STEVE + LORIE | THE ELMS WEDDING
I was thrilled when Lorie asked to photograph her wedding. We worked together way back when and reconnected a few years ago. I had the chance to meet Steve prior to their engagement so when he popped the question I couldn’t have been happier for this lovely couple. Lorie is one of the nicest people I know and I couldn’t wait to photograph this wedding. One thing I really noticed on their wedding day is how much Steve adores Lorie. It’s not only the way he looks at her but he communicates it very openly. He respects and only wants the best for her. It was so sweet and it’s quite obvious in the pictures how much they love each other. It makes it a dream for a photographer to document such love.
Lorie said one of her favorite moments of the day included walking down the aisle with her dad. Another was seeing Steve’s huge smile during the recessional. She said the happiness of the two most important men in her life melted her heart.
I asked Lorie what inspired her during the planning process and how did she choose her venue. She said that she has always had a love for art deco design. The Elms resort was selected because it has been on her favorites list since her high school days.
Although Lorie has many high praises for her vendors coming together to make her wedding day a dream come true she did have some advice for newly engaged couples. She said, “make sure to get everything in writing… save every e-mail from your vendors and make sure you are on the same page. If your venue is hosting multiple weddings on the same day/time make sure to figure out when things will be set up.” Lorie also mentioned that she thought she had everything under control but things never happen exactly as planned. At some point she had to let some things go that didn’t get completed.
On a planning note, I highly advise couples to hire a wedding coordinator. If that isn’t an option, consider hiring a wedding coordinator for the day of, or ask more friends and family than you think for help. I have photographed enough weddings to tell you that I’ve never had a bride regret hiring a wedding coordinator (or day of coordinator). Even if your reception venue has an on site coordinator you will still wish you had one for the rest of the day and often times the venue coordinator is handling multiple parties or is very busy.
When I asked Lorie if she was glad she has a first look she said yes! Due to time restraints from the venue, most of the photos were done before the wedding. It gave a moment of intimacy before the service and really connect. She loved that sweet moment.
I want to thank Lorie and Steve for choosing me to document their beautiful day. I also want to thank the amazing team that helped create such a special day for the couple!
PHOTOGRAPHER: KAYE NESS PHOTOGRAPHY
SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER: BECCA BLAKE
VENUE: THE ELMS HOTEL & SPA
HAIR & MAKEUP: THE GLAM ROOM (MAI LEA)
CEREMONY MUSICIAN: INNOCETI STRINGS QUARTET
FLOWERS & CAKE: HY-VEE
