Intimate Backyard Wedding | Southern Illinois Wedding
Now that I DO: In Southern Illinois is officially back in business, it only seems appropriate that we share our own wedding and love story...
How we met
I (Britni) mentioned to my best friend Nicole that I really wished I could meet a nice guy to date. Nicole thought the perfect guy for me was her brother William. He called and we talked for hours. He called again the following night and we talked even longer. Eight hours to be exact. We had our first date a couple days later and continued dating for four and a half years.
The proposal
Since we are both photographers with busy wedding seasons and sports schedules, we have very few free weekends. One day in August, he said, "Let's get married." I said, "Okay." We went to the Williamson County Courthouse a couple days later on a Thursday and made it official.
The ceremony
We decided to have a ring exchange ceremony so our close family members could witness our commitment to each other. We planned a little backyard wedding for the following month in September. Since we bought a new house, we wanted to keep it budget-friendly.
My mother helped me clean up our backyard and decorate with some items from Hobby Lobby. We use flowers from my mom's garden and our own garden. We borrowed milk glass vases and chairs from a friend. My mom create a beautiful archway with tulle and glass ornaments. We ordered barbecue from KB's BBQ in Marion and a plain cake from Kroger's bakery. Our family baked more desserts and contributed side dishes for a delicious pot-luck style dinner.
My brother-in-law officiated the ceremony and also hand-carved our rings. He kept it personal and unique to us.
My cousin Mallory Minor is my best friend and one of the most talented people I know. She did my hair and makeup, plus she photographed the ceremony. I cannot thank her enough for capturing our special day.
Favorite part
My favorite was doing things our way. William and I are a low-key couple and tend to shy away from the spotlight. So having an intimate gathering with our closest loved ones made this day so much fun. We wouldn't have done it any other way.
Advice for a future bride
Stay true to you and your partner. Don't worry about what other people think and celebrate your love the way you want. Whether you celebrate big or small, the only thing that matters is that you say "I do" to the one you love.
Wedding Vendors
Photographer: Blue Garnet Weddings // Dress: Free People from Eccentrics Boutique // Shoes: Poetic Licence from Eccentrics Boutique // Caterer: KB's BBQ // Cake: Kroger's bakery in Marion, Illinois // Bouquet and Florals: My mother's garden