Real Weddings: Jill + Les

Today’s wedding is so adorable, I have been dying to show it off to you! Jill and Les held their wedding at Jill’s family farm in Rockford, IL and every last detail was homemade, from the paper garlands to the cupcakes! Jessie from Simply Jessie Photography was both a bridesmaid and photographer.

Jill says: “Traditionally, the bride’s parents do a lot to prepare for the wedding. Since both my mom and dad were celebrating our big day from heaven, we chose to honor them and the home they designed and built together and where they shared 30 beautiful years by throwing a big party in the yard. Family and friends really loved the little ways my parents were remembered throughout the day, from the ceremony to the favors. It helped to include them in fun and happy ways, even though they were dearly missed.”

I love all of the colorful paper garlands that Jill created. The fun theme of circles was echoed throughout all of the handmade decor. Jill shares:

“The main inspirations for the look and feel of this wedding were my family’s home, my favorite summery colors, and my terrifically talented friends. I wanted to use simple shapes and bright colors to pop against the leafy trees, rolling hills, and dark wood of the house. My sister designed the “circle trees” for the invites and programs, and everything else grew from there.”

You know I’m a sucker for any wedding with a dog! How cute is he?

Mason jars with tealights were strung from the trees – they positively glowed at night, as you’ll see!

All of the tables were borrowed or thrifted, and friends pitched in to collect jars and red, pink, and orange items for the day.

One of my favorite details is this set of colorful embroidery hoops:

So what were Jill’s favorite moments?

“My favorite memories from the day were seeing Les for the first time – standing in the sun under the trees in the yard where I grew up, and seeing the house and yard all decked out. It was even more beautiful than I had pictured it. I also remember the moment when I realized that everyone was having a great time, dancing and talking and enjoying the beautiful setting and all the hard work that went into the celebration.”

Jill and Jessie, thank you so much for sharing this amazing and personal wedding with EAD!

The following Chicago and Rockford wedding vendors were involved in Les and Jill’s wedding:

Photography – Simply Jessie Photography
Location – Jill’s family home, Rockford IL
Hair and Makeup – Joyce Epolito
Gown – Bari Jay Bridesmaids
Shoes – Steve Madden
Groom’s suit – Calvin Klein
Floral – DIY by the bride, friends, and family
Paper goods and wedding design – bride’s sister, Robyn Bernd
Cupcakes – CrunkCake Cupcakes (Portland, OR)
Catering – Mary’s Market
Ceremony coordination – Lenae van der Bijl
Day-of coordination – Kristie Monteiro

Looking for wedding vendors in your area? Visit the Elizabeth Anne Designs Vendor Guide!