An emotional, and laughter-filled occasion that was as much about celebrating the future, as it was about honoring the past.
Living in these difficult times, it’s easy to simply focus on the constant pursuit of absolute freedom. And not remember those around us who have not been so lucky, during the pandemic. For Leah and Thomas, this was certainly not the case. They were a super sweet couple who we had the good fortune to shoot wedding photography for back in October, this year. The two of them are very family orientated, and Leah in particular is really close to her whole extended family. Unfortunately, however, one of her close relatives passed away this year due to Covid-19, and this deeply affected Leah. Therefore, it was important to her, and to her now husband Thomas, that they pay tribute on their wedding day, to the loved ones they’ve lost. And to all the great members of their family. They did this in such a wonderful way.
Leah and Thomas tied the knot back in October 2021 at Oak Hill Farm. A scenic 170-acre historic estate, surrounded by rolling hills, and ancient woodland. It is a dreamy place to host a wedding, and it looked picture-perfect on their big day, even though there was a little bit of rain. The couple both got ready for their ceremony on-site, surrounded by their respective wedding party’s. Before making their way over to the barn, where the couple was due to exchange their vows.
We are big fans of the first look shot and love it when our couples put a fresh twist on them. And in Leah and Thomas’s case, that meant having two first looks! Leah wanted to honor the men in her family, by having a first look with her brother and her dad, before Thomas. Each of the set-ups was full of beautifully instinctive reactions, and raw emotions. There were tears, laughs, and countless hugs!
Following the personal, heartfelt, and really relaxed ceremony, we guided the newlyweds away to take their portraits. Together, they posed up a storm and created some charming shots sitting atop their vintage wedding car on the grounds of the venue. We then brought in their loved ones and put together some wonderful, natural group shots, complete with multicolored smoke bombs!
As we mentioned, Leah’s family was affected by Covid-19. It was her uncle/godfather who passed away earlier in the year due to the virus. Her uncle and the extended family were all heavily involved in fishing, and it was something that the men in Leah’s life had passionately passed on through the generations. In honor of those men, and her uncle, Leah and Thomas created a memorial table for their reception, entitled ‘Why We Fish’. A touching visual story about the men who are sadly no longer with us.
The reception itself was a joyous affair, filled with so much love and laughter. Leah and Thomas had made it clear from the start that this day was all about love. A relaxed celebration that was not bound by tradition, or pressure from friends or family. And we think they pulled it off! Everyone had an amazing time, and as you can see from these pictures – there was a lot of love in that room!
We would love to be your Chicago Wedding Photography team
It would be an honor to become a part of your wedding team and create that timeless keepsake of your big day that you’ll love forever. The wedding photography and videography team at Lauren Ashley Studios Chicago will go above and beyond to capture the atmosphere of your special occasion and share it with passion and authenticity.
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