Kaylie + Ethan’s intimate wedding outside of Chicago was incredibly special and heartwarming and we have the photography to prove it! The day started out with the girls getting ready at The Axis hotel in Moline, a couple hours outside of Chicago. Kaylie’s bridesmaids were her sisters and soon-to-be sister in law.

I love a good story of how couples met and Ethan and Kaylie are no exception. Kaylie was actually friends with Ethan’s sister and played soccer with her in high school before even meeting Ethan. The two met in high school, both playing soccer for their high school, and the rest is history. It’s safe to say that this day was a long time coming with how long they’ve known each other! I love couples who have known each other since they were kids because there’s almost always a playfulness and fun side to them that reminds me of young love. Ethan and Kaylie were so comfortable around each other. They brought out each other’s fun and silly side throughout the day.

The bridal party made their way to the church for the ceremony with their closest family and friends. It was the most beautiful early fall day, exactly what you’d hope for for Illinois fall. Covid-19 has made things incredibly difficult for so many couples planning their weddings. Because of this there was an extra sweet spirit present as these two said their I do’s. It couldn’t have been a more beautiful day. After the wedding ceremony we stuck around the church for family and bridal party photos.

Kaylie and Ethan were so intentional in choosing spots around their hometown for the photos of the two of them. We made our way back to their high school where they met and they had a moment to take in the day and how much life they’ve done together. They also recently bought a house and they were really excited to get photos there with their two Pitbull pups. I mean, COME ON. Does it get any sweeter than photos of you and your honey, in your wedding attire, on your new front porch? I can’t handle it. Their grandkids will love those photos one day.

After we adventured around town we made our way to Kaylie’s childhood home for a family dinner, cake, and super intimate reception. Love filled the room as family members shared teary well-wishes and advice for the new couple. One of the highlights was that Kaylie’s grandfather hand made their wedding cake for them. It meant so much to Kaylie and everyone was teary as he shared about how her grandmother would advise her to cut the cake if she could have been there.

On my way back to Chicago I kept thinking about how special their wedding was and that out of anyone they could have brought on for photography they chose me. I know that Covid-19 has done a number on 2020 weddings but these two were the perfect example of how special and sweet the intimate weddings are. It wasn’t what they originally planned but they made the most of it and. Dare I say that it turned out even *better* and more beautiful than their original plans.

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