Untraditional LGBTQ+ Elopement at The Wakery in Springfield, Illinois | Jakki + Shelby

✩

✵

A little Vogue, a little whimsical coffee house—this elopement had range.

Earlier this spring I got the chance to document these two lovely ladies’ one of a kind elopement in Springfield, Illinois! Jakki and Shelby found me back in January, and after inquiring with me we immediately clicked.

They knew they wanted something a bit more untraditional for their day, which if you know me then you know I am ALWAYS down for! They knew they wanted the Illinois State Capitol Building as the backdrop for their portraits, but from there we came up with a game plan for their day together that you’ll have to see to believe!

Elopement Portraits at the Illinois State Capitol Building

Ok, before we get into the rest of their elopement day I just HAVE to talk a bit about their portraits at the Illinois State Capitol Building! The Capitol is easily one of the most picturesque spots for elopement portraits in all of Central Illinois, so it only made sense to include it in Jakki and Shelby’s day.

After enjoying the stunning interior and exterior architecture of the Capitol Building for their portraits, we were joined by Jakki and Shelby’s immediate family for some photos as well.

Family means SO much to these two, so this was a very special moment. Making it even more special though was the inclusion of a photo of Shelby’s father who had passed away. It was a beautiful and emotional start to the day, but there was still much more joy to come!

Their Elopement Ceremony and Reception at The Wakery

Following our portrait session at the Illinois State Capitol was a trip to The Wakery in downtown Springfield for an intimate ceremony and reception!

The Wakery is easily one of my favorite spaces in Springfield both as a casual gathering space and a venue for hosting intimate events like Jakki and Shelby’s elopement.

With their family seated, including Shelby’s dad who had a front row seat for the moment, their officiant Brenda began the ceremony. We laughed, we cried, and it was just all so perfect for these two!

Following their intimate ceremony, Jakki and Shelby took a moment to cut their vegan wedding cake from Trefzger’s Bakery, as well as enjoy some of the tasty cocktails The Wakery has to offer.

All that was left now was to enjoy a delicious lunch catered by La Piazza, and spend time in the company of their family as newlyweds!

I had SO much fun helping to plan Jakki and Shelby’s elopement in Springfield, Illinois!

It really was the perfect day. We got to support some local businesses, sing along to Chappell Roan and Fall Out Boy, and document some stunning and dreamy photos. Everyone was able to be home by 6pm.

This was actually wedding number 2 of 3 for Jakki and Shelby.

They initially got married in a courthouse back in March, then had this intimate elopement with their family that I helped plan.

Next up is a reception at Destihl with ALL of their friends and family which is going to be THE best time!

If you want to celebrate your wedding day your way, and are looking for a photographer that can help bring that vision to life, be sure to send me an inquiry today!