In September of 2014, the Hilton Garden Inn of Saint Charles welcomed the guests of Aaron and Lena's wedding to their gorgeous hotel. It was a beautiful day and you could feel the excitement in the air.

I love being a wedding photographer in Chicago because I have the opportunity to meet such amazing couples - sometimes there are couples that truly stand out to me. After meeting and getting to know Aaron and Lena, I could see their love very clearly. They adore each other and truly wanted to spend their whole lives together. After a year of planning the wedding herself, Lena said that the best thing she can take away from her wedding experience is that "you get to be married to the person of your dreams when all of the crazy(planning) is over". That sums up completely how this couple loves each other - It's not about the wedding, it's about the marriage. <3 

Lena wore stunning Badgley Mischka wedding pumps as her "something blue". They were a perfect compliment to her bridal look. The jewelry that she wore came from various locations but Lena rocked her bling. I loved all of her gorgeous gems! She purchased her outstanding bridal gown from Crystal Bride in Geneva, Illinois. Sometimes a bride finds a dress that just perfectly suits her and I think Lena was in the best dress ever - It was the perfect shape on her and that neckline was breathtaking! 

The ceremony took place in the garden courtyard of the Hilton Garden Inn of Saint Charles. It was wide open and gorgeous. As Lena and her father made her way down the aisle to the charming gazebo where her soon-to-be groom Aaron was waiting for her, every guest had a bright and excited smile on their face. 

Aaron and Lena's stunning wedding cake was created by Oak Mill Bakery based out of Arlington Heights, Illinois. I absolutely loved the cake topper that they had, especially silhouetted against the uplighting. It was a simple topper but characteristic of their elegant wedding day. 

 
Aaron and Lena, it was a joy working with you and sharing this amazing day with you. I felt your love for your family, your friends from near and far, and most of all, your pure love for each other. I wish you the happiest "ever after" possible and a lifetime of much more love and laughter. <3