I remember getting the phone call inquiring about my services about this wedding while I was on vacation in the Northwoods around the fourth of July. I made my sweetheart pull the car over to the side of the road because I needed to concentrate on the call. Everything Jen ( the bride ) was telling me was getting me more and more excited. A surprise wedding she told me. Everyone is going to think they're going to an engagement party. I don't think I was able to hide the squeals of joy from this potential client. These are the unicorn weddings. I've always wanted to photograph a surprise wedding. I was the lucky photographer who was chosen and now here we are.
The sky was blue, the sun was out. Beautiful fall day. They couldn't have asked for a more perfect setting for such a fun day. We started out in a forest preserve in Lemont photographing all of the family formals before the big surprise. When we finished we snuck over to La Dolce Vita in Lemont so the family could snack and drink wine while guests were gathering across the street for the wedding. They showed up for their "engagement party" at the fabulous Polyanna Brewery in Lemont. After all of the guests had arrived, an announcement was made that they needed to be seated for the wedding ceremony. Surprise! We all dashed across the street and walked right into a wedding ceremony. It was lovely. Rev. Phil Landers was a blast and really gets involved with the ceremony planning. He cares so much about every detail, very refreshing to see.
The guests were treated to an incredible meal from Carnivale. Delicious meals right off the food truck! All of the guests were raving about their food. The french fries were to die for. Trust me. A surprise wedding with a latin-fusion food truck catering. So.Much.Fun. The guests danced and enjoyed the music of The Blue Aura Band. They were great. Live bands at weddings are always so much fun it's a blast watching them interact with the party - goers. After they were done for the evening, they went acoustic for one more song. Grateful Dead. They had the every guest on the patio, the photographers, and the other vendors singing along.
Congratulations Jen & Mark. We wish you both and your big family a life of joy and adventure. Thank you for choosing me as your photographer for this very special day. Blessings to you and your loved ones.
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