Wow! What a summer! July 2014 has to be one of my most memorable wedding months because I was fortunate enough to shoot three different weddings in three different states!! To be completely honest (that’s what blogs are for, right?!) I am still in awe that couples love my work enough to hire me outside of central Illinois, but I am also feeling very blessed and looking forward to what the future might hold for me and my passion.

In early March of this year, Lauren and Sean contacted me about shooting their wedding and engagement. After talking with Lauren on the phone, we instantly clicked and I was so excited to head to Chicago to shoot their engagement photos (you can see those here). Despite it being what felt like negative temperatures outside, Lauren and Sean’s love and personalities are so perfect to work with. So needless to say, I was very excited for July to come so I could venture to Racine to shoot their wedding! Their ceremony was located at a small Catholic church in Racine (with a *perfect* little courtyard in the back!) and their reception was located at the Intercontinental Milwaukee. Along with being wonderful to work with, Lauren and Sean both have great style, so I knew the wedding would be gorgeous… (Spoiler alert: it was)!! I also got to use my film camera more on this wedding than ever before, so of course, I was over the moon about that!

It is always bittersweet for me to finish a wedding like Lauren and Sean’s because this means that I am done communicating with them (for the most part). My couples and I work so closely together and to be a part of all of their anxieties and excitement about their wedding is very personal for me. This sweet couple has moved to Florida to begin their new life together and I wish them nothing but the best. I have loved working with the two of them over the past few months and I am *obsessed* with how these photos turned out! Thank you to Lauren and Sean for choosing me to capture your beautiful day.

Beautiful Racine, Wisconsin. Being a farmer’s daughter, I am always excited when I get to shoot near a large body of water!

There is something so peaceful about the sailboats on the water. I love it.

The Kate Spade socks were part of the bridesmaid gift! This and the purple purses shown below?!

Told ya Lauren has great style!

So in love with Lauren’s pear-shaped diamond.

Rain on your wedding day? I’ve heard it means good luck, but I like it for the umbrella shot! Adorable.

I also *love* the color and style of these bridesmaid dresses! They compliment Lauren’s dress so well and the “wisteria” color is just gorgeous!

Check out how the colors were brought into the bouquets. Love it!

The Windpoint Lighthouse, located just north of Racine and looking out over Lake Michigan. So pretty!

After the lighthouse, we ventured to downtown Milwaukee and to Pabst Brewing Company. Thanks to my assistant, Tegan, for the recommendation of shooting here! Love the grunge brick. Thanks, Tegan!

Thank you Lauren and Sean! Your love is stunning.

XO,

Melanie