{SBB Bride of the Week} Anna
A N N A
+
R I C K
{July 29th, 2023}
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
She is stunning!
Introducing our gorgeous bride, Anna!
For her summer wedding, Anna chose a fitted, lace gown from Something Blue’s Private Label, Emilia Leray!
Paired with a veil and jewelry by Bel Aire Bridal and Malis Henderson, Anna looked absolutely perfect on her big day!
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
For her flowers, Anna worked with Kathy’s Florist to create all of her gorg arrangements!
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
Anna and her soon-to-be hubby, Rick, decided to share a special first look before heading down the aisle…
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
Anna and Rick were married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at The Barn & Vineyard in Beecher, IL!
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
After the couple said “I do”, everyone headed inside the barn for the reception!
{Photos by: Cari Hughes Photography}
How did the newlyweds meet?
“Rick and I went to high school together but were far from high school sweethearts. (We later found out we actually went to preschool together!) Through college and following years we would see each other in group settings because we had mutual friends. For years, several of our mutual friends had urged us to date. In 2020, Rick and I went on our first date.
This is Rick and I in preschool! We found the ornaments we made during class!”
How cute is that?!
How did Rick pop the question?
“Rick and I were scheduled to go out for lunch with his sister and her boyfriend in Valparaiso. They had gotten “stuck in traffic” on the way. Rick has suggested we go for a walk at Gabis Arboretum to help pass the time. Rick was very insistent on walking to a pavilion. As we approached the pavilion, I could see there was candles, lanterns, and other decorations all set up for us. Queue the crying. Rick’s sister and her boyfriend were hidden behind trees to capture photographs and video the proposal.
Rick had also coordinated to have my brother come into town from Ohio. Later that day, our families got together and had an engagement party to celebrate.”
Was it a surprise or did she know it was coming?
“I definitely suspected that it was coming, but nothing can prepare you for that moment. There are so many emotions!”
Let’s talk dress shopping!
“Going into the process, I thought I new what I had wanted, but was a tad overwhelmed at the amount of options. I had tried on dresses at several different stores. The team at Something Blue Bridal was so patient and listened to my thought process. My stylist, Colleen, was able to help provide guidance.”
How did Anna know her dress was "the one"?
“Though a different silhouette that I had initially envisioned, this dress incorporated lace and low back like I have always wanted. When looking at myself in the mirror at the studio, I could see myself wearing that dress walking down the aisle on my wedding day.”
What was her favorite part of the planning process?
“Getting to make the day our own was my favorite component of the wedding planning process. Together we were able to make decisions about music, decor, florals, and catering that fit us and our visions. Our team of vendors were are wonderful to work with and made our vision come to life!
As a detail oriented person, working on all of the tasks allowed me to express my creativity. Many of the items at our wedding were homemade including table numbers, place cards, programs, signage, and the seating chart!”
What about her least favorite part?
“We got engaged in May 2022 and planned our wedding for July 2023. The wait was my least favorite part! I was so excited to become Rick’s wife!”
So sweet! Looking back, does Anna have any favorite memories from her wedding day?
“There are several moments that stand out. Some of my favorites include…
Hanging out with my girl gang while getting ready was so much fun. The morning was so chill. We were able to chat, listen to music, and relax!
Obviously becoming a wife was one of the most exciting things I have experienced this far in my life. Holding Rick’s hand and walking down the aisle after we were pronounced husband and wife was incredible! He is such a caring and genuine man and in that moment I couldn’t help but smile knowing I get to spend the rest of my life with him.”
Does Anna have any advice for brides who are currently in the planning stages?
“Identify your priorities and make decisions about what is important to you and your partner! Also, enjoy the process!”
Congratulations, Anna + Rick!!
Check out more of their beautiful wedding photos by Cari Hughes Photography in the gallery below!
