Welcome to Camp Allie & Kess – at Kilbuck Creek
Welcome to camp Allie and Kess! Tucked into the woods of rural Illinois, Allie and Kess’s wedding weekend was part love story, part summer camp, and all heart. Inspired by nostalgic summer camp vibes, the couple transformed Kilbuck Creek into “Camp Allie & Kess” — a cozy, craft-filled and joyfully queer haven where their favorite people could gather and stay for the weekend.
Allie and Kess’s love story began at a house party, introduced by mutual friends and bonded through a queer softball league that they still play in today. That same spirit of community shaped their wedding weekend. They prioritized finding a venue where everyone could stay, play and linger. When they toured Kilbuck, just south of Rockford, they immediately pictured who would claim which bunk beds and could practically smell breakfast sizzling in the big family kitchen. Embracing the summer camp theme, they welcomed guests with handcrafted tote bags including custom bandanas, shot glasses and other surprises.
Staying true to their love of shared storytelling and chosen family, Kess and Allie invited four meaningful people to help tell their story. Including aunts, uncles and the friend who first introduced them, each officiant shared personal reflections with warmth that brought out happy tears.
Grateful to their community for making the celebration possible, the couple said, “We couldn’t have done it without them, and we wouldn’t be us without them.” From flash tattoos to Fireball shots, Camp Allie and Kess was a weekend-long confirmation that love thrives where community, creativity and big, open mouth laughs come together.
Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHER: Madi Ellis Photography
VIDEOGRAPHER: Patsy Thayieng
VENUE: Kilbuck Creek
PLANNER: Sydney Gibbs
FLORAL: Event Floral
ALLIE’S GOWN: Tie the Knot Bridal Boutique
ALLIE’S RECEPTION ATTIRE: Express
KESS’ CEREMONY ATTIRE: Perte D’ego
KESS’ RECEPTION ATTIRE: SuitShop
ALLIE’S HAIR: Les is More Hair
MAKEUP: Alpenglow Artistry
WATCH ENGRAVING: The Jewels of Chicago
JEWELRY: Local Eclectic
CATERING: Costa’s Catering
SWEETS: Stan’s Donuts
