Our Story
Ana and Jacob’s story began with a bit of divine timing. While visiting family in Bloomington, Illinois, from her home in Zacatecas, Mexico, Ana almost booked a trip to visit family in San Diego, California instead—but fate had other plans. While visiting Bloomington, a friend saw something special and believed Ana and Jacob might be the perfect match.
Although Jacob was living in Champaign and studying at the University of Illinois, the connection was made. They soon discovered they shared many things in common: curious minds, a love for meaningful conversations, and a deep appreciation for travel and movies—especially related to Disney.
From the very beginning, it felt natural—as if they had always known each other. Now, Ana and Jacob are looking forward to celebrating the next chapter of their journey with the people who mean the most to them.
Bride - Anaid Iniesta
Ana is originally from the beautiful state of Zacatecas, Mexico. She earned her degree in International Trade and Customs, specializing in International Business, and has built a successful career in logistics and global commerce. In addition to working as an Account and Logistics Executive for an auto parts manufacturer, she also co-founded a transport consulting business.
Family is at the heart of everything Ana does—she is deeply devoted to her friends and loved ones and brings warmth and joy wherever she goes.
Groom - Jacob Simpson
Jacob was raised in Bloomington, Illinois. He earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Sustainability, Energy and Environment Fellowship from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He recently began his career at Littelfuse, a global technology company specializing in creating circuit protection products.
Jacob enjoys problem-solving and building thoughtful solutions, especially when it means improving the world around him. Jacob is known for his kind heart, quiet humor, and deep sense of loyalty.
Wedding Date
We are thrilled to invite you to celebrate with us on our special day!
Date
19th
July
2025
Time
2:00 PM
Location
Funks Grove Chapel in the Trees
7054 E. 535 North Road
McLean, IL 61754
Wedding Day Schedule
Ceremony
2:00 PM at Funks Grove Chapel in the Trees, 7054 E. 535 North Road, McLean, IL 61754
Ceremony Details & Attire
This is an outdoor wedding in a beautiful, forested setting beneath a canopy of trees. The Chapel in the Trees features large, rustic log pews made from American Red Elm, which will be covered for guest comfort.
While the trees provide generous shade, the weather in mid-July is expected to be hot and humid. Please wear whatever you’ll be comfortable in. The bride, groom, and their parents will be in traditional, formal wedding attire, but guests are welcome to dress in lighter or more casual clothing, especially if it helps keep them cool.
In the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved inside the white church located across the road.
Reception
5:00 PM at First Assembly of God Church,800 E. Vernon Avenue, Normal, IL 61761
Reception Details
Following the ceremony, please join us for a joyful evening of celebration, great food, and fellowship. The reception will feature a buffet dinner catered by Avanti’s Italian Restaurant, with a variety of classic favorites. We’ll enjoy wedding cake for dessert, and while there won’t be full music or dancing, Ana and Jacob will share a special first dance together as part of the evening.
Directions to Funks Grove
From Bloomington/Normal (North):
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Take I-55 South toward Springfield
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Exit at Shirley
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Turn right at the top of the off-ramp
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Turn left at the T-intersection onto Old Route 66
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Continue southwest for about 4.2 miles
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Turn right on County Road 36 at the Funks Grove sign
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Take the first left at the signs for Funks Grove Church and Sugar Grove Nature Center (look for our wedding signs along the way)
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Follow the road until you see the white church and picnic shelter
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Park in the lot near the white church
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The path to the Chapel in the Trees is located across the road from the picnic shelter
From Springfield (South):
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Take I-55 North toward Bloomington/Normal
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Exit at McLean
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Turn left at the bottom of the off-ramp
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Just past McDonald's, turn right onto Old Route 66
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Continue northeast for about 5 miles
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Turn left on County Road 36 at the Funks Grove sign
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Take the first left at the signs for Funks Grove Church and Sugar Grove Nature Center (wedding signs will guide you)
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Follow the road until you see the white church and picnic shelter
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Park in the lot near the white church
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The path to the Chapel in the Trees is located across the road from the picnic shelter
Directions to the Reception from Funks Grove
After the ceremony at Funks Grove Chapel in the Trees, the reception is about 30 minutes (19 miles)—to First Assembly of God Church in Normal, Illinois.
From the Ceremony to the Reception Venue:
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From the Chapel in the Trees, head back toward E 535 North Rd
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Continue on E 525 North Rd for 0.2 miles
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Turn left onto N 725 East Rd and go 0.3 miles
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Turn right onto E 550 North Rd for 0.7 miles
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Veer slightly left to stay on N 725 East Rd, then quickly
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Turn sharp right onto E 550 North Rd (CR-36)
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Go 0.2 miles, then turn left onto N 850 East Rd (CR-36)
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Continue on E 550 North Rd (CR-36) for 2.7 miles
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Turn left onto N 1100 East Rd (CR-41) and continue for 1.8 miles
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Stay on N 1075 East Rd (CR-41) for another 1.7 miles
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Turn right onto E 850 North Rd (CR-34 E) and go 3.2 miles
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Turn left onto N 1450 East Rd (US-51 N)
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Continue for 2.1 miles, then stay on US-51-BR N for 4.5 miles
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Turn right onto W Beaufort St
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Keep right onto W Vernon Ave and go 0.8 miles
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Turn left, then a quick right into the church parking lot
