Lindsey & Mark’s Central Illinois Wedding

Sugar Creek Barn, Milford, IL

Lindsey & Mark’s Central Illinois wedding was held at the cutest, country venue located just outside the small town of Milford, IL in East Central Illinois. Their wedding had everything you would expect at a small town wedding . . . great people, a barn, tall grasses, personal touches, a pond and the sweetest pup I ever met.

I’ve known Lindsey since she was probably in middle school because we attended the same church for many years before she moved to Colorado. It’s always such a joy to get to witness kids grow up and become adults, even if it does make me feel old. I was so honored that Lindsey asked me to photograph her wedding day.

When I arrived at Lindsey’s mom’s house the morning of the wedding, all of the girls were finishing up with hair and makeup. Lindsey handed me her details and her dress to photograph, which is always a fun way to start the day for me. I also love hanging out with the bridesmaids at the start of the day, hearing all about the bride growing up or just how excited they are for the day.

Once the girls were ready, we took some photos of them in their matching robes before Lindsey got into her dress. Wow! She was such a stunning bride. The dress she chose looked perfect on her. We headed to the venue to photograph the formal bridesmaid and groomsmen shots before the wedding ceremony started. Also joining in the photos was the couple’s dog, Archer. He was such a good boy all day, even for photos.

Lindsey had a very emotional first look with her dad just moments before he walked her down the aisle. Father and daughter moments get me every time, and this one was just precious. Mark was fighting the tears as Lindsey made her way toward him. I love how some of the groomsmen patted him on the back as they noticed him getting emotional. Lindsey’s brother Ethan officiated the wedding, which included a sweet hand tying ceremony. After the couple was pronounced husband and wife, and they shared their first kiss, they walked back down the aisle as guests tossed dried lavender at them. I loved that little touch for photos, but it also smelled amazing.

I had the best time with Mark and Lindsey following the ceremony as we walked around the property for their photos. These two are so sweet and fun together! I just love how Mark looks at Lindsey. It’s a beautiful thing. We took advantage of the tall grassy field in front of the venue, and then ventured over to the pond.

The reception was filled with some heartfelt speeches, emotional first dances and a unique cake cutting. It was the perfect way to kick of the party with the open dance floor, but I had to grab them out one last time as the sun was coming down. That midwest sunset golden hour is a photographer’s dream. It’s also a great time for the couple to sneak out for a few quiet moments before heading back into the party.

Mark and Lindsey, I wish you all the best in your marriage! Thank you for trusting me with capturing the start of it on your wedding day.

Vendor Team:

Photography: Karen Shoufler Photography

Venue: Sugar Creek Barn

Video Team: Complete Weddings & Events

HMUA: Glam by Sam & Bailey Lund

Florals: DIY by the bride

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