Stephanie & Tyler's intimate Fall wedding | Happy 1 year Anniversary!
Exactly one year ago we had the honor to photograph Stephanie & Tyler’s wedding day!
It was an absolutely perfect fall day. The sun was shining and the leaves had just started to turn. We were excited to shoot at The Morton Arboretum, the site of the ceremony and reception.
The First Look
Stephanie and Tyler decided to do a “first look” which was great because it gave us more time to walk around the beautiful property with them and the bridal party for pictures before the ceremony.
It was also one of the sweetest moments of the day. They met each other in a private courtyard and were both so anxious to see each other. Tyler’s reaction to his beautiful bride was priceless and heartwarming.
Their chemistry throughout the entire day was undeniable.
How Did Their Love Story Begin?
“Tyler and had lived just a few miles from each other for most of our lives. We went to rival high schools and attended the same sporting events yet had not met until I returned from college. Tyler had asked me out on a date after the first time we met and we were inseparable ever since. When I met Tyler I knew I could fall in love with him. We had a chemistry that I had never felt before. Tyler felt the same way. We were able to talk for hours and hours about art, music and our passions.”
What is your favorite way to spend time together?
We love spending time at home listening to music, creating art and talking about everything and anything. When we are not being home bodies, we love to spend our time in nature. Our favorite Nature Spot is Starved Rock.
How did you know HE was THE ONE?
“For me it was gradual. Over time I witnessed his acts of love and devotion to me. And our love grew stronger and stronger. By the time he first said I love you I knew we would be together always.”
“When I met Tyler I knew I could fall in love with him. We had a chemistry that I had never felt before”
-Stephanie
How did you know she was the one?
“The moment I realized I loved her I knew I had to ask her to be my wife. We had spontaneously decided to go to see one of my favorite bands in Chicago and that night, as I watched her smiling and enjoying the evening with me, I knew she was the one for me.”
-Tyler
The Proposal
“He proposed on Christmas Eve 2016. I had set up the camera to take a timed photo of us near our tree at home. As the camera counted down he dropped to one knee and asked for my hand in marriage. The camera snapped the photo just as he was asking. I was very surprised! We both had tears of joy. We then proceeded to the family New Year’s Eve party to show off the ring and share our story!”
The Bridal Party
“My best friends from college, Amanda Michel and Brittany Donoho, were both my maids of honor. I chose them because they are the closest thing to sisters I have.”
”Tyler had his best friend, Dan Munder, as his best man. They have been friends since middle school. His brothers Kyle Badali and Chad Badali were his other groomsmen.”
Describe your wedding style in 3 words:
“Warm, Fall and Chic
I chose burgundy, navy and ivory because they were beautiful fall colors and also happens to be my mothers wedding colors!”
Vendor Recap:
VENUE: The Morton Arboretum. We were so pleased with our venue. Everything worked out perfect and the guests had a great time!
GOWNS: Bella Sposa in Orland Park. I had found that one online and it was my top pick. I loved the shape and the scalloped lace in the back matched my engagement ring. I chose the color for bridesmaids gowns and the girls chose their dress style.
TUXES: Men’s Wearhouse
FLORALS: I did all of my own flowers and used artificial flowers.
MUSIC: I created my own playlists and our friend Jason Ryz helped us hit play.
FAVORS: We ordered maple syrup bottles from an online source.
BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS: Bridal party gifts were an assortment of moisturizers face masks, and other useful fun girly things. I also bought them knot bracelets off Amazon.
HAIR & MAKEUP: Amanda found our hair stylist from a friend at work and we did our own makeup.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Tales Of A Dream, Photography by Carmen & Jamie
“I would recommend both of you the most!"
Were there any challenges planning your wedding?
“I had about 9 months. I used Pinterest and google mostly for help. Both were vital resources! The most challenging part by far was trying to make family happy and keep the wedding small. We ended up double the number of people. The rest of the planning was a breeze!”
What piece of advice would you pass on to future brides and grooms?
“My advice is to follow your dreams and not let others influence your day. Do not be afraid to tell others no and remind them that this day is about you and your husbands love, not their own agenda. Also, make sure you take the time to eat your own cake!”
What made you choose Carmen & Jamie as your wedding photographers?
“I chose Carmen and Jamie because their work spoke to me. I Was looking for photographers who understood balance and composition in their photos as well as their ability to work with their subject. We had a great connection in our first meeting and I was as sure as the day I said yes to my husband that these two beautiful people were the ones to capture our big day.”
“I would like to thank my mother for helping me put this day together and support our happiness. I would also like to make mention of my Grandfather-in-law who was sick and could not make it out for the big day. We missed him dearly.”
We are so happy to report that we recently heard from Stephanie that her Grandfather-In-Law is doing much better now!
Thank you again to Tyler and Stephanie for trusting us to capture your day and showcase the beautiful relationship you have together and with your friends and families.
Happy Anniversary!
Love, Carmen & Jamie
