Emma Mullins Photography

At the end of April, I finally had a chance to hang out with Maddy and Max! I met these two at their downtown home for formal Chicago engagement photos with their pup, Frank 🙂 We went for a stroll around some favorite spots in their neighborhood – including the tulip garden outside their building! Max and Maddy looked absolutely stunning, not to mention they were ALL smiles. Frank couldn’t keep his paws off of them!

When it was time to say goodbye to Frank, the three of us walked to Michigan Avenue for some iconic Chicago engagement photos. Downtown was especially beautiful this evening with the spring blooms and golden light! Our timing could not have been more perfect. We talked about wedding plans, their Grand Canyon engagement, and all exciting things to come. These two were a blast to spend the evening with – and a treat to have in front of my lens! I don’t think I could pick a favorite photo from our session if I tried!

The weather began to change, which was our cue to head toward the lakefront. We made it to North Avenue Beach just in time for champagne with the skyline before a sudden Chicago downpour! Maddy and Max were smart to stay dry… but I was stranded with my cameras until the rain let up. When it did, guess what appeared in the sky?! A colorful RAINBOW over Lake Michigan and our beautiful city. If that’s not the sign of a fabulous session, I don’t know what is!

Maddy and Max: I loved everything about your formal Chicago engagement session! Can’t wait for you to tie the knot in December!!!

Alison and Kevin’s downtown spring engagement session was romantic, dreamy, and most of all: FUN!! These two were a breeze to have in front of my camera, and we got to visit some favorite Chicago photo locations. Spring came early this year (well, early for Chicago, that is!)… and I can not get enough of these April blooms! So happy we had a chance to play on the Riverwalk before heading to the lakefront.

When I first starting talking with Alison, we knew the skyline view at Museum Campus was a must for their engagement photos. After years of long distance and multiple cities, these two were happy to finally call Chicago home. She and Kevin live in the South Loop and walk to the lakefront regularly, so naturally this was the perfect place to be for sunset! We were lucky to get a pop of sunshine just in time for golden hour – some of my favorite photos from their session. Not to mention: these two mastered every dip, lift, and dancing photo! I was thoroughly impressed, only to find out that it was not their first time making those moves 🙂

Alison and Kevin: Thank you again for having us last month!! You two were a joy to photograph and I wish you nothing but happiness in your future together.

On a lovely spring morning in March, I was honored to attend Jake and Zoe’s intimate Cafe Brauer wedding. In fact, along with my Associate-in-Training (hi Dana!), we were the only official guests! Zoe and Jake had been planning a grand celebration in New Orleans for their wedding day. When 2020 happened, they were certain of one thing: they were going to get married that day no matter what!

Zoe’s words:

“Even though our wedding will be a small affair, we wanted a dramatic and beautiful location. We’re excited to have an intimate wedding and exchange vows with just each other — and then we’ll have a party with our friends and family once it’s safe.”

If you’re looking for a dramatic and beautiful place to get married in Chicago, look no further than Cafe Brauer! This historic building is a true Chicago landmark, right in the middle of Lincoln Park. Which means, of course, plenty of prime photo locations all within walking distance (and easy rain plan, too!). I am not at all surprised that these two decided to exchange vows here!

Jake and Zoe got ready separately before meeting for their emotional First Look. Zoe was lucky enough to have her mom join us at the hotel in the morning – these are some of my favorite moments from the whole day! When we arrived at Cafe Brauer, the couple exchanged handwritten love letters before seeing each other for the first time. These two warned me there might be some tears… and they weren’t joking! After their personal vows, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. It always seems like intimate weddings tend to get more emotional… and they are my absolute favorite to photograph for this reason 🙂

Zoe and Jake: THANK YOU again for having me capture these beautiful moments for you. Your wedding day was a pleasure to be a part of! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!!

Vendor Team

Venue: Cafe Brauer/Hotel: Waldorf Astoria/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: A New Day/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Groom’s tie: purchased in Italy/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Officiant: Wedding Day Chicago/Hair & Makeup: We Only Do Pretty/Stationery: Shutterfly, Zazzle/Bride’s rings: Phil Greengus/Groom’s ring: Grown Rings/Cake: Bittersweet

What exactly is a “First Look?” These days, any wedding photographer will tell you it’s when a couple intentionally sees each other on their wedding day before the ceremony.

Some of you may be gasping at the thought of this (it’s against tradition!!) – others might consider the trend old news. But truthfully, including a First Look in your wedding day has become one of the most important decisions a couple will make. The result is usually a combination of tears and laughter… but always full of emotion.

Even though there are many advantages to having First Look, it’s not the best decision for every couple. I have heard plenty of arguments both for and against a First Look, and most of the time I am 100% FOR it. Below you’ll find seven of my favorite reasons to have a First Look!

1. Logistics.
   You want to spend as much of your wedding day together as possible. Especially for ceremonies that are later in the day, I always encourage couples to have a First Look early on. Everyone tells you your wedding day will be over before you know it, and – they’re right! If you’re apart until 5 or 6 pm, that’s a large portion of the day you could spend making sweet wedding memories.
   
2. Lighting.
   This reason has 100% to do with photography. Depending on what time of year you’re getting married, the sun will set anywhere between 4:30 and 8:30pm. Keep in mind that for ceremonies later in the day, there won’t be time for natural light photos of you and your partner if you don’t have a First Look. What does this mean? No gorgeous greenery, no fall colors, no sunshine, no golden hour. Yes, we can take separate solo portraits, family and wedding party photos during daylight, but every single Newlywed photo from your wedding day will be taken with artificial light. If that’s not the aesthetic you’re going for, definitely consider (an earlier ceremony or) having a First Look!
   
3. Privacy.
   It’s a moment you can enjoy together, alone. As the guests of honor you’ll have places to be, and a timeline to keep up with. Yes – your day will be filled with your favorite people, but there won’t be much opportunity for just the two of you together. Having a First Look guarantees a few moments of privacy on your wedding day. Some couples even choose to exchange personal vows during this time (instead of at the ceremony), which always makes for really unique and intimate photos.
   
4. Nerves.
   Let’s face it: your wedding day is kind of a big deal. There’s a lot going on – the result of months of planning and decision-making. Of course you want it to be perfect! No matter how your emotions may be running, any nerves will melt away the moment you see each other (pinky swear!!). We’ve seen it time and time again. First Looks are one of my favorite things to photograph for this reason.
   
5. More photos!
   This might seem like an easy one, but it’s worth mentioning. If you have a First Look you’ll get an extra set of portraits together that wouldn’t exist otherwise.
   
6. Stage fright.
   Remember I mentioned that these things get emotional? Imagine experiencing that moment in front of 100+ guests with all eyes on YOU. Be prepared to let those emotions run while on display – or not allow yourself to experience them fully. Even if you don’t consider yourself an outwardly emotional person, wedding days can be completely unpredictable (yep – you might cry!). If this does not sound appealing to you, I highly recommend a First Look.
   
7. Authenticity.
   Have you been dreaming about the look on your partner’s face as you walk down the aisle? Or, as they walk down the aisle toward you? Trust me: that moment will still be REAL and still be emotional. They will be just as excited to see you at that moment whether you’re apart all day or spend it together.

Bonus Reason: We Like To Party!

It’s true: With a First Look, you’ll have the option to complete ALL your formal/posed/family/group photos before the ceremony even begins. What does that mean? Once it’s officially official, you can relax, let loose, and ENJOY the party you’ve been planning for so long, alongside your loved ones. Once that ring is on your finger, not having to worry about an agenda or chasing daylight may be exactly what you need! By this point, you can rest assured that we’ve already captured countless candid moments and the formal shots you wanted. Now you can just focus on the fun stuff! Any additional Newlywed Photos (yes, we’ll definitely get some of those) are just an added bonus 🙂

Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Below are several first looks we’ve photographed, and a few ceremony first looks for comparison. Meaning: there’s a mix of couples who did see each other before the ceremony, and some couples who didn’t.

Can you tell the difference?! Let me know!

Featured couples and venues include:

Mary & William, Thalia Hall / Emily & John, Salvage One / Carly & Matt, Chevy Chase Country Club / Amanda & Rob, Rivers Restaurant / Erica & Eric, River Roast / Melissa & Anand, Room 1520 / Alex & Jason, Lacuna Events / Alissa & Mel, Mercantile Hall / Jessika & Matthew, Grant Park / Ben & Carla, Begyle Brewing / Eliza & Patrick, Chicago Athletic Association / Katie & Natalie, Ravenswood Event Center / Ada & Brendan, TheWit / Kristal & Brian, Galleria Marchetti / Dana & Noah, ARIA Minneapolis / Jenn & TJ, Galleria Marchetti / Rachel & Jon, Cozumel, Mexico / Ariel & Aaron, Ignite Glass Studios / Justin & Lani, Cancun, Mexico

It’s no secret that surprise proposals are one of my FAVORITE things to capture. I just love the excitement of it all – the planning, the anticipation, and of course the moment of surprise! This surprise proposal, however, was a little different: I got to be a part of the cover story.

Kevin and Brandon found me last month and ended up booking their 2022 wedding… before they were officially engaged! I knew that they were planning to propose to each other, and secretly hoped I’d get to capture one of these moments. I was SO excited when Brandon asked me to capture his proposal to Kevin!!

After weeks of secret emails and phone calls, Brandon and I came up with a game plan. Their friend Allie (shout out to Allie!) suggested Game Night Out as a perfect place for Brandon to propose. Because the party room would be empty, Brandon could decorate to his heart’s desire! And – with the help of friends and family – that’s exactly what he did!!

We got Kevin to Lincoln Park under the pretense that they were modeling for a new video on my web site. Oh – and by this time, Kevin had already proposed to Brandon!! He expected Brandon to pop the question during their mini session, and when that didn’t happen, we KNEW he’d be surprised. I ran to the party room at lightning speed, and when the two of them arrived, it was perfect. Brandon finally asked Kevin to marry him, and Kevin said YES. To top it all off, a group of friends and family were waiting in the next room to congratulate them!

CONGRATULATIONS, Brandon and Kevin!! I’m so happy I was able to be there for this moment. Can’t wait to capture more memories very SOON 🙂

Are you planning a suprise proposal in Chicago? Check out these other favorites for inspiration!

Gabriel & Sueyi’s Millennium Park Proposal
Rob & Amy’s Ice Skating Proposal
Alex & John’s Harold Washington Library Proposal
Erik & Claire’s Chicago Lakefront Proposal

Today’s post is dedicated to Maya and James! These two have been an absolute joy to get to know and work with over the past year. Remember their awesome pizza-and-milkshake themed Engagement Session?? After that, I could not wait for their wedding day! But of course, like many couples, the dream wedding they had planned for 2020 would not be possible. Though we’re still waiting for a time to celebrate safely with family and friends, these two didn’t want to wait any longer to be married! Early this year, they told me of their plans to wed privately on the anniversary of their first date. I couldn’t help but get excited again!!

James and Maya committed to having the Best Day Ever no matter what. Even with a few last-minute curveballs from Life, these two rolled with the punches. And – I don’t think they ever stopped smiling!! Sadly, I was in quarantine on Minimony Day… but we were lucky enough to have associate Dana take over. (Thank you, Dana!) After a private Zoom ceremony officiated by James’ brother, Dana joined the Newlyweds for photos and cake cutting. Finally, it was time to brave the weather…

It’s true what they say: when you wish for snow at your winter minimony, you just might get a BLIZZARD!! The weather gods heard Maya’s request – which made for the most unique Chicago wedding photos. Dana was there to capture every moment, from the romantic portraits in Lincoln Park to a traditional wedding day snowball fight 🙂 They even made a snowy friend at the park!

Maya and James: Thank you again for having us in January!! I am so, so happy for you two and can’t wait to finally celebrate together!

Vendor Team

Indoor venue: AirBnb/Bride’s jumpsuit: David’s Bridal/Groom’s suit: Joseph Abboud/Groom’s tie: My Bowtiful Creations/Florals: Mother of the Bride/Hair: Trixie Girl Blow Dry Bar/Makeup: DIY/Jeweler: Rogers & Hollands/Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes

This week’s “retro” post is dedicated to Allison and Jason! These two were scheduled to tie the knot in Evanston last fall, inevitably deciding to postpone the festivities. I’m so happy we had a chance to meet in person before things changed! Allison and Jason currently live in Florida, and we made sure to schedule their Lincoln Park Zoo engagement session while they were in town that October.

On a romantic and rainy afternoon, I met up with these two at Lincoln Park Zoo. The location was no accident… They spent lots of time here together during their student days at Northwestern University, so of course we had to visit! We took a stroll along the Nature Boardwalk, stayed warm inside the Reptile House, and even caught a little Chicago rain. Jason and Allison were a treat to photograph, and the weather didn’t faze them at all 🙂

Looking back at these sessions from the “before times” has really helped put things into perspective. It’s no secret that the wedding industry has changed fundamentally over the past year, and it’s not over yet! I cannot speak for every vendor, but as for me: safety is a priority. I will continue to adapt to the needs of my couples, and am always excited to share their stories.

Allison and Jason: Thank you for having me capture these memories for you! Can’t wait for you to finally make it official this year!!

Feeling nostalgic for Lincoln Park Zoo?

Great news! After a two-month “hibernation,” the zoo is set to open back up TOMORROW!! Reservations are required. You can find more information, COVID safety guidelines, and book your visit HERE.

Happy Friday, friends! It’s been a busy week, filled with good things: meeting awesome new couples, getting published in Junebug Weddings, and some exciting news in the works. But don’t worry! I was sure to make time for the Blog 🙂

Field Museum Engagement Photos

Today’s “retro” post goes out to Brittany and Jonathan. I will never forget their unique Field Museum engagement session! These two traveled overseas for their Chicago wedding in October 2019. Because they arrived a week or so early, we had a chance to get together for pre-wedding photos! And, while the Museum Campus is a popular location for iconic Chicago photos, Brittany and Jon were more interested in photos inside the museum. This request was a first for me, but I was ALL for it!

We met outside of Stanley Field Hall, and after taking in the grandeur of the place, headed up to see Sue. This was, most definitely, the main attraction for Brittany and Jon! I can’t speak for them, but I learned a thing or two about the Cretaceous period and the importance of this dinosaur. Did you know: Sue’s sex is undetermined? She was named after the scientist who discovered her in 1990!

Chicago Skyline Engagement Photos

When our T-Rex time was up, I was lucky enough to meet their sweet pup Artemesia! Thanks to Brittany’s mom for keeping her company while we learned about SCIENCE. We took a stroll across campus for a perfect view of the skyline, and I couldn’t get over how great these two were in front of the camera. That’s when I knew their wedding was going to be awesome. And it was!!

What a winter we’ve had, Chicago! I’ve been a bit quiet on the Blog lately, taking time to focus on my health and prepare for the upcoming season. Usually, this is the time of year when I review past weddings and sessions to update my portfolio. And – surprise!! There are still a few favorite engagement sessions that never made it to the Blog. With this February weather and extra time indoors, I thought I’d take the opportunity to finally share.

First up: Taylor & Megan! You may recognize these two from their October elopement last fall. Of course, that was not their first time in front of my camera! I was lucky enough to spend a winter snow day with them for their neighborhood engagement session. And by winter… I mean early November (thanks, Chicago!). As you can see, the unseasonable snow didn’t stop us from having the BEST time!!

I met these two at one of our mutual favorite Chicago locations, Music Box Theatre. Shout out to the staff for letting us warm up inside for a bit! We definitely took advantage of the “Coming Soon: Marriage Story” posters (perfect, right?!) and the cozy vintage vibe of the lounge. When it was time to brave the weather, Megan and Taylor were troopers! We went on a snowy neighborhood engagement adventure, stopping at some prime Rogers Park locations.

Little did I know this would be one of my last sessions before everything changed… seems like a lifetime ago! More from the “before times” coming up SOON 🙂

It’s Valentine’s Day Weekend… which means that Engagement Season is coming to an end! And by “Engagement Season,” I mean the period between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day when nearly 40% of couples get engaged. This is a time when wedding vendors tend to stay busy during the “offseason” – and photographers get to tag along for the surprise proposals!!

Proposals are my absolute FAVORITE thing to photograph… and I was so excited to hear from Rob! When he told me about Amy (a fellow Green Bay Packers fan) and his plan to surprise her in January, I knew it was going to be awesome. Although I’d be in quarantine on their engagement date, we were lucky to have associate Laëtitia capture the moment!

A fellow ice-skating enthusiast, I just loved Rob’s idea of a downtown Chicago ice skating proposal. After a few laps around the rink at Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon, he got down on one knee and asked Amy to marry him! The look on her face was priceless!! In case you couldn’t tell… she said YES 🙂

Amy and Rob: Thank you again for having us capture these moments for you! CONGRATULATIONS to you both!!!

Love the idea of a Chicago ice skating proposal? Looking for more inspiration?! Check out these favorites on the Blog!

Amit & Maya’s Lincoln Park Proposal
Gabriel & Sueyi’s Millennium Park Proposal
Alex & John’s Harold Washington Library Proposal
Erik & Claire’s Chicago Lakefront Proposal