Sam & Bill were married at Ivanhoe Country Club in Mundelein, Illinois. My morning started with Sam and her bridesmaids all getting their hair and makeup done upstairs at the club. We had great window light and all the ladies were having so much fun. A perfect combination for my style of photography. A special thanks to bridesmaid Bridget for holding my light on some dress shots and the rest of the crew for helping to rearrange the furniture..a few times.
Justin was with Bill and the groomsmen getting ready at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Libertyville – Mundelein. Bill (and Justin) met us on a quiet little bridge for a first look. From there, it was a short walk to an adorable wood cabin that was in amazing light. Then we headed back toward the clubhouse for family and wedding party portraits. Thanks to a very organized list (Thanks Sam!) we got through all the groups quickly and we had enough time for a walk around the lake before getting hidden prior to the ceremony.
The patio at Ivanhoe provides a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding golf course. Sam & Bill’s friend, Tim, officiated and did a great job. At this point, I really do recommend being married by somebody that you trust and already knows you.
The reception was inside the main ballroom where Sam & Bill were introduced straight into their first dance. Sam’s parents and sister, Ellory, had really sweet toasts and I loved the canvas painting of their pooch that Dan, the best man, brought out. It stayed on the wall all night.
After dinner Sam & Bill danced with their parents before pulling everyone onto the dance floor for the Hora. A good Hora can be one of the craziest things to photograph during a wedding. We literally are just trying to get the camera where it needs to be and stay vertical! The dancing did not stop there. We had Sam’s dad teach us how to Dougie, Sam’s friends and bridesmaids lead a choreographed routine and teach it to Sam & Bill as well!
Sam & Bill’s wedding was non-stop for sure. I think we might have set a record for photos but that’s what happens when you have fun people, great moments and amazing light!
Thanks again for sharing your wedding day with us, we loved working with everyone!
