Emma Mullins Photography

I will never forget Caitlin and Brett’s Lincoln Square engagement session. After months of staying at home, and countless postponed weddings and sessions, I was beyond excited to pick up my camera again! Caitlin and Brett were the first couple I got to photograph since March. Besides a few minor adjustments (i.e. my first masked engagement session), this was no different than it would have been in pre-pandemic times. They even wore their own Mr & Mrs masks, custom made by a dear friend!

I met Caitlin and Brett on a gorgeous summer evening at their Lincoln Square home. Our session started on their rooftop with adorable pup, Gemma! After some sweet family photos, the three of us took a lovely neighborhood stroll to some favorite local spots. With so many prime photo locations still inaccessible (hello, lakefront!), it really allows us to get creative! I just love hanging out with a happy couple on their home turf 🙂

Caitlin and Brett: I had so much fun at your Lincoln Square engagement session last month! Can’t wait for you to make it official very SOON!!!

Summer is HERE!! Although the world has changed a bit since last July, I’m all about reliving those precious summer memories. One of my favorites is E&A’s lovely Firehouse Chicago wedding! From their colorful DIY decor to the unicorn bubble favors, every detail was intentional. I loved seeing their vision for a backyard summer garden party come to life!

E&A wanted a relaxed, intimate celebration close to their home, and chose to work with local vendors. There was no shortage of delicious food or beverage… including carrot cake from E’s favorite cafe and brews from Half Acre! As a fellow beer nerd, I was especially excited to see this. One of my favorite details were their custom glass jars at the lemonade stand!

These two got ready together in the Captain’s Room, surrounded by family and friends (not to mention their sweet pup Josephine!). We had just enough time to visit Hollywood Beach before their ceremony! E&A exchanged vows in the venue’s ivy-covered courtyard, underneath a neon rainbow. A dear friend officiated, and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place! Celebration continued throughout the night… note their Newlywed entrance down the fire pole! A MUST at every Firehouse Chicago wedding 🙂

E&A: Thank you again for having me last July!! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and being a part of this day. Wishing you all the happiness in your future together!

Vendor Team

Venue: Firehouse Chicago/Dress: BHLDN/Suit: Bonobos/Florals: DIY/Hair & Makeup: DIY/Invitation: Minted/DJ: Just Press Play/Caterer: City Barbeque/Beer: Half Acre Beer/Cake: Kopi Cafe

Mary Ann & Jordan’s fall wedding at The Joinery Chicago was an absolute pleasure to be a part of. From the beginning, they had envisioned an intimate, candlelit evening surrounded by friends and family. These two planned their entire wedding themselves, working with local vendors and even incorporating some DIY aspects. I loved seeing their vision come to life!

It was important to Mary Ann and Jordan that their wedding day feel like a true representation of themselves as a couple. Similarly, they wanted to find a way to honor those who were there in spirit. Every detail had its purpose! In other words, much thought went into making this day what it was.

Mary Ann’s words:

“We’re figuring out a way to get married that feels really good and natural for us. So far, that means getting married near our home in Logan Square, planning a really great dinner, lots of drinks, including one in honor of my dad using his super cheap scotch, live music – ideally, a great big, fun, loud dinner party.”

Logan Square Wedding Photos

We spent the afternoon taking photos around the neighborhood, including at Gaslight Coffee Roasters where they had their first date! A night photo at Logan Theatre was also a must. That evening, Mary Ann and Jordan exchanged vows by candlelight at The Joinery, officiated by Jordan’s uncle. The celebration that followed continued well into the night! It was a big, fun, loud dinner party indeed… in the best way possible!

Mary Ann and Jordan: Thank you again for having me in November! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and wish you nothing but happiness in your future together 🙂

Vendor Team

Venue: The Joinery/Bride’s dress: Dantela Bridal Couture/Tailor: Ette Tailor/Bride’s shoes: L’Artiste/Groom’s suit: SuitSupply/Groom’s shoes: Allen Edmonds/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Signage: Maison Blanche/Hair Stylist: Jana Hoeller/Makeup Artist: Aviana Wyall/Stationery: Jordan (groom)/Rings: Adornment + Theory/Musicians: Bowmanville, coordinated by Brooklyn Britches/Caterer: Big Delicious Planet

Alyssa and Larry’s September Ravenswood Event Center wedding was a highlight of 2019! After getting to know these two during their summer Engagement Session, I was so excited for them to tie the knot. They planned their entire wedding themselves, incorporating the most unique DIY details! In fact, the (delicious) desserts were homemade by Larry!! Not to mention the stargazing theme added to the already romantic vibe.

After their first look at the hotel, we headed to LaBagh Woods for some gorgeous outdoor photos. This wedding party was such a fun crew! We were lucky enough to sneak in a few more photos at the venue before their ceremony began. Special thanks to Aly at REC for helping make this happen!

Larry and Alyssa exchanged vows in the stunning Atrium surrounded by loved ones. A friend officiated their ceremony, and I know there wasn’t a dry eye in the place! Celebration continued with cocktails, dinner, and dancing (and dessert!). The newlyweds were all smiles all night long 🙂

Alyssa and Larry: Thank you again for having us in September!! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and had a blast at your wedding. Wishing you all the best in your future together!

Vendor Team

Venue: Ravenswood Event Center/Hotel: Skokie DoubleTree/Bride’s dress: David Tutera for Mon Cheri Bridals/Bride’s shoes: Converse/Groom’s suit: The Groomsman Suit/Bouquets: StempleShop/Florals: Fairy Godmothers/Hair & Makeup: We Only Do Pretty/Invitation: Zazzle/Bride’s rings: Stanley Brown Jewelist/Groom’s ring: Casavir Jewelry/DJ: Rachel + Kate from Toast & Jam/Videographer: Our Wedding Movie/Caterer: REC/Dessert: B’s Sweet Bites/2nd shooter: Jeremy

It’s a COVID-19 world, and I’m blogging on Sunday! After spending another would-be wedding weekend at home, I decided to write an ode to “Micro” weddings.

Understandably, many couples have decided to postpone their big wedding plans for brighter days ahead. Others, however, are opting to keep their original dates… with a few minor tweaks! Due to regulations for group gatherings (not to mention health and safety concerns), Micro Weddings are on the rise.

What exactly is a “Micro Wedding,” you ask? I’m referring to intimate ceremonies, elopements, or any small event where two people become married. This may include a handful of guests or just the couple and officiant (and/or witnesses if required).

Five Reasons to Have a Micro Wedding:

1. A relaxed wedding day. Honestly, this could be reason enough! Without a timeline to keep up with or 100+ people to coordinate, you’ll have a chance to really focus on each other. Enjoy your wedding day doing the things you love together… and take your time! This could mean waking up early to watch the sun rise or an impromptu ice cream break – just because.
2. Flexibility. Similarly, without a large group to accommodate, you’ll have more flexibility in terms of where you can get married. Meaning, instead of a trip to Marriage Court, you could tie the knot some place picturesque or meaningful. Ever think of getting married on your front porch? The place you first met? Locations pictured below include Montrose Harbor, Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and New York City’s High Line.
3. Getting ready together. Okay, okay – you could do this with a big wedding, too. In my experience, however, it’s much more common with smaller, intimate ceremonies. I always LOVE when couples choose to do this! Besides, who else is going to zip your dress or pin your bouttonière if it’s just the two of you?
4. A personal guest experience. If you’re planning to have a handful of guests attend your wedding, this gives you the opportunity to really personalize their experience. At larger weddings, it’s not uncommon for newlyweds to miss greeting a guest or two – much less spend quality time with each and every one.
5. You can still celebrate BIG TIME later! It’s true! No matter what your reasons for downsizing the wedding day guest list, you can still throw the party of a lifetime months later. Once regulations loosen up and group gatherings are safe again, your guests will be MORE than eager to celebrate with you. Pinky swear.

Hope this has been helpful! Of course, a Micro Wedding isn’t for every couple, but if you’re considering it: know that your wedding day will be just as memorable. Just make sure you have a photographer there to capture it for you 🙂

Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Here’s a few favorites from Micro Weddings and Elopements I’ve had the pleasure to capture over the years. Links to full weddings and Additional Resources below!

Nancy and Wade’s fall North Pond Restaurant wedding was an intimate, joy-filled evening. These two tied the knot on a Tuesday in November, two days before Thanksgiving! The date was no accident: Nancy and Wade chose to marry on what would have been Nancy’s parents’ 60th anniversary. In fact, Wade’s parents were wed the same year, only months before! I loved how they chose to honor their families in this way. A candle burned for each of their late parents during the church ceremony, with Wade’s sweet mother proudly in attendance.

Like many wedding days last fall, Mother Nature gave us a healthy dose of rain! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: no matter what the weather on your wedding day, your photos will be beautiful. I promise!! Personally I love the romantic vibe of raindrops falling, not to mention the unique photo opportunities we wouldn’t have otherwise. One of my favorites from this day was the outdoor group photo during a pause in the rain. Nancy and Wade wanted one photo with all their guests, so we gave everyone a sparkler and made it happen! Many thanks to Nathalie at North Pond for helping organize and assist.

These two have been a joy to photograph and are so obviously in love. Even their reception music consisted of love songs Wade had sent to Nancy throughout the course of their relationship. How sweet is that?! After dinner, Wade professed his feelings for his wife in front of all their guests. It was such a heartfelt moment 🙂

Nancy and Wade: Thank you again for having me last fall! It was an honor to capture your wedding day, and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

Vendor Team

Church: Luther Memorial/Venue: North Pond Restaurant/Bride’s dress: Hayley Paige from Alice in Ivory/Bride’s shoes: Christian Louboutin/Groom’s suit: Sartori Amici/Florals: Farmers Market Garden Center/Hair & Makeup: Art + Science salon/Invitation: Minted/Engagement ring: Jared/Wedding bands: family heirloom (originally Wade’s parents’ rings)/Videographer: Paul for EMP/Caterer: North Pond/Cake: Amy Beck Cake Design

Want to see more Nancy & Wade? Check out their morning Engagement Session at Garfield Park Conservatory!

Ever since Taylor & Drew got engaged, I had been looking forward to their winter Renaissance Chicago Downtown wedding. It’s true! I first heard from Drew in fall 2018, when he was planning his perfect surprise proposal over Thanksgiving weekend. Lucky me: I got to be there for the moment, meet Taylor, and capture it all! Needless to say, I was beyond excited when they decided to have me join them on wedding day 🙂

These two are an absolute delight to photograph together – never a moment when they’re not smiling from ear to ear, or stealing a glance from each other. I knew their wedding was going to be good! Drew and Taylor’s candlelit ceremony was officiated by a close friend, and I don’t think their smiles ever faded. Guests celebrated with food, drink and dancing… thanks to Bluewater Kings, that dance floor was jumping until the lights came on!

Little did I know this would be the last wedding I’d get to capture for… well, who knows how long. But honestly, I couldn’t ask for a happier day to reminisce about those pre-pandemic times. This couple’s joy is truly contagious, and gives me hope for brighter days ahead. Can’t wait to get back to weddings once it’s safe to do so <3

Taylor and Drew: Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for having me tag along in this part of your journey. Wishing you a lifetime of health and happiness in your future together.

Vendor Team

Venue: Renaissance Chicago Downtown/Wedding Planner: Blue Moon Events/Bride’s dress: Rita Vinieris/Bride’s shoes: Prada/Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss/Groom’s shoes: Cole Haan/Florals: The Flower Girl Company/Hair Stylist: Landon James/Makeup Artist: Lerin Johnson/Invitation: Minted/Rings: Reuven Gitter Jewelers/Live Band: Bluewater Kings/Caterer: Renaissance Chicago Downtown/2nd shooter: Jeremy

In October, I was lucky enough to join Anj and Bo for their New York City elopement just days before they moved to China. These two chose to elope at sunrise on the High Line, one of my favorite places in NYC! Anj and Bo resided in Chelsea at the time, within walking distance of their ceremony location.

We met just before daylight for their private ceremony overlooking the city, officiated by Frank of Wedding of a Lifetime. Once the knot was tied, the newlyweds welcomed a perfect fall morning by walking the length of the park (and stopping for a few photos along the way, of course!).

Why Elope?

Allow me to clarify: the word “elopement” has evolved in recent years to define less traditional, intimate wedding ceremonies performed anywhere in the world. Of course, choosing to elope is a very personal decision. Some of you know that Jeremy and I eloped in 2016, and it was the best thing for us!

For some couples, the thought of exchanging vows in front of 100+ people is anything but appealing. Others opt to change their marital status for legal or political reasons (health insurance, anyone?). There are countless reasons why couples choose to elope… and with the current state of the world it’s even become inevitable in some cases.

Intimate ceremonies are honestly some of my favorites to photograph. If you and your partner are considering eloping anywhere in the world, I’d love to hear from you!! My passport is ready and I’m always up for a wedding day adventure 🙂

CONGRATS again, Anj and Bo!!! Thanks again for having me in October, wishing you nothing but happiness in your marriage adventure.

Alex and Kelly’s Floating World Gallery wedding took place on the most gorgeous, unseasonably warm December day. These two really lucked out with the weather… I always say for winter weddings, either hope for snow or something like this! I mean, we had a colorful sunset and everything! The entire day was filled with so much love and joy.

Floating World Gallery Wedding

The day began with Alex and Kelly getting ready separately. After their happy first look on the venue’s staircase, we headed upstairs with the Rabbi and witnesses for the signing of their Ketubah. This tradition marked the beginning of their marriage, followed by a Jewish ceremony, breaking of the glass, and celebration into the night! These two had been together for a decade before making it official, and loved ones were more than ready to see them tie the knot.

This was my first wedding at Floating World Gallery, and I loved both the intimacy and versatility of the space. The back room was perfect for dancing – not to mention an epic Hora! Shout out to Allen for helping coordinate everything!

Chicago Wedding Reception

Many guests traveled from out of town to celebrate with these two, and the newlyweds wanted to show them a true “Chicago” experience. Dinner consisted of deep dish Chicago-style pizza and Italian Beef sandwiches… and you’d better believe the bartenders were pouring Jeppson’s Malort at Cocktail Hour 🙂 Instead of cutting a cake, they served Do-Rite donuts by the plateful (my fave!).

Kelly and Alex: Thank you again for having me in December!! You two were truly a joy to work with, wishing you all the best in your future together.

Vendor Team

Venue: Floating World Gallery/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: Chinese Laundry/Groom’s suit: Indochino/Florals: Pollen/Hair Stylist: Birds Nest Salon/Makeup: DIY/Invitation: Minted.com/Jeweler: byAngeline/Live Band: Life Rhythms Inc./Caterer: Lou Malnati’s/Beverage: Prestige Wine & Spirits/Donuts: Do-Rite/Rehearsal Dinner: HEXE Coffee Co.

Abeni & Antoine’s September wedding at Harborside International Golf Center was a day I will never forget! When I first heard from Abeni, they were most excited about celebrating with family, friends, and each other. She told me of Antoine’s theatrical Valentine’s Day proposal at a Blackhawks game (…I got to see photos, he did great!!). Abeni’s family pastor even flew in from Los Angeles to perform the ceremony. It was a joyful day for all!

As tradition will have it, the couple did not see each other before the ceremony. Antoine and Abeni got ready separately at the venue, and their first look coming down the aisle was all smiles 🙂 The wedding party stunned in burgundy and gray – not to mention their adorable Ring Bearer and Flower Girl! From the fashion to the florals and decor, their signature style and color palette were on point. Check out their stunning four-tier cake by Sugar Fixé!

Guests dined and danced the night away, keeping our Photo Booth busy, too! I had a chance to sneak outside with the Newlyweds for a romantic photo in the rain, and couldn’t be happier about it! These two were a joy to photograph and clearly loved by so many. What an absolute honor to be a part of this wedding day.

Abeni and Antoine: THANK YOU again for having me in September!! Wishing you nothing but happiness in the years to come!

Vendor Team

Venue: Harborside International Golf Center/Wedding Planner: Two Sisters Events/Bride’s dress: David’s Bridal/Bride’s shoes: ERIJUNOR/Groom’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse/Florals: Two Sisters Events/Hair & Makeup: Glamour Beauty Lounge/Invitation: Zazzle/Jeweler: Zales/DJ: Tim Phills/Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography/Caterer: Harborside International/Cake: Sugar Fixé/Videographer: Yissil Missil Productions