For the lovers who would rather be living the moment than posing for it.
Central Illinois Wedding & Elopement Photographer
- To ditch the "normal", bland, gendered traditions
- A day planned around what YOU want to do
- Artful photos to hang in a gallery
- Photos with genuine emotion
- Candids of your favorite people
- To look back and wish you could relive it again & again
If you want:
- Someone who will advocate for your nontraditional ideas
- An expert in planning
- An artist who notices the sentimental details
- A friend to fix your hair, pick up flowers, or help you step into the moment
- A professional who loves on your guests like they are her own family
Then you need:
You deserve someone who genuinely affirms and celebrates it. Someone who understands that your family might look different, your chosen family might be just as important as your biological family, and your wedding might not follow a traditional script.
You shouldn't have to wonder whether your photographer is actually going to see you, support you, and stand up for you in these decisions.
Your love doesn't need to be explained, defended, or made more palatable for anyone. Whether you're planning a big celebration or something tiny and intentional, you deserve a photographer who sees your relationship for exactly what it is: Yours.
You deserve a photographer who doesn't just tolerate your love.
Come as you are. Seriously.
The First Wedding at The Hilltop Barn || Olivia & Ryan
Intimate Wedding at the Sangamon County Courthouse
LGBTQ+ Elopement at The Wakery in Springfield, Illinois
Take a peek at some real love stories I've been a part of:
"Rachael went above and beyond to make our experience so special!
One of our favorite moments of our wedding was when Rachael pulled us aside and had us take a moment by ourselves as newlyweds. It meant so much to us both and we will always cherish that moment."
- Abby + Kristopher
"We felt so prepared and taken care of."
We booked her from out of state, we wanted her that much!
Throughout the whole process, she was been nothing but patient, kind, and all-around incredible. She kept us posted on any updates she would have, and was willing to work with us if any problems came up on our end.
She had great communication and you can tell that she really has a passion for what she's doing and wants to do her best to help you as the couple truly celebrate and enjoy your day.
- Taylor + Tyler
"She gave us a seamless experience."
"There is a zero percent chance we could've found a better photographer than Rachael for our wedding day.
She is talented, enthusiastic, organized, and makes everyone comfortable. She was helpful to me on the day of and prior beyond her job as photographer and I am forever grateful.
My partner and I are quiet, creative people. She kept our unique personalities and artistic ideas in mind throughout the whole process. We love how our photos showcased who we are as a couple.
- Jamie + Manny
"Organized and talented."
Which type of story am I helping you tell?
Explore typical pricing options below and don't be afraid to reach out if you need something customized!
- 3-6 hours of coverage (or custom options if you're planning a separate reception too!)
- High resolution images
- 24/7 access to me
- Vendor research
- Timeline creation
- Day of coordination
- Access to licensed officiants
- Optional engagement photos
- Optional Polaroid coverage
3-hour elopements (for 20 people max) start at $2,400
Pricing info: ELOPEMENTS
"She is AMAZING with large groups of people. She’s fun, a great communicator, and kept everyone on task.
Rachael fit right in with my bridesmaids and captured some beautiful moments of laughter. We don’t have enough wall space in our home to hang all of our favorite photos."
- Madison + Wes
"Rachael fit right in."
We booked her from out of state, we wanted her that much!
Throughout the whole process, she was been nothing but patient, kind, and all-around incredible. She kept us posted on any updates she would have, and was willing to work with us if any problems came up on our end.
She had great communication and you can tell that she really has a passion for what she's doing and wants to do her best to help you as the couple truly celebrate and enjoy your day.
- Taylor + Tyler
"She gave us a seamless experience."
"There is a zero percent chance we could've found a better photographer than Rachael for our wedding day.
She is talented, enthusiastic, organized, and makes everyone comfortable. She was helpful to me on the day of and prior beyond her job as photographer and I am forever grateful.
My partner and I are quiet, creative people. She kept our unique personalities and artistic ideas in mind throughout the whole process. We love how our photos showcased who we are as a couple.
- Jamie + Manny
"Organized and talented."
30+ of my Recommended Wedding Venues Around Illinois
How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding in Sangamon County
Everything You Need to Know to Plan an Elopement in Illinois
Free Resources for Planning Your Big Day - No Strings Attached.
Let's start writing your story.
Step 1: Fill out the contact form
Step 2: Pick your perfect package, sign a contract & pay the retainer
Step 3: Plan the day you want with me as your guide
Step 4: Have the best day ever and walk away with memories turned into art
Here's how it works:
Still unsure? Here are the answers to some FAQs:
Need more info? I made this for you!
Oh for sure! Your photographer is a huge part of your day- they play a big role in how comfortable and natural you feel in front of the camera. Please note that I do not save wedding dates until the wedding contract is signed and the 30% nonrefundable retainer is paid.
Yes yes! I mostly serve Central Illinois, the Chicago area, and St. Louis area. but I've traveled to San Diego, Seattle, San Antonio for weddings, as well as Indiana, Tennessee, and Missouri. Help me get there, & I'll document your day.
Yes! As of now in Illinois you need an officiant. I can help find one for you (fun fact - I am licensed to officiate too!) or you can ask a loved one to become ordinated online (I have resources on this if you need more info)! Hopefully HB3804 gets passed and you won't need one anymore... learn more here.
Absolutely! Once the 30% nonrefundable retainer is down to reserve your date, we can split up the remaining balance into multiple payments at no extra cost to you.
