The Planning Process

Alex and Tim spent 20 months thoughtfully planning their August 30, 2025 wedding celebration for 250 guests. Their vision blended timeless elegance with Tuscan-inspired warmth and organic modern styling, resulting in a day that felt elevated while still deeply welcoming and personal. Pinterest served as a major source of inspiration as they curated a palette of green, white, brown, and black details throughout the celebration.

The design aesthetic came to life through layered textures, candlelit tablescapes, soft white florals, natural wood elements, and statement greenery installations throughout the reception space. Under the sailcloth tent, guests were surrounded by romantic floral centerpieces, soft draping, and warm neutral tones that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the family farm setting.

One of the couple’s favorite design details ended up being the lush centerpieces and statement trees that transformed the reception space into an intimate garden-inspired celebration.

Wedding Day Looks

Alex’s wedding day look was effortlessly elegant. She wore a gown by Peter Langner from Ultimate Bride Chicago after trying on nearly 20 dresses before finding “the one.” Her bridal style perfectly complemented the overall aesthetic of the wedding, timeless with modern sophistication.

The bridal party embraced a more personalized approach, with bridesmaids selecting their own dresses and groomsmen choosing their own suits, creating a cohesive yet relaxed look that fit beautifully within the wedding’s organic aesthetic.

Hair styling by Alexis Fredericks and makeup by Style By R completed the bridal beauty vision, helping Alex feel polished and confident throughout the celebration.

Cathedral Wedding Ceremony

The couple exchanged vows at the breathtaking Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, allowing the natural beauty and grandeur of the church to serve as the focal point of the ceremony. Floral arrangements near the altar added a subtle romantic touch while keeping the décor intentionally simple and timeless.

One of the most memorable moments from the ceremony was the performance of Ave Maria.

The singer had one of the most beautiful voices we have ever heard. Our family and friends are still talking about it.

The ceremony was officiated by Bishop Hanes and Fr. Greg O’Meara, making the service even more meaningful for the couple and their families.

Capturing the Day

Photography played an incredibly important role in preserving the emotions and energy of the wedding day. Alex and Tim chose Ashton Gonnering Photography after immediately connecting with both her photography style and her warm personality. They shared that Ashton took the time to understand their vision, making the experience feel personal from the very beginning.

When we talked to her on the phone for the first time, we knew she was the one. She was so warm and caring and you could really tell she was so in love with what she did.

Videographer Stella Zarling also helped document the celebration, ensuring every emotional moment, joyful interaction, and unforgettable dance floor memory could be relived for years to come.

The Reception

Following the ceremony, guests made their way to the couple’s family farm for a reception that felt deeply personal and full of heart. Choosing the farm as their venue was an easy decision for Alex and Tim because of the sentimental connection the property holds for their family.

The reception perfectly reflected the couple’s fun and welcoming personalities. Wanting the food to complement the farm setting, they served a pig roast, yard bird roast, fresh fruit, and roasted vegetables through All Occasions Catering & Barbeque. For dessert, guests enjoyed one of the couple’s favorites — a s’mores bar — along with treats from Classy Girl Cupcakes.

As the evening continued, Big Sands Productions kept the energy high and the dance floor full. Their first dance to “I’m With You” by Vance Joy added another heartfelt moment to the celebration before the party officially kicked into full swing.

Looking Back

One of the couple’s favorite memories from the entire day was watching guests rush onto the dance floor the moment it opened. Seeing everyone they loved together in one place, celebrating and having fun, became a moment they will never forget.

Advice from the Bride and Groom

Their advice, spend time researching and picking vendors that you can trust, know you will work well with and genuinely care out you and your day.