Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Posts
Summer Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Proposal – Tristan & Jess
This summer was indeed a whirlwind, but one of my favorite moments to capture was Tristan’s Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool proposal! With Chicago weather on our side, an unsuspecting fiancée-to-be, and one of the most romantic proposal locations in the city, I knew it was going to be the best day. I am always so thrilled and honored to be part of these moments. This was no exception!
I arrived at the Lily Pool before Tristan and Jess to guard our chosen spot, which happened to be popular on a Saturday! Luckily, by the time they took a stroll around the pond it was clear… just like we’d planned it! He asked, she said yes – and you know the rest! I was lucky enough to take these two around the park for some engagement photos before they headed to their next destination. The Lincoln Park Conservatory gardens were in full bloom, and a gorgeous backdrop for these two! Smiles like this make me so grateful to do what I do 🙂
CONGRATULATIONS, Jess and Tristan!! I absolutely loved being part of your engagement and wish you nothing but happiness in your future. Thank you again for having me this summer!
Looking for more Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool proposal inspiration? Check out the post below!
Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Engagement – Sara & Brian
It’s starting to feel like springtime in Chicago, which means more and more couples are planning engagement photos! Sara and Brian’s Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool engagement session last year was one of my favorite sessions ever – and it’s not hard to see why. Besides being totally over the moon with each other, their location ideas did not disappoint! Put that together with perfect Chicago weather, and we have the stuff engagement session dreams are made of 🙂
We arrived at Lincoln Park during golden hour, my favorite time to visit the Lily Pool. It was the perfect evening for a stroll around the pond! Sara and Brian were a delight to hang with – I don’t think either of them stopped smiling the entire session. I loved hearing their sweet engagement story and learning about their plans to wed in New Jersey this fall!
As the sun began to set, we made our way to the lakefront for iconic photos with the Chicago skyline. Seriously – we could not have asked for better weather, and these two were a dream in front of the camera! Thanks again for having me, Sara and Brian!! All my best to you both!
Thinking about your own Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool engagement session?
That’s awesome! This hidden gem location is one of Chicago’s finest. Some things you should know:
- A photography permit is required for this location. You can find more information and secure your permit here!
- If you can, schedule your session a couple hours before sunset to take advantage of golden hour light! Photographers love this time of day because light is warm, romantic, and the most flattering.
- Because it’s so unique and beautiful, the lily pool is also popular. It’s possible you may have to wait your turn for some of the most picturesque areas. Nothing to be discouraged by! This place is full of photo-worthy locations.
Surprise Proposal at Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool – Ben & Aviva
Many of you know that surprise proposals are one of my favorite things to photograph. I don’t know why, exactly… probably something about the real emotions, the unexpectedness, oh – and being a part of the surprise! I was thrilled when Ben asked me to tag along when he asked Aviva to marry him at Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool!! In my opinion, this is hands-down one of the most peaceful and romantic locations in the city. A perfect place to get engaged!
I arrived at the Lily Pool while these two were enjoying an afternoon picnic in Lincoln Park. Aviva thought they were just enjoying a post-picnic stroll by the pond, when all of a sudden Ben was on one knee! A small crowd of onlookers cheered when she said yes, and two joggers also stopped to take photos of the happy couple. There were smiles, applause, and lots of happy tears 🙂
After the surprise, it was time for some “just engaged” photos around the park! We got lucky with the most lovely summer afternoon (thanks, Chicago!). Aviva couldn’t keep her eyes off her diamond (I mean, would you?!)… not to mention her new fiancé, of course! Ben was all smiles, which made our time together a total breeze. But the surprise was not over! After our session I chauffeured these two home, where friends and family were waiting to congratulate them. There were more cheers, more happy tears, and a night of celebration ahead!
CONGRATULATIONS, Ben and Aviva!!! Your engagement day was such a joy to capture. Wishing you two a lifetime of happiness together!
Romantic Evanston Wedding at Halim Time and Glass Museum – Carly & Paul
Carly and Paul’s September Halim Museum wedding was a unique and romantic evening. After their dreamy summer engagement session, I could not wait to photograph these two on their wedding day! Talk about L-O-V-E, Carly and Paul just radiate when they’re together 🙂
Paul proposed in January of last year, and – get this – Carly planned the entire wedding herself! Because they knew exactly what they wanted from the beginning, she made it happen. Carly handpicked local boutique wedding vendors to help make her vision a reality. Everyone did an incredible job!
Both the ceremony and reception took place at the museum. A friend officiated their rooftop ceremony, which was complete with shouts of Mazel Tov after breaking glass! Celebration continued with champagne, dinner, and a night of dancing.
Carly and Paul: I’m so happy we found each other!! Thanks again for having me, I had a blast getting to know you both. CONGRATULATIONS and all the best in your future together!
Vendor Team
Venue: Halim Time & Glass Museum/Portrait location: Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool/Bride’s dress: Pronovias/Groom’s suit: Tommy Hilfiger/Florals: Jackson Floral Design/Hair: Rafael at Genacelli East Studio/Makeup: The Beauty Paige/Chuppah: VIP Events Decor/Invitation: Design Voyage/Rings: Marshall Pierce & Company/Caterer: in-house/Cake: Alliance Bakery/2nd shooter: Joe U
Looking for a venue to host YOUR wedding?
Look no further! The Halim Museum is one of the most unique spaces in the local wedding scene. The museum opened in September 2017, and is home to over 1,000 clocks and 80 stained glass pieces from around the world. Catering is done in-house, and the rooftop views alone are worth the visit! I’d highly recommend this place to anyone planning a wedding in the Chicago area.
Intimate Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Wedding – Liz & Jen
Liz and Jen’s Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool wedding ceremony was everything they wanted it to be: intimate, peaceful, and surrounded by loved ones. If you’re into nature, this is the perfect spot for a romantic ceremony! These two planned the entire day themselves, and it came together seamlessly.
Jen and Liz began their wedding morning at Hotel Lincoln. When I arrived to meet them, they were in matching plaid (how great is that?)! They got ready for their wedding together, one of my absolute favorite ways to break tradition. Meanwhile, their guests gathered to greet them at the Lily Pool. Luckily we had just enough time to stop at the J. Parker rooftop for some photos before heading to their ceremony.
Their wedding day was filled with unique personal touches. For instance, a childhood friend of Liz performed the heartfelt ceremony. It was perfect! I love how emotional smaller wedding ceremonies tend to be. Truly, I don’t think there was a dry eye among us.
After the ceremony, the three of us celebrated with newlywed photos in Lincoln Park. We even got to reminisce their first date at Lincoln Park Zoo! If one thing is clear, it’s that these two have each other’s hearts. Their smiles did not fade the entire morning 🙂
Want to have your own Caldwell Lily Pool wedding?
I don’t blame you! This stunning location is one of Chicago’s best kept secrets. Consequently, intimate weddings are popular here! The Lily Pool is part of the Lincoln Park Conservancy, and it regularly hosts wedding ceremonies with 30 guests or less. Learn more and reserve your date HERE.
Liz and Jen: Thank you again for having me capture your wedding day! It was truly an honor. Wishing you so much happiness in your married life.
Vendor Team
Getting Ready: Hotel Lincoln/Ceremony: Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool/Dress: Tadashi Shoji from BHLDN/Blazer: Sumissura/Suit pants: Calvin Klein/Florist: Sprout Home/Rings: Sparkles Fine Jewelry (Liz’s ring custom made with Jen’s grandmother’s diamond)/Invitation: Vistaprint
