Jessica and Kevin’s Sweet Wedding at The Halls of St. George

There are two things we really love to see in couples. A willingness to not just toe the line, and a respect for the forces that brought them together. Couples who fearlessly celebrate their big day in just the way they want, are our kind of couples! Jessica and Kevin are the perfect example. This adorable pair met way back when they were both studying at Purdue University. A special place that they not only adored to be a part of, but cherished, knowing it was the catalyst for their romance. Their wedding at The Halls of St. George in Indiana, gave them the perfect opportunity to honor such a wonderful institution.

Jessica and Kevin themed their wedding around the iconic colors of Purdue University. And did it in a way that felt so chic and unforced. A touching tribute to a place that means so much to them.

We’re so pleased to be sharing the photography from Jessica and Kevin’s wedding today. Alongside a few words from our bride about her experience working with us, her feelings on the big day and a little advice from a wise bride!

How Did You Meet?

Kevin and I met at Purdue University back in 2010. We sat together during a Purdue Alumni Student Experience (PASE) Board of Directors meeting and became instant friends. During an icebreaker at the event, we were asked to pick an adjective that had the same first letter as our name. Kevin chose ‘Kind Kevin’ and I chose ‘J’adorable Jess.’ All the adjectives I could think of that started with the letter J were taken, so I panicked! And thus the friendship began.

A Romantic Engagement

Kevin surprised me during a trip to St. Petersburg, FL for his 30th birthday. Kevin’s friends Morgan and Amanda joined us for dinner while we were away, and took pictures of us on the beach as Kevin’s friend, Morgan, loves photography. I was none the wiser to what was really going on, and was completely shocked when Kevin got down on one knee at sunset on the beach! After I said yes, all the beach goers cheered.

I’ve always talked about how I don’t understand women who don’t just say yes when the guy pops the question. And yet, and when Kevin asked me to marry him, I couldn’t form any words besides “oh my god” throughout the proposal!

“The One”

Kevin says it was the moment I used the word ‘j’adorable’ as my adjective when we first met. I knew a little later, once I’d seen his genuine compassion for others, winning personality and that endearing smile – I knew he was ‘the one’ for me. Not to mention how he won over my dog, Clyde!

Clyde is a rescue pup and is not a fan of men. When they first met, Kevin sat on the floor with him for 45 minutes, and Clyde just barked in his face the entire time. After that, Clyde was Kevin’s biggest fan, and now they’re best buds! I’m pretty sure Clyde likes Kevin more than me!

Tell us about your dress!

I found my wedding dress at Bella Sposa Bridal Boutique in Tinley Park, IL. I actually had a difficult time finding a gown. I tried on a bunch, and while they were all pretty, I wasn’t getting that ‘OMG, I’m a bride’ feeling. But, when my consultant, Jamie, brought my dress out, my sister and mom knew right away it was my dress. I like to be different and stand out, and I wanted something distinct. The dress I chose was the most beautiful, most amazing gown I have ever seen! It was a stunning white gown with intricate black detailing.

What Was Your Favorite Moment?

Seeing each other as I walked down the aisle was my favorite moment. The emotion and the joy that I felt in that moment cannot compare. I also remember trying to discreetly place a tissue in Kevin’s breast pocket, only to find it wasn’t a real pocket! A little extra humor on our special day.

Our first dance, which was a complete surprise. We took dance lessons for a year IN SECRET. No one knew our first dance would be choreographed, and their reaction was priceless!

How was your experience taking photos/working with our team on your wedding day?

Lauren and her team were AMAZING!! In addition to being a blast to work with and looking after every detail, Lauren and Mallory even helped fix my dress when the buttons broke! I was freaking out when it happened, but Mallory calmly stepped in with a sewing kit, had Sam thread needles, while Lauren stitched me up. The broken buttons were soon a thing of the past with their kind help and support.

The entire afternoon was full of laughs and sincerely organic moments. They truly captured every moment. Turtle kiss? ‘Nuff said!

Any tips on preparing your wedding party for the photos?

We instructed everyone at the rehearsal on where to go and who needed to be present. The pre-wedding questionnaire was super helpful. It outlined all the formal family photos. Mallory read through it and people were in and out quickly, which made the process efficient and non-stressful.

Any tips on what to bring?

A sewing kit! Also, extra tissues and comfy shoes for the end of the night. Both our feet were so sore from dancing all night, and I wish I’d taken sneakers.

Our venue made to-go dinners for us to take with us when we left for the night. So, we actually ate our wedding dinner together in the hotel after the wedding! Which was both special and amazing as we were so hungry following a night full of dancing! We both recommend a late night meal if possible, as it can be hard to really eat anything during the reception.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to other couples planning their wedding?

On the day, take a moment to let it all soak in with your spouse. We took a couple of these moments together, away from the noise, to look at our wedding from afar. It was so beautiful to see all the people we love together in one place.

Also, do a final dance with a farewell circle. During our last dance, everyone circled us, and it was so special being in your spouse’s arms surrounded by everyone you love.

Which vendors would you like to show some love too?

Flowers: Shadow Box Flower Shop in Valparaiso, IN

Music: Dependable Wedding Djs in Melrose Park, IL

Wedding Cake: Calumet Bakery in Lansing, IL

Hair/Makeup: Camp Bride in Arlington, IL

Wedding Venue: Halls of Saint George in Schererville, IN

First Dance Teachers: Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Schererville, IN. Our incredible instructors were Shannon Riley and Vance Mabry.

Where are you going on honeymoon?

We left for our honeymoon the day after our wedding. We went to Hawaii and spent 2 weeks on the island of Oahu. We went to luaus, and did glass working – a nod to our first date when we went glassblowing and made Christmas ornaments! The rest of the time we spent on the beach, and eating all the Hawaiian food we could find!

What are you most looking forward to as a married couple?

We are most excited about continuing to grow, and travel together. Our goal is to visit all 50 states (we’ll have 6 states checked off following our honeymoon).

It’s also going to be fun to learn new things together along the way. And to try to surprise each other constantly, as we move forward in our marriage.