And the rest of your life?” Calum Scott, “Biblical”
There’s something so timeless about a wedding that blends tender emotions with modern elegance—and Kaelyn and Tyler’s big day at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg was the perfect example of just that. From handwritten vows to a storybook-inspired seating chart, their celebration was filled with heartfelt moments, perfect weather, and just enough sparkle to make everything feel extra magical.
A Sweet Start to the Day
The day began at the Hyatt, where Kaelyn and her bridal party got ready in the bridal suite, while Tyler and the guys prepped nearby in one of the hotel rooms. The energy was light, the music was playing, and you could feel the anticipation building in the best way.
One particularly emotional moment happened early in the day, when Kaelyn’s mom gifted her a delicate stitched handkerchief that read:
Kaelyn
Here’s something blue from me to you.
To catch happy tears as you say ‘I do’.
Love,
Mom
9/21/24
Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. These quiet, thoughtful gestures always get me.
First Looks and Wedding Party Fun
Kaelyn shared a first look with her dad before meeting Tyler for theirs, and both moments were filled with happy tears. We then made our way over to Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg—a hidden gem that gave us a beautiful backdrop for portraits with the wedding party and family.
The energy during these portraits was joyful and relaxed, and the setting—complete with tall grasses and still water—offered a dreamy kind of calm before the festivities ahead.
Private Vows on the Bridge
After portraits wrapped up, Kaelyn and Tyler took a quiet moment together on a wooden bridge tucked within the Prairie Center grounds. This was their time to exchange personal vows—just the two of them (and me with a camera, off to the side). It was tender, tear-filled, and felt like time stood still. These are always some of the most powerful moments to witness.
A Sentimental Celebration at the Hyatt
Back at the Hyatt, the energy shifted from quiet and reflective to joyful and celebratory. The ceremony was held outdoors under near-perfect skies. As guests arrived, you could feel the buzz of excitement in the air. After they said “I do,” everyone gathered for a big family photo—something I always love seeing couples prioritize.
Kaelyn and Tyler’s reception space was a stunner, filled with romantic touches and personal details. One of my favorite elements? Their seating chart. They used a bookshelf filled with real books wrapped in custom covers, each labeled with a guest’s name and table number. It felt like something out of a charming home library, and the guests absolutely loved it. Details like that make a wedding feel so uniquely “you.”
Golden Hour Glow
During cocktail hour, we snuck outside for a round of sunset portraits—and wow, did the Hyatt deliver. The golden light, paired with the couple’s relaxed energy now that the ceremony was done, made for some of my favorite photos of the day.
We also captured a few quiet moments with the reception space before they rejoined the party—just long enough for a breath and a peek at what was to come.
An Evening Full of Heart
The night unfolded with heartfelt toasts, lots of laughter, and a reverse anniversary dance (a sweet twist where the last couple standing had been married for decades). It’s moments like these—celebrating love in all its stages—that really round out a wedding day.
Kaelyn and Tyler ended the evening on the dance floor, surrounded by their favorite people, basking in the glow of a perfect day. I feel so lucky to have been there to capture it all.
“And when you open your eyes, I’ll be there by your side, I wanna have it all with you” — Calum Scott, “Biblical”
WEDDING GALLERY
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Hi there, I’m Ken Dillard, the heart and soul behind the lens at AwestrucKen Photography. Capturing the sheer beauty and raw emotions of your unforgettable moments is what I live for. If my portfolio on this blog resonates with you, let’s join forces to immortalize your special day. Let’s make magic together.