Jessica & Chad in Highland, IL

Jessica Dunker had just transferred to Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville when she moved into the apartment right above Chad Hester. The two became very close friends, and eventually they started dating. After dating for eight years, some of it long-distance, Chad surprised Jessica with a Christmas proposal. The Bride Jessica Dunker, 29, collections administrator The Groom Chad Hester, 29, sales The Date August 18 Though the two initially considered marrying in St. Louis, Jessica and Chad decided to wed in southern Illinois, where the bride grew up. With plenty of planning help from the bride’s sister, the two planned a celebration with a beachy summer theme and a chocolate-brown and turquoise palette. The vibrant colors, combined with tropical touches like shells and tiki-inspired centerpieces, gave their wedding a fun, relaxed vibe.