Real Wedding | Erin + Josh

Here’s a Real Wedding that’s full of sweet and sentimental touches. Escorted down the aisle by her mother, Erin looked absolutely amazing in her dramatic Pnina Tornai form-fitting gown. I love, love, love the lilac colored bridesmaids dresses and the beautiful floral arrangements at the reception. Most of all, I love Erin’s winning smile…it’s contagious! No doubt friends and family shared in her joy at this special celebration!

Erin + Josh  | August 27, 2011 | Effingham, Illinois

The ceremony
The ceremony was held at Sacred Heart Church, which such special place to me, as it is the church I attended growing up.  It was a traditional ceremony held in the early evening, with the sun hanging low as it shone through the stained glass windows.

The reception
As our reception venue, we chose the Thelma Keller Convention Center. With it’s high ceilings, large ballrooms, and beautiful chandeliers, it was just what we had in mind. Decor in shades of lavender, white and sliver were used to create a romantic and elegant ambience. The room was absolutely breathtaking. The “Hey Jimmy Band” out of Chicago, Illinois, kept the dance floor alive, as the guests celebrated this joyous occasion.

 

Erin’s dress search
Before beginning the search for the perfect dress, I knew the mermaid style would be most flattering to my figure. I wanted something glamorous, yet classic, which is why I chose Pnina Tornai as the designer. I also liked that she gave you the option to customize your gown, in order to create the perfect dress. I went to my appointment with 5 dresses in mind. To my surprise, I ended up buying the third dress I tried on, which was indeed a mermaid style gown with a sweetheart neckline. I knew it was the one when my grandma immediately teared up as I walked out of the dressing room. It was definitely a moment I’ll never forget.

The way Erin felt in her wedding dress
Elegant, Glamorous, Fabulous

Why Erin decided to sell her wedding dress
After much thought and consideration, I decided to sell my wedding dress in hopes of making another woman’s dreams come true by giving her access to the dress she wants at a price she can afford.

Erin’s wedding dress: Pnina Tornai, Photography: West Photography , Ceremony: Sacred Heart Church , Reception Venue: Thelma Keller Convention Center , Event Planning: Janice Franklin, at Thelma Keller Convention Center, Floral Design: K & M Floral Shoppe , Cake: Cakes by Christine