Shawna & Eric met through a mutual friend at a Barbecue in Peoria. Shawna is from the area but Eric lived in Boston and was just visiting for the week. After hitting it off, Eric volunteered to drive Shawna to New York, where she was headed for a visit. Yes. NEW YORK. You know that’s a guy who’s interested if he volunteers to drive her half way across the country. 🙂 And the rest, they say, is history. Here is their wedding.
Shawna made a whole morning out of getting ready. We talked about the importance of taking our time and setting aside plenty of time for each part of the day. One of the things I always encourage my brides to do. More time=less stress and more time to enjoy the day, your friends, and your mimosa!
When Shawna started wedding dress shopping – the only thing she knew for sure she wanted was buttons all down the back. Her dress was just exquisite!
We headed over to her cousin Bethany’s home on Prospect Drive in Peoria for photos. It was their dream home and has an AMAZING view… thank you Bethany for letting us use your home for the day! Here is Shawna’s grandpa. I loved him.
All set for the ceremony. Bring it on.
The reception was held at the Contemporary Arts Center in Peoria. It was so artistic – totally perfect for Shawna and Eric. I loved all the details, including imported Beringer Wine with all original labels from Napa, California (where Shawna & Eric live now), a lego bride & groom (lovingly put together by Shawna & Eric!), and a live jazz band (including some good friends of Shawna’s from California).
Shawna loves music. She sang Eric a song during the reception! Soooo sweet… I definitely was wiping away some tears 🙂
Shawna has three sisters. Jayma, seen below as the catcher of the bouquet, is the youngest and the only one left to be married. A little fun was poked at her and her longtime boyfriend during their dad’s speech. But after Jayma caught the bouquet… all laughter broke loose. Especially when I overheard Jayma innocently say “I just stuck my hand out”. Jayma…. I’m sorry my photo incriminates you! 🙂