Emma Mullins Photography

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.

Rose and Layne’s Chicago rooftop wedding this spring was one of the most joyful and memorable days we’ve ever captured. From the unseasonable Chicago weather to the iconic photo locations and their neverending smiles… every moment was a pleasure to be part of. Remember their South Loop engagement session from last year?! Ever since then, I knew wedding day was going to be a blast!

When I first heard from these two, they described their wedding vision as “a playful spring garden – think wild flowers, fun colored vases that we thrift, cocktails named after our cats, and hopefully some other quirky/eclectic things mixed in along the way. We are so excited to get married, celebrate the wonderful relationship we have built and do it along side our most important friends and family.”

Because most guests traveled into Chicago for the festivities, Rose and Layne were determined to showcase they city they now call home.

Downtown Chicago Wedding Photos

The day began with the brides getting ready separately at Kimpton Gray. After their stunning first look at The Rookery Building, we spent the afternoon soaking up the weather and touring downtown! This day truly felt like summer – it was one of those 80-degree April days that happens once every few years. Layne and Rose had the best time, and I’m pretty sure an entire cruise boat cheered us on!

Chicago Rooftop Wedding Ceremony

That afternoon, guests gathered at Lacuna Lofts in Pilsen to witness these two become married. The emotional rooftop ceremony seemed to perfectly match their vision! Layne and Rose made it official surrounded by loved ones, spring wildflowers, and the best skyline view in the city. Seriously – if you are looking to showcase our city to your guests, definitely schedule a tour at this venue!

Once the knot was tied, the party was ON! DJ Rachel kept the dance floor packed with awesome tunes, and yes, there was a disco ball! I’m thrilled the newlyweds let me steal them away for a few night photos with that view 🙂

Layne and Rose: Thank you again for having us this year! Your wedding day was truly one for the books, I couldn’t be happier for you both!!

September is here, and today I’m throwing it back to one of our favorite September weddings ever. Elaine and Jeremy tied the knot at South Branch Tavern & Grille one year ago this week! We’re thrilled to have been there to capture this happy day… starting with getting ready at the J.W. Marriott and ending with a PARTY on the dance floor 🙂

When I first heard from Elaine, she described their wedding vision this way:

“The ‘theme’ is sort of fall vibes, but no pumpkin spice lattes. Earthy colors, lots of foliage, burnt sienna, deep greens, neutrals and pops of gold (I think). We are definitely not having a traditional wedding. It’s at a bar so I guess you could say we want it to feel sort of like a party.”

Spoiler alert: it felt EXACTLY like a party!! Guests were excited to celebrate these two even before the ceremony started.

South Branch Tavern & Grille Wedding

That evening, Jeremy and Elaine were married outside South Branch Tavern surrounded by their loved ones. It was one of those perfect Chicago-weather days: the kind you can never plan for, but also will never forget. Once they said I Do, the celebration was in full swing! Family and friends enjoyed delicious food, great company, and custom cocktails named after the newlyweds’ cats. But the party didn’t stop there… DJ Alli kept the dance floor alive, and if you ask me, Elaine’s reception dress stole the show. Nohemi and Trevor did an awesome job capturing the joy of this day and night!

Elaine and Jeremy: Thank you again for having us last year!! We couldn’t be happier for you two – wishing you the very best in Married Life!

Summer 2024 has been one of our busiest seasons to date, and somehow it’s already the end of August! During these last days of summer I can’t help but look back on the year we’ve had so far, and all the happy memories we’ve had the privilege to capture. Today I’m excited to feature Miya and Dylan’s June wedding at The Library at 190 S. LaSalle! Seriously, I had been looking forward to this day even before their awesome summer engagement session from last year… This was also the first wedding we captured in black and white film (aka my first love). See if you can spot the film photos in the post!

Miya and Dylan got ready separately that morning along with their wedding parties. Both of them already in smiles before their first look, I knew it was going to be the best day! After their private vow exchange on LaSalle Street, it was time to get the party started 🙂

Millennium Park Wedding Photos

We made our way to Millennium Park with the wedding party, accidentally attending the Chicago Blues Festival during our stroll! I’m so happy the Lurie Garden was available when we arrived – this is one of my favorite Chicago photo locations, especially lush in the summertime. Miya and Dylan’s crew was a blast to spend the afternoon with! We were lucky enough to stop at a couple other iconic downtown locations before heading back to the venue.

Please note: If you’re looking to take your own wedding photos in Millennium Park, you will need to obtain a photography permit ahead of time! More information can be found here. The park hosts all kinds of events during the summer – I definitely recommend checking the Millennium Park Calendar to make sure the locations you’re hoping for will be accessible and available on your date. 

The Library at 190 S. LaSalle Wedding

That evening, Miya and Dylan were married at The Library at 190 S. LaSalle surrounded by family, friends, and stacks of books! This unique venue has quickly become one of our favorites, with a variety of picturesque photo locations (and that VIEW!). Once the knot was tied, guests were ready to celebrate with the newlyweds. In addition to a jam-packed dance floor, Miya and Dylan made sure to stock the library with plenty of board games for their guests to enjoy! A few notable games include Operation, Jenga, Connect Four, Yahtzee, and Mancala. Of course, we couldn’t say goodbye without a night photo on LaSalle and a bottle of bubbly!

Miya and Dylan: Thank you again for having us this year!! We had so much fun at your wedding and couldn’t be happier for you two. Cheers to the best in Married Life!!!

Earlier this year, Alexis met up with Elizabeth and Leah for their Chicago Cultural Center engagement session! These two wanted “something that feels vibrant and eclectic” for engagement photos, with a hint of Wes Anderson style. When we started planning their Chicago session for February, we knew we’d need at least one indoor location with lots of variety. Naturally, we decided on the Cultural Center! The result was a success… Elizabeth and Leah brought so much joy, and we are getting so excited for them to tie the knot this fall!

Chicago Cultural Center Engagement Photos

If you’re looking for an indoor location in the city to take engagement photos in the winter, look no further. The Cultural Center is filled with gorgeous light, picturesque locations, and rotating art installations. And the best part: It’s FREE to take photos here, provided there are no other events taking place in the building! The Cultural Center is also in the middle of downtown Chicago, so if you can brave the weather for a few minutes, you’ll be able to capture the cityscape, too. Spoiler alert: That’s exactly what Leah and Elizabeth did for their February session 🙂

Elizabeth and Leah: We loved helping your Cultural Center engagement photos come to life! Can’t wait for all the magic your wedding day will bring!!