Abigail & Mark | Springfield, IL Navy & Grey Washington Botanical Gardens Fall Wedding Photographer

I was so excited for Abigail and Mark’s wedding in Washington Park Botanical Gardens on the perfect fall afternoon, I feel like we have been planning their big day for so long. I photographed Abigail’s sister Molly’s wedding and met Abigail at the wedding so photographing Abigail’s wedding was like Déjà vu for me. It was great to see their close knit family again and to work with the four sisters who were all bridesmaids at each other’s weddings!

I remember Abigail had talked so fondly of the dress she had chosen, a Rebecca Ingram lace gown with a stunning lace back (just wait until you see the photos). Her gorgeous fall bouquet of flowers by local grower Harvest & Blooms consisted was to die for and the perfect compliment to the fall colors!

I felt honored to be part of this day with all of Abigail and Mark’s friends from UofI, where they first met. As with everything I have experienced with Abigail and Mark, they took the unpredictable weather in their stride and were genuinely happy all day long. It had rained in the morning, was overcast, and poured five minutes before the first look. It was definitely one of my favorite first looks though because they read their vows to each other privately first before the ceremony. I felt so lucky to have been a part of this moment. Abigail had sent Mark on a scavenger hunt in the morning to retrieve different gifts, which tied into her vows.

I could not contain myself as Abigail’s father, Bruce, walked his youngest daughter down the aisle on the same day he and his wife celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. As I mentioned, it was cloudy and overcast after all the rain, but right as Abigail reached Mark at the end of the aisle, the sun came out and shined over the entire ceremony! These two were just meant for each other!

After the ceremony, capturing Abigail and Mark under the willow tree in Washington Park, with the sun shining through, was definitely one of the most memorable moments for me as I had not expected the sun to shine all day.

The reception took place at the historic Inn at 835 downtown. Abigail’s wedding coordinator, her cousin Hayley, was an amazing help to keep things running smoothly. She helped execute every little detail that Abigail wanted. Their DJ, Rommel, was so much fun spinning tracks including 90s throwbacks, which kept the dancing going all night. I have never had a couple on the dance floor as much as Abigail and Mark, interacting with all of their guests.

Abigail and Mark embraced the day, sharing their love for one another with everyone around them. Never tiring of the occasion: these two deserve all the happiness in the world – and to live happily ever after! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Garofalo!