Chelsea & J’s Rock Island Lake Club wedding was such an incredible day!!! From the first time I chatted with Chelsea she told me at their wedding, “we just want everyone to have a good time and enjoy themselves.” And their vision came to fruition! All of their guests had an awesome time enjoying the amazing food, beautiful lake views, and energetic band at the reception! I loved all of the special details they included in their day. The sprinkles of little yellow roses in honor of Chelsea’s grandma were a sentimental and thoughtful touch. I also loved that J and his groomsmen all had Marvel socks and pins! So fun! I have so many favorite images to share from this day!! But before we dive into the photos, let me share a little bit of Chelsea & J’s love story!
These two first connected via Bumble. Chelsea told me, “On our first date, we were so comfortable with each other. I wouldn’t say sparks were flying but we just fit together and enjoyed each other’s company. It really was like we were meant to find each other. We are the perfect balance. I am a planner and he’s so much more relaxed. Within the first few dates, we realized all the connections!! We have been together for 4 years and already feels like a lifetime (in a good way!!).”
Chelsea tells their proposal story best, “The night before we got engaged, we were at my friend’s wedding and everything that was going on with the first dance and cake cutting, I kept giving him a look and holding my hand to his face. The next morning my mom wanted to run errands with me and John was going golfing with his brother. I was tired and semi hungover from the night before so I wanted nothing to do with what my mom had planned, but went along with it anyway.”
“So we left and went to my grandmas, had lunch and went to the grocery store. My mom was DRAGGING out the time we were at the store. I had enough and just wanted to leave. When we got back in the car to drive home, she got a phone call and it sounded strange and I thought I heard John’s voice on the other end but couldn’t tell. We were almost home and “realized” she forgot something at the store. I told her I’m going home and she can go out later by herself. While I was getting out of the car, she was taking her time so I left her behind to go into the house. I opened the doors and there were rose petals and candles going up the steps. I blacked out after I saw this. Can’t remember a thing except that I started hysterically crying.”
“I somehow made it to the top of the stairs and there were flowers and rose petals and candles everywhere. He got down on his knee and proposed. I always told him when he proposed, he needed to have pictures, and thank goodness his brother recorded the whole thing and his brother’s girlfriend took pictures. I needed those to know what actually went on because the whole thing was a blur. Everyone was in on it, and our immediate families had a small celebration that afternoon. It was perfect and really a true surprise!!”
Chelsea & J, thank you so much for having me as a part of your wedding day! It was so much fun to celebrate you two and share in the joy of your marriage! I am excited for you both and all that lies ahead in this next chapter! xoxo
Vendor Team:
2nd Photographer – Ryan Hardin
Photo Assistant – Mackenzie Farrell
Ceremony Venue – St. Leon Armenian Church
Reception Venue – Rock Island Lake Club
HMUA – Christina Trotta Co.
Florist – Jude Anthony Florist
Seating Chart – Lace and Belle
Band – Silver Arrow Band
Videographer – Inzi Wedding Films
Invitation Suite – Carlson Craft
Dress Designer – Demetrios Bride
Dress Boutique – Brides by Young
Bride’s Shoes – Badgley Mischka
Bride’s Rings – Private Jeweler
Groom’s Band – Manly Bands
Groom & Groomsmen Attire – Biltmore Tuxedos
Cake – Palermo’s Bakery
Bridesmaid Dresses – Jasmine Bridal, Rose Quartz
Bridesmaid Dress Boutique – Park Avenue Bridals
Transportation – Minuteman Limo