Hillary & Stuart | Pear Tree Estates in Champaign, IL Burgundy & Blush Cozy Winter Wedding Photographer

Stuart and Hillary were the most stunning bride and groom, had so many loving people around them on their wedding day, and threw one heck of a party! I cannot tell you what an honor it was to photograph this loving pair at the most beautiful Pear Tree Estates, on what felt like one of the coldest days of the year. Despite the temperatures, there was nothing but warmth, joy, and love between these two.

The venue was as stunning as the bride and groom with evergreen trees and the ice-covered pond. Snow perfectly covered the ground making for absolutely gorgeous backdrops for portraits. It was truly a dream winter wonderland!

Hillary’s gown was simple, yet gorgeous and timeless. The sweet moments started as soon as her mom helped her into it. There were a few tears as they shared a moment they will never forget. Both Hillary and Stuart wrote letters to each other and both were emotional as they read each other’s words before they got to see one another.

Hillary and Stuart shared a first look, and Stuart was stunned when he saw his gorgeous bride. At that moment, it was like he fell in love with her all over again! Their bridal party joined them for some fun outdoor portraits and let me tell you they were troopers in the frigid temps! But the snow covered ground was completely worth it! After braving the cold we moved inside to take advantage of the beautiful vintage furniture – and warmth.

Close family and friends joined Hillary and Stuart at a small intimate candle-lit ceremony as the sun was setting behind the windows at Pear Tree. Stuart’s dad married them. Full of pride for the boy he raised and the man his son had become. His pride spilled over to Hillary as Stuart took her as his wife.

The reception was incredibly beautiful with extended family and friends joining in for a family-style candlelit dinner on what turned into a soft, cozy, winter evening. The white of snow and of Hillary’s dress was accented with warm burgundy, grey, and touches of dusty pink. The abundance of candlelight, mix metallics and the soft pink velvet napkins were just a few of the many details I loved about the day.

After dinner, Hillary and Stuart proved their ability to throw an amazing party! Rockstar Rodeo band led the festivities and the newlyweds showed off their dance moves (and Stuart’s greatest Luke Bryan impersonation). Hillary and Stuart were so incredibly welcoming all day, Their kind and generous souls are so sweet together and I love their ability to make each other laugh. I can’t wait to share these images with you!