Lydia and Peter’s wedding, held in a charming Chicago church, was one for the books. The entire day was rich with tears, love, spirit and whole-hearted fun. I have the immense privilege of sharing that Lydia is my cousin. Beautiful and full of life, Lydia can scarcely be seen without a bright smile on her face. She is through and through one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met, and I don’t say that just because I’m biased. Upon meeting this rare and beautiful girl you will feel like you might just be the most valued and loved person on the planet. She has a way of truly making every person feel special, regardless of if she’s known you for 20 years or 20 seconds.

So take that image of Lydia and pare it with Peter who is the PERFECT match for her. His love for his bride is so steady and real. Looking at the two of them is like looking at an old photograph; they are timeless and you can hardly imagine a life before where they were apart. They are, quite simply, meant to be together. Lydia and Peter both attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. They met while serving at the same youth group together and fell in love after months of friendship. Peter proposed to Lydia while taking a walk on the cliffs above the house he grew up in.

The day began at the Church, with everyone preparing for the big day ahead. Lydia and Peter were all smiles and anticipation. After a heartfelt first look in the stairwell of the church we traveled to a bird sanctuary that overlooked the skyline of Chicago. I asked Lydia what she wanted most from her photos of the day and she replied, “Happy, magical, enchanting – like Disneyland meets Bethany Snyder Photography”. I felt like this location was the perfect environment for just that. Every moment was intertwined in this joyful and dreamy presence. It was hard to believe, even for myself, that there was anyone else there but them.

The ceremony and reception took place at the church they attend together, Edgewater Baptist Church. The first time Lydia’s dad laid eyes on her it was tears, laid unabashed on his face. The honor, support and value behind his eyes shone so bright. The rest of the night continued with lots of teary eyes and bursts of laughter, followed by some of the liveliest dancing I’ve ever seen. Let me tell you folks, I’ve seen a lot of dancing, but this was something almost from another world. Joy, joy everywhere. Go on and look to the end. You’ll see what I mean!

Congratulations Lydia and Peter!

Big shout out to the awesome vendors and family members who helped make the day magical!

Venue : Edgewater Baptist Church

Florist : DIY by Sharon Clifford and Lori Mckeel

Hair and Makeup : Lauren Larson

DJ : Doug Moore