It was such a joy watching George & Kindra throughout their wedding day.  Their love just shines, and there’s not a moment that passes that they aren’t smiling at one another.  I could tell what great families they come from, by the way I was welcomed w/ open arms.  What a wonderful wedding day full of love & memories.  Many congrats, Kindra & George!

<sigh>  Are these the great shoes, or what?

My absolute favorite of the day:
Kindra & her stepdad invited her mom to their father/daughter dance too.. It was THE sweetest thing ever..

Funny story about this beautiful candle display… I (ahem) had yet, to this date had any “Bridgetism” moments.. Well, I knew the time had to come.  While photographing dancing, I backed right into one of these, where it was sitting on the head table.  Yep, the entire thing went sailing, candles rolling everywhere.. <doh!>  Thank goodness, they were battery wick candles.. And thank you Kindra, for laughing through it!
Boy did this group love to dance… They all brought their dancing shoes, for sure!

Tyler & Megan’s wedding was an amazing wedding day to photograph.  The weather could not have been better, a stunning bride, handsome groom… Perfection!  I loved all of the glammed up fall details.  Sparkles, pearls, and glitter on pumpkins?  Yes, please!  Even w/ all of the beautiful details, I love how down to earth Tyler & Megan are.  I wish you many years of love & happiness, and thank you for trusting in me to photograph your special day.

church:  Second Presbyterian Church
dress: Bridal Elegance, Mikaella
rings: Jack Lewis, Roger & Hollands
shoes:  BCBG Max Azria
master of ceremonies: Premier Productions, Ben Miller
cake: Show Cake, Ashley Roop (bride’s sister)
catering:  LA Gourmet
flowers: Jeans Flower Basket
hair & make-up: Sally Curtis at Elle Studio, Jess Huskins

I knew from the first time I met w/ Matt & Angela that I would have tons of fun w/ them.  They are both so kind-hearted, love to laugh, and they absolutely compliment one another.  It’s so sweet to watch them together..  When they kept smiling & laughing through their engagement session in the midst of a blizzard and frigid temperatures, I knew they were going to do just fine on their wedding day  What a wonderful wedding day to photograph, and I enjoyed every part of it.  Thank you for allowing me to capture your special memories, and I wish you a lifetime of love, Matt & Ang!

Ceremony: Lincoln Christian Church
Reception: American Legion
Flowers: Botanica
Cake:  Specialty Cakes
Wedding Rings:  Rogers & Hollands
Wedding Dress:  David’s Bridal


Sometimes the flower girl wants a closer view during the ceremony
I’m certain he knew he would be in some wedding pictures, but ya just never know what will make it onto the blog… heheAnd the award for updating her facebook status the quickest, goes to………  hehe… You’re quick, Ang!

Love their willingness to have FUN w/ pics!

This couple was more than surrounded by love of family and friends.. As for Steve & Sarah, the two of them absolutely light up around one another, a sure sign of sweet love.  Pre-ceremony the bride even hosted a full on dance & keoekke party, just before walking down the aisle.  Love her energy!  Every wedding I photograph is unique in its own ways… I love that aspect!  What a kind group of people you have in your lives, Steve & Sarah.. I wish you both a lifetime of love & happiness!

Ceremony:  Clinton First Church of Nazarene
Reception: Crestwicke Country Club
DJ:  Absolute Light & Sound
Cake:  Janet’s Cakes
Flowers:  Forget Me Not Flowers

(these are just a few of my favorites… click the slideshow below to view more images…)

a_bridesmaids_getting_ready b_wedding_dress_flowers c_bride_shoes d_brides_boquet_flowers e_bride_on_wedding_day f_bride_bridesmaids g_groom_on_wedding_day h_father_of_the_bride i_father_of_the_bride2 j_father_of_the_bride3 k_wedding_ceremony l_wedding_day m_wedding_clinton_il n_wedding_march o_wedding p_bride_groom q_bride_groom2 r_just married s_bride_groom3 t_bride_on_wedding_day2 u_bride_shoes2 v_crestwicke_country_club w_crestwicke_country_club2 x_crestwicke_country_club3 y_wedding_bouquet z_bridal_party aa_wedding_cake_wedding_rings ab_father_daughter_dance ac_mother son dance ad_wedding_reception_crestwicke_country_club ae_wedding_reception_crestwicke_country_club2 af_crestwicke_country_club4

I would say that Quentin & Jennifer’s wedding day couldn’t have gone better.. It was relaxed, had great weather (even w/ a brief storm coming in and quickly clearing), and everyone enjoying themselves.  They both have super sweet families, and friends that like to have fun.  Their ceremony took place at the Illinois Wesleyan Evelyn Chapel, in which they are alumni.  I’m so glad that we were able to utilize the campus as well, for portraits of the bride & groom, since it had been a significant location for their relationship.  We finished up just in time when the first rain drops came in.  They didn’t mind though, as it was time to head to their reception at the Double Tree by Hilton..  They were welcomed by the talented entertainment services by Premier Productions.  It’s always an honor to witness a marriage, and it’s completely evident how much love these two share, each time they look at one another.  Thank you for allowing me to capture such a special event in your life, Quentin & Jennifer!

Ceremony: Illinois Wesleyan Evelyn Chapel
Reception: Double Tree by Hilton
Master of Ceremony: Premier Productions
Flowers:  Casey’s Garden Shop
Cake: Sugar Art Cakes & Catering

(just click the arrow, and the slideshow will start & play on its own)

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Happy Friday!

After meeting w/ Becky & her sweet mother, I knew I would have fun w/ this family.. So welcoming & loving!  It could not have been a more gorgeous fall day for their wedding.. The leaves perfectly shaded in multitudes of color, pumpkins all around… Just lovely!  Thank you for sharing your wedding day w/ me!

*special thank you to Bill Davis for assisting me!

Seeing each other for their “first look”, I don’t think their reactions could have been any more perfect.. Most specifically, Chuck saying “WOW!” as he saw Becky…
The bridal party helped carve pumpkins the night before the wedding.. How fun is that?!?

I love the way that Becky is looking at her father just moments before walking down the aisle..

They do!
I loved this.. Becky had a special relative unable to be there the day of, so she wanted to capture a special image of her holding a memorable photo w/ that person..
Love her glasses!…
More fabulous fall details..

If you’re ever in need of an A-MAZE-ING sweet treat maker, “Cup Cakee’s“..  Words cannot describe the ridiculous flavor Stephanie creates!

No denying the sparks of love between these two… I love it!

I knew from the very first time that I met Chad & Katie that I would fall in love w/ them.. I wasn’t wrong  To say they are truly the sweetest, most loving couple is an understatement.. If I could describe them in two words, “love & laughter” would be more than fitting..  Chad & Katie, your smiles and laughter are infectious through & through.. What wonderful family & friends you have in your lives.. Many best wishes to years of continued love & laughter!  :)

*special thanks again to Britten Traughber for assisting me this wedding day

These two cutie pie cousins were having a blast together.. EVEN in dress clothes!

When I first saw the guys getting ready and saw got this shot of the bride’s brother & a groomsmen, I knew they were ready for a fun day…


Ceremony time… I love this special moment between father & daughter.. Katie teared up when she saw dad ready to walk her down the aisle..
I love this idea… As a guest sign in, they had them leave a fingerprint on their tree and sign their name.. Very neat!..

Bridal party, are you ready?!… This was an easy “YES!”  You guys rocked it!…

Then it was time for some quiet moments w/ the newly married lovebirds…

Katie’s bouquet was amazing w/ her dress…

Amazing light!…
Can’t you hear the laughter?… Love it!

I love the way they are looking at one another during their first dances… So happy & in love..

And another special father/daughter moment…

Thank you many times over, Chad & Katie, for allowing me to not only capture your amazing wedding day, but for welcoming me constantly w/ open arms!..

This couple had such a great wedding day!  They were wonderful to work w/, and are so sweet together.. They were married at the Grace Episcopal Church in Pontiac, IL w/ a reception following at the Elk’s Lodge..

A special thanks, also to Britten Traughber, for assisting me w/ this wedding

Ryan & Katie did a “first look”, and I LOVE that they wanted to share this special moment together by themselves… Their reactions to seeing one another for the first time were just priceless!

After their first look, it was time for the ceremony… There’s something so simply special about father(s) giving away their daughters..

I love the little looks that Ryan was giving Katie.. ?

See the groom’s son, Jack, peeking from the pew?  Too cute!

Beautiful first kiss as husband & wife moment…
Even though it was sprinkling and a bit chilly, that didn’t stop Ryan & Katie for being GREAT sports and giving us some time to get some fabulous shots of the two of them together… LOVE!

Surely church designers at some point were photographers who love red doors?… hehe  Thank you, church designers!
And Jack again.. He told me that he LOVES to be silly… Me too, Jack!!

And some oh so pretty detail shots.. All of the bright & fresh colors that Katie chose were amazing!

Thank you, Ryan & Katie, for letting me be a part of and capture your beautiful wedding day.. Many, many best wishes to you both (and Jack!) for a lifetime of love & happiness!

From the moment that I met Dave & Marissa, I could tell that they shared a very sweet love between the two of them.. When we did their engagement session, it was even that much more apparent.  They’re playful, fun, considerate of one another.. A truly magical relationship!

A special thanks goes out to my friend & colleague, Amanda Overmyer for graciously being my eyes on wedding day, due to my unexpected health restriction for bedrest.. THANK you, Amanda!!

There was no doubt that Marissa would be a beautiful bride…

Love this one…

Time for the ceremony!…

They do!

Aren’t they lovely??..

Onto the reception… Think this gang is ready?
These are hysterical… Love it!..

I love the way couples watch one another during their first dance.. You can just see their love shining..

I’m pretty sure this screams FUN!

Many, many congrats, Dave & Marissa!

This was such a fun, fun wedding day.. The entire day was filled w/ so much laughter & love.  I can only imagine how loved  John & Katie feel when surrounded by their family & friends.. Thank you so much, for allowing me to be a part of your special day!

After their beautiful ceremony, it was time for some shots of the newly married couple…

Then we were off for some fun bridal party images… It started out pretty “normal”…

Thennnnnnn this happened, and things started to get a bit crazy ….

Pretty stunning…

All in good fun, of course…

After my bridal consult w/ this excited bride, I knew that there would be lots of fun details for their wedding.  When I saw w/ my own eyes what she had been describing and working on, it was a joyful sight!  So many bright colors, whimsy all around, fun, and well, joyful.. lol   There wasn’t a single detail missed!  Thank you for having me photograph your special day, Matt & Megan!

Ceremony & Reception Location; The Country Mansion (Dwight, IL)
Decorating: Cheree Berry (she’s been featured in Martha Stewart’s Weddings!)
Bride’s Dress: Pnina Tornai
Cake: Janet’s

The bride & groom pre-ceremony..

This little guy was eager to watch them being photographed..

Did I mention fabulous details?… Oh yes, yes I did!
This candy bar was more than enough temptation for this pregnant girl.. OHhhhhh, sugar!
And on to the ceremony…

Then it was off capture the newly married couple…

And some of the beautiful bride… Isn’t her dress amazing?..

Back inside for the celebration…

And what better way to send the happy couple on their way, but w/ sparklers glowing in the night… Congrats, you two!

I was so excited when I was asked to photograph this wedding.  The bride is the sister of one of my closest, and longest time friends from around pre-school age.  Needless to say, I’ve known the bride & her family for almost my entire life!  I couldn’t be more happy that Jeri has found the love of her life in Rob, and wish them a lifetime full of love  laughter..  Thank you Rob & Jeri, for having me photograph your special day!

A side note… Jeri & I had talked about photography plans pre-wedding, and I completely respected her thoughts & feelings on capturing the moments, and promised not to be too paparazzi-ish..hehe..  Sooooo, thank YOU for taking a risk and cheesing it up for a few shots w/ your handsome groom..  You both were great! =)

I love their expressions here.. 

Brides, did you know that David’s Bridal has a monthly drawing in which you have a chance to score your wedding dress, or up to 5 bridesmaids’ dresses for FREE?   How awesome would that be for your wedding budget!?!   AND, if you’re the lucky winner, I will sweeten the pot and offer a $150 PRINT CREDIT if your wedding is booked w/ Imaginate Photography!  Check it out and apply now!

In October, I had the privilege of photographing Ben & Lauren’s wedding in Champaign, IL.  They had a beautiful ceremony, and while it was a tad chilly, the weather held out for us to slip outside for a few portraits.  I knew from Ben & Lauren’s engagement session, that it wouldn’t be difficult to capture the sweet, joyous love that they have for one another.  Lauren & her sister own L.A. Gourmet Catering, and when these girls cater an event, you had better be ready for some fabulous treats!  They didn’t miss a beat, right down to every little detail… Nice work, girls!  Thank you, Ben & Lauren for having me capture your wonderful wedding day.. Many best wishes!

When I was contacted to be the wedding photographer for this wedding, I was really honored & excited for this couple.  The beautiful bride has been a family friend of my husbands for as long as he can remember.  Such a great, inviting, and fun family and the entire wedding day was every bit of that as well.  Thank you, Bahman & Debbie, and I continue to wish you a lifetime of love & happiness =)

This was a lot of fun for the guests & to watch.. A wedding tradition in which sugar cubes are rubbed together over the couple to wish them a sweet life together..

Here’s a teaser for a wedding that I’m currently editing.. This one quickly became one of my favorites.. What a beautiful bride!

The word “wow” is a pretty good description for my feelings about the blog contest from last month.  I am completely in awe that you amazing blog readers cast over THREE THOUSAND votes!  Thank you so much for participating and showing the blog your voting love!  I think it’s simply proof of dedication for good causes =)  Originally I had a certain rough number in my mind for what I would donate for St. Jude’s regardless of the number of votes that were cast, thinking that a handful of you may cast a “few” votes.. I really had no idea that the contest would be as big of a hit as it was.. Soooo, I hope you all will forgive me when I donate just a tad less than $3,000 at this time   I am glad though, that together, we may have helped to raise awareness to support such a wonderful organization..  Please continue to keep St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in your thoughts & hearts as you give for charitable causes.

As a big thank you, these beautiful pics will be featured soon on the Imaginate website, as well as the rotating banner you see on the top of the Imaginate blog.  Your votes also ensured that the beautiful faces in this contest will receive a complimentary 11×14 wall print of their choice!  (I’m assuming it will be of their favorite photo that was featured on the blog.. hehe)  AND since there was such a dedicated group of fans out there voting for image #’s 5 & 6 from the Child/Baby category, you both are receiving the 11×14 wall print!  Whoo hoooo!

Thanks again for such a wonderful response to the fun!  Look for more fun contests and challenges throughout 2010 =)

As mentioned before the blog challenge is underway!  Please cast your vote for your favorite child/baby image to be featured on the updated Imaginate Photography site for 2010.. All votes will generate a $1 donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.. So come back often and vote as many times as you would like!  Send your family & friends to vote too!  See those little “Share” icons on the bottom of this post?  Just hover over to see which one you’d like to use!  (i.e. facebook, twitter, e-mail, etc)  This is round one of the voting.. more categories to come.. Now vote!

Oh and also…. Pssssst.. here’s a secret.. The most voted for image subjects may just be in for a little treat from me for letting me use their beautiful faces on my site!  Shh…..

Child/Baby Category

[polldaddy poll=2401525]

Family Category

[polldaddy poll=2409069]

Wedding Category

[polldaddy poll=2409106]

Everyone loves a challenge right?  This year as the holidays are upon us, I challenge you to make it a wonderful holiday for the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The holidays not only remind me of family, love, and kindness, but it also reminds me how thankful I am for our health and well being.  There are so many children that spend their holidays confined to a hospital, battling life threatening illnesses, and they need the holidays to be special too.  Let’s do what we can together, to make that happen!

WHAT: Here is your challenge.. With the new year comes updating my website, blog, etc.  Is there a portrait image that you absolutely LOVE and would love others to see?  Please help in this by submitting a favorite photo from your portrait session during 2009 to be featured.  Just send me an e-mail (bridget@imaginatephotography.com) w/ the image # and/or description of your portrait choice from your session and it will be entered into the contest.  (please one entry per client)

WHEN: Between December 1st- December 10th:  submit your photo choices!
Between December 12th-December 31st:  those submitted entries will be featured on the blog for voting

DETAILS: All sessions are encouraged!  (baby, children, family, wedding, engagement, hs senior, maternity…There will be separate voting categories for each of the entry subjects)  Once the voting begins, you are welcome to submit as many votes as you would like, for a $1 donation each vote.  Send your family, friends, co-workers.. they can all vote for your image!…  All proceeds will be donated to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital So, the more votes, the larger the donation we can make to help bring some holiday cheer to these children!

Let’s do our best to show our support, everyone.. Now e-mail me your entry! =)

I was so excited when I was asked to photograph Tyler & Leeann’s wedding…  Leeann is the baby sister of a HS friend of mine.  It was a bit drizzly & rainy on their wedding day, but I’m pretty sure there were rainbows all around.. We even found a quaint little place tucked under an awning for some outdoor photos.  I would say the love in the air during their ceremony and vows, was everything but drizzly   Congrats to you both, Tyler & Leeann, and a life full of happiness & rainbows =)

This couple’s wedding took place in the groom’s parents’ backyard.. The beautiful landscaping, harp music being played, white fairy lights all around, and their great families made for a perfect and quaint evening wedding.  Stacy not only has a special man in her life that is now her husband, but also her son, Mr. J.  Jason & Stacy were sure to include Mr. J in their special day, and it was so, so very sweet to witness.  Thank you SO much to the families for making me feel at home and allowing me to capture Jason & Stacy’s wedding.. Enjoy your sneak peek!

Presenting Mr. J w/ a special dog tag necklace w/ three circles united together..  It was such a sweet moment & Mr. J LOVED it too!

One word could sum up Greg & Rachel’s wedding day… FUN!  Such a great couple, great bridal party, and pure craziness.. in a good way   When this couple mentioned going back to an old stomping ground w/ their bridal party for some pics, of course I was thrilled.  It’s great to incorporate a place, style, etc. that “fits” the couples’ personalities.  I think you will see for yourself that there was no lack of “letting loose” and have a wild time.  Thanks so much for allowing me to capture your fun and fabulous day, Greg & Rachel!  =)

Jamie & Lisa were married at the fabulous Jim Gould’s restaurant in Champaign, IL and then had a cocktail party w/ o’dourves following..  It was such a great atmosphere…  I loved the modern feel throughout their entire wedding day..  Also, I have a blast when my bridal parties want to step outside of the box from traditional images and “wing it” w/ me and it was super hot that day, so thanks gang!  Congrats, Jamie & Lisa.. Best wishes to a long & happy marriage =)

Lisa & her father;

I was lucky enough to spend not only the wedding day w/ Ryan & Linda, I got to meet up w/ them the next day to have a photo date w/ JUST them!  It was SO much fun, and I have to give them huge props for their choices of locations.  Thank you both so much, for dedicating time for just the two of you for a session.. I had a blast!!  Here is a picture overload to prove just that.. lol..  Isn’t this couple magazine cover fabulous?!? Congrats Ryan & Linda! =)

Joe & Alyssa got married at the Grizzy Jacks Grand Bear Resort in Starved Rock.   It was a beautiful day for an outdoor  wedding.  Their ceremony had a twist, as they were married on a bridge that stretched across the timber.  So fun that they stepped “out of the box” to have a unique touch to their exchanging of vows.  Congratulations, Joe & Alyssa.. I wish you a lifetime of love & laughter! =)

Beautiful bride, Alyssa getting ready w/ the help of her mom & sister;

LOVE her green shoes!

I had the honor of photographing this couple’s engagement portraits.. Such a sweet, soft spoken love between these two… Thank you for a fun portrait session, Ben & Lauren.  I cannot wait for your big day & to work w/ you again soon!  Enjoy your sneak peek =)

Of course Lauren is Ben’s first love, but I’m sure this is his second

This wedding event was so much fun.. I absolutely loved witnessing the love shared between Audra & Chris.  I doubt I’m the only one that sees a special sparkle in Chris’ eye when he casts his gaze at Audra.. Their wedding & reception took place at the beautiful Crestwicke Country Club.  Their ceremony was on the greens with a fun reception to follow.  I have to add that I had been so excited about their first dance.  I knew ahead of time that they had a special surprise planned.  Audra & Chris had secretly been taking ballroom dance lessons, so their first dance started off very sweet to Etta James’, “At Last”.. After a few moments, the song started to “skip” and while the confused guests looked around uncomfortably (Audra & Chris included), Chris whipped off his jacket and a fast song came on and they broke into an amazing swing dance!  It was so much fun to watch!  See for yourself..  I love the reactions from the guests standing around the dance floor when they realized what was happening.  Thank you so much for having me photograph your big day, Audra & Chris!  Enjoy your sneak peek!  =)

Seeing one another for the very first time… 

This wedding couple were so sweet to work with.. I had a lot of fun hanging out w/ the bridal party as they got ready too.. AJ & McKenna, I wish you the best of happiness in your marriage & lots of laughter.  Thank you for allowing me to share in your special day and capture moments you will cherish =)

Last week I met up w/ Rashad & Danielle for their engagement session and had so much fun!  This couple was full of laughter, and smiles.  I loved watching them w/ one another and enjoyed seeing their love shine throughout their session.  Thanks for having fun w/ me, Rashad & Danielle! =)