Every wedding I’ve shot is a party, but Stephanie and Dustin’s wedding was A PARTY! From the moment we stepped on the grounds to the very last sparkler fizzled out, this wedding at The Wilds in Bloomington, Indiana was full of so much life!
Since I didn’t shoot an engagement session with Stephanie and Dustin, I had the pleasure of meeting them on their wedding day. I could tell how excited they both were to marry one another and then party with their friends and family!
Stephanie and Dustin celebrated with a wedding at The Wilds in Bloomington, Indiana
https://thewildsvenue.comThe Wilds Wedding and Event Venue is one of the most charming venues we have shot at. It’s been on my list of places I wanted to photograph. Set nestled in the hills near Brown County State Park, in Bloomington, this venue has everything a couple needs on a wedding day. Owned and operated by former wedding photographers, the care and details put into a gorgeous venue are so very obvious.
When you drive up the gravel path to the gorgeous white building with black and wooden touches, you can tell it’s going to be a perfect wedding setting. The venue boasts a patio with string lights for cocktail hour and outdoor gathering space. It also has a covered ceremony site with wooden benches. Also on site is a wooden pergola ready to be decorated to each couple’s vision.
There are so many locations for wedding party photos. Plenty of spots for first looks, and couple photos! This wedding at The Wilds in Bloomington, Indiana definitely hits as one of my favorite venues!
Stephanie and Dustin’s wedding was a party with everyone they loved
As soon as I saw how much fun Stephanie and her bridesmaids were having getting ready, I knew the day was going to be a blast! The wine glasses were full, the makeup was gorgeous, and the laughter was plentiful as Stephanie excitedly got ready for her wedding. I got to photograph some of her details, including a gorgeous white lace and embroidered dress with a long wedding veil. She had some special items such as her grandmother’s ring and an heirloom handkerchief. For shoes? This bride wore white converse sneakers, and it fit her personality so well. The bridesmaids rocked sage green dresses, while the groom and groomsmen’s dark suits and sage green ties complimented the colors perfectly.
Dustin and his fellas rolled in already dressed, and we got some fun-filled shots with his groomsmen before the ceremony. His mom pinned on the boutonniere in the spring sunshine, and everyone was so happy for him as he was about to marry his bride. There were plenty of Coors Lite cans to get the party going, and there were so many smiles and laughs as the guys celebrated Dustin.
An outdoor ceremony for their wedding at The Wilds in Bloomington, Indiana
The wooden pergola, decorated with draped cloth and beautiful florals was a lovely centerpiece. Stephanie and Dustin had their ceremony outdoors in a covered area at The Wilds. Offering shade from the sun without compromising the gorgeous views, this ceremony spot was so perfect. Guests filled the wooden benches to witness the vows, while the soft breeze came through the open space.
There were many laughs and some tears as the couple said their vows and exchanged rings. The guests cheered as the couple shared their first kiss and walked back up the aisle for their spring wedding.
A party for the reception with all their guests
The reception was filled with good food, plenty of drinks, great toasts, and fabulous dancing and music. We snuck out for some sunset photos after dancing got started. One of my favorite times with couples. It gives them a small chance to themselves while taking advantage of the golden light.
Finishing off their incredible wedding day was a fun sparkler exit out on the patio under the string lights. Guests made their way out into the spring evening air and the venue owner passed around large sparklers (yay for the large ones that last a good while!) They cheered as Stephanie and Dustin walked down the makeshift aisle and said their goodbyes.
Stephanie and Dustin: I’m so happy for you both and so grateful to have witnessed your wedding day. I hope these preview photos bring you so much happiness, and I can’t wait to edit your full gallery soon! Cheers to you both!!
Venue: The Wilds Wedding Venue
Drinks: Upland Brewing Company
Catering: One World Catering
Cupcakes: Corporate to Cupcakes
Makeup: Katie Campbell Beauty
Florals: Pomp and Bloom
Photography: Leah Rife Photo
Are you looking for a wedding photographer in South Bend, Indianapolis, or the surrounding areas? I would love to talk to you about photographing this beautiful time in your relationship. Reach out here to chat with me today!
