Emma Mullins Photography

Last year I had the honor of wrapping my 2025 season with Marisa and Declan’s Cafe Brauer wedding. I first met these two through Declan’s brother, whose wedding I photographed in 2022 (HI, Emma and Brendan!). Besides being thrilled to connect with their family again, I was excited about their vision from the start! Marisa’s words: 

“We’re both from Chicago so excited to get to return for the wedding and bring our out of town friends and family in to show off the city. We have one black cat so it only felt right to have a wedding on Halloween in her honor, right? So excited I could levitate!!”

Many of you know that Halloween is my favorite holiday, and even though these two weren’t planning a “theme” wedding, there were subtle nods to the day that did not go unnoticed. One of the biggest advantages to getting married on Halloween in Chicago: fall foliage is almost always at its prime. Luckily for these two, last year was no exception! 

A Perfect Fall Day

After their intimate first look inside Cafe Brauer, we took advantage of the fall colors for photos all around Lincoln Park. Their wedding party looked dapper in black tie attire, with Marisa’s party in a stunning emerald green. Declan and Marisa were a breeze in front of the camera – remember their San Francisco engagement session? I was so excited to see them again and create even more magic – this time on wedding day. 

Lincoln Park Honeycomb

As the sun dipped lower in the October sky, loved ones gathered underneath the Lincoln Park Honeycomb to witness Marisa and Declan tie the knot. The ceremony space was decorated in stunning fall florals, lush and fragrant to complement the nature surrounding us. A dear friend officiated the ceremony, complete with lots of laughter and personal vows. Once it was official, these two were ready to celebrate! I’m so happy we were able to capture some Newlywed photos around the park before day turned into night – some of my favorite portraits from their day! 

Cafe Brauer Wedding Reception

Highlights from that evening include cake cutting with a Marine sabre – a tradition in Marisa’s family (it’s her grandfather’s sword!), entertaining speeches, and a lively dance floor. I loved that Marisa and Declan made time to visit with each of their guests during the reception. The entire evening felt warm, full, and meaningful… with the occasional Trick or Treat and Halloween costume on the dance floor.

Marisa and Declan: Thank you again for trusting my team to capture your beautiful fall wedding day. It was truly an honor to spend my Halloween with you two! Wishing you the happiest marriage and future together!!