“Above are a few of our favorite photographs from a recent Illinois engagement photography session we photographed in central Northern Illinois with Joel + Erin. The more we got to know Joel and Erin we realized we have similar personalities and a lot in common. We also learned more about J+E’s unique ceremony plans and venue. Their beautiful outdoor ceremony will proceed at a picturesque and vintage location Hegeler Carus Mansion. The historic mansion is located in Peru Illinois and is amazingly architecturally stunning. The mansion has grandeur, holds historical integrity, and renovations underway have kept the home and heritage of the fascinating Hegeler family who’s history has long been rooted within the Illinois Valley area. J+E have planned their reception at a venue not far from the mansion at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort in Utica located within the western woodlands of beautiful Starved Rock State Park in the Illinois River Valley.

 

For Joel + Erin’s Spring engagement photography session, we met up with J+E on a slightly chilly Spring day near the couple’s home town. We love creating modern engagement photos for our couple’s often in new places… plus we not only enjoy shoots in the City, but also capturing portraits in small Illinois country towns too. Photographing and working with J+E was super easy, as these two had SOOO much chemistry! It was cute. ♥ When Joel and Erin were around each other they couldn’t help, but smile and make each other laugh often. Joel had a great suggestion in us checking out a burned and abandoned train car as a unique photography location – awesome find and thank you in suggesting it. It was an amazing new shooting spot. Joel + Erin, we enjoyed learning more about the two of you, your engagement, and your wedding day plans. Thanks for sticking out the day and working through the chilly evening air. We can’t wait to hear which pictures you decide are your favorites.”

 

 

 

Joel + Erin are exchanging vows in June in a historic and romantic setting. Their ceremony will proceed up top of the mansion’s outside grand staircase of the stately Hegeler Carus Mansion. Afterwards, guests will stay in the Illinois Starved Rock area for the wedding reception which will follow at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort in the grand ballroom located in Utica IL.