I knew the Schneider and Ockwood families would be wonderful to work with when I began interviewing Courtney Schneider’s dad, Bill, and her mom, JoAnn.With his signature stogie in hand, Bill readily agreed to chat so that we could find out more about Courtney and how this father of the bride was feeling on her wedding day.Joy. Tears. Laughter. Bill had it all covered. JoAnn, too.And Tom’s mom, Ann, was gracious with her time to give us several insights into her witty son, Tom, during the reception.That openness extended to the couple, their bridal party and friends. And having people willing to share really helps add depth to a wedding film.Courtney and Tom’s wedding had several firsts for Sweet Pea. Number one was Courtney’s bridal gown, from the incomparable Vera Wang in Chicago. That mermaid silhouette with layer after layer of tulle on the bottom third made it seem like she was floating as she walked down the aisle at Holy Family Catholic Church.Their bridal party, and especially best man Derek Hoppe and matron of honor (and sister-in-law) Annie Schneider, had a ton of energy and great stories to tell about the bride and groom.The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake pulled off another stunning meal and beautifully decorated ballrooms. We can’t say enough about the quality of service the Osthoff provides. Top notch.And let’s just talk about the band again. The Connexion Band out of Chicago. Brilliant. Amazing. Rockin’. Everything from ’80s dance tunes to rock to Icona Pop’s “I Don’t Care.” The floor was packed. We haven’t heard a better band yet this season.
The team
Let’s just give you a rundown of the rest of the pros that helped make Courtney and Tom’s big day come together!Dress: Vera Wang, ChicagoBridesmaids dresses: Bliss BridalTuxes: Vera Wang via Men’s Wearhouse Florals: Patrick at Botanicals (Really gorgeous flowers throughout!)Bakery/cake: Bryanna’s Bakery (one of the best cakes Sweet Pea has sampled this year!)Hair: Renaissance SalonMakeup: Megan at the M SpaString quartet: Allium String QuartetMusic: The Connexion BandCheers to the newlyweds, and stayed tuned for their full film later this year!Cindy