It was a beautiful day. Love was in the air. The birds were chirping. There wasn't a cloud in the sky. Which was perfect because the sun glistened off of every sparkle on Jessica's dress. This is an important detail to remember. And then there was Dustin. He stood tall and confident in the shade of a tree off in the distance. His back was towards us but I knew there was already a smile on his face. As I prepped Jessica for the walk to the refreshing shade, it was as if her heart was ready to leap out of her chest. Holding onto her dress, we started walking towards Dustin. As she got closer, she giggled and said, "Oh my gosh, I'm already starting to cry." We continued walking and as she got closer, her smile beamed brighter than the sun. When in position, she repeated it, only this time she was speaking directly to Dustin, "I'm already crying!" They both giggled. Dustin took a deep breath and turned around. It was as if time stood still for the two of them. His eyes lit up and he was speechless. Dustin looked at Jessica with such admiration, and she him. Jessica, was his real-life princess. Every sparkle of her Cinderella Ballgown twinkling in the sun (see why that was important?). Jessica couldn't control her happy tears. They stood admiring each other for a magical moment, stole kisses, and embraced each other too. They both smiled as if they won the jackpot (which if you think about it, they essentially did in finding a soulmate in one another). And then, Jessica finally breathed a breath of relief. She mentioned that the first look instantly washed layers of anxiety off of her. Dustin grabbed her hand in reassurance and held her close and we continued on with the day.


It comes as no surprise to me that their first look was so emotional and magical. It also comes as no surprise that their first look was the moment that ended any anxiety because of how comfortable these two are around each other. If you remember from their engagement session, Jessica is incredibly at ease when she is with Dustin in any situation, even if it's out of her comfort zone, and I know he feels the same. And that's why I love everything about witnessing their joy as they saw each other for the first time. I love it because they aren't afraid to show their emotions. They love each other with their whole hearts and the whole world knows it. Jessica and Dustin are each other's everything. I think their personalities truly shine when they are together because they bring out the best in one another. They also compliment each other very well. Jessica has a reserved, shy side to her whereas Dustin is more outgoing. But when they are together, they both light up any room they are in. Their joy is honestly contagious, it's hard to be anything but happy when you are around them. Their togetherness may just be the most significant thing in their lives because they truly just mesh so well. Jessica and Dustin's first look was more than just a moment; it was a testament to their deep connection and unwavering love. Seeing them together is witnessing pure love. The kind of love that makes you believe in fairytales and happy endings. You know what? Their love feels like a real-life fairytale. Which is absolutely fitting because they love all things Disney. And now that I think about it, their love story really is like a Disney fairytale with the happiest of endings and a bond so strong that they can and will conquer everything together.


So, Jessica and Dustin. Cheers to forever! Cheers to you and your fairytale! I loved watching your friends and families dote over you all day. I loved admiring your Disney-themed wedding. I loved watching you two tear up the dance floor. And I loved simply just watching you two fall more in love with each other as the day went on. Thank you beyond measure for allowing me to witness the beauty of your story firsthand. Thank you for letting me be a little part of it all and for showing me that you are not just life partners, but soulmates. Your love story is truly one for the ages. It's a beautiful reminder that true love does exist and it's more magical than any storybook could ever capture!


Vendors:


Church: St. Scholastica Catholic Church

Venue: Ruffled Feathers Country Club

DJ & Photo Booth: An Enchanted Evening

Florals: Walden Floral Design Company

Hair Stylist: Carimsa - Elvira

Makeup: Layla's Blush Room

Gown: Bri'Zan Couture | Disney Fairy Tale Weddings

Bride's Shoes: Nike

Tux: Gentleman's Quarters Formalwear

Rings: Kay Jewelers

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Cake: Orland Park Bakery