Central Illinois Elopement & Lunch Reception in Champaign, IL
[THE BLOG]
Jackie & Jordan’s Sunday elopement was so so special. Ceremony in one county, and the celebration lunch in another. This Champaign elopement looks like it took place in Paris rather than Central Illinois.
The Courthouse Ceremony
Jackie grew up spending a lot of time at the Douglas County Courthouse— her mom has been a judge there for years. When planning their small wedding Jackie wanted two things: one, her mom to marry them, and two, to get married in that sentimental spot.
We got special permission to bring a few family members in on the weekend for the ceremony.
It was super simple, family only. Dad walked Jackie up, her mom said a few words, Jackie & Jordan shared vows, exchanged rings, and sealed it with a kiss.
I’ve done a lot of elopements & courthouse weddings around Central Illinois, but never in a courtroom this beautiful.
They signed the license, then we stepped outside for family photos!
This courthouse is absolutely stunning. Redone in the early 1910s in the Neoclassical architecture style (Classical Revival) by Urbana based architect Joseph W. Royer, it feels more like a French/Italian/German building in some parts.
Wedding Portraits for their Central Illinois Elopement
After group photos with family members, we stuck around the Douglas County Courthouse for couple portraits.
Seriously this architecture is so beautiful it really felt like we were in France. Jordan’s tan suit with Jackie’s satin halter wedding gown was a fantastic, chic combo.
It’s so fun to use the environment where the wedding takes place to create portraits for the couple. The location is like the third wheel of your photos- it’s you & your partner but also where it takes place. The location sets the mood & tone for your pictures.
At times it felt like an art museum!
What’s a courthouse elopement without a few elevator pics??
Champaign, IL Lunch Reception
After portraits, we drove from Tuscola, IL into Champaign, IL. There, many of their friends & loved ones had a drink in hand and a plate of appetizers, awaiting their arrival.
Farren’s at the Inman was a great space to host their post-elopement lunch reception!
Wow the food was so good, the bar is gorgeous (which used to where the inn’s check-in desk, wonderfully revisioned & crafted by hand)— overall a great place to host.
After lunch, we listened to speeches from Jackie & Jordan’s love ones.
It was the perfect day!
Central Illinois Elopement Timeline
- 10:00am ceremony
- 10:15am family photos
- 10:45am couple photos
- 11:30pm drive to Champaign
- 12:00pm arrive to cocktail hour with guests
- 1:30pm lunch
- 2:30pm speeches
- 3:00pm coverage ends
Wanting to plan your own elopement? I would love to be there for you! Making central Illinois look “not boring” is my speciality. Fill out the contact page on my website to start planning your best day ever!!
Central Illinois Elopement Vendors:
- Photography @rachaelmarie_itsme
- Gown @etoile.est2021
- Restaurant @farrensatinman
- Florals @delightflowerfarm
- Shoes @sam_edelman
- Suit @schueckingsmenswear
- Hair @dels.does.hair @ippatsusalon
- Rings @flora_gems
Rachael Marie Photography values inclusivity and will never discriminate against your gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, body type, or abilities. You are wonderful, beautiful, and loved here.
All love is affirmed & celebrated here.
I'll give you direction when you need it and space when you don't. I believe the best photos aren't always the ones where everyone is looking at the camera.
Sometimes they're the ones where your best friend is crying. Your grandma is laughing.
Your partner is looking at you when you aren't paying attention. And someone is absolutely losing their mind on the dance floor.
Those are the photos I want to make.
I'm Rachael (she/her) by the way.
For the people who would rather be living the moment than posing for it.
