THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Skipping for Joy – Kathleen and Coleman – Chicago Wedding Photographer

On a beautiful August afternoon, Kathleen and Coleman said “I do!” in front of their closest friends and families. They met during their freshman year at Notre Dame. After being set up on a blind date to a dance, they quickly hit it off and began officially dating shortly thereafter. Kathleen loves Coleman’s sense of humor, including his ‘dad jokes’. Coleman loves that Kathleen challenges him to be the best version of himself, and of course, her big heart.

After 5 years of dating, Coleman popped the question at the Warren Dunes at sunset. There seemed like no better place to get married than the place they first met. This is Kathleen and Coleman’s wedding day story. ❤️

Grace and I arrived at the AirBNB to capture the guy’s getting ready shenanigans. Coleman’s groomsmen were eager to help him look his best for his big day! 😎

Coleman’s mom, Debbie, helped him with his boutonnière and then we took some fun family photos outside.

Sorry ladies, this one’s taken. 😍

The guys at lunch as Grace and I drove over to the girls’ AirBNB. As the ladies were finishing up hair and makeup, I photograph the invitation, the rings and Kathleen’s gorgeous details. Before hopping into her dress, Kathleen shared a quick squeeze with her sisters. 🥰

Mary, Sara and Kathleen’s mom, Brigid, helped Kathleen with every detail.

This girl… I can’t even! 🥹🥰

Downstairs, Kathleen surprised her dad with a quick first look and then we did a few family photos. 😊

Kathleen could not have been more radiant. 🤩

Ceremony time.

That moment when you see each other for the first time. 🥹

I loved that Father Paul had Kathleen and Coleman face their guests for the singing of the Gloria.

The ceremony then continued on with several readings, the reading of the Gospel and a very sweet homily.

Kathleen and Coleman then exchanged vows and rings. 💍

Father Paul then had all the guests join hands during the communion prayer and sign of peace.

Kathleen and Coleman offered a flower to Mary in the Lady Chapel.

It’s official! 🥳🥳🥳

Dr. Blakely and Ms. Ryan ❤️❤️❤️

After the ceremony, we did formal portraits at the front of the church.

The newlyweds! 🥰

Kathleen and Coleman walked out of the Basilica to cheering from their wedding party and all their guests. 😊

The Ryan and Blakely families. 😊

Our awesome wedding party!

It was sprinkling off and on so I figured, let’s use the umbrellas just in case. Plus, they make for some adorable photos too! ☂️

Kathleen and Coleman made their way down to the grotto to light a candle. All of these photos were just too good so I apologize now for the sheer volume. 🥹😉

They were so happy, they were literally skipping! ❤️🤣🥹

… and spinning. 🤣

The kissing tree never disappoints. ❤️

We met back up with the wedding party for their group photos.

The guys thought they were the Rockettes. 🤣

As the wedding party hopped on the bus, we took a quick detour over to the arch for this jaw-dropping moments. ❤️🥰🤩

Reception time!

When we arrived, the tables were decorated with some of Kathleen and Coleman’s favorite books. 📚

Kathleen and Coleman made their grand entrance into the reception and went right for the cake. 🎂

After some very yummy dinner, it was time for speeches. Kerry, Alex, Mary, Sara and Gavin all gave beautiful toasts to the happy couple. There were a lot of happy tears shed. 🥹

Then Kathleen and Coleman shared their first dance together as husband and wife. ❤️

Debbie joined Coleman on the dance floor for their mother-son dance. 😊

Kerry and Kathleen opened the dance floor in style with their father-daughter dance. 🙂

Party time! 🥳

There were over a hundred amazing moments on the dance floor but these were just a few of my favorites. 😊

As the night came to an end, Kathleen and Coleman shared one last dance together. 🥰

Everyone then lined up with their glow sticks to give Kathleen and Coleman a proper goodbuy! 🥳

Congratulations Kathleen and Coleman! ❤️

To Kathleen and Coleman – Thank you for bringing Grace and I along on this incredible journey with you! We’ve had so much working with you and of course, laughing at Coleman’s dad jokes. 😉 I know the Lord has big plans for you in the future. We can’t wait to see you again at your album reveal. Give that puppy a squeeze for me! All my love – S

To see their full day, click here.

VENDORS:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Venue and catering: Lehman’s Brewery & Farmhouse

HMU: Salon Rouge

Cake: Jack’s Bakeshop

Floral: Country Florist

DJ: DJ Connection

Hotel: Inn at Saint Mary’s

Transportation: Tim’s Tours, Gladwell Party Limo

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