Nicole and Chris’ elegant Concorde Banquets wedding was an event akin to a fairytale! They tied the knot at St. Peter Catholic Church in Antioch, Ill., — a hallmark of Niki’s hometown and the perfect place for friends and family to gather and celebrate these two on their special day.

I photographed their engagement session last summer and have been looking forward to their wedding since hearing about the picturesque church and lavish reception planned for Concorde Banquets in Kildeer, Ill.

Niki and Chris started the day off traditionally, with the ladies getting ready at Niki’s parent’s lake house. We had planned to capture lakefront photographs, but a big storm the night before left everything drenched and our plans along with it. That being said, the sun was shining and we were headed to one of the most beautiful locations in town – St. Peter Catholic Church.

This historic church is more than 100 years old and an iconic part of both Niki’s hometown and childhood. Niki and Chris had a lovely traditional Catholic ceremony, followed by the reception of Concorde Banquets. As it just so happens, I’m one of the venue’s preferred vendors and am very familiar with their exceptional grounds, interior design, and amenities.

I knew Concorde Banquets’ gazebo would serve as a stunning backdrop for Niki and Chris’ wedding photos, so we headed right over. Unfortunately (or fortunately?) a wedding ceremony was about to begin, so I had to sneak Niki and Chris out during the reception for some quick, romantic shots. Capturing them for a little rendezvous was a blast, and their love and joy really shone in the resulting pictures.

The ceremony and reception were a success in every sense of the word. The décor was beautiful, the wedding party dressed to the nines and Niki and Chris’ pleasure in one another really made the night fun and overflowing with happiness. Good luck you two. Thank you for inviting me to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime event.