A Timeless Winter Wedding in Illinois: The Real Wedding of Samantha and Jacob Willis

Samantha and Jacob’s love story started in the digital age—on Hinge—and quickly blossomed into something real and lasting. Just eight months after meeting, they were engaged. Jacob proposed right before they took their first trip to Disney together. “He asked me at home before we left for our trip so we were able to celebrate in Disney all week!” From that magical beginning, the couple knew they didn’t want to wait long to start their life together!

With only a short time to plan, Samantha leaned on the creativity and support of close family and friends. “We knew we did not want a long engagement so with the help of close family and friends we pulled something together in about 4 months,” she says. “I used some Instagram and Pinterest-inspired ideas to pull together certain looks I liked but also the help of very creative family and friends.” That vision was classic and timeless with a touch of holiday charm, perfect for a cozy winter wedding that Danielle Schury Photography captured flawlessly!
 

The couple chose a barn venue that matched their aesthetic—a warm, rustic setting with twinkle lights that gave the perfect nod to the Christmas season. The color palette was an elegant mix of black, white, gold and evergreen. “I believe you can’t go wrong with black,” Samantha explains. “Everyone looks good in black and it really pops the white for the bride. I like classic looks that are timeless and will never go out of style so I loved the black and white color idea.”

Samantha’s dress fit that theme beautifully. Purchased off the rack, it was the second gown she tried on. “I showed the girls at Cloud Nine the look I was going for and this dress was almost identical to the style I was looking at!" she gushes. She fell in love with the dainty lace and the subtle mermaid silhouette. Samantha didn’t want one of the trendy styles—she wanted something timeless, and we think this dress delivered!

 

What We Love

Their ceremony had a sweet and sentimental touch—a cross at the end of the aisle dressed up with gorgeous blooms that made the moment feel extra special. Plus, a fresh layer of snow blanketed the ground on their big day, perfectly complementing their winter theme! At the reception, guests were treated to a unique and cozy twist—a “sweets and hot cocoa bar” filled with treats and toppings instead of a traditional wedding cake. And we love how the evening ended with striking shots of the groomsmen with cigars that captured the celebratory spirit of the day!

 

Advice from the Couple

Reflecting on her wedding, Samantha offers heartfelt advice to other couples: “This is you and your significant other's day. Not anyone else’s. Don’t listen to the outside noise. Keep a checklist of every small detail and assign certain tasks to people for help! Have a do and do not play list for the DJ. Go cheap on the less seen items like shoes and don’t skip the veil. Remember to eat and drink plenty of water while getting ready!”

 

 

 

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