Nichole and Matt | Epiphany Farms | Illinois Wedding

Nichole and Matt met in 8th grade. Their first date was in Nichole’s basement, sophomore year, watching Harry Potter together from opposite sides of the couch, while her sisters popped down every so often to offer more popcorn! After 8 years of supporting each other through ups and downs, this was their wedding day.

This day was filled with so much emotion. Nichole lost her father, Kevin, in 2004 when he was hit by a drunk driver. Her mom had 4 kids aged 8 and under. I heard many times throughout the day that their “village” of family and friends helped them get through the darkest moments and continue to this day to be their biggest support. Nichole’s mom remarried, and when I met this whole gang of family members, I was amazed. Each one of them is so incredibly genuine and sweet, and then merging them with Matt’s incredible family as well…let’s just say I’ve never felt welcomed so warmly and I was sad to go home!

From seeing her dad’s initials in blue on her wedding dress, to the surprise face time toast from her stepbrother who’s away in the Marines, and so many more moments, I don’t think I’ve ever shed so many tears at a wedding! And all of the vendors that came together to make their day so perfect were rockstars! Epiphany Farms provided a beautiful venue and their “farm to plate” dinner was so delicious! Courtney from Palace Events had everything planned and organized perfectly. And so many more vendors who are all listed at the end.

To the Sheehan’s, Kennedy’s, Eakle’s, Rave’s and Irvings…thank you from the bottom of my heart for making Chris and I feel so welcome all weekend! And to Nichole and Matt, who are currently sipping umbrella drinks on the beaches of St. Lucia…THANK YOU for trusting me with your wedding day. It will forever hold a special place in my heart! Love you both! XOXO.

Dress | Village Bridal

Suits | Men’s Wearhouse

Rings | Diamonds Direct

Makeup Artist | Rachel Seidl

Hair | TM Hair Design – Jenn Neff

Wedding Coordinator | Palace Event – Courtney Kroos

Photography | Julie Greer Photography

Videography | Unsilenced Films

Ceremony Venue | St. Patrick’s of Merna Catholic Church

Ceremony Musicians | Cassidy Brady and Lisa Alvis

Reception Venue and Caterer | Epiphany Farms

Florist | Original Niepagen Flower Shop

Desserts | Denny’s Doughnuts and Bakery

DJ Entertainment | Twenty-Twenty Entertainment

Transportation | Bob’s Blue Night Limos

Lodging | Double Tree Hotel by Hilton