Joyful Summer Wedding at Allure on the Lake

Chesterton, Indiana

There are weddings that remind you why you love what you do, and then there are weddings that become part of your own family’s story. Liz and Kyle’s wedding at Allure on the Lake was exactly that for me!

Liz is my niece, and photographing her wedding was never part of the original plan. They hired another photography and videography company so I could show up as Aunt Karen, spend time with my family, and enjoy the day. But just a few weeks before their wedding, that company unexpectedly went bankrupt… Leaving them without anyone to document their day. When they asked if I would photograph their wedding instead, my answer came very quickly: absolutely.

Looking back, I’m even more grateful that we photographed their sunrise engagement session at Indiana Dunes the summer before. At the time, I just loved getting to celebrate this season of their lives together. I never could have imagined that I’d also have the privilege of documenting the day they became husband and wife. It’s one of those full-circle moments I’ll always hold onto closely.

Liz and Kyle’s story began long before wedding planning! They’ve been together since middle school, which means Kyle has already been part of our family for years. He’s the kind of person everyone naturally gravitates toward, especially all of the younger cousins. By the time their wedding day arrived, it already felt like we were celebrating someone who had belonged all along.

Their wedding took place at the beautiful Allure on the Lake in Chesterton, Indiana. A stunning venue tucked alongside a peaceful lake that feels like the perfect setting for a summer wedding. The spacious bridal suite easily accommodated Liz’s large bridal party while still leaving plenty of room for everyone to relax and soak in the excitement of the morning.

One of my favorite parts of every wedding day is photographing the details, and Liz included so many meaningful heirlooms. Among them were a delicate handkerchief that belonged to her great-grandmother and the Bible her mom carried on her own wedding day. Those personal touches always tell such an important part of a couple’s story. Soon after, Liz stepped into her dress with the help of her mom and her older sister, Hannah, before sharing one of the sweetest first looks with her niece and flower girl, Charlotte. Charlotte was completely captivated by Liz’s dress. Watching her excitement made everyone in the room smile!

While the ladies spent the morning at the venue, Kyle was getting ready nearby with his dad, groomsmen, and his adorable nephews… Who would soon steal everyone’s hearts as the ring bearers!

Once everyone arrived at the venue, Liz shared a heartfelt first look with her dad. As his youngest daughter prepared to walk down the aisle, emotions were running high, with Liz’s mom and Hannah watching nearby through happy tears. It was one of those moments that speaks louder than words.

Before the ceremony, Liz and Kyle met privately on the patio overlooking the lake for their first look and to exchange personal vows. They also added a lock to the venue’s back patio… A meaningful tradition that symbolized the lifelong commitment they were making to one another.

Late June in the Midwest can be unpredictable, but the weather couldn’t have been better! Although it was humid, a gentle breeze and the shaded ceremony space created the perfect day for an outdoor ceremony overlooking the water. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, Liz and Kyle exchanged vows and officially became husband and wife. Seeing their wedding party and guests who traveled from all across the country was a beautiful reminder of just how deeply these two are loved. Of course, the flower girl and ring bearers completely charmed everyone as they made their way down the aisle!

After portraits and cocktail hour, the celebration shifted into party mode. The bridal party made one of the most energetic reception entrances I’ve seen, complete with oversized signs and giant cutouts of the bride, groom, and their beloved dog, Chief. It perfectly reflected Liz and Kyle’s fun personalities and had the entire room laughing before the festivities even officially began.

The newlyweds shared their first dance to “Biblical” by Calum Scott before Liz’s parents welcomed everyone to the celebration. Heartfelt toasts from the best man, maid of honor, and Kyle’s parents had guests laughing one moment and tearing up the next.

After dinner and parent dances, the dance floor stayed packed for the rest of the evening. Between the energy of their family and friends and a yummy churro dessert bar that kept everyone fueled for more dancing… It was truly the perfect ending to such a joyful day!

Photographing weddings is always an incredible honor, but photographing your own niece’s wedding is something I’ll never forget. Watching Liz grow up, seeing the life she and Kyle have built together, and being trusted to preserve these memories for our family made this wedding one I’ll forever hold close to my heart.

Liz and Kyle, thank you for allowing me to be part of your wedding day in such a special way. I love you both so much, and I can’t wait to watch this next chapter of your lives unfold together!

Vendor Team:

Venue: Allure on the Lake

Photography: Karen Shoufler Photography

Videography: Popen Media

Florist: Fabbrini’s Flowers

HMUA: Deco Adamo

Bridal Boutique: The Crystal Bride

Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

DJ: DJs4U

To see more weddings like this summer Allure on the Lake wedding day, 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.