RAINY FALL WEDDING AT ASHLEY FARM

Alyssa and Corey's wedding day is one of my favorite from 2019 because it's a prime example of what I love about weddings -- they are alive, unpredictable and thoroughly imperfect in all the best ways. My couple planned on a very outdoorsy fall day but Illinois weather had other plans in store for them--which is A-ok cause while working in the rain can be hard, it also creates totally unique images that I love delivering.

I had never worked at Ashley Farm in Yorkville Illinois before but man, I hope this first time isn't my last! Ashley Farm is a sprawling rustic venue with tons of photo options from a farmhouse, several barns and a grooms shed. I loved how large and mature all the trees were, which can be rare at modern venues. Of course, the whole place was gorgeous but for me, it's all about people. The staff was also such a refreshing breath of fresh air, constantly around to help weather it was driving golf carts, holding umbrellas or grabbing waters, they were totally on point.

Highlights of the day for me included celebrating Alyssa's grandparents long marriage (really, any shot with her grandma, can't lie), Alyssa's first look with her dad (and peek dad getting his first glimpse of his own smoking bride) and the inclusion of Nash, Corey and Alyssa's dog. You all know how I feel about dogs on wedding days--the more the merrier, ALWAYS, especially when they are as cute and well behaved as Nashy girl. The bride and groom also made time for me to sneak them out for night photos later on which always makes me do a little happy dance :dancer:
Thank you Alyssa and Corey for trusting me with your lovely day. You two are the sweetest souls and I am SO glad you found each other--and Nash.

The team:

Photographer: Melissa Cervantes Photography
Venue: Ashley Farm Weddings
Second photographer: Emily-Melissa Photography
DJ: All-Pro Music Steve Rogalla
Invitations: Nina Pagalos of Meraki Design Works
Dress designer: Lillian West
Hair and makeup: Bella Tressa Salon
Florist: Floral Expressions of Oswego
Officiant: Doug Kumbalek
Jewelry: Neil Lane

XO,
Mel