COURTNEY

+

Justin

{May 30th 2026}

{Photos by: Sophia Catherine Photography}

JAW IS ON THE FLOOR!

Introducing our gem of a bride, Courtney!

For her beautiful wedding, Courtney wore a fitted gown with pearl details by Maggie Sottero!

She is the definition of timeless!

{Photos by: Sophia Catherine Photography}

Looking at these pictures, I swear you can feel all the love!

They heaeded to their ceremony at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Whiting, IN!

{Photos by: Sophia Catherine Photography

After they exchanged vows, and said their “I do’s” they headed to their reception!

Their reception was held at Wicker Park in Highland, IN and my gosh it just BEAUTIFUL!

{Photos by: Sophia Catherine Photography}

How did the couple meet?

Justin (JJ) and I were actually set up through mutual friends. My sister and her good friend, Cassie, thought we would be a good match... I’m really glad I trusted their instincts.

How did Justin pop the question?

JJ and I have a tradition of going downtown Chicago before Christmas each year. JJ told me he had never seen "The Bean" and wanted to go take a picture of it. Instead, JJ dropped down to one knee and proposed! His sister was secretly there in disguise recording the entire proposal. Afterward, JJ had made reservations at an Italian restaurant to celebrate, and he surprised me even more by having both of our parents waiting there to celebrate with us.

Did Courtney see it coming or was it a surprise?

I was completely shocked! JJ had told me that he would NEVER propose during the holiday season, but he only said that to catch me off guard. He definitely succeeded because I had no idea it was coming!

Then it was time for Courtney to find her dress!

The entire experience was fantastic to say the least! I was able to bring my mom, sisters, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law. My stylist, Izzy, was so personable and kind! She listened to what I was looking for and gave suggestions to other styles I might like! Izzy made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process!

How did Courtney know it was “the one”?

I knew my dress was "the one" when I walked out in it and saw everyone's reactions, especially my mom crying. I immediately started crying when I looked in the mirror and felt like a bride. I tried on other dresses, but I kept going back to that one. It was the exact style I had imagined, and it was actually the first dress my sisters picked out for me!

What was Courtney’s favorite part of the planning process?

I think my favorite part of the planning process was spending time together—from pre-Cana classes to looking at venues. I just loved being able to go through it all together with JJ. I also really enjoyed spending time with my mom and sisters creating decorations and flower arrangements. I was so thankful to have amazing support from both sides of our family.

What was Courtney’s favorite part of the wedding?

It is extremely difficult to pick just one moment—we were so blessed to have such a perfect day with our family and friends. One of my favorite moments was walking down the aisle with my parents and seeing JJ at the end. I was surrounded by so many of the people I love who traveled to be there for our day, with my sisters as my matrons of honor and my closest friends by my side. I will never forget how happy JJ looked and the tears in his eyes when he saw me.

What is the best piece of advice Courtney can give brides-to-be who are currently planning their big day?

Remember the most important part of the day—marrying the love of your life! Try not to stress about the small details, and be present in the moment. Lastly, take time to show gratitude for everyone who is there to celebrate your marriage.

Congratulations, Courtney & Justin!

Check out the rest of their beautiful photos by Sophia Catherine Photography!