Our 2019 wedding season went out with a bang as we celebrated Kasey and Alec saying “I do!” at the Basilica on Notre Dame’s campus yesterday! I’ve been looking forward to their wedding for well over a year. Kasey and Alec booked me last year via Facetime at a bridal show. They live over 3 hours away so Kasey’s mom and sister went to the bridal show for them to help them plan their beautiful day from afar. I immediately connected with them and couldn’t wait to start planning their day!

Our day started at the DoubleTree in downtown South Bend. The DoubleTree is a favorite of mine because of its large windows and very attentive staff. I started on Alec’s details first. I love the cufflinks that Kasey had made for him; so cute! Alec also carried a piece of his mom’s wedding dress in his suit. I love all the personal touches Kasey and Alec put into their day.

With a large bridal party, I decided to photograph the guys in the atrium so there would be plenty of space and light. The hotel was bustling with guests and events so we used a small hallway for pictures. Alec’s dad put on his bowtie and then Alec did his. Alec and his dad’s custom cufflinks and Notre Dame class rings are just another way Kasey and Alec made their day uniquely theirs.

Alec and I went back up his room for a few portraits by the beautiful window light.

To the bridal suite for Kasey’s details and getting ready! The class rings and wedding rings perfectly fit into one another; perfection! Kasey’s shoes were so fun! Rhinestone studded boots, perfect for a winter wedding!

Later in the evening I did another ring shot of the rings in one of the Christmas trees at the Palais Royale. I put here in the story because it’s all about the details. Such a cool shot. Took a lot of balance and patience. Totally worth it!

Before getting dressed, Kasey wanted some robe pictures with her sister, mom, mother-in-law and her girls!

Look how beautiful Kasey looks in her gown! She is simply stunning!

Off we went to the Basilica for the ceremony. Alec was all smiles when he saw Kasey emerge from the back of the church.

They sang the Notre Dame fight song during the ceremony, how cool! Everyone joined in!

Mr and Mrs Alec Cramer!

I was so proud of this bridal party! They were on point all day and helped us get every single family formal done in the church. Something that has never been done before. Both families were ready for their turn and we walked out at 2:29 with 30 seconds to spare! Very impressive!

The newlyweds!

Bridal party fun!

These two were such a pleasure to photograph! Such a beautiful couple both inside and out!

Such a great group… I was complimenting them all day on how well they stayed together and were ready for pictures!

Alec carried Kasey down the stairs to the Grotto so she wouldn’t trip or get her dress dirty. It turned out to be the sweetest moment.

Beautiful Grotto portraits!

When wedding days bring rain, we bring umbrellas!

It was so warm on the party bus that my camera fogged up as soon as I stepped in. I love that the parents road on the bus too!

A quick stop off at Fisher’s Hall and Alec’s old campus house. The 6 guys were all roommates so he wanted to do something special.

Once we arrived at the Palais Royale, we took a few minutes to do some intimate portraits in the stairwell.

Let’s all welcome Mr and Mrs Alec Cramer!

First up, speeches with the best man Jake and maid of honor Darby!

Next their first dance as man and wife. Alec and Kasey took ballroom dancing lessons and they nailed it! And the spot light really added to the elegance of the dance.

Father/daughter and mother/son dances.

Next up, cake cutting!!!

The tosses were super funny! The girls tackled each other while the guys all jumped out of the way. None of the guys wanted to claim the garter.

Before leaving for the evening, I took Kasey and Alec outside for two beautiful night shots. One under the Palais awning and the other under the marquee of the Morris Performing Art Center.

To Kasey and Alec – I hope your day was as magical as you dreamed and that you enjoyed every minute of it! I am honored that you chose me to capture such a beautiful and intimate day in your lives. I hope you love all your preview images and I look forward to bringing you even more wonderful moments from your day! Congratulations, Love – S

Vendors:

Photography and photo booth: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Ceremony: Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Venue: Palais Royale

Floral: Always N Bloom

Cake: Sweet Em’s

DJ and uplighting: EA Pro Music

Food: Navarre Catering

Videography: Vibrant Video Productions

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton

Men’s Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse

HMU: Kasey and Victoria of Troy, Michigan

Dress designer: Monique Lhuillier