When Kristen and Derek are around each other they have a hard time paying attention to anything else. They smile, they blush, they stare, they touch. They are completely love-struck, and everyone loves them for it. Being the truly wonderful people that they are, their wedding was full of joyful tears and laughter from both friends and family. Congrats Kristen and Derek, may you always keep each other warm, and warm the hearts of those around you (just like on your very warm wedding day)!


A cold Bud on a hot day…









Her bridesmaids were keeping her cool with a mini fan.


A tearful moment with her sister…

More tears…


First look!


















A giant first kiss!









Love!













Sun-drenched love, my favorite!













Derek’s grandma made the wedding cake.

She added the finishing touches to the buttercream frosting, yum!






















Lila and Jeremy 🙂

Congrats Kristen and Derek!

Check out the awesome video trailer from their wedding by MI Studios:

Kristen + Derek Highlights from MI Studios on Vimeo.

Second photographer: Jamie Hartley

 

Hair/makeup: Kim Peich

Florist:  Julie Frisk (we know her through Derek’s mom)

Ceremony location:  Danada House, Wheaton, IL

Reception location: Same as ceremony

Officiant:  Nikki Johnsen (childhood friend of Derek)

Cake:  Grandma (Iris) Paulsen

Caterer: My Chef Catering – Dominick Scafidi

Dress: Allure Couture

Accessories: My mom made them!

 

Videographer: MI Studio

DJ/Band:  Kate Porter, Toast & Jam DJs

First Dance:  Let’s Stay Together, Al Green

Father/daughter:  Have I Told You Lately That I Love You, Van Morrison

Mother/son: My Wish, Rascal Flatts

 

Q&A with the bride:

 

What was the most memorable moment of your day? 

Kristen:  That’s a tie – the moment I put my dress on at Danada House, the first look with Derek (which kept bringing me to the brink of tears), and dancing with my Dad.

 

What was your favorite detail?  

Kristen: Not sure if I could pick a fave – but I really loved the flowers/cenerpieces  and the table with the pictures of the people who have passed and the old wedding photos.   Everything was handmade by my mom & I, so I feel attached to all of the details!  Also – I really loved my jewelry (the components of my jewelry belonged to my amazing Godmother who has passed away).

 

Funniest memory from your wedding day? 

Kristen:  When I attempted to shove a forkful of cake into Derek’s face, but I was far too nice and failed!  But at that moment, I felt like the real fun began, and we could enjoy the night and relax.  Also – the girl who caught the bouquet, Priscyla, was hysterical.  She was REALLY looking forward to catching that 🙂

 

Any advice for future brides/grooms? 

Kristen: It all comes together somehow  in the end.  Don’t stress about a thing and enjoy every second!

 

If you could do it all over, would you change anything?

Kristen: Not a thing

 

Where did you go on your honeymoon? 

Kristen: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic