a couple of years, so I haven’t been the aunt watching her learn how to walk, ride a bike, or even be able to tease her throughout those incredibly awkward high school years.  It wasn’t until Danielle graduated from high school that I came to know Marc’s family and Danielle.   They welcomed me into their family and were kind and loving – treating me as though I had been a part of their family forever, which always touches my heart.   For as long as I have known Danielle, I also have known Corey.   Danielle and Corey had been dating throughout high school, so when I met Corey, not only did the two of them have that young high school sweetheart love, but I also saw from early on how incredibly kind Corey was – how much respect and love he has for Danielle and how he too was from the beginning… a part of the family.

Danielle and I chatted about her engagement and wedding plans over dinner, and when she asked if Marc and I would consider capturing her wedding day – I couldn’t imagine leaving it in the hands of anyone else.  Marc and I strive to provide the best service and photography to all of our clients, however, when it comes to family, there is extra pressure I put on myself to do better than I ever had before. For those of you who know Danielle, she loves animals and especially dolphins.   The perfect venue, the best zoo in the state, the Brookfield Zoo, was an absolute perfect location to host their wedding festivities.   I know Danielle was especially looking forward to the cocktail hour being hosted in the Dolphin enclosure.

The day of the wedding had finally arrived, and it felt like I had barely gotten any sleep at all.   Marc and I were so excited to not only capture, but to witness the marriage of Danielle and Corey.  The sky was clear and the day was warming up nicely.    It was forecasted to be the hottest day of the year thus far with temperatures expected to climb to nearly 100 degrees. As the ceremony time rolled around, the sun started to dip beautifully behind the trees.  It was a gorgeous light providing the photographer’s dream lighting.   As Danielle and Corey began their vows, we heard the sweetest words they shared with each other.   Promises of a lifetime of love and laughter – it was hard to photograph as my eyes became teary with the happiness and sweetness these two were vowing for each other.   As a prelude the first kiss, Corey stomped on a glass and the crowd cheered “Mazel Tov!”

Our evening was full of fun and delight catching up with friends and family as we snapped away.   We laughed throughout the sharing in one of the largest and most exciting Horahs of my life.  We ended our evening as the last song played, sharing in hugs of so many people we care for.   I know this blog is a little photo heavy, but I couldn’t help myself when it came to sharing images of all the people we care so much for.  Danielle and Corey – Marc and I know how happy you two make each other.  We are looking forward to seeing what the future holds and we love you both!

 

A special thanks to all the vendors who made Danielle & Corey’s day beautiful!

Ceremony & Reception Venue – Brookfield Zoo – Brookfield, IL

Bridal Dress Shop – Wolsfelts Bridal

Bridal Dress Designer – Vera Wang

Bridesmaid Dress Shop – David’s Bridal

Groom’s Attire -Men’s Warehouse

Hair & Makeup – Salon Life (Jessica & Melanie)

Florist – Town & Country

Videographer – Cody Gene Sumner Productions

DJ – Sounds Abound

Papergoods – Once Upon Joy

Dessert – Lezza Spumoni & Desserts