A Summer Wedding at Cantigny- Aila & Patrick

Where do I even begin with this incredible wedding day?

I first met Aila years ago while serving with our high school youth group, so getting to reconnect with her all these years later, engaged and marrying the love of her life, felt especially meaningful. 🤍

And this crew? They had personality.

From the heartfelt moments shared between families to the spontaneous first look with Aila’s Dad, there was so much genuine love woven throughout the day. But what stood out most was the excitement. Everyone was absolutely thrilled to celebrate these two, and that joy was contagious from start to finish.

In fact, Aila & Patrick were so committed to keeping the energy high that they appointed “Vibe Check Captains” at every reception table before opening the dance floor. Complete with hats and sunglasses, of course. 😂

While there were so many memorable moments throughout the day, here are the first three that come to mind:

#3. The Guys Jumped in the Pool Before the Wedding.

Yes. You read that correctly.

Sixteen guys surprised Patrick with matching t-shirts featuring a photo of his 14-year-old self before collectively cannonballing into the pool together. It was chaotic, hilarious, and such a perfect reflection of the friendship and love surrounding these two.

#2. Aila’s Surprise Father/Daughter Dance Outfit.

Aila wanted to find a meaningful way to honor her Mom during the reception, so she transformed her Mom’s wedding dress into a fun second look for the evening.

The sweetest part? She revealed it right before her Father/Daughter dance. Watching her Dad see her in a piece of her Mom’s story was such a beautiful and emotional moment.

#1. The Pure JOY of Finally Getting Married.

From the look on Patrick’s face as Aila walked down the aisle to the hug they couldn’t help but share during the ceremony, these two radiated excitement all day long. And then came the ceremony exit… complete with an epic aisle kiss and dip that had everyone cheering.

That same joy carried through portraits, dinner, speeches, and onto a packed dance floor. These two were simply so happy to be married, and getting to witness that kind of love is one of my favorite parts of this job.

Aila & Patrick, thank you so much for inviting me into such a meaningful day. It was such a gift to celebrate alongside you, your families, and your incredible friends. I truly could not be more excited for the adventure that awaits you both.

Now, grab a blanket and snuggle up. Your sneak peek is live!

Ceremony & Reception: Cantigny Park & Golf  

Flowers: Natalie Walsh Designs

Videographer: Carlos Reyes Photography

Cake: Le Chocolat

Wedding Dress: Bella Bianca

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Aila & Patrick, thank you again for having me. I hope you love reliving these memories through your sneak peek, and I cannot wait to share your full gallery in the coming weeks!

Much Love,