The Best Wedding Vendors in Dakota, IL

The Best Wedding Vendors in Dakota, IL

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855 Wedding Vendors in Dakota, IL

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Heather Christine Photo + Film 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Hiii! I'm Heather Schoolcraft - owner & CEO! I'm a small town gal from WV who LOVES traveling and pops of color. I've designed my entire company around creating authentic + magical love stories. I have an associate team specifically trained to go and take on more couples! The only thing that's different on your wedding day is you see a different face! On your wedding day, our goal is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and to focus on the raw + real moments on your day. Don't settle for less because you have to. Let ME help you get the photos + video that you've always dreamed of.

Awarded Best of Zola
Heather and her team are literally amazing. She helped me in so many ways. She’s not just your photographer, she’s everything you could need before and during your wedding. Heather is a lifetime friend for me now and I couldn’t be more honored to have her capture our day. She goes above and beyond to help you, whether it’s her guides that she has made herself or even just a little text asking if you need anything. Even on the day of, she’s right there if you need her. She is SO fun and I just can’t say enough things about her
Kassidy S., a year ago
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Oury Memories 

4.8

  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Dakota, IL

I have been a photographer for 8 years. Throughout my time as a photographer I’ve captured clothing, models, and memories. I shifted from corporate shootings to families and weddings because it gave me this warm fuzzy feeling when I edited my couples and families photos. Don’t be afraid to reach out to me and ask about my photography style, my editing style, or my favorite restaurant! I highly recommend scheduling a free consulting session!

Awarded Best of Zola
Grace and was an absolute delight to work with for our wedding! Grace was very thorough and communicated with everyone from venue staff to the DJ to choreograph and capture everything. I fell in love with Grace's whimsical and wispy style of photography - she made sure to include everyone in the shots. Grace was punctual and went straight to capturing our final moments of getting ready, and she gave us time to socialize and enjoy our guests. I loved her creativity and willingness to take unique shots. I would definitely recommend her for any couple's day!
Shekinah, 10 months ago
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Love Knot Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Hi, I’m Isaac. In my world, light is everything. The cool ambient hues at dawn, hinting at what the day may bring. Golden sun rays catching particles through a tree as friends gathers to celebrate. A Cotton candy sunset peppered by patio string-lights as a DJ plays my favorite song. We all have timeless memories logged in our minds. For me, they are based in a language of light. As a wedding photographer, this deep connection to special lighting helps me produce dynamic visual stories of romance, personality and beauty.

Awarded Best of Zola
Isaac’s photography style was perfect for us. He already delivered about half of our retouched photos a week after the wedding which was insane and I love every single one. He was flexible with the 5 flower girls we had in and out of pictures and the multiple areas on our venue property. Overall an amazing experience and I recommend his work to anyone and everyone looking.
Madison R., 6 months ago
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HEARTS in FOCUS 

4.4

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $895
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

Greetings! I’m Heather (the one on the left!), and I’d love to share the story behind HEARTS in FOCUS. The company was founded by my husband, Darren Mason, who is also my talented wedding videographer. Darren’s journey into wedding videography began in 2010, and it wasn’t long before he earned recognition as one of the top videographers in the U.S. We are committed to providing a seamless, unforgettable experience for you, with every film reflecting the same care, attention to detail, and artistry that we have built our reputation on.

Awarded Best of Zola
We love our wedding film! We really wanted the cinematic look at we got just that. It looks like a movie trailer. It was a huge hit on our Facebook with family and friends. Heather was awesome to work with. Super happy with everything. Thank you guys so much! Definitely recommend.
Julie, 4 months ago
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3rd Shift DJs 

4.7

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

3rd Shift DJs is an Elgin, IL-based DJ company that specializes in weddings and nuptial events. This budding business is owned and operated by Alex Dingmann, a DJ professional with a passion for adding thrill and excitement to parties through the sound of music. With years of experience under his belt, Alex helps newlyweds across the country celebrate their new chapter, creating personalized playlists that have everyone dancing all the way home.

Awarded Best of Zola
We had a fantastic experience with 3rd Shift DJs, Musician as the DJ for our wedding reception. Their communication throughout the planning process was always easy, quick, and professional - they responded to emails promptly and were organized in keeping our music preferences and timeline details straight. The day-of, they brought so much fun, lively energy to the reception and kept our guests dancing all night with their awesome song selection. You could tell they really cared about making sure we had a great party. For the quality of service and value, we would highly recommend 3rd Shift DJs, Musician to other couples planning their weddings!
Justine H., a year ago
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Ashley Cynthia Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Dakota, IL

* PLEASE INQUIRE ON WEBSITE* HEY! I'M ASHLEY! Aka, Your Professional third wheel! I am so happy you dropped by! I am a uber bubbly, warm hearted, person who loves to order 3 drinks at Dutch Bros and say its for other people but really its just for me. When I am not spending my lifes savings at Dutch Bros, I am professionally following peeps in love and photographing their stories. I am a lover of true crime and murder podcasts! (But I mean who isnt! I just cant help it!) FUN FACT: I speak switzerdütsch, aka a German slang. My mom is originally from Switzerland and my dad from Jamaica, so you know I am always hungry for adventures!

Awarded Best of Zola
Ashley Cynthia Photography provided excellent service for our wedding photography needs. Ashley's communication throughout the planning process was fast, caring and thoughtful - she truly wanted to understand our vision and preferences. On the big day, Ashley traveled from Arizona to capture our Colorado wedding. She helped immensely with organizing the timeline and coordinating with other vendors. Most importantly, the quality of Ashley's work is simply stunning. Her photographic style resulted in elegant, unique and professional photos that we will treasure forever. She perfectly captured the joy and love of our special day. We couldn't recommend Ashley highly enough for wedding photography services. She had us laughing and feeling more like a lifelong friend more than a photographer
Angelica G., 7 months ago
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5 thousand frames films LLC 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

- Over 12 years of successful work, more than 400 couples, more than 200 families and more than 100 companies have used our services - We do all shooting and editing personally and never hire third-party vendors. You will get exactly what you ordered - It is very important for us that the video convey the atmosphere of your event as much as possible, therefore we approach the details and musical arrangement with great care - Each project for us is always an individual work. We do not shoot or edit according to a template. - We always have a spare set of equipment - All material we always keep in duplicate.

5 Thousand Frames Films provided us with the best videography service we could have asked for on our wedding day. Their communication style was fantastic - they didn't overwhelm us with too many questions, and instead proposed perfect ideas to capture all the special moments. The quality of their work is unmatched, a solid 100 out of 5! They created an incredible same-day-edit video that was shown at the end of our wedding, and the quality, plot, music, and framing were all flawless. While I was getting ready, the videographer even took it upon himself to shoot all the necessary footage of the background details. I highly recommend 5 Thousand Frames Films - you're guaranteed to have the best experience, as their professionalism and quality of work is simply outstanding.
Julie, 7 months ago
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Boulder Terrace Sound 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,750
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Boulder Terrace Sound specializes in Weddings serving the Chicagoland Suburbs, Northern Illinois, Southern Wisconsin, and NW Indiana since 2003. High Quality Professional DJ Services, Event Coordination, MC, and Entertainment is included at AFFORDABLE PRICING! All inclusive packages include a professional high quality audio and lighting system, with cordless microphones. Free consultation in the comfort of your own home, office, or at a specified neutral location at your convenience to discuss the details and show that I am the best fit for you!

Awarded Best of Zola
I am so happy we booked Jeff for our 10/5/24 wedding! His energy is contagious and he knows how to read the crowd to keep the party going! His laser lights are so cool and were the perfect addition to the party. He listened to us through the entire process to make sure he gave us exactly what we asked for and he delivered! He gave us planning sheets which made it so easy to plan every aspect of the day. We got many compliments from guests on his MCing that said he kept everyone informed and the schedule moving. I would 100% recommend Jeff for your DJing needs! Thank you Jeff!!!
Sara G., 8 months ago
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A Sound Decision DJ service/ affordable Disc Jockeys 

4.3

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,295
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

Planning a wedding, party or special event? We provide you with fun and talented disc Jockeys and a wide music library at affordable prices so that your party is the best. Award-winning A Sound Decision/ A ffordable Disc Jockey's started with a mission to provide top-notch DJ services throughout Northwest Indiana as well as Chicagoland in the most affordable prices so that no one has to party without music just due to a low budget. Starting in the 1990s, we are considered one of the most experienced and Voted most popular DJ service provider in Indiana, Michigan ,Wisconsin and Chicago for our quality which is unmatched. 1000 5 Star revs

Awarded Best of Zola
I am a wedding coordinator and typically we work very closely with the DJ at an event. A sound decision made my last wedding a breeze. They were wonderful at their job, very adaptive and so kind. They go above and beyond for each of their couples , you won’t regret booking a sound decision for your upcoming event.
Taryn steffen , a year ago
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JZ Studio Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,250
  • Serves Dakota, IL

JZ Studio Photography is a wedding and Portrait photography company based in Chicago, that services Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit and anywhere our couples may take us within US and Canada. At JZ Studio Photography, the team will create an amazing photographic experience for you on your wedding day, by capturing all of the most intimate and romantic moments through their camera lenses from beginning to end and compile the story for you.

Awarded Best of Zola
JZ Studio photography was such a pleasure to work with! He did a photoshoot session with me and some friends. He is so kind and polite, he made everyone feel comfortable and laugh. He is very knowledgeable in posing and getting natural shots. I highly recommend him for any photography needs including events, weddings and photoshoot sessions.
Sithara, 9 months ago
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Timeless Imagery & Media 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Lover of all things photography. I have been a photographer for over 10 years and love what we do. I have an amazing team that helps me out. My husband also second shoots with me. I like to say you get two professionals for the price of one. I try to offer quality at a reasonable cost. I know photography can be daunting for some people and my goal is always to put people at ease.

Awarded Best of Zola
Timeless Imagery & Media were such a pleasure to work with for our wedding. They were so open and easy to communicate with throughout the entire process, which put us at ease. The quality of their work was truly professional, and they had a wonderful family-oriented approach that made us feel comfortable. They were detailed, attentive, and incredibly flexible, contributing to our special day in so many positive ways. Beyond their exceptional service, they felt like family and were so accommodating - we couldn't be happier with the beautiful pictures they captured that will allow us to cherish our wedding memories forever.
Amber S., 5 months ago
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Melanie's Makeup Artistry 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Certified makeup artist Melanie Penera’s love for makeup started young when she was introduced to stage makeup at the Visual Performing Art academy located in the suburbs of Chicago. Her love of makeup soon grew into a passion that helped push her through schooling at The New Age Spa Institute to successfully earning her graduate certifications in makeup artistry, eyelash extensions and airbrush tanning. If you’re looking for someone who wants to make your big day as beautiful as you imagine then look no further, Melanie will show you how her passion for makeup with transform you into the bride you want to be.

Awarded Best of Zola
From the moment we booked Melanie's Makeup Artistry, their communication was quick and professional. On the day of the wedding, their team executed their services flawlessly, ensuring everything went according to plan. The makeup they provided was truly amazing - it looked flawless in all of our photos. They really took the time to understand our vision and executed beautifully. We couldn't have asked for a better beauty team to help make our special day perfect.
Yvette R., 7 months ago
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Abigail Saalfrank Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Dakota, IL

You are probably assuming my about me section will have a story about how I always wanted to be a photographer, I came out of the womb holding a camera, but that couldn’t be me. I stumbled into it, literally. I had no plans to become a wedding photographer. I was either going to follow my dad’s path and go to dental school, or become a social worker. But a freshman in college decided to shoot a few photos for fun, and now over eight years and almost 200 weddings later, I could not imagine myself doing anything else. This is my dream job!

Awarded Best of Zola
Abby wasn’t able to travel to my wedding but she sent her assistants and she edited the photos. It went absolutely perfect. The photos were beautiful and I got so many meaningful photos with my family and his family that I wouldn’t have thought to get. I sent her draft of a timeline and the photographers printed it out and had it to make sure the photos I wanted got done. They were absolutely amazing. Thank you so much to Abby and her team.
Paige L., 9 months ago
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Direct Entertainment DJ-Photo-Video-Booths 

4.8

  • DJ
  • Starts at $845
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

Choose your perfect wedding DJ, Photographer, Videographer, and Photo Booth with an entertainment company and name you can trust, GUARANTEED. We are as professional and fun as it gets, yet simple and AFFORDABLE. Let our team absorb your stress like a sponge! Since you'll be working exclusively with one company, your entire experience is guaranteed to be a breeze, and you SAVE $100 per service when bundling them.

Awarded Best of Zola
Direct entertainment LLC was just what I needed for my wedding a one stop shop! I was able to get my photographer Dave, Videographer Alex and DJ Chip all at one stop! All 3 were very friendly and accommodating! They discussed with me and helped me with the whole process! Very great to work with, just WONDERFUL!!
Crystal B., 10 months ago
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Premier Entertainment 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Darrin started in the Dj and music field in 2008, first by entertaining at private parties and karoke. This started his passion in music growing. In 2010, he wanted to take the DJ Service to the next level and opened up Premier Entertainment. Since then, Darrin has specialized in Weddings but has Dj'd Anniversary Parties, Birthdays, School Events, Car Shows, and other events. Darrin is a highly sought after DJ and recently obtained his Certified Wedding DJ Certificate from Wedding MBA.

Awarded Best of Zola
As I wedding photographer I have had the pleasure of working with Premier Entertainment, run by the dynamic duo Darrin and Cheryl Lee, and I can’t recommend them highly enough! Having known Darrin for over 10 years and collaborating with him on several occasions, I’ve always been impressed by his professionalism and passion for creating unforgettable events. Darrin’s expertise on the dance floor is unmatched. He utilizes a wide range of top-notch DJ equipment that really elevates the atmosphere. Whether it’s pumping up the energy during a wedding reception or creating the perfect vibe for a corporate event, he knows how to read the crowd and keep everyone engaged. Cheryl complements Darrin perfectly by ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. She’s like the conductor of a finely tuned orchestra, managing the event with precision while also interacting with guests to keep the fun going. One standout feature of Premier Entertainment is their innovative photobooth options. They add a fun, interactive element that guests absolutely love, capturing memories in a unique way. What truly sets them apart, though, is their exceptional pre-event timeline creation. It’s far superior to anything I’ve seen, providing a clear roadmap for the event and ensuring that everything unfolds seamlessly. If you’re looking for a DJ service that delivers not just great music but a complete entertainment experience, Premier Entertainment is the way to go! Darrin and Cheryl Lee are a fantastic team that truly makes your event memorable.
Thomas J. D., 9 months ago
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Sheena Anne photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Hello, Lovelies! Sheena here! I’m a Chicago Wedding & Engagement photographer located in Lockport, IL. I start from your wedding day, and I’m there to help with your timeline, set up our friendship, and so excitedly I have been with families from the wedding to the birth of their children, and one day on to their senior photos. Let’s capture your life as it grows and blossoms! Let’s work together to make some of your most beautiful moments your most precious memories.

Awarded Best of Zola
Sheena was EXTREMELY easy to work with and she delivered beautiful photos! I love looking back on my wedding day and smiling every time I look at my photos because of how she captured every moment. She is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a photographer for any occasion!
Beth & M., a year ago
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Piero Pierrot Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,300
  • Serves Dakota, IL

I'm Piero, I've been a wedding photographer for over 7 years, my approach combines a blend of candid and posed styles, ensuring that every smile, tear, and joyful dance is immortalized in stunning imagery, from the delicate details of your attire to the vibrant energy of the celebration, allowing you to relive the magic for years to come. I work closely with you to understand your vision and preferences, always helping you with your timeline, and assisting you with ideas to make sure vision comes true.

Awarded Best of Zola
We are so very happy with Piero Pierrot Photography. This man is so amazing, he made us feel so comfortable with his direction and ideas . We got some amazing photos and he is worth every penny . He was able to get all my guests, every important moment he captured . He even took some photos for a friend of mine and sent them directly to her . which were so beautiful btw . He made us feel seen which is so important and I will recommend him to anyone and everyone. Thank you for making our day one we will remember forever .
Jason M., 2 months ago
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Ledd Lens LLC, Photo and Film (Video Listing) 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Dakota, IL

We are traveling wedding photographer & videographer. For 2025, we have 120+ weddings booked in 35 different states. We offer not just video highlights in most of our video packages but also feature film. Quicker turnaround time compare to most companies. Our shooting style of is photojournalistic, natural & CINEMATIC. Our editing style is very easygoing & flexible depending on the client's preference. Our biggest markets are the following: Florida, Nee England area, Pennsylvania, Illinois, DMV area, Tri-State area, Southern California, Detroit area, Ohio, Colorado and we provide services anywhere in the country and overseas.

Awarded Best of Zola
We cannot recommend Ledd Lens highly enough! From start to finish, they provided an exceptional experience that went beyond our expectations. They captured every special moment of our wedding day with such artistry and care, delivering a collection of stunning photos that perfectly showcase the love, joy, and emotion we felt. The highlight video they created was nothing short of breathtaking—it brought both of us to tears. Every shot, every transition, and every detail was so beautifully crafted that it instantly took us back to the best day of our lives. Beyond their incredible work, their professionalism, kindness, and timeliness made the entire process seamless. They made us feel comfortable in front of the camera and truly understood how to capture our most cherished moments. If you’re looking for a team that will not only document your wedding but also tell your story in the most meaningful way, look no further. We are so grateful to have had them as part of our big day!
Brandon A., 4 months ago
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DJ Obie 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Dakota, IL

I got into DJing by accident. After learning that working as an Industrial Engineer in a fortune 500 company didn't bring me much fulfillment, a friend suggested I join his DJ company. His company supplied DJ services for over 200 weddings a year! After my first wedding gig I was hooked. It gave me purpose, and an outlet I never knew was possible. I quickly became the most requested DJ in the company and within my market. Now I DJ on my own, and I'm so blessed to be able to curate an atmosphere of joy where families can connect.

Awarded Best of Zola
DJ Obie is seriously the BEST!! He always brings such great energy that there’s no way anyone can have a bad time. Every wedding I’ve attended where he’s the DJ I’ve always had a smile on my face because of him. So many guests that were at our wedding continue to speak so highly of him. Our wedding was an absolute blast and I am so grateful he was our DJ!! I will always HIGHLY recommend DJ Obie!
Daly & T., 3 years ago
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Flower & Oak 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $2,749
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

For pricing information, visit our website. The excitement. The warm feelings. The quiet glances. The glow of newlywed love. As time passes, little details can slip away. That’s why we’re here: to help you preserve your memories, so that you can vividly recall life’s best moments for years to come. Founded by passionate creatives who have been obsessing over storytelling for decades, we are dedicated to providing an experience that combines creative artistry with personalized attention. From the first consultation to the final suite of content, our purpose is to bring your vision to life while providing unmatched value at every step.

Mark and his team confidently tackled the task of live-streaming the service while also capturing amazing moments throughout the day. From the “must haves” in the ceremony to the creativity of the highlights reel, Flower Oak delivered on all levels. I come from a technical background (audio recording) and ran sound for our wedding, so being able to “talk nerdy” with Mark, while also being able to “let go” and let him and his crew do their thing to capture our special day was super exciting. He is friends with our photographer and having their collaborative energies together was the best of all worlds.
Jon & M., 8 months ago
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Blush And Braids Beauty Bar 

4.9

  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 56
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Our specialties are sultry and natural glam makeup, as well boho chic hair, and gorgeous sleek and elevated styles! We have experience with a range of skin and hair types and tones, as well as a wide range of products, including airbrush makeup and hair extensions. We provide in-studio and on-site beauty services in Chicago and surrounding suburbs, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan. We also have a new location in Tacoma, WA, and have artists in the greater PNW area. We specialize in services for weddings and special events.

Awarded Best of Zola
I HIGHLY recommend using BBBB for your beauty services. As a bride who doesn't typically wear makeup and has naturally curly/wavy hair, my priority for hair/makeup services was finding a place who would make me look and feel beautiful and confident, but still like myself. The BBBB team KNOCKED it out of the park. Amy (makeup), Milian (hair) and Brenda (hair/makeup) were so kind and professional while doing hair/makeup for myself, my mother, my two grandmothers, my mother-in-law, and my two maids-of-honor. They kept us on schedule, but were flexible when someone was running behind or needed to take a break. Their energy was fun, warm, and relaxing, which helped to really set the tone for the day. Everyone was saying how the morning of the wedding felt almost like a spa experience – it was that relaxing! We all looked beautiful, seriously. And we all felt like *ourselves*, which was a top priority for us. I remarked to my husband that I felt the most beautiful I have ever felt in my life on my wedding day – and I don't know if I'll ever feel more gorgeous! So much of that is attributed to the hair and makeup services I received from BBBB. I felt so confident heading into our wedding day. Not once did I feel preoccupied about my appearance, because the artists crushed it. Thank you BBBB crew for making such a special, cherished day all the more magical.
Alexa M., 8 months ago
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Red Bank Studio 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

Red Bank Studio was founded in 2017 with one goal. To create unique, elegant and timeless memories for our couples. We look in meeting couples that love to be goofy , laugh and be present on their amazing day that is their Wedding Day. Our style of photography is all about you. We want to make sure we capture all the giggles, all the laughs, all the tears and even those goofy moments on the dancefloor. At the end of the day, we want to make sure you look back at your wedding day pictures and videos and relieve every single moment same like when it happened.

Awarded Best of Zola
Ten stars! I know I am super late, but better late than never. I just wanted to say thank you for how awesome Michael and the Red Bank Studio team were for our wedding. From their punctuality and professionalism throughout the whole process, to Michael’s contagious smile and good spirit on the wedding day, we must say that we could not have been able to find anyone else better than them to take care of us on our special day. I am not just saying this myself, but in fact many of my guests very impressed with Michael’s work and charisma, and came to me to complement his work and personality. Your energy, your charm, and your ability to make people laugh even when they do not want to, made our wedding day extra special. I must say that I was extremely worried about my husband and his lack of smiling skills, but he gave us the best smile I have ever seen in him. More than taking pictures and recording a video, Michael and the team would make sure that we were comfortable and we never felt overwhelmed with pictures that day. They actually enjoy their work. You can tell is not a job for them! I cannot thank you guys enough, and I will be forever grateful for the stellar work you guys performed at our wedding. I wish you and your team a successful and healthy 2023, and I hope we get to work together soon!
Paula B., 2 years ago
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Louis Pettinelli Entertainment 

5.0

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Louis Pettinelli Entertainment is a musical entertainment company that offers an unrivaled musical experience for clients around the country. We currently service over 25 metropolitan areas throughout the lower 48, and provide musical entertainment for hundreds of events every year. Our past clients include The United Nations, Lockheed Martin, Nationwide Auto Insurance, The Shell Oil Corporation, and many more. No event is too small or large for us. Louis Pettinelli Entertainment has musical ensembles that range from a soloist to a 15 piece party band, and everything in between!

Awarded Best of Zola
I was blown away by the talent of the musicians, they really take their craft seriously. I requested a Roaring Twenties theme from Louis Pettinelli and they went above and beyond to make it happen. The singer Karlea was phenomenal and did an amazing job of keeping our guests engaged and entertained. The musicians were all courteous, professional, and exceptionally talented. They dressed appropriately for our wedding theme and many of the guests at the Hawthorne Hotel wanted to take pictures with Karlea in her Twenties attire. In addition to being a wonderful experience, they were also a great value for the price. These are top quality musicians and we paid a reasonable price for the band. I highly recommend this group for your wedding.
Rochelle P., 10 months ago
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Amative Creative 

4.9

  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $4,400
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

Hello there! I'm Andrea, owner of Amative Creative, and every weekend we're so blessed to be able to tell the love stories of so many amazing couples. Like many others in this industry might say, we simply adore weddings. But what makes us a little different is our entire brand is centered around telling love stories specifically curated to reflect your vision and aesthetic. "Amative" means to be prone to love, so as you can see, we want nothing more than to tell your love story! But what makes us truly unique is that we understand every love story looks different. And we personalize every aspect of how we document your wedding day!

Awarded Best of Zola
Amative Creative did our wedding and the preview pictures are PERFECT. I am so happy I booked them! The vibe is everything I wanted, and they were super responsive the entire time!! 1000000% recommend!
Jayla G., 10 months ago
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Anderson Marques Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $1,990
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Over 500 award-winning photos and 15 trophies, establishing a strong reputation for an artistic and refined approach to wedding photography. Every frame is crafted to capture the essence of a couple’s love story, transforming their most meaningful moments into timeless works of art. With a signature style that blends creativity and elegance, the team masterfully composes each shot with exceptional attention to detail—showcasing everything from the intricate lace of the dress to the genuine joy in shared glances. Their expert use of light and shadow brings depth and emotion, creating an immersive visual experience that resonates deeply.

Awarded Best of Zola
We were lucky enough to win an engagement photo session with Anderson through a giveaway, and we couldn’t be more grateful! From the very beginning, he was professional, kind, and made us feel completely comfortable in front of the camera. The session took place at beautiful Lake Eola, and Anderson made the most of every angle and light. He guided us with patience and creativity, capturing genuine moments that truly reflect our love and connection. The photos turned out amazing—full of emotion, natural light, and so much joy. We highly recommend Anderson! He has an incredible eye for detail and a gift for capturing love in its most authentic form. Thank you for such an unforgettable experience!
Elzie V., a month ago
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Funk Almighty 

4.9

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Serves Dakota, IL

CHICAGO SHOWCASE, JULY 18th. Tickets available on our website. THE FUNK ALMIGHTY EXPERIENCE: 1.) A Dance Floor Full of All Generations (yes, even Grandma!) 2.) Concert-Level Musicianship 3.) Top-Tier Talent from IU’s Jacobs School of Music 4.) A Worry-Free, Seamless Experience 5.) A Customized Evening Tailored to Your Vision 6.) Professionalism, Groove, and Memories that Last a Lifetime

Awarded Best of Zola
Funk Almighty was no doubt the best booking we made for our wedding. The band was electric and had a sound that can only be made from a group that plays together consistently. Their old funky classics and new hits were excellently played and made the dance floor the place to be! Some of our guests said their favorite part of the reception was the band, just watching them play and entertain was a great show. From initial inquiry, to final performance, they were responsive and professional. They performed live the songs for our first dance along with the father/bride and mother/groom dances as well. Overall they are a major talent and perform a terrific set, all while remaining in budget. Let this review be the one to get you to book this band, you will not be disappointed!
Neal Zoellick, a year ago
GemHidden gem
Chelcie Lou Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Voted Best Detroit Wedding Photographer by Channel 4 News Detroit 2023. Metro Detroit Photographer. Based in southeast Michigan, but I'll meet you anywhere. Specializing in Weddings near and far, Engagement Portraits, Lifestyle Portraits, Newborn Portraits, Branding and more.

Awarded Best of Zola
Our experience with our wedding photographers for our Ford Field wedding was beyond incredible! The attention to detail and their professionalism were absolutely out of this world. We had the pleasure of working with Chelcie, the owner, for our engagement shoot, and her vision was stunning. For our wedding day, Jaclyn and Jeremy were our photographers, and they were nothing short of amazing. Their talent and creativity were mind-blowing. We didn’t have to worry about anything—Jaclyn and Jeremy picked the perfect spots for downtown photos, guided us on poses, and everything turned out better than we could have imagined. They were so friendly that we felt comfortable being ourselves, and they made us feel absolutely beautiful. If you're looking for amazing photos for your special day (and you absolutely should be!), please hire this team! Every time we look at our pictures, we’re brought to tears. We didn’t feel like just another client, but like we had made true friends. Can we give them 2000 stars? Highly, highly recommended!
Nicole M., 9 months ago
Quick responder
Visil Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,950
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Hi, I’m Victor Silas, the heart and soul behind Visil Photography. As the owner and lead photographer, I’m passionate about capturing genuine love stories and creating lasting memories. For me, it’s more than just snapping photos; it’s about preserving the unique, unforgettable moments that make your wedding day yours. I ensure you feel comfortable in front of the camera, allowing your love to shine through naturally. My style? Candid, photojournalistic, and effortlessly fun.

Awarded Best of Zola
Visil Photography provided amazing photography services for our wedding day. Victor was extremely respectful, informative, and positive in all of our communications leading up to the big event. On the wedding day itself, he was passionate about capturing all of those special moments we had envisioned. Victor has a gift for engaging with people and making them feel comfortable in front of the camera. He circulated seamlessly among our guests and captured countless touching interactions. My husband and I could not be happier with the beautiful, artistic photos Victor delivered. They will allow us to re-live our special day for years to come. I would highly recommend Visil Photography for any couple looking for a talented photographer who can beautifully document their wedding memories. Victor was a joy to work with!
Krystal Z., 10 months ago
Quick responder
Weddings by Jennifer Fox 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $440
  • Serves Dakota, IL

Congratulations —you’re getting married!! We want you to feel like your wedding is being handled by an old friend with a lot of experience! Marriage officiant, day of coordination and wedding planning for your wedding. What makes us unique?? We offer unique personalized ceremonies with our Officiating Services for your wedding- we will work together to ensure your ceremony is perfect for you and your partner! We also ensure your day is stress free and all about you! We come to you and travel anywhere! We love love!

Awarded Best of Zola
We are beyond grateful to our incredible wedding planner for helping bring our Garden Summer Wedding to life on June 14, 2025. From start to finish, the planning process was smooth, collaborative, and truly enjoyable. Every detail reflected our personalities and vision—from the romantic florals of eucalyptus, hydrangeas, and roses with soft touches of purple, to the perfectly arranged tent and décor that made our backyard feel magical. Our planner worked seamlessly with us and our vendors to make the day unforgettable. From accommodating fun and unexpected elements like a white bounce house castle and a vintage plum crazy 1970 Dodge Challenger, to helping coordinate Andrew and his son’s surprise dirt bike entrance—nothing was ever too big or too small. Their professionalism and calm presence allowed us to relax and fully enjoy every moment. Thank you for turning our ideas into something even more beautiful than we imagined. You gave us a day full of joy, laughter, and cherished memories—we couldn’t have done it without you! With heartfelt thanks, Yulia & Andrew
Yulia B., 7 days ago
GemHidden gem
Veronica Gomoll, Pianist 

5.0

  • Solo performer
  • Starts at $400
  • Serves Dakota, IL
  • Offer

I love to personalize your wedding music to create the exact ambiance you are looking for. Whatever your style, I can promise expressive, meaningful music that will become the soundtrack to the best day of your life. I can play the traditional songs you have been looking forward to all your life, or shake things up by taking your favorite pop or rock song and turning it into a lovely bridal entrance song! I have been married for 10 years and I remember the overwhelm that came with planning a wedding. I am here to help make your wedding music decisions easy and stress free!

Awarded Best of Zola
Veronica played for our wedding ceremony and it was the perfect addition to our day. She is so talented and professional! Not only does she have great selections to choose from but there is an option for her to learn songs of your choosing. This was so important to me because I wanted to surprise my fiance with a song. The only suggestion I have (for couples not Veronica herself!) is having some way to record her playing so you are able to enjoy it as well after. Veronica was so kind to send recordings of two songs after our wedding and I am so grateful to have them. She fulfilled my vision of a classical meets modern wedding ceremony. Highly recommend!
Meranda, 2 years ago

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