Has this summer not been amazing or what? How often does an August wedding see temperatures of 90 degrees? Usually at this point we are looking at 110 heat index and melting by just looking outside. Suddenly 90 degrees doesn’t seem so bad. I love summer, but I do not love the heat and this year, especially with weddings, it’s been pretty mild compared to years past, so hopefully this trend continues for the rest of this year’s weddings. Kendra and Dane’s wedding date started at home. Kendra at her parents, Dane and his and Kendra’s newly purchased home. I love using the home for prep time. Typically we have beautiful window light to light up the bride and groom, and window light makes the best light. Both homes had very large windows and really made for some incredible imagery as each of them got ready for the big day. After prep, it was time to get married. Kendra and Dane’s wedding took me to a church I’ve not been to before, which I love! It’s always nice getting to work in a new location and go in with a fresh set of eyes. The ceremony was perfect and as they exited the church as a married couple, it was clear the party was about to get started. Of course, as the photographer, I put this party on hold so that we could grab some family formals. I’m a party pooper like that I suppose. 😉
After a brief time outside for pictures, we made our way to the Thelma Keller Convention Center in Effingham. It’s not too often that we are able to get pictures of the venue before guests have entered, but we were able to on this day. I love this. Reception details are such a big deal as they are a big part of the wedding budget and we like to be able to photograph those details to preserve what they looked like in pictures. Plus, Kendra and Dane wanted to see the hall before their guests entered too, so that was pretty special for them as well. As they entered the room to check it out, they hugged and broke out into a little dance on the dance floor. This was pretty wild, I love the pictures that came from this time. At this point, the doors were opened and guests were allowed in. I have said for a while now, bands make for the best receptions. If you can make it work, I highly suggest it. Kendra and Dane’s band though? On another level. Bands typically produce a show, more than just music, but this group was spectacular in their music abilities and the show they they put on too. It made for quite an event. The dance floor was full all night, the music was great, this was definitely one reception that photographed very nicely. Overall, it was a great day and we are thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with Kendra and Dane!
 
