I was really excited to photograph Nicole and Tyler’s wedding because it’s the first I’ve done in Effingham, a change of pace is always a good thing and an opportunity to photograph new scenery, which by the way was as stunning as the bride and groom. Nicole and Tyler are huge fans of the outdoors. When I first met them they shared their love for it – which is why we photographer their engagement photos on Nicole’s family’s hunting property (check out Nicole and Tyler’s gorgeous engagement session here!). They love hunting together – so I just knew the bare trees would make the perfect backdrop for their photos!

I know I’ve said this before, but these two were truly made for each other. I love the story of how Tyler knew Nicole was the one for him. When they went out on their first date, Nicole left her driver’s license at home accidentally so when she went to order a drink and got carded, she pulled out her FOID card instead.

The traditional Catholic ceremony took place at St Francis of Assisi, Nicole’s family’s church, which was really special. In the chapel, Nicole and Tyler had their first look. Poor Nicole was so nervous, but she needn’t have been because the moment she and Tyler set eyes on one another all of her nerves melted away. You could see the awe in Tyler’s face as he looked at his stunning bride for the first time. And you couldn’t blame him because Nicole looked absolutely amazing in her mermaid cut dress with lace illusion bodice. Nicole paired her beautiful gown with a gorgeous custom cathedral length veil. Her large waterfall bouquet of peach roses, soft pink peonies, and eucalyptus made for some stunning photos – and worked so well with Tyler’s navy suit. We then headed out behind the church for portraits. It was a chilly day, but we were lucky the high winds and thunderstorms stayed away and we were able to get a ton of Nicole and Tyler’s portrait’s done before the ceremony.

The wedding party wore different dresses in dusty blues, pinks, and neutrals; it was the perfect mix to the wintry backdrop and fitted so well with Nicole’s rustic theme. Sticking with the dusty the colors – and for her ‘something blue’ – the bride wore a pair of velvet dusty blue flats. This was a great advantage as we trekked some rougher terrain to get the shots we wanted later in the day.

The church was filled to the brim with Nicole and Tyler’s friends and family. Their priest performed a very sweet service and even threw in a few jokes about marriage and advice for Tyler to keep his wife happy, which had the entire congregation laughing.

After, we traveled to Lake Sarah for some portraits among the bare trees and the water– which made for a stunning backdrop! My favorite part of the day was their portrait time after the ceremony. The pair was just so happy to be married and ready to celebrate. They cuddled and smiled so big and genuinely enjoyed the day. Their joy and love radiated and was soaked up by their family and friends. Nicole and Tyler are very close with their friends and bridal party – so the party bus was a great time! Boy, do those guys know how to celebrate!

Their reception was warmly lit, with gold and candlelight, and rustic touches of deer sheds. Tyler’s brother, his best man, and Nicole’s sister, her maid of honor, both gave hilarious and personal speeches loving on their siblings. Then both sets of parents took their turns to give speeches congratulating their children. Tyler’s dad ended with an entire room “Dilly Dilly” to get the festivities started!

Their first dance was so sweet as Tyler twirled his beautiful new bride around the dance floor. What a dream day it was for these newlyweds! Nicole and Tyler were so fun to work and made my job so easy! They were so welcoming all day and their celebration was a blast! I loved their happiness to be married and sharing their love for each other all day long. They truly were an awesome pair to photograph and even better that I can call them friends. I can’t wait to share their photos with you!

Thank you to these amazing vendors!

Ceremony Venue: St. Francis of Assisi

Reception Venue: Effingham Event Center

Hair Stylist & Make-Up Artist / Salon: The Blend

Bride’s Dress: Martina Liana and Elite Bridal

Bridesmaids Dresses: Elite Bridal

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Elite Bridal

Florist: Burklands Flower Shop

Wedding Coordinator: Janet Ramsey

DJ / Entertainment: Sapphire Entertainment

Videographer: Key Films

Transportation: Livin’ It up Transportation

Cake / Bakery: IGA Bakery

Catering: Niemerg’s Steakhouse