Who doesn’t love a beautiful August wedding? Amanda and Nick’s summertime wedding was an absolute dream – full of love, smiles, laughter, and all of their family and friends!

Amanda and Nick met on their way to a Bible study at their church at the University of Illinois in Champaign. They both hitched a ride to the group with the same person, and Amanda remembers awkwardly sitting in the middle seat trying to avoid too much contact with a stranger. Little did she know that he wouldn’t be a stranger much longer! Later that evening, they talked a bit more and connected over a mutual friend. Amanda first thought that Nick was too perfect to be real, while Nick thought that she was way too far out of his league. Luckily, they decided to give each other a shot! The next day, the two went on a coffee date, which set the course for the rest of their lives.

One of the greatest parts about learning a couple’s story is finding out when they knew, without a doubt, the other person was “the one”. So, of course, I had to ask Amanda and Nick how they knew it was meant to be!

For Amanda, it was when they started doing long-distance. She says that there was such a contrast between the times they were together and the times that they were apart. Even when the rest of their lives were as great as could be, everything was just so much better and wonderful whenever they were together! Whether it was taking a beautiful hike in the mountains or walking through the grocery store, Amanda loved being with her guy. For Nick, he knew he wanted Amanda to be his wife after a special trip to Colorado, where they went skiing and visited Rocky Mountain National Park. At that time, he reflected on the inspiring, whole person that Amanda is. He realized how sweet it was to be together. In that moment, he knew that Amanda was the only woman that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

So how did they decide to celebrate their love? With an August wedding, of course!

On August 4, 2018, Amanda and Nick committed to being together forever at Stone Creek Events Center in Urbana, IL. With colors of mulberry and white surrounded by plenty of greenery, their entire day was elegant and romantic. It was the special touches, however, that made their August wedding unique and perfect! There were snacks for the kids, puzzles as wedding favors, and a sparkler send-off at the end of the night. All eyes were on them as they danced their first dance to “Forever Like That” by Ben Rector, which made for a beautiful and touching moment. First dances are always so sweet! Throughout the day, the bride and groom were radiant in their love, and they were so happy to have everyone they loved all in the same place to celebrate.

After their wedding, they headed to Acadia National Park in Maine to have some peaceful moments to themselves. Can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!

If you loved Amanda and Nick’s beautiful August wedding you will also adore Renee and Chris’s wedding in Aurora, IL!