For sentimental touches Carissa choose to incorporate accessories from her Grandmother's collection of treasures. "She was a true fashionista and I had a gorgeous vintage purse, necklace, brooch and even beaded cardigan of hers that were absolutely perfect for the day. My look ended up being a great blend of old and new and I loved knowing that these pieces were both gorgeous and extremely special."
The beautiful Bride surrounded by friends and family made many other special and funny memories that day! One especially funny moment was captured above when Carissa's niece Novelle "...plopped down on my train and stretched out like it was a hammock. At one point she leaned back with her elbows up like she was just chilling, waiting for stuff to begin."
The Bride and Groom were captured in many amazing photos celebrating throughout the day by photographer Jennifer White. Although Carissa strongly advises against going Pinterest crazy, she claims "[Jennifer] was amazing and so patient as I went through an extremely long list of photo ideas I had found on Pinterest!"
The red and yellow umbrella shots in the cool Illinois rain are definitely Pinterest worthy! And so are the cute "I Do" and "Me Too" books, and JUST MARRIED letters! The pops of color perfectly accents the navy floral bridesmaids dresses.
The vibrant reds, yellows and blue wedding colors were brought out in the stunning fresh flowers provided by florist Becky Albers of The Flower Cart in Paxton, IL.
The Bride and Groom greeted guest at a reception held at I Hotel in Champaign, Illinois. Guests enjoyed delicious food by University Catering, and cupcakes baked by Rosie Trimble of Cakes by Rosie. The rest of the night was filled with dancing and celebration with the help of music provided by DJ Bob Bass, of Trendsetter DJ Productions.
As an added treat at the reception, the couple provided a fun popcorn bar from It's Poppin' in Normal, Illinois and featured 6 different kinds of popcorn ranging from Cinnabon to pizza. This festive addition had a nostalgic flare with red and white striped popcorn buckets.
With a little help from the creative Bride and Groom, the bright colors, unique ideas, and smiles from friends and family brought out many memorable moments throughout the day for Carissa and Clay. And despite the rain, the sun shined down on this happy couple. Wishing you all the best for many years to come.
Wedding Gown, Bridesmaids Gowns- Michelle's Bridal and Tuxedo Urbana, IL
Tuxedos-Black Tie Tuxedos by Michelle's Urbana, IL
Photography- © Jennifer White
Florist-The Flower Cart, Paxton, IL
Reception and Catering-I Hotel
Wedding Cake/Cupcakes-Cakes by Rosie, Champaign, IL
Popcorn Bar-It's Poppin', Normal, IL
DJ-Bob Bass, Trendsetter DJ Productions, Gifford, IL