Katie & Jiena’s Armour House Wedding
One of the best things about being a wedding photographer is being able to capture love stories. And that’s exactly what I got to do in September when I was asked to photograph Katie and Jiena’s elegant art deco 1920’s wedding at the Armour House at Lake Forest Academy. Katie and Jiena are just wonderful, and their love was so beautiful to photograph.
An Artistic Love Story
Katie and Jiena met at Oakton where they were both taking art classes. Katie shared that when she first met Jiena, she was struck by how Jiena can fill a room with joy and light and that she clearly had a mind and spirit all her own. Katie asked Jiena if she needed the notes for class… Jiena was far too cool for notes. Even though Jiena wasn’t sure what class they had together, she eventually said she’d love to get the notes. The rest, as they say, is history.
Katie and Jiena are both very down to earth. They love chilling with their dogs, going on adventures, music, art, food, family, and of course spending time with each other. Professionally, Katie is a therapist, and Jiena is an artist and jack of all trades. She can and does do it all. Katie says, if there is a good YouTube video about something, Jiena will learn it.
An elegant 1920’s Armour House Wedding
Katie and Jiena chose the Armour House as their wedding venue because they appreciate how the old mixes with the new. The character of the Armour House was perfect for their elegant 1920’s inspired wedding day! Built in the early 1900s the Armour House at Lake Forest Academy is an exquisite wedding venue with a sprawling Italiante style mansion. With its hand-carved panels, sweeping staircases, and picturesque gardens, this romantic wedding venue is the perfect solution for an elegant wedding day. It was such a treat to photograph at this wedding venue.
Katie and Jiena had eight people standing as the “I do crew” and some adorable children as well. Petra, the flower girl was just the cutest thing, especially once she got her tiara! The “I do crew” got ready at the Armour House and it was so much fun to watch as Katie and Jiena were attended by friends and loved ones. There was so much joy in the moments before the wedding, and I was pleased to be able to document them.
The Armour House as a wedding venue had so many stunning places for photography, but the grand staircase was simply amazing. It was the perfect place for Katie and Jiena’s sweet first look. They were both filled with happiness when they came together and embraced. It’s easy to see how much they adore each other.
The Armour House Outdoor Ceremony and Cocktail Reception
The wedding ceremony was held outside in a beautiful garden. Live music floated across the lawn as the ceremony began. Katie’s uncle presided as their officiant which was a sweet personal touch. Immediately after the ceremony, Katie and Jiena brought everyone together for a toast. The guests mingled outside on the patio and in the garden enjoying cocktails, appetizers and great company. There was a feeling of vintage elegance that flowed into the reception. Katien and Jiena poured time and care into making the gorgeous centerpieces. There were so many sweet personalized details that truly made the day their own.
After cocktail hour, the “I do crew” walked in to Beyonce’s “Flawless” and the party kicked into gear. There were so many beautiful speeches during dinner, all met with smiles, laughter and more than a few tears. When the dancing began, it was with the same joy and energy of the rest of the day.
Every moment was filled with love and I was so pleased to be their wedding photographer to capture it. Thank you, Katie and Jiena, for trusting me to capture your love story.
Featured Armour House Wedding Vendors
Videographer: The Pros Wedding
Cake/Dessert: Deerfields Bakery, Ronya, Deerfield, IL
Stationary: Yellow Bird, Laura, Wilmette, IL
Rentals: BBJ Linen
Caterer: Sodexo
Band/DJ: Northside Brass
Makeup Artist: Paige Puccio, Makeup Artist
Hair Artist: Touche, Chellee, Libertyville, IL
Wedding Rings: Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry
Jewelry: Amazon
Bridal Shoes: Anthropologie
Suit Boutique/Store: Men’s Wearhouse
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Suits: Men’s Wearhouse
Flower Girl: David’s Bridal
Getting Ready Location: The Armour House at Lake Forest Academy, Lake Forest, IL
Photo Booth: Your Night Productions, Naperville, IL
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