Emma Mullins Photography

Ywonne and Morgan are getting married in ONE MONTH!! Today I’m starting the countdown with their engagement session last fall. I met these two one Friday afternoon for some classic downtown photos on the Chicago Riverwalk. We made our way to LaSalle Bridge, and then in true Ywonne and Morgan fashion, took a stroll toward Millennium Park! These two often take walks downtown together, and I love that we kept the theme for their engagement session. Their “day in the life” vibe just so happens to include some of the most popular downtown Chicago engagement photo locations 🙂

Millennium Park Engagement Photos

Millennium Park is arguably the most popular place for locals and tourists to congregate downtown any time of year. If there’s not a festival, concert, Movie-in-the-Park, or other event, you’ll still find plenty of people enjoying the space and its many works of art. Pro tip: If you’re planning to take wedding or engagement photos in Millennium Park, a photography permit is required! More information on that here. 

Olive Park Engagement Photos

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Olive Park for photos with the skyline and that dreamy light! Besides North Avenue Beach and The Adler Planetarium, Olive Park is another prime location for a killer skyline view. It’s adjacent to Ohio Street Beach and Navy Pier, making for a perfect a stroll in the park if you happen to be nearby. Morgan and Ywonne were a treat in front of the camera! They even let me try a leaf toss photo to celebrate the fall. I’m so excited for them to tie the knot here in Chicago next month.

Ywonne and Morgan: Your downtown fall engagement session was such a blast! Can’t wait to do it again very SOON!!

Happy New Year, friends!!! Hope everyone’s 2025 is off to an awesome start! Today’s post is dedicated to the Best of 2024… and as usual, choosing my favorites from the past 12 months was no easy task. Last year was an eventful one – filled with travel, friendship, the most breathtaking locations, and SO much love. It’s always a treat to look back at the moments we captured, and all the fun images we got to create!

One thing is for sure: 2024 would not have been the same without the talented individuals who make up our team. My deepest gratitude goes out to Alexis, Nohemi, Amy Lynn, George, Claire, Sophie, Trevor, and Jeremy. You all are a huge reason we get to keep doing this every year!

Highlights from 2024:

• We started shooting FILM at weddings and my entire team is obsessed.
• I started a new role as Curator for local wedding blog ChiTheeWed! You can read my featured articles here and here.
• Travel! This year I got to photograph couples in love in NYC, Jersey City, Milan and Lake Como Italy, Milwaukee, San Francisco, Starved Rock State Park, and sweet home Chicago.
• Getting published not once, but TWICE (both shoots from Italy!). Check out our Lake Como wedding on Wed Vibes and Milan sunrise session on European Elopement Guide.
• Three new (gorgeous) custom flower wall backdrops for the Photo Booth!
• Number of weddings captured: 27
• Destination weddings: 2
• Elopements: 3
• Engagement sessions: 24
• Surprise proposals: 2
• Wedding films created: 10
• SO many fur babies (too many to count!) and a few human babies, too
• My first engagement session on roller skates!
• Collaborating with some favorite vendor friends
• Working in some of our favorite venues, as well as a handful of new ones (list below!)

The below collection of images includes a mix of favorite moments, portfolio pieces, and memories captured on digital and film. There are far too many of these to describe in detail… so I’ll let the photos do the talking! Truly, we have had the privilege to work with some of the most wonderful couples and their families in 2024. We’re lucky to play such a significant role in so many people’s family history, and that’s something we never take for granted. To every couple who trusted my team and I to capture your stories in 2024: THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart.

CHEERS to a Happy and Healthy 2025!!!

My final post this year goes out to Rosie and Scott! I loved everything about their Salvage One Chicago wedding in September. I’ve said it before, but this is easily one of our favorite wedding venues in City. Besides being a super awesome store full of antiques and unique items, it’s a memorable (and photogenic) place to get married! Scott and Rosie even got a practice round during their Salvage One engagement session last spring. 

Salvage One Chicago Wedding

The day began with these two getting ready separately at the venue. One thing I love about this space is the great natural light – something we always seek for getting ready photos! I was obsessed with the pops of color in their florals and invitation suite… it happened to pair perfectly with the venue’s vintage pink furniture.

After their first look in the courtyard, we had plenty of time for photos with the wedding party around Salvage One. Seriously, I could spend hours taking photos inside this space! It was a lot of fun to shoot a roll of film in this space, too – I think the timeless look and rich tones turned out so great 🙂 

That evening, Rosie and Scott were married surrounded by their favorite people. Rosie’s brother officiated the ceremony, full of laughter and happy tears. The Newlyweds were SO excited to make it official, and I couldn’t be happier for them! Guests celebrated by dancing the night away under the disco ball, another iconic staple of Salvage One. One of my favorite details was their custom chalkboard art made by their friend Anna-Michal of Late Night Chalk Show!

Rosie and Scott: Thanks again for having us this year!! Your wedding day was a joy to capture… all my best to you both! 

Last month, I traveled to California for Marisa and Declan’s San Francisco engagement session! We actually rescheduled our original date that same week due to coastal flooding in the forecast, and I’m so happy we did!! The three of us managed to stay safe and dry while visiting their favorite local spots – and the rains came as expected the very next day. Marisa and Declan were kind enough to invite me into their home after my flight, and our adventure began! Our first order of business was photos with kitty Kaz, of course 🙂

Golden Gate Park Engagement Photos

After snuggles with Kaz, we took a stroll toward Golden Gate Park. Marisa showed me these cool mossy trees at the trail entrance – does anyone know what these are called? I was obsessed! We made our way to Blue Heron Lake and Strawberry Hill, and I instantly wished we could stay here for hours. The fresh air and nature vibes were so California, and Declan and Marisa were a treat to photograph (I even got to use my film camera for a few!). One thing they wanted to showcase in their session was the iconic hilltop views in San Francisco, and this location couldn’t be more perfect for that.

Ocean Beach Engagement at Night

As the sun began to set, we hiked down the hill and headed toward Ocean Beach. I heard the sunsets were incredible here, but was not expecting this!! When we arrived, the skies were a mix of moody blue clouds with a splash of fiery pink, and a few mountaintops peeking through. I’d never seen anything like it. We were able to create some really fun, creative and romantic images in the last few minutes of sunlight, and I couldn’t be more excited about these. Marisa and Declan were even up for a few night photos on the beach after the sun went down!

Marisa and Declan: Thank you again for having me in November! Your San Francisco engagement session was such a blast, I’m so happy we could make this happen. Can’t wait for your Chicago wedding day next fall!!

Summer weddings in Chicago have our heart. The city is vibrant and full of life, and every weekend there’s something fun happening. The chances of you getting congratulated by strangers on your wedding day are about 100%. Emma and Tyler tied the knot at Cafe Brauer over Labor Day weekend, and their day was no exception!

LondonHouse Chicago Cupola

After getting ready separately that morning, Emma and Tyler met for their first look at the iconic LondonHouse Cupola! If you’re not familiar, this structure on top of LondonHouse Chicago is one of the most unique and romantic photo locations in the city. Emma stunned in her Sareh Nouri gown, and Tyler in his custom Marigold suit! These two rocked their rooftop photos with panoramic views of the city, and even stopped on Michigan Avenue for a some classic street photos before heading to the venue.

Cafe Brauer Wedding

Cafe Brauer is easily one of our favorite wedding venues in Chicago. Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, this historic space offers a timeless blend of dramatic architecture and natural beauty. It’s also a prime location to get married if you’re planning to have lots of traveling guests! Not only is the park itself a sight to see, it’s enjoyable for a stroll any time of year. Emma and Tyler tied the knot that evening surrounded by loved ones, underneath hundreds of hanging twinkling candles. Once it was official, these two were ready to celebrate! Arlen Music kept the dance floor alive as usual, and we ended the night with a lively sparkler exit with the venue’s famous neon sign 🙂

Emma and Tyler: Thank you again for having us this year! Your Chicago summer wedding day was awesome, we are so happy to have been there to capture it. Congrats again to you both!!

Lucinda and Mark’s Chicago Athletic Association Hotel wedding this year was one for the books! These two have a love story that couldn’t have been written more perfectly. In their words:

“The year Lucinda and Mark met they were miles apart — 5,440 miles apart to be exact. Both were riding out the tail end of a global panini, eager to make a move. Lucinda was in London and Mark was in Los Angeles... By the fall, both found themselves in Chicago.”

That fall, a dating app brought them together and Mark agreed “to play Tour Guide to the new Brit in town.” Shortly after, these two found themselves traveling the world together and falling in love! Lucinda and Mark got engaged at the Art Institute of Chicago on a crisp winter evening, and of course we had to return for their engagement session this spring.

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

The day began at the hotel with Lucinda and Mark getting ready separately. Mark and his party got to take fun photos throughout the hotel – including my personal fave, the Cherry Circle Room! Lucinda’s party got ready in the bridal suite and then made our way to the White City Ballroom for photos before the first look. We had a chance to tour a few iconic photo locations nearby, and before long it was time for the ceremony to begin! 

Lucinda and Mark exchanged vows that evening surrounded by loved ones in the Madison Ballroom at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. A family member officiated their ceremony, which also included special musical performances by their friends. After they said I Do, the Newlyweds were ALL smiles and ready to celebrate!

English Wedding Traditions

Many guests traveled from the United Kingdom to celebrate with Lucinda and Mark, and some of my favorite details from this day were the English wedding traditions. Specifically, the Groom’s speech, British telephone and card box, and the table of British baked goods! The sweets were handmade by Lucinda’s friend Colin of Wee Bonnie Bakery, a Scottish bakery which happens to be based here in Chicago. I highly recommend checking out the shop – especially if you’re looking for a unique holiday gift idea!

Lucinda and Mark: Thank you again for having us in July! Your wedding day was a blast to capture, wishing you all the happiness in the world 🙂 

Lincoln Park Engagement

Earlier this month I met up with Ling and Alex for their Chicago fall engagement session in Lincoln Park! These two were recently engaged and a treat in front of the camera. Even though they will tie the knot in California next year, they wanted their engagement photos to represent the city they currently call home. I’m so happy they found me and asked me to capture these moments!

We met on the Nature Boardwalk in Lincoln Park on one of our last prime fall days of the season. Here’s a secret: most couples who want the “fall” look for their engagement photos hope for October, but early November is usually when colors peak in Chicago! Just sayin’! Alex and Ling’s session is a perfect example of that… and of course there is no shortage of photo locations in Lincoln Park. These two were all smiles and a breeze to photograph!

Chicago Lakefront Engagement Photos

When the sun began to set, we headed over to the lakefront for that iconic skyline view. I absolutely loved their second outfits – they even seemed to somehow match the sky! In case you didn’t know, North Avenue Beach is hands-down one of the most popular Chicago engagement photo locations in the city (and it’s not hard to see why!). If you’re planning to end your session here around sunset, expect to see several other couples and photographers doing the same. Good news is: the pier is long and there is always plenty of space for everyone to get their dream photos 🙂

Ling and Alex: Thank you again for having me this month!! I couldn’t be happier for you two and wish you nothing but happiness in Married Life!

Want to see more Chicago Fall engagement sessions on the Blog? Check out the posts below!

Mary & Wyatt | Mackensey & Anna | Jessie & Rick | James & Maya |

Katherine & Robb | Brittany & Adrian | Lindsey & Griffin | Jenny & Michael

Another highlight from our summer is Alex and Stacey’s destination Chicago Winery wedding! These two are currently East Coasters, but first met at a Halloween party here in the Midwest while attending Northwestern University! After their spring Jersey City engagement session, I was so excited to see these two again back in Chicago.

The Gwen Chicago Wedding Photos

Alex and Stacey got ready separately that morning, before their private first look and vow exchange at The Gwen Chicago. Shortly after, the wedding party joined us for photos on the hotel terrace overlooking downtown! I loved that the bridesmaids’ dresses just happened to match the walls inside The Gwen – we had to take advantage! If you’re looking for a hotel in the River North area with indoor and outdoor photo locations, I’d highly recommend staying here.

Chicago Winery Wedding

Before long, it was time to head to Chicago Winery and get these two married. But first: tea! Stacey and Alex served hot tea to their loved ones before the ceremony space opened up to all guests. The wedding ceremony was filled with humor and personal anecdotes, and once the knot was tied these two were happy as ever! Seriously, I don’t think they stopped smiling the rest of the evening 🙂

Guests celebrated the newlyweds with delicious food, drinks, and (lots of) wine. We even got to witness Stacey’s famous cake-cutting skills! DJ Kate kept the dance floor was packed from beginning to end, and our photo booth was a hit, as usual (check out our new white rose flower wall backdrop!). I’m lucky the newlyweds agreed to step outside for a few night photos during the party!

Stacey and Alex: Thank you again for having us be part of your wedding day!! We had so much fun in August and wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

Want to see more from Alex & Stacey’s wedding day? Check out their gorgeous Highlight Film by Amy Lynn!

Meagan and Luke’s Rockwell on the River wedding this summer was one of the highlights of our year. It’s true what they say about Chicago in the summertime – if it’s your first time visiting our city, you’ll never leave! Looking back at their summer engagement session from last year, these two can’t get enough of the season! They hoped to share that feeling with their family and friends on wedding day, many of whom would be traveling to Chicago for the occasion. Meagan’s words:

“Since we are both from different parts of the country, we really haven’t had the opportunity to bring our family and friends together. We are going to have a live band and I don’t want anyone to leave the dance floor for the entire time!”

Rockwell on the River Wedding

That evening, Luke and Meagan tied the knot at the always beautiful Rockwell on the River. Their ceremony took place underneath the venue’s signature skylight, officiated by one of Meagan’s sisters. When they finally said I Do, the party was ON!! Guests enjoyed delicious food and drink throughout the evening – note their custom cocktail in honor of pup Louie! One of my favorite details was the surprise dance dedicated to Meagan’s parents, celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. It’s clear these two care deeply for their loved ones… not to mention that they’re so loved by so many.

As you may have guessed: Meagan’s wish came true and the dance floor was PACKED from beginning to end. I’m lucky to have been able to steal them away for a night photo in between sets! Oh – I’m pretty sure there was a full moon, too… pair that with rain on your wedding day, and it’s the BEST of luck 🙂

Meagan and Luke: Thank you again for having us capture these memories for you. Your wedding day was truly a joy to be part of! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness together.

Fall has always been a popular time of year for engagement photos, and it’s still in full swing! One of my first sessions this season was with Jessie and Rick in Humboldt Park. Many of you know I call this neighborhood home, but it also happens to be where Jessie lived when she and Rick first got together! I was thrilled to take a trip down memory lane and visit some of their favorite local spots.

Chicago Cocktail Bar Engagement

I met these two at one of our mutual favorite spots, The California Clipper on a lovely October evening. If you’re in Chicago and have never been to the Clipper, I highly recommend checking this place out! Not only is this bar almost 100 years old, they also have live music most nights and a cocktail list worth sampling. But – I digress!

Jessie and Rick were as adorable as ever, and I was just a little bit obsessed with Jessie’s engagement ring (Rick designed it himself!). After a couple of mocktails and some stellar dance moves, it was time for a quick outfit change and stroll down California Avenue.

Humboldt Park Engagement Photos

One of my favorite things about this neighborhood is that it never gets boring. There’s a mix of buildings and businesses that have been in Humboldt Park for decades, but also new places popping up all the time. California Avenue is particularly photogenic – especially for street art! Of course we had to stop for photos with murals by local artists Sick Fisher and Jason Brammer. Finally, we arrived at Humboldt Park just in time for golden hour! Jessie and Rick were a breeze in front of the camera, and I could not be more excited for their wedding day next year 🙂

Jessie and Rick: Your Humboldt Park engagement session was a dream! Can’t wait to do it again next year!!