Megan + Joe | An Illinois Countryside Wedding | Morton, IL

“My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”

These were the words that Megan and Joe sang together, along with all their friends and family, as they found themselves side by side at the altar. It was a beautiful sight as hands were raised and tears flowed down. On that day, they celebrated their love for each other but what made it even more joyful to them, was that they were celebrating their love for their Savior. Together. They exchanged vows, promising to be faithful for the rest of their days and immediately followed in worshipping the God who had brought them together. Tears formed behind my camera as I watched this precious couple unite in marriage and I was so blessed to be able to document and witness.

I have been so privileged to be with Megan and Joe in some monumental moments of their path to marriage. I hid underneath a tarp in Branson, Missouri last fall and documented as Joe asked Megan to be his bride. Not too long after, we found ourselves in the McKinney Cotton Mill as they made engagement pictures way too easy with their playful interaction and sincere love for one another. Then a few months later, we celebrated their special day outside of Chicago in the Illinois countryside where Megan grew up. It was so beautiful, serene and COLD! All these two could talk about that afternoon was wanting so badly to see each other and let me tell you, their First Look was one of my all time favorites. Not only was the Illinois countryside a perfect backdrop but Joe’s reaction is probably one of the sweetest moments I have ever captured on camera. Yet another reason for a First Look! All in all, it was a day of fun, laughter and sweet celebration as two people united their lives as one.

Megan and Joe, what a privilege it is to work with couples like you who are thoughtful, gracious, joyful and sincere. Your marriage is already an inspiration to me and I can’t wait to see how God uses it to touch other’s lives. You are a dynamic duo! Thanks for letting me be a part of this sweet season of life!

Enjoy some of my favs from their Illinois spring wedding!

Megan and Joe met at Kanakuk Kamps (a Christian summer sports camp) so chacos have been a frequent attire for these two as they have dated and been friends. I love this shot for that reason!

Megan’s flower girl was seriously SO precious!

Megan, you made a stunning bride. For real. 

Get ready for one of the best First Looks. I cry looking at it every time…

Love it. How sweet is this?!?!

Yes, that is a tear. I sigh every time. 

Favorite shot. Just taking in her beauty.  So I may have been giddy during all their portraits. The colors, the light, the emotion…I was one happy camper!

Girl, this is too much. 
Timeless. 

Can’t even express how much I love this next picture. So candid. So perfect. 

These next few have brought me to a whole new conclusion. Guys have way more fun. Sorry ladies. It’s just true. 

“Mary, we have one request. Can you get one of all of us on the windmill?” “Um…sure?!?!” See, I’m telling you…guys have more fun.”

Love these. Praising God as husband and wife. 

Married!

I had way too much fun photographing this reception! The bridal party and guests made my job so easy and such a blast!

Sometimes…you just gotta ditch the shoes. 

Is this awesome or what?

Ok, Internet, this may be the best photo bomb I have ever seen. For real?!?!? This is too awesome for words.