Rockford, IL Wedding Photography | Ryan & Katie

Rockford, IL Wedding Photographer

Katie & Ryan are both sentimental, family-oriented people. From Ryan wearing his grandfather's wedding ring and tie pin, to Katie's & Ryan's moms surprising Katie by attaching pieces of their own wedding dresses to her bouquet, almost every element of this day was filled with special meaning. After dating for just over 9 years, both Ryan & Katie's families became very close, and it was a beautiful thing to witness the relationships that have grown and the joy they all shared over Ryan & Katie's marriage. 

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This was one of my favorite moments from the day. Katie was having a sweet, private moment with her mom to give her her mother-of-the-bride gift along with a thank-you card. When Katie's mom went to read the card, IT WAS BLANK. So someone out there got Katie's card to her mom (did you guys ever find out who got it????)! It was such a perfect, hilarious moment!

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Another favorite moment: Katie's first look with her dad. 

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Ryan kept kissing his mom on the forehead during the mother-son dance, and I cried at the sweetness of it. I also cried while editing the images. Aaaaaaand I'm kinda tearing up right now, for crying out loud!! I hope this is me with my boys some day. <3

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Hair: Kelly Bolander (bride's sister), Dolce Vita

MakeupDolce Vita

Florist: Hy-Vee

Wedding Dress: Wolsfelt's Bridal

Suits: Ducky's Formal Wear

Ceremony & Reception: Franchesco's Ristorante

Donuts: Hy-Vee

DJ: Pro Sound Productions

Videographer: Shawn P. Boyle

Favorite wedding day memory:

Katie: My favorite wedding day memory was the first look with my dad. He is definitely not an emotional person and it took me completely by surprise when he cried.

What they would have done differently:

Katie: I would keep everything the same! The day was exactly what I had always hoped and dreamed it would be. I have had a lot of years to picture my wedding day and I loved everything about it!

Best piece of advice for brides and grooms:

Katie: I would say that you do not need to spend a lot of money to have the perfect day. I did a lot of things myself and with the help of family and everything turned out great! Also, if you are interested in doing a first look, DO IT! It took a lot of stress off both Ryan and myself because we were able to see each other and it was incredibly calming. I loved having a moment just the two of us and it also made walking down the aisle a lot easier.

Honeymoon:

We will be going to Hawaii in March.

Final Reflections

Katie: Everyone that was involved in the planning and execution of my wedding was amazing. I surrounded myself with some of the best people. Everyone was so positive! I am so happy and I am loving married life already :)