{SBB Bride of the Week} Elizabeth
E L I Z A B E T H
+
J A R E D
{December 17th, 2022}
{Photos by: Matt & Jaymi}
Introducing our gorgeous bride, Elizabeth!
For her December wedding, Elizabeth looked every bit a winter princess with a sparkling ballgown from Allure Bridals’ Disney Fairy Tale Wedding collection!
Add in a cathedral length veil from Essense Designs and she looked absolutely stunning!
{Photos by: Matt & Jaymi}
Elizabeth worked with JM's Flowers with Jazz to create all of her gorgeous bouquets!
We’re obsessed with the Christmas vibes!
Before saying “I do”, Elizabeth shared a special first look with her soon-to-be hubby, Jared!
His reaction is the sweetest!
{Photos by: Matt & Jaymi}
Elizabeth and Jared were married in a beautiful ceremony at St. John Evangelist Church!
{Photos by: Matt & Jaymi}
After the ceremony, everyone headed to the reception at the Aberdeen Manor Ballroom in Valpo!
The decor kept with the Christmas theme and we’re loving it!
{Photos by: Matt & Jaymi}
How did the newlyweds meet?
“We met in high school in Honors Precalculus.”
How did Jared pop the question?
“Jared took me to Chicago on our 5 year anniversary (12/6/19). He surprised me with a carriage ride. Right before the ride, he asked me to marry him right in front of a big Christmas tree.”
Was it a surprise or did Elizabeth know it was coming?
“It was a surprise. I was wondering if he would do it on our 5-year anniversary, but he got me a diamond necklace to give me at the start of the day to throw me off (it worked).”
How was Elizabeth’s experience with dress shopping?
“I had a great experience! Something Blue was the first place I shopped. I tried on about 12 dresses in total. The dress I chose, was one that my Something Blue stylist picked out for me to try on.”
How did she know her dress was "the one"?
“I bought a Disney collection dress, specifically Cinderella. Jared treats me like a princess, so it was extremely fitting. Also, the dress gave Christmas/winter vibes with the jeweled cap sleeves and the sparkly/shimmering skirt.”
What was her favorite {and least fave} part of the wedding planning process?
“Our favorite part was touring different venues. It's cool to see what each venue looks likes and what each one offers. We chose Aberdeen because they offered everything we were looking for.
Our least favorite part was when last-minute changes occurred. Nothing was major, but it was definitely annoying especially since it was so close to the actual wedding day.”
Looking back, what is her favorite moment from the wedding?
“Our favorite moment was finally becoming husband and wife. We have been together for 8 years and engaged for 3 years, so it was amazing for Jared to officially become my husband and for me to become Mrs. Wilkening.”
Does Elizabeth have any advice for brides-to-be who are planning their big day?
“The best advice is to enjoy the planning process. It is easy to become stressed, but have faith that everything will work out in the end. You will have a husband at the end of the process!”
Congratulations, Elizabeth + Jared!!
Check out more of their beautiful photos by Matt & Jaymi in the gallery below!