The Bridge Wedding

Lemont, Illinois

Rachel & Trent’s The Bridge Lemont wedding was full of artistic touches, great music, and loads of joy. It was the kind of wedding day that makes me want to photograph this kind of wedding every weekend, because it was a dream.

I first met this couple when I photographed their engagement session last fall at the museum campus in Chicago. We had a blast walking around getting to know each other, talking about how they met, a cappella groups, and their wedding day. I fell in love with them immediately because they are just so genuine, down to earth, and fun to be around. I think music/theatre type folks are my favorite.

When I arrived at Rachel’s mom’s house to start the day, the girls were all pretty much ready. Everyone was so sweet and relaxed. Rachel had a box filled with all of her details, which made my little photographer heart happy. Starting the day with details gets me excited for the day and gives me a little glimpse into what the day is going to look like. With all of the blue I saw, I knew I was going to love everything about the day. Rachel got into her dress in her old room with the help of her mom, and then we all headed to the venue for photos.

A few of my favorite parts of the day happened before the ceremony. First of all, I had a blast with their family photos and wedding party. Everyone was so kind and hilarious! They made the day so fun. When the parents arrived at the venue, someone gave Rachel’s parents a letter from Trent, which made them tear up, Rachel tear up, and honestly, I did too behind my camera. Rachel also gave her dad a sweet gift, which turned into a cute moment as they struggled to get it on.

The ceremony was held outside in the unique space at The Bridge. The couple had a talented group of friend’s sing an a cappella version of Good Day for Marrying You by Dave Barnes, that everyone loved! I wish I had a recording of it, because it was that good! As Rachel made her way down the aisle to see Trent for the first time on their wedding day, I’m pretty certain I saw tears in Trent’s eyes. One thing he wanted for their wedding day was to wait to see Rachel until that moment, and it was the best! The couple wrote their own vows, which were both heartfelt and really funny.

Following the ceremony, I photographed family portraits, the wedding party, and then took the newlyweds out along the canal and bridge for photos. The sun was just perfect for some glowy pictures of the new husband and wife, and it gave them a chance to sneak away for a few moments before rejoining the party.

The reception kicked off with grand entrances and pie cutting, followed by some speeches, which, you guessed it, were also sentimental and funny. I’m not sure exactly what was going on during Trent’s dad’s speech, but there was some money being thrown around I think. The newlyweds danced to Falling in Love by Cody Fry and then the dance floor opened. I ended the night photographing a sparkler exit with the couple running through a tunnel of their family and wedding party.

Rachel and Trent, it was such an honor to photograph your day. I wish you all the best in life and your marriage!

Creative Team

Venue: The Bridge Lemont

Event Design & Decor: Rustique Swan

Photography: Karen Shoufler

Florals: Tallulah Rose Artistry

Cake: Chad’s Cheesecake

DJ: DJ Heisenberg

HMUA: Lindsey Ellen Beauty

Bride’s Attire: David’s Bridal

Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Calligraphy: Little Remnants

Invitation Suite: Love Paper Events

Officiant: Marty Sirvatka

Ceremony Septet: Tom Olickal, Lauren Tu, Kira Savegnago, Jimmy Bright, Will Kirby, Brad Kirby, Cory Ellis

Desserts: Doughnut Co.

Catering: SBR Catering

 

To see more weddings like this The Bridge Lemont wedding, click here.

If you are engaged and looking for a timeless, classic and joyful wedding photographer in the Chicagoland area or around the world, contact me here or email me at karen@karenshoufler.com.