Tom and I both agreed that Kathleen and Zach were two of the most relaxed brides and grooms that we have had, a huge reason for their calm and peaceful day was the careful planning they put into each detail. Kathleen and Zach wanted to spend as much time together on their wedding day which is why a first look was a must! I had to smile when I learned that they woke up early to run 3+ miles together before he bustle of preparations began.
Kathleen got ready in the most beautiful blue and green wallpapered bridal suite, my breath was taken away when I walked in. Talk about a dream getting ready suite! The portraits we got of her are some of my favorites ever, she was glowing all day! Downstairs, Tom covered Zach getting ready in Allerton’s sophisticated library and terrace. Kathleen and Zach shared the sweetest first look, Zach could not stop beaming at this beautiful bride! High school sweethearts and both growing up in the same small town made their wedding mass extra special. Another incredible tie to the day was that Kathleen and Zach were the 5th generation to get married at Kathleen’s childhood, hometown church, St. Michaels in Bement, Illinois. Yes, 5 generations of the bride’s family!
Following a beautiful wedding mass and epic rose petal exit, guests made their way to Allerton Park Mansion, a venue with special significance and sentimental value for Kathleen and her family. Kathleen wanted to use all local vendors for the day and couldn’t think of anywhere better than Allerton to host their floral-filled summer-tented reception! Allerton is full of charm at every turn, it’s lush gardens perfectly complementing the couple’s blue, blush, and whimsical florals. Since we took portraits earlier in the day, Kathleen and Zach visited leisurely with their guests at cocktail hour and even practiced their first dance! Their grand tent adorned with winding greenery and colorful florals had come to life, and the party started!
Kathleen is a twin and her twin brother happened to also be Zach’s best man! Together, her brother and sister gave the a fantastic combo of their best man and matron of honor speech which had everyone in tears of laughter. You could just feel how important family by the sinsecerty of the speeches and how deeply Kathleen and Zach are loved. You can only use so many words to describe a beautiful day, but I truly hold that they day was perfect from the first click of my camera’s shutter to the end of the night
You two are gems, Kathleen and Zach! We are so happy for you and wish you many blessed years together!
