October 21, 2023 - Great Oaks Banquets Cedar Lake, IN
It was a brisk fall morning and the sun shone through the old windows of the Bridal Suite of the Great Oaks Venue. Kristina was with her mother, sister, best friend, and her daughter. Kristina went early in the morning for makeup at Moda and Katrina added loose natural curls for an easy bridal look. While the girls enjoyed the anticipation of the day, I spent time with the details. The windows created fun shadows that played will with Kristina’s shoes and such.
Mike and his former bandmates were downstairs laughing and cheesing it way up for the camera. Great Oaks has natural light right beside the old wrought iron gates that lead to the staircase, a perfect backdrop for the guys and the couple’s first look.
Once Kristina was helped into her dress by her mom, her sister, Jess, assisted with jewelry and Katrina helped with the shoes, a moment in reverse from Katrina’s wedding. Kristina took a few moments and walked down the stairs where Michael waited for his bride.
Outside the trees were turning to yellow, and early fall day accompanied by warm sunshine that perfectly backlit Kristina’s loose curls. A tight rose bouquet of mixed creams and pinks with wild eucalyptus paired well with the lace and tulle gown.
The ceremony took place in the small theatre room where plays are still being performed. Kristina’s brother Andrew presided last minute after the officiant came down with Covid. The words were sweet and the couple didn’t miss a beat with little ones stealing their spotlight!
Upstairs the banquet room had a cozy fireplace to welcome guests equipped with a photo backdrop, cornhole (or bags if you prefer), snacks and sweet treats. Friends and family took selfies for the guestbook and made their way into the ballroom where the most delicious fried chicken was served and overhead lights created pretty little shadows from the stemware.
The couples first dance transitioned into a daddy daughter dance while Callie held tight to her balloon and Michael. The guests were ready to rock n’ roll and the dancefloor was filled. Drinks flowed, the young and the old joined on the dancefloor celebrating the awaited union of this wonderful couple.
