Naperville Spring Wedding | Elements at Water Street | Kelsey & Ryan 04.24.2021
Kelsey + Ryan | 04.24.2021
It was a beautiful spring day in Naperville on Saturday, April 24th, 2021. The forecast called for clouds with a chance of rain, but around noon the sky cleared up and the sun shined brightly. It was perfect for a wedding. Not just any wedding, but Kelsey and Ryan’s wedding. They’ve been planning for this day for well over a year and it was finally here. This is their wedding day story seen through my lens.
Getting Ready
Kelsey and Ryan started their day getting ready at Hotel Indigo, which is in the heart of downtown Naperville. I could hear music as I approached the bridal suite and as I entered the room I could see everyone was happy and having a good time. I started photographing the details while the girls finished their hair and makeup. Just from the first few minutes of being there, I knew today was going to be a wonderful day. I could just tell from the vibe of everyone.
I then went to a different floor at Hotel Indigo where the guys were at. I could hear the guys talking and laughing from the hallway. Just like the girls, they were all having a good time. We started with Ryan opening a gift that Kelsey got him. Then the guys finished getting ready. Ryan’s mom, who is such a lovely person, insisted on me taking several chocolate pretzels that she made herself. I couldn’t resist and stuffed my camera bag with some that I would later enjoy when I got home.
After the guys toasted in their personalized Yeti mugs (excluding one groomsmen who forgot his that will rename nameless…) I headed back to the ladies. Kelsey got into her bridal gown and did a reveal with her bridesmaids. She looked stunning! And check out her bouquet, it was gorgeous! Jessica over at Stemming from Love did an amazing job with the flowers.
Father / daughter first look
After Kelsey and her girls finished getting ready, we proceeded to the lobby of Hotel Indigo where her father was waiting. Having two daughters myself, I have a soft spot for Father/Daughter First Looks. It was such a sweet moment and I’m so lucky to be the one to capture it.
The Ceremony
It was time. The ceremony was being held at Century Memorial Chapel, which is just a couple blocks from Hotel Indigo. The ceremony was beautiful. Kelsey and Ryan’s vows to one another were touching and there weren’t too many dry eyes in the chapel. It was so special to witness these two wed.
After the ceremony we walked over to the Naperville Riverwalk. The high spirits continued and it was all laughs and good times.
The Reception
It was now time to celebrate Kelsey and Ryan. The reception was held at Elements at Water Street, right off the Naperville Riverwalk and attached to Hotel Indigo. Everything looked amazing and everyone was ready to have a good time! The bridal party did a fantastic job with their grand entrance and Kelsey and Ryan walked into a room full of cheering people. It was so fun to watch.
First Dances
Kelsey and Ryan had their first dance and Kelsey danced with her father and Ryan with his mother.
Party Time!
The danced floor opened up and it was quickly filled. It remained filled for the rest of the night. Kelsey threw her bouquet which was caught by her friend without spilling a single drop of her wine! I was quite impressed. Ryan then threw the garter and it was caught by one of his brothers, who seemed to have mixed emotions about catching it! Everyone danced and had a great time. Oliver from Entourage Mobile Entertainment did a fantastic job keeping the party and vibe going strong all night. It was such an amazing day and I loved playing a small role on their wedding day.
