Classic Wedding Reception in Decatur, Illinois | Alex + Sean

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Have you ever wondered what photography from an editorial, cinematic, and deeply intimate wedding day could look like? Well you’re in luck!

Alex and Sean’s day was all that and SO much more. From a Hinge date 6 years ago, to an elopement in Hawaii, and finally this absolutely MAGICAL wedding reception in Decatur, Illinois – every detail was so well placed and organized. I can’t wait to dive into this day and show you more!

A Look at Alex and Sean’s Wedding Day Timeline

One reason Alex and Sean’s wedding in Decatur, Illinois was beyond amazing was that we had a rock solid timeline to follow. Since they had already eloped, they were looking for photo coverage for portraits, cocktail hour, and their reception.

This meant 5 hours of coverage was plenty of time to fit in all the moments from the day while not feeling rushed, allowing these two to enjoy intimate and meaningful moments as a couple and with their family and friends.

This timeline gave us lots of time to hop around the James Millikin Homestead in Decatur, Illinois for wedding day portraits. And they still had plenty of time to enjoy cocktail hour at Mt. Zio n Convention Center and truly be present with their loved ones before enjoying dinner and dancing. Take a look at how we made this all work in the timeline below:

2:30pm First Look and Portraits
4:00pm Family Portraits
4:30pm Head to the Reception Venue
4:45pm Room Reveal at the Venue
5:30pm Family Only Cocktail Hour
6:00pm Full Cocktail Hour
7:00pm Dinner and Thank You Speech
8:00pm First Dance
8:30pm Dance Floor Opens

A wedding day timeline really is such a big factor for the flow of your day. Take a look at some alternate timelines with varying amounts of coverage here if you’re wondering how much time you’ll need for photos!

Eloping, then having a celebration later means you can do TWO first looks!

Wedding Day Portraits at the James Millikin Homestead

Alex and Sean’s wedding portraits at the James Millikin Homestead in Decatur, Illinois were a literal DREAM.

Alex sent over a Pinterest to me and we went through what kind of shots she wanted. She loved the idea of a black & white portrait of each of them and WOW. They turned out so good.

From the stained glass window to the historical vibes in and around the property, these photos radiate with vintage editorial flair.

Between the moody natural light filtering through the windows and bursts of hot flash, Alex’s gorgeous ballgown had SO many opportunities to show off!

Let’s be real- the main character of the day was the stained glass.

With their amazing outfits, we had to get some flash photos. It made me feel like I was talking portraits of the royal family.

We ended with family photos on the front porch of the James Millikin Homestead.

Their Wedding Reception in Decatur, Illinois

Alex and Sean’s day continued with the most beautiful and intentional details at their reception at the Mt. Zion Convention Center in Decatur, Illinois. Alex thrifted SO much to bring her vision to life.

There was a candy bar with 20 different kinds of sweets!! Alex thrifted a ton of vintage candy dishes to display our sweet treat options.

And the BLUE CHINA!! Alex’s thrifted blue and white china for every table.

They meshed perfectly with the yellow, orange, and green florals and citrus centerpieces.

After ALL of their hard work, they made sure to thank their guests and were able to sit back and enjoy this wedding day exactly how they intended.

Meeting Alex & Sean was so fun! I’m so thankful these two amazing humans found and trusted me to photograph their wedding reception in Decatur, Illinois with a classic editorial twist.

It was so meaningful and so special. If you’re celebrating your wedding and want all your little moments captured, send me an inquiry and let’s talk, I’d love to help you have your best day ever!