Eric & Emily - an Elegant Hotel Julien Wedding in Dubuque, Iowa

Eric and Emily have the kind of relationship that makes storybooks jealous. From childhood neighbors to high school sweethearts, these two share a love for each other that makes it impossible for anyone around them to not smile. 

They both are extremely fun loving, hard working sports fanatics who love being around their families. They do quite a bit together whether its biking, yoga, hiking, or furthering their passion for travelling. (They have adventured to Mexico, Japan, all through Europe, Hawaii, and many other places!)  When I asked Emily what she loved about Eric, she said, "I love that Eric loves to have a good time, he's a social butterfly, he is family oriented, he's diligent, smart, and so funny! He makes me laugh more than anyone. He is basically loved by everyone he meets." Eric said that Emily "has an amazing ability to love unconditionally and see the good in everyone. She loves her family and friends, has a great outlook on life and always brightens my day. She is the most beautiful person I know, inside and out." 

Eric has hand written Emily letters for years and years. So of course when he proposed to Emily in Galena, Illinois it involved giving her another love letter. After getting down on one knee, he surprised Emily again by having their family and friends there to celebrate. So it was only fitting that their wedding day start with a hand written letter. (as well as some beautiful diamond earrings)

Watch the video above for the story of their beautiful day. I'll also pulled a few stills from a few of my favorite moments in the video below. :) 

Emily and her bridal party got ready in the "Al Capone Suite" of the Hotel Julien. It was a beautiful, spacious suite with beautiful light streaming in from the big windows. Fun Fact: the suite is named after Al Capone from his days of staying at the Hotel Julien when things would get 'too hot' in Chicago and he needed to lay low. If you like history you can find out more about HERE. 

Emily's father Andy passed away shortly before the wedding, and Emily had special touches to honor her dad. There was a special rare flower in Emily's bouquet, she wore a necklace with his thumbprint while she was getting ready, and she had one of his t-shirts sown in a heart in her dress. 

The wedding ceremony was held at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, where Emily and Eric were surrounded by an outpouring of love and support from so many family and friends. It was beautiful. (And I adored how Eric could not take his eyes off of Emily the entire ceremony. Every time he looked at her his face would break into the biggest smile.) 

Can we all just take a minute to swoon over the Old Hollywood glamour we get when you add supermodels Eric & Emily in with a beautiful white vintage car!? Eric's grandfather Harley owns this beautiful car. 

So the photographers and I stole away the bride and groom for awhile, and it was just magic. For awhile Emily and Eric were in their own little world, so blissfully happy. No words were spoken between bride and groom, photographers, and me as we just sat back and captured their state of pure bliss.

Side note: Emily and Eric hired Maison and Caleb, a husband and wife team of photographers that make up Maison Meredith Photography. I can't say enough wonderful things about working alongside these talented people. To see Emily and Eric's beautiful wedding photos click here <3

The reception was held at the Hotel Julien Ballroom. It was so romantic with fresh flowers and candlelight everywhere. Eric is a great dancer, and really has it down when it comes to dipping Emily.  Something tells me based on his Mother-Son dance that his mother taught him well! 

For the Father-Daughter dance, Emily's brothers danced with her, followed by her five uncle while a slideshow played showing photos and videos of her father Andy. It as such a touching moment.

The awesome team that Eric & Emily chose for their special day:

Ceremony: St. Joseph the Worker
Reception: The Hotel Julien
Bride & Bridesmaid Dresses: Miss Ruby Boutique
Bride & Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Watters
Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Menswear: Graham's Formal Wear
Wedding Rings: Doland Jewelers
Photographer: Maison Meredith Photography
Florist & Decorator: Cathy Breitbach
Cake: Candle Ready Cakes
Transportation: Dubuque Trolley
Reception Band: Tim Stop Band

 

To see more Wedding Films by Katherine Mendieta, click here.