Alexandra was decorating the Christmas tree when Michael proposed to her. She was surprised, elated and super happy. She said yes! The couple got married soon thereafter. Alexandra and Michael’s love story is no less than a fairy tale and I had the good chance to capture their wedding and reception on camera. The wedding ceremony was held at St. Patrick’s Parish in Decatur, while the reception was hosted at Mt. Zion Convention Center.

The Unexpected Proposal

Alexandra and Michael had met each other on Christmas Eve at a party. It clearly was love at first sight for them. That night they had a nice chat and after that they started meeting each other often. It did not take much time for them to realize that they were in love and wanted to live together.

And then one Christmas, Michael asked Alexandra to decorate the Christmas tree. She started doing it and the moment she turned around, she found Michael down on one knee. Alexandra told me that she was surprised and had least expected the proposal at that moment. Michael did a perfect job. Later, he surprised his lady love with all their family members and friends coming over to celebrate.

Mt. Zion Convention Center Wedding Photography

Alexandra and Michael got married in the mild winter month of November. They chose to get ready at one of their family homes. Alexandra looked gorgeous in her bridal gown with a lovely train. Her head-piece was awesome. She wore studs, a few rings, floral hair accessory and carried a clutch to add to the beauty of the whole look. Her footwear was great. She enjoyed much with her bridesmaids while getting ready. Michael got dressed in a navy blue suit with a printed pink tie and a pocket square. He completely rocked the look for his Mt. Zion Convention Center wedding.

The Bridesmaids were elegant in their lilac gowns. The groomsmen took a cue from Michael for suiting up in navy blue. I photographed both these groups before and after the wedding ceremony. There was this picture of the groomsmen which really stood out for the funky socks they wore and decided to show off. In some of my photographs, I also included the cute little flower girls in white frocks and floral crowns.

The first look of Alexandra and Michael resulted in ethereal photos. St. Patrick’s Parish, where the couple took their marriage vows, looked attractive with great floral decorations and so did Mt. Zion Convention Center, where the reception was hosted.

Alexandra and Michael made a grand entry at the Mt. Zion Convention Center after some lovely couple portraits. They were as good as models. The reception was a fun affair with speeches, food and drinks. When the couple took to the floor for their first dance, it was absolutely magical.. But the father-daughter and mother-son dances that followed were super sweet as well. And after the bride tossed the bouquet, the guests all danced to their heart’s content.

Alexandra and Michael, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be your wedding photographer. I wish you all the happiness life has to offer.

Featured Illinois Wedding Vendors

Videographer: Birdeye Media
Florist: Pollen and Pastry, Bloomington, IL
Cake/Dessert: Pollen and Pastry, Bloomington, IL
Stationary: Giggles on Merchant, Chrissy Spurlock, Decatur, IL
Calligraphist: Giggles on Merchant, Chrissy Spurlock, Decatur, IL
Decor: Pollen and Pastry, Bloomington, IL
Rentals: Elite Bridal, Champaign, IL
Caterer: Nelson’s Catering, Peoria, IL
Band/DJ: CreativeSouls DJ, Decatur, IL
Makeup Artist: Mint Salon, Katie Fucinari, Decatur, IL
Hair Artist: Denise Alexander, Decatur, IL
Wedding Rings: Flora Gems, Decatur, IL
Bridal Dress Boutique: Elite Bridal, Champaign, IL
Bridal Shoes: Betsey Johnson
Bridal Headpiece or Veil: Elite Bridal, Champaign, IL
Groom Suit Boutique/Store: The Brass Horn, Decatur, IL
Bridesmaids Dresses: Elite Bridal, Champaign, IL
Groomsmen Suits: The Brass Horn, Decatur, IL
Getting Ready Location: Family Home
Ceremony Venue: St Patrick’s Parish, Decatur, IL
Reception Venue: Mt. Zion Convention Center, Mt. Zion, IL