Daryann & Mike Bloomfield Barn Wedding
Daryann and Mike found me in 2020 on The Knot. I remember it was such a bummer we had to video chat instead of meeting in person. Who would have thought that would become the norm moving forward. Anyway, they booked me for their April 2022 wedding which was SO FUN once the wedding weekend was finally here. From what the other vendors said, Daryann was totally on top of planning and had booked everyone super far in advance.
Vendors:
Day Of Wedding Coordinator - 618 EVENTS, Maggie
Ceremony and Reception- Bloomfield Barn
Photography and Videography- Complete Weddings and Events
Catering- Pauly’s BBQ
Bar Service- Two Pour Girls
Cake and cupcakes- friend of the bride
DJ- Ten Seventy Entertainment
Dresses- David’s Bridal
Tuxes- Savvi Formalwear
Hair- Salon 192
Makeup- Emily Gingerich
I remember during our 2 month out meeting they told me ideally their ceremony would take place outdoors in front of the pond at Bloomfield Barn. I asked them what their minimum temperature would have to be before we’d move the ceremony inside. I had VERY high doubts that April in Central Illinois would be warm enough for an outdoor ceremony. I was totally wrong. It was 80 degrees on their wedding day and couldn’t have been more perfect. I was shocked! The weeks before and after were not even that warm so it was such a wonderful gift for this amazing couple.
Speaking of gifts, Daryann is the MOST thoughtful. I was 8 months pregnant for her wedding and she gave me a baby gift. What bride is thinking about that while planning the biggest day of her life?! It was so sweet and generous of her!
My absolute favorite part about Daryann and Mike’s wedding day was Daryann’s dad. I know that sounds strange, however he is a big man with the softest heart. He sobbed at rehearsal. He sobbed when he saw Daryann for their first look. He sobbed walking her down the aisle. He sobbed during their first dance. You might think I’m being dramatic when I use the word “sob” but I’m not! It was very heart warming to see this big man not be afraid of expressing emotion on his daughter’s wedding day. During dinner I was confirming with the DJ and families about the upcoming toasts and dances. At one point I asked Daryann’s mom to triple check that Daryann’s dad wasn’t giving a father of the bride toast. She laughed and said something to the effect that he would hardly be able to get the first few words out let alone an entire toast. I should have known.
At one point during the evening, I was very honored when the photographer and videographer (from Complete Weddings and Events) commented several times about how this was the best run wedding they’d ever been a part of. They were not new to the industry either. I can’t take all the credit as Daryann and Mike hired me for day-of coordination, but I took it as a huge compliment since, after all, I help create the day-of timeline and am there to execute the event. Sometimes hair and makeup runs long in the morning and I always try to factor in extra time for that. Or sometimes if there’s a large bridal party it takes longer to get everyone moving and in place for the next event. However this crew was totally on top of it! They knew where they were supposed to be and when and actually did it! I think it helps that they were all laid back but yet aware.
Bloomfield Barn was wonderful to work with. They handle all the set up and tear down for their clients’ items. That’s incredible! Additionally, Adrian was very on top of things that day as well. She was so helpful if I needed anything. I loved working with Adrian!
I also loved that both the ceremony and reception were at the same venue. That’s one of my biggest recommendations to clients if they are pondering whether or not to do that. It’s not only easier for you on your wedding day but also for all your guests! Bloomfield Barn has an onsite house for the girls to get ready in which also makes things 1000x easier for the bridal party. As I mentioned above, the morning is where things can get behind on time. If everyone is already where they are supposed to be then that minimizes drive time or someone getting lost. For your guests, there’s nothing nicer than walking straight from the ceremony to the bar for cocktail hour to your seat for the reception. No traffic, no awkward break in between the ceremony and reception. Additionally, Bloomfield Barn seems to be in the middle of no where so they were smart to have an onsite home for the girls to get ready AND space for onsite ceremony plus reception. Someone was thinking when they built the venue.
I love a good BBQ meal and we are so lucky to have several fabulous local BBQ caterers. Pauly’s BBQ is one of the best. Let me tell you why…Sarah is wonderful to work with, their food is fairly priced, their food is STINKING good! I believe they only offer buffet so if you’re looking for a plated option then this isn’t for you. Pauly’s provides the paper goods as well which lends itself toward a more casual meal. However if that’s what you’re wanting then it’s perfection.
Overall, an amazing wedding night! Great vendor team and even greater couple. Huge congrats Daryann and Mike! We wish you many years of happiness together!