Emma Mullins Photography

Exactly one year ago, Ricky and Kyle tied the knot on a hot summer day at The Drake Oak Brook! Alexis met up with these two in the afternoon as they got ready together, one of our favorite ways that couples go against tradition. And these two were all smiles, right from the start! After some pre-ceremony photos around the hotel, it was time to get married 🙂 

Outdoor Ceremony at The Drake Oak Brook

That afternoon, Kyle and Ricky invited their loved ones to gather under the outdoor gazebo at The Drake. The intimate ceremony officiated by Andrew Trippi was personalized, emotional, and perfect for a summer elopement. The grooms exchanged vows and their custom David Yurman wedding bands, finally making it official. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. 

When it was officially official, more photos were in order, of course! Some very special guests of honor were next on the list: pups Buddy, Teemo and Indy. The newlyweds took a quick detour to get photos with these three at home… and I love that they were dressed for the occasion! If you’re dreaming of wedding photos with your fur babies, but unsure if you can make it happen, this is your sign that YES, it is possible. 

Cake and Celebration

Once back at The Drake, it was time to celebrate. Ricky and Kyle cut their Coco & Eve tuxedo wedding cake, and enjoyed an evening of celebration with their loved ones. What better way to spend a summer evening?

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, Ricky and Kyle! It was an honor to be part of your wedding day, thank you again for having us. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness (and furry friends)!!

Chicago Sunrise Engagement

One morning last October, I met up with Vivienne and Zach for as the sun was coming up over downtown. Rarely do I get to be in the heart of Michigan Avenue this time of day… but there we were! It’s strange to see the same locations that are so popular for wedding photos basically empty, except for a few pedestrians and business-people. But – I’m not complaining! What a treat to have that view outside the Wrigley Building all to ourselves in the early morning light 🙂 

Vivienne and Zach were adorable as can be as we made our way toward the Riverwalk for a morning stroll. By this time, the workday had officially started and we were in the middle of the downtown bustle. We chatted about wedding planning, their recent engagement, and fur babies, of course! Finally it was time to make our way to Lincoln Park, near where they will tie the knot later this year!

Lincoln Park Engagement Photos

Although Lincoln Park is probably the location we visit most for engagement photos, it definitely has a different vibe in the morning vs. afternoon. The weather was unseasonably lovely, and I must say that Zach and Vivienne chose the perfect outfits for this day! True nature-lovers, we visited some favorite spots in the park including the leaves just starting to change. These two were pros by the end of our session – I can’t wait to do it again on wedding day! 

Vivienne and Zach: Thank you again for having me last fall!! Your Chicago sunrise engagement session was a ton of fun and I’m so looking forward to your wedding in September!

Home Engagement Photos with Velvet

Moira and Nick’s Chicago home engagement session was everything I love about these kinds of shoots – relaxed, personal, and totally them. One evening this summer I met up with these two at their place, and I could instantly feel the love and warmth of their home. They laughed, danced, listened to music, and just enjoyed being with each other. It felt more like a hang-out session than a photo session, which always leads to such natural, authentic images. Before long, their kitty Velvet (the “star”) made a few guest appearances – and she couldn’t have been more sweet!

Summer Rain and Late-Night Laughs

We decided to venture outside for photos with a colorful neighborhood mural, and a few looming clouds inspired us to check the forecast. The apps all told me we had plenty of time before rain… but alas, it wasn’t so! Finding ourselves in a light summer rain was not a problem for these two – in fact, they continued to dance and play and look as in love as ever. The wet pavement under the Metra tracks created the most romantic reflections, and I’m super excited with how these turned out! Eventually, we made it back to their place just in time for the skies to open up completely. I’ll take that as a win! 

Late Night After-Bar Vibes

I was excited to wrap our session with a late-night “afterbar” vibe – an idea that Nick and Moira casually mentioned to me when we first met. It didn’t end up making the cut for our original plan, but the surprise weather that day gave us the perfect opportunity! We put on a record, poured the wine, and it was all magic from there. I’m so excited that these two love to take photos together, and thrilled they were up for this! What’s more, I got to try something new: at-home engagement photos after dark. And I will say: 10/10 recommend, would do it again! 

Moira and Nick: Thanks again for inviting me into your space and trusting the process, even when Chicago weather had other plans. I can not wait for you to tie the knot in less than one month!!

One lovely evening in June, I met up with Joan and JT for their Lincoln Park engagement session! Naturally, they had their pup Doug tag along for photos (shout out to Emily for helping us out)! After a spring full of unpredictable weather, we got lucky with the most beautiful evening in the park. As you can see, these two were adorable in front of the camera – and I’m counting the days until their October wedding! 

Lincoln Park Engagement Photos 

We met at The Bridge Over South Pond for those iconic skyline views, and Joan and JT couldn’t keep their eyes off each other. It was such a treat to stroll around the Nature Boardwalk with these two… and Doug’s smiley face, of course! We chased the golden light around the park, making sure to stop at some favorite locations. As the sun began to set, we continued our stroll all the way to the lakefront!

“A Classic For a Reason”

When we first started planning this session, Joan mentioned taking photos with the skyline view at North Avenue Beach. As many of you know, this is one of the most popular locations in the city for engagement photos! Joan described this spot as “a classic for a reason,” and I couldn’t agree more 🙂 

Lucky for us, we arrived with perfect timing to capture some super fun moments before the sun went down! And these two have some moves – did they not nail the dip photo?! I hardly believed them when they told me it was their first time! I’m obsessed with the romantic light at the end of this session, and the way these two look at each other. I have no doubt their wedding day is going to be AWESOME. 

Joan and JT: Thank you again for having me capture these moments for you! Can’t wait for you to make it official this fall!!

This year, I got to kick off the summer season with Jackie and Gabe’s Memorial Day weekend wedding at Être Farms! Their wedding happened to be my first at this gorgeous St. Joseph venue, and it did not disappoint. Être is a family-run business, created specifically for weddings (and with photography in mind)! From the planners and florists to the catering and serving staff, the entire Être team was a pleasure to work with.

Être Farms Wedding Day

But, I digress! The day began with Jackie and Gabe early that afternoon, where they got ready separately inside the white barn. Their first look took place on the upper mezzanine, bathed in window light and the biggest smiles! Fun fact: this area would later become the dance floor… one of my favorite things about the setup at Être 🙂 

After their first look, we got to explore the property for photos in the bright May sunshine! Family and friends gathered to witness these two sign their Ketubah, and before long, it was time to get these two married 🙂 One of Jackie’s sisters officiated the ceremony, which included personal details and blessings from their immediate family members. They kissed, said I Do, and finally it was Gabe’s moment to break the glass! 

Once it was officially official, guests made their way around the barn for cocktail hour. Family and friends enjoyed yard games, custom cocktails, and the perfect Michigan breeze. I couldn’t get enough of the photo spots at this venue – white barn weddings always photograph so well!

White Barn Wedding Reception

Jackie and Gabe shared their first dance, which was followed by the most EPIC Hora upstairs! Dinner and speeches took place on the first floor of the barn, and then the party moved upstairs for more dancing! I loved getting to see so many familiar faces at this wedding – in fact, you may recognize Gabe’s brother Evan from his Chicago Microwedding in 2020 (HI, Erin and Evan!). Their mother Miriam also happens to be a fellow wedding industry professional (check out Chicagoland Chuppah). 

I’m lucky I got to pull these two off the dance floor for the most romantic golden hour, and a few night photos after dark, of course! 

Jackie and Gabe: Thank you again for trusting us to capture your wedding this year!! I’m so happy to have been part of this day and wish you all the best in Married Life 🙂 

The Godfrey Hotel Wedding Photos

Michell and Trevor’s Chicago Winery wedding this spring was an absolute pleasure to capture. The day began in style at The Godfrey Hotel, just a short walk from the venue. These two got ready separately with their wedding parties, before sharing a sweet first look on the hotel terrace! Michell and Trevor were ALL smiles, surrounded by their closest loved ones (and a killer skyline view). The Godfrey’s modern vibe paired perfectly with the energy in the room… you could just feel how ready they were for this day! Of course we took advantage of the location (and their wedding party fashion = on point) for photos and a champagne toast before heading to the venue.

Chicago Winery Wedding

Lucky for us (and thanks to some expert planning), we walked around the corner to Chicago Winery for more portraits before the ceremony. Michell and Trevor were naturals in front of the camera – we got to explore the Barrel Room and all the gorgeous natural light throughout the space! Truly, this venue is a dream to photograph. The warm elegance provides so much character, and I just love the variety of locations for photos.

Trevor and Michell were married that evening surrounded by loved ones, in a ceremony officiated by a friend. The gorgeous white florals and greenery really elevated the space, while adding a touch of romance! Once the knot was tied, guests celebrated with local wine, Chicago brews, delicious food, and LOTS of dancing. A highlight of the evening was their choreographed first dance (including a Dirty Dancing-style lift!)… not to mention Michell’s dance with her father that turned into an epic Flash Mob! Guys – this was so fun and super memorable. And being my first Wedding Flash Mob, and all I can say is: I hope to see more of these!!

As you can guess, the dance party that followed did not disappoint. I’m so happy the Newlyweds agreed to step away for a few night photos inside the winery! Below are my favorite photos from their day, captured on digital + film 🙂

Michell and Trevor: Thank you again for inviting us to capture your day – it was such a fun celebration! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness together!!

Brigid and Matthew’s Lincoln Park wedding day was truly a pleasure to capture… and so very them. After getting engaged exactly one year prior (on their anniversary), they were lucky enough to snag the same date at Cafe Brauer this year! Not only that: their home is within walking distance to the venue, as you may recall from their Lincoln Park engagement session last spring. In fact, every location from their wedding day was within a one-mile radius from each other.

On wedding day, Brigid and Matt got ready separately at home. One of my favorite details from their day was the private first look inside their apartment (awww!!)! This intimate moment really set the tone for the rest of their day.

Lincoln Park Conservatory Wedding Photos

Before the ceremony, we hopped on a trolley with the wedding party and headed to Lincoln Park Conservatory. This is another one of our favorite photo locations in the city – especially useful as a rain (or cold) plan for winter weddings! We had a blast exploring the greenhouse and capturing some gorgeous pre-ceremony portraits of these two. Before long, it was time to swing by St. Clement Catholic Church and get MARRIED!

Good Time for a Guinness

Once the knot was tied, celebration was in order! The Newlyweds opted to treat their family and friends to a round (or two) of Guinness at nearby Irish pub, Galway Arms. It was such a fun, relaxed way to kick off the party… including lots of cheers and congratulations from other patrons! And the fun didn’t stop there: guess what was served as both His and Hers signature cocktails at Cafe Brauer? Guinness, of course! They even kicked off their reception with a Guinness toast to all of their guests, pints in hand.

Cafe Brauer Wedding Reception

Once the party started, it didn’t slow down. The dance floor was especially packed for the Hora, and surprise performance by Derrick Tate on saxophone! Derrick was a total crowd favorite, weaving in and out of the crowd and playing right alongside guests. If you’re looking for a unique and interactive way to get your guests on the dance floor, definitely check him out!

Late-night ballpark hot dogs were served to keep the energy up, and I don’t think Brigid or Matt left the dance floor for a moment. They even cut their wedding cake during dancing – which was homemade by Brigid, I might add (it’s true!). I’m lucky I got to steal these two away for Newlywed photos outside the venue before saying goodbye 🙂

Brigid and Matt: Thank you again for having us in March! It was an honor to be part of your wedding day, we couldn’t be happier for you both! Mazel Tov and Sláinte!!

A Stroll Through the Frank Lloyd Wright District

Yan and Jimmy’s Oak Park engagement session was like stepping into the first chapter of their love story. These two first explored this neighborhood early in their relationship, wandering the historic streets and touring the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. Returning for their engagement photos felt especially full-circle! Every time I’m in Oak Park I can’t help but stop and admire the architecture of the homes. Yan and Jimmy were full of fun facts and knowledge about Frank Lloyd Wright – and had some favorites themselves!

Oak Park Engagement Photos

After photos at the studio, we took a walking tour around the neighborhood (led by Jimmy and Yan, of course!). We stopped for photos outside their favorite houses, including dreamy, historic Cheney Mansion. Throughout the session, we chatted about their wedding plans, life in Chicago, and how this neighborhood shaped the early days of their relationship. One of my favorite locations was Austin Gardens – perfect for a romantic afternoon stroll and lush greenery. And, we couldn’t leave the garden without a photo in front of the Frank statue!

Classic Chicago Italian Beef

Our final stop was Johnnie’s Beef! Not only is this place home to the classic Italian Beef sandwich, but yet another one of their first date spots 🙂 We always encourage our couples to make their engagement session as personalized as possible – and stopping at Johnnie’s was the best idea. Who doesn’t want to end a great session with a delicious sandwich?!

Can’t wait for these two to tie the knot here in Chicago later this year!

Cara and Jake’s wedding at Ovation last July was one for the books! If I had to pick one wedding from last season that just screamed “Chicago Summer,” this would be it. And if you know anything about Chicago in the summertime, you know that their day was awesome. 

Wedding day began with these two getting ready separately, Cara at their West Loop home and Jake at The Westin in River North. One of my favorite fun facts about these two is that their sweet pup has the same name as me! Of course we had to capture little nods to Emma throughout the day – such as their custom ring dish and Jake’s wedding socks 🙂 

Chicago Summer Wedding Photos

Their first look along the Riverwalk was followed by lots of cheers and congratulations by onlookers – and these two were ALL smiles. We made our way to Olive Park for some iconic wedding photos with the Chicago skyline, and before long, it was time to head to Ovation. Shout out to Spencer for driving us around the neighborhood for photos with the Rolls Royce before the ceremony!

Ovation Chicago Wedding

That evening, Cara and Jake said I Do under a gorgeous birch Chuppah and the venue’s signature skylight, surrounded by loved ones. A friend of theirs officiated the ceremony, filled with pop culture references and their unique story. Once the glass was broken, it was time to celebrate!!

Guests enjoyed delicious food, drinks, and lots of dancing throughout the night. The evening’s playlist made my Millennial heart feel right at home! (I don’t get to hear 10,000 Maniacs at every wedding!) Another highlight of the evening was Big Bro’s Ice Cream truck. They pulled up to the venue just in time for a break from dancing… and it was a hit! If you’re planning a summer wedding in Chicago and want to surprise your guests with a late-night treat, you can’t go wrong with ice cream!

Cara and Jake: Thank you again for having me last summer!! I had so much fun at your wedding and couldn’t be happier for you both! 

Music Box Theatre Engagement Photos

Sarah and Wil are getting married TOMORROW!! Of course, I couldn’t let that happen without featuring their engagement session at Music Box Theatre. I recently met up with these two at the classic Chicago cinema, one of our mutual favorite locations in the city. Fun fact: one of their first dates was at Music Box (they saw Vertigo)! I’m so happy we got to return here for their engagement photos – they even referred to Music Box as “our favorite theater in the world.”

We got to hang out in the lounge, taking advantage of window light and even stepping into the garden for a few. In case you didn’t know, Music Box regularly shows films in their outdoor garden area during the warmer months! Favorites like Ten Things I Hate About You, The Sandlot, and Wet Hot American Summer usually make an appearance. Definitely worth checking out! Wil and Sarah were a treat in front of the camera, totally in their element, and so clearly smitten with each other. Huge shout out to the staff for helping us coordinate this session, and allowing us to take photos in the garden!

A Stroll Through Lincoln Park

After our time at Music Box, we made our way to Lincoln Park for a golden hour stroll. If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know this is a classic location! Chicago weather could not have been more lovely – a welcome change in the unpredictable spring we’ve had! We made our way across the Nature Boardwalk to the honeycomb, and some other favorite spots in the park. I was a little obsessed with Sarah’s outfit – perfect for a twirl!

Sarah and Wil: Thank you again for having me, and being up for taking photos at Music Box! I’m so excited to do it again SOON and finally make it official 🙂