Nicole and Stephan knew that they wanted to get married where they felt the most at home, and that was on the lake. Set on the bank of Belleville Lake, Horizon Park was the perfect spot for their Belleville wedding.
Black Beauty
My day started off with Nicole and her wedding party at the Holiday Inn Express nearby. When I arrived, the makeup artist was putting the finishing touches on the girls faces. After she was done, a hair stylist started on Nicole’s hair. To maximize the time after I capture some of the getting ready process, I like to gather the pre-wedding details. Usually these are things like any jewelry the couple will be wearing, wedding attire, invitations if they brought them, any florals, or sentimental pieces. Today I started with Nicole’s dress. I may have audibly squealed when she unzipped a striking, black lace wedding dress with nude underlay.
Motor Boatin’
Meanwhile, my second photographer was hanging out with Stephan and the guys at their house. I am slightly jealous because she got to play with their three fur babies, including the cutest little French Bulldog in a tutu! I swear, my assistant gets to always play with the puppies! Once the guys were ready, they headed to the boat launch. Staying true to that lake lifestyle and Belleville wedding theme, the men rode on the boat to the ceremony site.
Belleville Lake Wedding Nautical Nuptials
My assistant and I met at the Horizon Park gazebo while we waited for the processional to start. I saw Stephan and his groomsmen walking down the sidewalk and instantly chuckled. He was wearing slides (flip flops for all the elder millennials like myself). I just adore when couples make plan their wedding details to completely fit them and their personalities. Shortly after the men were in position, the women started down the sidewalk. Nicole’s dress was even more stunning in the sunlight. Passersby’s kept honking and waving as she made her way to the altar.
The lakeside ceremony was brief, but that allowed plenty of time for photos of the two of them. The reception was at Johnny’s on the Lake Bar & Grill which was right next to Horizon Park. Their boat was at the lakeside dock at the restaurant, so of course we had to take some photos of Nicole and Stephan with their boat. Afterward, our duties as photographers were over, but we grabbed lunch at the restaurant. Definitely recommend Johnny’s if you’re looking for good food with a view!
To see another gorgeous Belleville wedding, check out Carmen and Chris.
