Emma Mullins Photography

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!!

In July, I was lucky enough to be part of Michael and Matt’s summer wedding day at 167 Events! This colorful day was filled with summer cocktails, bold florals, and so much love for these two grooms. They even brought their sweet pup, Nico as the ring bearer!

The day began with Matt and Michael getting ready together at The Emily Hotel. We took a quick tour of the neighborhood for some photos in Fulton Market and Kinzie Bridge (my favorite!). Before long, it was time to head to the venue!

167 Events Wedding Ceremony

This was my first wedding at 167 Events, and it did not disappoint! Michael and Matt had spoken highly of their venue leading up to wedding day, and I was super excited to see it in person. When we arrived at the rooftop, we saw the ceremony space decorated with the most colorful summer florals and a deep pink aisle runner. A select group of VIP guests sat in assigned seats, with the majority of their loved ones surrounding the stage. Oh, and did I mention the view?! This has easily become one of my new favorite wedding venues in the city! 

That evening, guests gathered at 167 Events to witness Michael and Matt join in marriage. Their two dear friends officiated the ceremony, and Nico played his role perfectly. Once the knot was tied, it was time to celebrate! The newlyweds were all smiles greeting guests and taking it all in 🙂 

Oakville Grill and Cellar Reception

As the sun began to set, we made our way next door to Oakville Cellar & Grille for speeches, dinner, and dancing. BeatMix Music provided top-notch entertainment, and the reception truly felt like a gigantic family dinner. We said goodbye by popping a bottle of bubbly outside the restaurant, of course! This day was so full of warmth and joy, and I’m so happy to have been there to capture it!

Michael and Matt: Thank you again for having me this summer!! I couldn’t be happier for you two and wish you nothing but the best!

Over the summer, I was lucky enough to capture Megan & Eric’s CD&ME wedding in Frankfort, Illinois! Their day was filled with joy, love and good vibes all around. Besides the gorgeous June weather, these two were absolutely glowing the entire day! Remember their adorable Chicago engagement session last spring? I was so excited for them to finally make it official!

Megan’s words:

“We met our sophomore year of college by being on the same dorm floor and eventually both joining the same intramural beach volleyball team. We became instant friends turned best friends and eventually partners on 6/22/19.” (Awww!) “We will be lucky enough to get married on our exact 5 year anniversary and we are very excited!!“

CD&ME Wedding

In case you were wondering, my first time visiting this venue did not disappoint. From the variety of indoor and outdoor photo locations to the wonderful staff, I can see why Eric and Megan chose this as their wedding venue! There are actually two event spaces here – Megan and Eric had The Loft.

The emotional ceremony took place outside in front of an outdoor gazebo, officiated by a friend. Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed cocktails and bites on the outdoor patio and inside the warehouse! One of my favorite details was the accidental “Bloom” theme (aka Eric’s last name)… of course we had to take advantage of the surrounding florals for newlywed photos 🙂

That evening, the Blooms celebrated their love with stories, dinner, and dancing with their loved ones. These two could not have been happier, and I’m so happy to have been a part of their day!

Megan and Eric: Thank you again for having us in June!! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!

Today we’re throwing it back to Kate and Ben’s October wedding celebration at The Dalcy! This day was filled with personal details, gorgeous fall weather, and neverending smiles. And after their romantic winter engagement session the year before, I expected nothing else!

Ben and Kate got ready separately at The Westin River North, a prime location for photos overlooking the Chicago River. After a typical downtown photo adventure, it was time to get these two married! We headed up north to St. Ben’s with just enough time to spare before the ceremony began.

St. Benedict Church Ceremony

It’s no accident that Kate and Ben chose to marry at St. Ben’s in North Center. Fun fact: this also happens to be where Kate’s parents first met years ago! From a photographer’s standpoint, it did not disappoint (cathedral ceiling? yes please!). These two were all smiles throughout the ceremony, and once the knot was tied, it was time to party!!

The celebration kicked off with Four Star Brass Band performing for guests outside the church, followed by the happy newlyweds. One of my favorite parts of this day was the Second Line that followed – a nod to Ben’s New Orleans roots! The parade led us around the block, and eventually into busses headed straight to The Dalcy. Fun fact: we made such a commotion that the neighbors posted about it on Reddit!

The Dalcy Wedding Reception

Centrally located in the West Loop neighborhood, The Dalcy has become one of my favorite Chicago wedding venues over the years. With its spacious terrace and city views, multiple indoor and outdoor photo locations, and top notch food and drink from Aba – it’s the perfect place to bring loved ones together. Not to mention the elegance of this space is guaranteed to impress!

The newlyweds danced the night away with their guests, and couldn’t have been happier. And – remember that these two are champagne connoisseurs?! Of course, we had to pop a celebratory bottle on the street! I’m obsessed with how these night photos turned out and so happy they let me steal them away for a few 🙂

Kate and Ben: Thank you again for having us last October!! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness and all the best in Married Life!

One of our favorite highlights from Summer 2024 was Neha and John’s Redfield Estate wedding. These two had been planning their wedding day for some time, and were so excited to make their union official! Remember their Chicago engagement session last summer?! I had no doubt their wedding day would be filled with laughter and joy. Between the gorgeous property, bold summer colors, and happiest couple, this day was an absolute pleasure to capture.

Redfield Estate Wedding

Neha and John got ready separately near The Redfield Estate. This historic venue is situated inside The Grove Nature Preserve in Glenview – perfect for an outdoor summer wedding! When Neha and John first decided to get married here, they were so excited about the property and all it had to offer. From the grandeur of the home to the endless greenery, sculptures, and reflecting pool… there is no shortage of beautiful photo locations.

After their first look under the majestic oak tree, these two exchanged vows privately. Soon after, friends and family joined us for photos! Their ceremony took place underneath a stone gazebo, decorated with hundreds of marigolds – a nod to Neha’s Indian heritage. Friends and family gathered to witness, and Neha’s brother did a fabulous job officiating! Finally, these two were officially official, and couldn’t have been happier. Guests celebrated the newlyweds with food, drink, and lots of dancing into the evening 🙂

Neha and John: Thank you again for having us this summer!! We had so much fun at your wedding and wish you two all the best in Married Life!

This spring, we had the honor of capturing Caitlin and Daniel’s Chicago wedding day at The Arbory over Memorial Day weekend. Not only was this day bursting with alllll the feels, it was the perfect way to kick off Chicago Summer! This was also the first wedding we got to capture in full on film, as well as digital (shout out to our film photographer, Sophie!). And when it came to the weather forecast, we encountered some of the best wedding day luck I have ever experienced.

The Pendry Chicago

When we met Caitlin and Daniel at The Pendry that day, it was pouring rain. As I recall, rain was forecasted for the foreseeable future. No matter: we were all aboard with Plan B for photos (aka Rain Plan!). Caitlin and Daniel got ready separately with their favorite people, and when it was time for their first look, the skies cleared! They were able to share this happy moment right outside, with the iconic Carbide and Carbon building as a backdrop.

We decided to take advantage of the weather, and got to explore downtown Chicago as originally planned! It was truly a Wedding Day Miracle… and these are some of my favorite photos from the entire day. When we arrived at The Arbory, we had full sun – and the happiest bride and groom you ever did see 🙂

The Arbory Wedding

One thing I love about The Arbory wedding venue is the variety of picturesque locations, all in one place. I’m so happy we had a chance to take a few photos around the space before guests arrived! After signing their ketubah in the venue’s bridal suite, it was time for the ceremony. Caitlin and Daniel were wed underneath a gorgeous skylight (with the sun peeking through!), surrounded by loved ones. Once the knot was tied, these two were READY to celebrate! When I first heard from Caitlin, she described their wedding day vision this way:

“We just want our wedding to have a fun, classy, and genuine feel and celebrate with all our favorite people!”

Truly, I couldn’t have described their day any other way. Some favorite details include their wedding cake made by their friends, energetic dance floor, and Caitlin’s party dress!! This day was an absolute pleasure to be part of, I’m so glad we were there to capture it all.

Caitlin and Daniel: Thank you again for having us this year!! We wish you all the best in your new life together.