Laidback. I should’ve kept track of how many times Mandy + Garrett were described as “laidback” during the toasts. It was a lot! And I believe it is definitely a strength to be laidback while trying to plan a wedding during a global pandemic.

For Mandy + Garrett, their day looked a lot different back in early March. A few weeks into the shelter-in-place, I heard from Mandy saying they were changing their June date to Sept., to a date which I was already booked. I worked fast though and was able to secure a good friend of mine (with very similar work) to be my associate photographer for them. Then the other wedding was moved to 2021, and I was back on the schedule! Then the wedding was moved from Champaign to Effingham/Teutopolis, and Mandy checked to make sure I could travel for them. I said of course! And see what I mean? Laidback!

So suffice it to say that none of that mattered this past Saturday when Mandy + Garrett and their families pulled off an amazing wedding at Garrett’s family’s home church and his parents’ backyard. The weather was PERFECT and their wedding party was so fun! This couple is kind, genuine, and sweet to top it off, and I love when a couple is comfortable around me after the first hour for some back-and-forth banter!

Congratulations, Mandy + Garrett. I am so thrilled for you both!

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Vendor team:

Cake: Cakes by Lori, Schnuck’s Mahomet

Florist: Blossom Basket, Urbana

DJ or Band: Complete Weddings

Caterer: Och’s Smoked Meats

Officiant: Remi Bukuru

Bride's dress & bridesmaids: David’s Bridal

Shoes: Vera Wang

Suits/tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse

Transportation: Livin’ It Up Transportation, Altamont

Linens: Paluma Events, Effingham

Hair & makeup: Lauren Foran, Champaign