An Enchanted Wedding at Oak Hill Farm | Apple River, IL
Grab a cup of coffee and relax for a minute as you read this because it might be a while! Why? Because I can not say enough about Oak Hill Farm. It is, to date, one of the most fascinating wedding venues I have ever been to in the state of Illinois and if you continue reading you'll find out why.
First, Oak Hill Farm is a family-owned farm located in the small town of Apple River, Illinois (about 30 minutes east of Galena and has a population of only 347)! Unlike a lot of farms that might feature a barn and/or a farmhouse, this one is very much its own little "town" where you can, quite literally, choose your own adventure in terms of a wedding venue.
Photo credit Oak Hill Farm
Couples can choose to get married almost anywhere on the property- from an outdoor ceremony in the wooded forest to a more traditional ceremony in the chapel. Smaller weddings can also take place in the barn, the schoolhouse, or a large, open pavilion that can seat up to 250 guests- just to name a few!
The wedding I photographed (alongside the ever-so-talented Esther Gallarday), was for an adorable couple named Katie and Rich, who chose to have their ceremony in the woodest forest. Here, nestled behind the schoolhouse by a series of paths, was a secluded area surrounded by an array of tall pines and blossoming walnut trees. String lights hung from above, and guests were seated on wooden benches strategically placed on a natural stone terrace. Pastel floral arrangements lined the aisle, which led to a beautiful circular altar that shimmered in the light.
From here, Katie and Rich said their vows before exiting up a stone pathway back towards the center of the farm. Guests followed suit, and they were able to enjoy cocktail hour and hors d'oeuvres on the main lawn. The old-fashioned schoolhouse - complete with antique desks and a large chalkboard, was utilized to tell the couples' love story through a series of images presented on each desk. Guests also enjoyed lawn games, which were scattered throughout the property, as well as a cozy fire pit and a quaint little garden.
Katie and Rich then had their reception in the large, open pavilion which featured high ceilings, long wooden beams, and breathtaking chandeliers. The Pavilion at Oak Hill Farm also showcased views of the horse farm, where horses and one celebratory donkey could be found! (Yes, a donkey ready to party. See photos below!)
Katie and Rich kicked off their celebration by cutting their multi-level cake, followed by a toast, dancing, and a delicious dinner. Fun music then filled the air and guests soon hit the dance floor in all their glory :)
Overall, this wedding was all-around spectacular! Katie and Rich did a phenomenal job planning every detail while showcasing everything Oak Hill Farm has to offer! Oak Hill Farm is so incredibly versatile that no two weddings held there will ever come close to similar. There is also so much to see, do, and enjoy on their property and it will leave guests (and photographers) talking about it for quite some time.
Lastly, and on a more personal note, this wedding was one for the books and probably my favorite of 2024 thus far. Not only did I get to work with amazing Esther Gallarday as her second, but Katie and Rich were so fun and welcoming that I felt like a personal guest. I was right there with them celebrating, laughing, and enjoying the scenery all while getting to do what I love best :)
Congratulations Katie and Rich!
And thank you Esther!
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