Saturday, April 24th, 2021

A quiet church library turned getting ready suite for the bride and bridesmaids. A select few in the room as guests arrived yet it was so quite you could hear a pin drop, between the tears and the laughter as Marea read the letter Arthur had written for her. His heart spilled out onto a piece of paper (or two) letting his bride-to-be know that no matter what came their way, he was always there for her and was beside himself waiting to see her walk down the aisle.

The toasts at the reception had people laughing then weeping! Marea’s father was grateful for everyone’s presence and their determination that no matter what the pandemic had in store…this would be their wedding date! The Matron of Honor shared from her heart about watching Marea navigate what life brought her way and was glad that although they were separated early in their friendship as children, they now lived in the same area and their friendship was amazing as it was all those years ago. Finally, the best man, Arthur’s older brother, shared so many stories of their lives growing up and every person in the room was laughing hysterically and, by the end, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room as he explained the 4 chambers of Arthur’s heart and how Marea ended up with the very last one despite his other loves in life, cars, animals, along with family/friends. They are truly a unique couple with a genuine desire to love and care for others…and one another.

Arthur and Marea, I’m honored that you chose me to capture the start of your next chapter. The journey and adventure of a lifetime that is full of triumphs and challenges. When we met in February 2020 and dreamed about what your big day would be in 2021, we never expected what was right around the corner. Through it all, you remained calm despite delivering goods and teaching through a pandemic and adding a joyful puppy to your home. While it may have looked different than you expected, the reason for the day remained the same: the union of two people that were uniquely created by God for one another and will be a pair to take on whatever comes their way. Together. For all their days.

This wonderful team made everything come together for Arthur & Marea’s big day:

Ceremony: Pastor Lauren at Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, Elmhurst

Reception: Stonebridge Country Club in Aurora, Joley Walgren, Banquet Manager

Florals: Floral Events – Naperville

Photography: Danielle Hardesty Photography

Videography: El Vacilon Photography

Bride’s Dress: Wolsfelt’s

Bride’s Hair: The MIXX Hair Salon in Elk Grove Village

Bridesmaids Dresses: Wolsfelt’s

Groom’s & Groomsmen Tuxes: Wolsfelt’s Tuxedos

DJ: Danny Arroyo

If you loved this, you should see their engagement session!