May was a beautiful month for weddings, and I was honored to photograph Hannah and Jake’s first married day!

You probably remember these sweeties from their engagement session last August – see it here. They are some of the most photogenic and comfortable people in front of the camera… I love it! Stepping backwards a bit though, these two connected with me early last spring after seeing her friend Logan’s wedding photos. If you didn’t already know it, I ADORE my couples. They are the very best humans. So, of course, I was so excited to connect with Hannah and Jake and knew they would be wonderful people. And then things started rolling!

These two met at a pizza and billboard hangout the summer before going into high school when they were 14 and 15. Hannah told me that she remembers seeing a boy in a baseball jersey with “Henss” on the back and thought he was cute – but she didn’t give things too much more thought. once school started, Hannah found herself in the same Spanish class with her best friend, and of course, Jake. They found themselves in the same friend circle and would see each other outside of school, they started to get to know each other in class, and then the days of Hannah eagerly looking forward to Spanish class and seeing Jake began… As homecoming was drawing closer, Hannah found a fortune cookie on her desk in class one day and inside it said “Will you go to homecoming with me? – Jake.” She said yes, and it wasn’t until a couple months later that their story of becoming high school sweethearts and growing into their love together truly started.  Their story of young love and becoming best friends truly is the best. Hannah told me that Jake has always been her best friend and she’s lucky her love story was so easy. I love high school sweethearts!

Years later after graduations and spending almost 8 years together, Jake proposed to Hannah. They went out to breakfast before driving out to Jake’s family’s cabin to hike and explore. As soon as they arrived, Hannah saw Jake’s sister on the property “taking pictures”. As they started walking around the pond, the thought of Jake proposing crossed Hannah’s mind and soon enough, Jake was down on one knee with tears in his eyes. Then, they spent the weekend telling their families and celebrating this big moment in their life together!

I love Hannah and Jake dearly because they are quirky, cute, laid-back, and truly the kindest people. They care deeply for those around them, and it was a joy to see them surrounded and receiving so much love on their wedding day. The day started out with music and giggles and getting ready with the girls at Hudson Farm. As soon as Kyle and I arrived, we could feel the excited energy in the air. The girls were having fun! And before we knew it, it was time for Hannah’s mom to button her gown, place the veil in her hair, and travel to the ceremony – Hannah’s childhood church.

The moment when Hannah and Jake locked eyes during their wedding ceremony was one I won’t soon forget… Jake’s smile and awe and tears and Hannah’s smile and focus on her groom. A beautiful moment! After their ceremony and “champagne bubble” exit, it was time for a little fun and time with their bridal party! All of the sweet people Hannah and Jake asked to be in their wedding party were wonderful to work with and photograph. We loved our time with their most favorite people!

We loved this wedding day so because Hannah and Jake and their people are out of this world amazing, but we also loved that this sweet couple brought us back to one of our favorite venues, Hudson Farm. After photographing a wedding there last June, we fell in love with the family and barn and history of the venue, so we were excited to be back. Plus, the updates to the inside of the reception barn were so fun to photograph! And this wedding with accents of cloudy blue, grey, navy blue, gold, and wildflowers was the perfect match for this indoor + outdoor style venue… LOVE.

As the night carried on and the sun started to set, I couldn’t help but admire the immense joy and happiness radiating from both Hannah and Jake. It was easy to see that there was nothing better than celebrating their marriage with all of those that they love and that love them dearly. It was humbling to see their kindness and celebration and emotion throughout the rest of the night. And that sunset was GORGEOUS! They were blessed with a beautiful day.

Hannah and Jake – Thank you, thank you, thank you! We love you both and will forever cherish the moments of your wedding day. Thank you for opening your hearts and trusting us to document your best day! We are thankful for you and your friendship.

Bride’s Attire: Allure Bridals at Michelle’s Bridal & Tuxedo – Urbana, IL | Bridesmaid Attire: Weddington Way | Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Alfani Men’s | Hair + Makeup: Kylie Amick at Rod Sickler Salon & Spa – Champaign, IL | Ceremony: St. John’s Lutheran Church – Champaign, IL | Reception: Hudson Farm – Urbana, IL | Tablecloths + Linens: Lottie Brogan Linens – Monticello, IL | Florist: Lori Kaldenburg at County Market – Champaign, IL | DJ: Ryan Ideus – Flatville, IL | Videographer: Spencer Adams | Catering: Yoder’s Kitchen – Arthur, IL | Cake: County Market – Champaign, IL | Invitations + Paper Goods: Vistaprint