Jaime + Sydney : A Galena Hilltop Wedding

It was last year that I went out on a limb as I began to stretch myself creatively. “What can I do to push myself creatively outside of my comfort zone?” The obvious answer seemed to be to shoot weddings in new locations, so I created a “Wedding Venue Bucket List” for venues that I was dying to shoot at. Ashton Hill Farm- Galena was one of them. The venue was kind enough to share my post searching for brides getting married here and lo and behold, Sydney reached out to me.

From the moment I met with Sydney, I could tell how fun and laid back she was, and we instantly hit it off. I still feel so honored that of all the photographers she could have chosen, she picked me to travel to Galena for her wedding day.

The day was perfect from start to finish. The weather was mild, and the venue was just as beautiful as I’d imagined. It was decorated in deep emerald green tones, with delicate touches of Calla Lilies for the florals.

Sydney started the day in a lovely, sleek gown the completed the classic, elegant look of her wedding day. She added touches of glitz and glam in her shoes and earrings. And best of all, she had the BEST hype squad around. These girls were so much fun!

Since the couple opted for a first look, we were able to take advantage of the beautiful tall windows at the venue, for one of the sweetest first looks that I have seen. Jaime’s reaction was everything from emotional to absolutely delighted to see his future wife.

The intimate ceremony took place overlooking the beautiful bluffs of Galena, and Jaime and Sydney were surrounded by their closest friends and family. I may have shed a tear or two myself watching Jaime get emotional as the two of them exchanged rings. He truly loves Sydney so much and it gushed out of him the entire day. They are the perfect pair and compliment each other so darn well.

Once the ceremony ended, the party immediately started! The couple attended their cocktail hour (I HIGHLY recommend this to my brides. Getting photos done before the ceremony makes everything so smooth!). Dinner was a customized, live action pasta station prepared by The Chef’s Catering Company, and it was incredibly fun and delicious. After dinner, the couple partied the night away. Sydney changed out of her dress into a lace bodysuit with teal Manolo’s Dinner right before the couple took off for their honeymoon in Vegas.

I still feel so blessed to have been a part of this special day and couldn’t be more excited for this wonderful, sweet, and fun-loving couple. Cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas!