Elissa & Jimmy | Springfield, IL Icy Blue & Winter White Formal Army Wedding Photographer

I have been so excited for Elissa and Jimmy’s wedding, not just because they were such a wonderful couple to photograph, but also the story of how they met in high school, went their separate ways, and then reconnected years later. “It was always you” was the theme and Elissa and Jimmy are proof that love really does conquer all.

Elegant doesn’t get close to describing the fairytale day that was Elissa and Jimmy’s wedding. Even now if I close my eyes and think about that day I can feel the magic of the occasion. Elissa in her classic white lace gown and Jimmy in his military uniform; when I say fairytale I really do mean it. The bridesmaids were dressed in ice blue and held beautiful white and evergreen bouquets. The groomsmen were a mix of military and non-military, all looked exceedingly handsome.

Both Elissa and Jimmy’s families were so welcoming and an absolute pleasure to photograph. I was lucky to have my sister by my side as the second shooter. Our family is everything to us so to feel the warmth and love that surrounded Elissa and Jimmy made it just that extra bit special. Elissa and her parents shared a sweet moment when they exchanged gifts and a few tears before she revealed herself to Jimmy for a gorgeous first look in downtown Springfield. It was such a cute first look. Jimmy seemed very nervous but that melted away as soon as he saw his bride.

Elissa and Jimmy married at Historic First Presbyterian Church. Their ceremony was very special as they both have a unique relationship with God. Before heading to their reception we photographed some romantic newlywed shots down Capitol Street – a great time for them to enjoy some quiet moments. At the Abraham Lincoln Hotel the décor was as perfect as the newlyweds themselves; a scripture behind the head table read “it’s always been you” carrying through their relationship theme. Lush flowers, metallic accents, and greenery covered the tables. Cassandra Dattoli worked her insane magic again for an unforgettable evening. Elissa and Jimmy entered their reception with a saber ceremony, which is a tradition to welcome a new bride to the army. They then cut their gorgeous five-tier cake with the saber too before speeches began. Both Elissa’s sister and Jimmy’s best man spoke about their unique relationship and how it evolved before them. Their celebration continued as the dance floor filled with so many friends and family helping Elissa and Jimmy enjoy their first night as a married couple!

Elissa and Jimmy had an adorable send-off as they rode away on a horse-drawn carriage to end the night perfectly. My favorite part of the day was the abundance of night shots we took both earlier in the evening and during the carriage ride – it was absolutely perfect!

I awed over Elissa and Jimmy’s classic style. I love their sweet story. Even though they went their separate ways life found a way to bring them back together for their very own happily ever after. The whole day was a fairytale. I can’t wait for you to see the photos from their special day!