Chicago Board of Trade wedding photos Posts

Joyful Chicago Wedding at The Library 190 – Michelle & Dan

Michelle and Dan tied the knot last September at one of our favorite downtown venues, The Library at 190 S. LaSalle! Their joyful day included perfect Chicago weather, a romantic ceremony, and DIY details… not to mention a lively celebration with family and friends. We’re so happy to have been a part of it!

The LaSalle Chicago and Downtown Wedding Photos

Wedding day began with Michelle and Dan getting ready separately at The LaSalle Chicago. If you’re looking for a downtown Chicago hotel with great light for your wedding day, definitely consider getting a room block here! Conveniently located across the street from their venue (and some of the most iconic photo locations in the city), the afternoon was a breeze. These two had an emotional first look in front of the Financial District’s picturesque columns and gold doors, with wedding party photos to follow. How much fun was this crew?! The team had a blast taking over LaSalle Street with the wedding party for a bit while capturing these moments.

Ceremony and Celebration at The Library

After photos in the stunning lobby of 190 S. LaSalle, it was time to ride the elevator to The Library on the 40th floor. Michelle and Dan were married in a room surrounded by loved ones, a killer view, and lots of books! The romantic ceremony was officiated by Michelle’s brother, and once the knot was tied, the newlyweds were ALL smiles!!

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a unique reception featuring one long dinner table – emphasizing the “family style” element of their day. The celebration continued into the evening with heartfelt speeches, flowing drinks, and dancing! We’re so happy the newlyweds opted to end the evening with one of our signature night photos on LaSalle Street 🙂

Michelle and Dan: Thank you again for having us last year! Cheers to a lifetime of happiness and love!

Bride and groom kiss in front of a wall of bookshelves framed by a large decorative arch at The Library 190 in downtown Chicago

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel Wedding with English Traditions – Lucinda & Mark

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 🙂 

Vendor Team

Venue: Chicago Athletic Association Hotel / Planner: Naturally Yours Events / Bride’s dress: BHLDN / Bride’s shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Groom’s suit: Ralph Lauren / Florist: Flowers for Dreams / Hair & Makeup: Beauty by Ann Krause / Stationery: Steracle Press / Bride’s rings: Fontana Jeweler / Groom’s ring: The Amber Shop UK / Live Band: Funktastic Productions / Cake: Cake Chicago / Dessert: Wee Bonnie Bakery / Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP / Second Photographer: Alexis

Bride and groom kiss while guests applaud during their Chicago Athletic Association Hotel wedding ceremony in the Madison Ballroom

Classic Chicago Wedding at The Library at 190 – Miya & Dylan

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!!!

Vendor Team

Venue: The Library at 190 S. LaSalle / Hotel: Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago / Planner: Sarah Kathleen Events / Bride’s dress: Jenny Yoo / Bride’s shoes: Aldo / Groom’s suit: The Black Tux / Hair Stylist: Megumi Nakama Salon / Makeup Artist: The Bridal Beauty Team / Stationery: DIY / Bride’s rings: Merry Richards Jewelers / Groom’s ring: Brilliant Earth / DJ: Green Line Talent / Caterer: Maison Cuisine / Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s / Photo Booth: EMP / Second Photographer: Alexis

Romantic photo of bride and groom with stacks of books at downtown Chicago Library wedding at 190 S. LaSalle

Madeleine & Justin’s Summer Ovation Chicago Wedding

Anybody else dreaming about summer? Look no further: Madeleine and Justin’s Ovation wedding was full of happy faces summer vibes! As you may recall from their fall neighborhood engagement session, these two are a breeze in front of the camera and super fun to hang out with. I already knew their wedding day was going to be awesome (and SPOILER ALERT… it was!).

Publishing House Bed and Breakfast

Madeleine and Justin got ready separately at The Publishing House B&B, one of Chicago’s most unique locations for photos and private events. Each of their parties had a full floor to themselves, allowing separation when necessary (but also making this part of the day super convenient!). Justin and Mads exchanged letters and gifts before their first look on the staircase, one of many picturesque locations in the building. Before we knew it, we were headed downtown for some iconic Chicago photos with the wedding party!

Pro tip: If you LOVE the look of this place for your wedding day, contact them ASAP! They book up well in advance.

Ovation Wedding

We arrived at Ovation with just enough time to take a spin with the venue’s Rolls Royce! This part of the day is always a highlight for any Ovation wedding, whether you opt for photos before the ceremony or after. Madeleine and Justin couldn’t keep their eyes off each other, looking stylish as ever. Shout out to Spencer for being the perfect chauffeur and designated driver!

Later that evening, Madeleine and Justin were married under the venue’s stunning skylight in a heartfelt ceremony officiated by a dear friend. Their sweet pup Oly even made a cameo appearance… he almost stole the show! Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed delicious food, cocktails, and lots of dancing, of course! The celebration continued into the night, and the Newlyweds were ALL smiles 🙂

Madeleine and Justin: Thank you again for having us in July!! We had the best time at your wedding, wishing you all the best in Married Life!

Want to see more from Mads and Justin’s Ovation wedding? Check out their gorgeous Highlight Film by George!

Just married bride and groom cheer with their guests under skylight at Ovation Chicago wedding ceremony

Festive Chicago Wedding at City View Loft – Ellen & Sean

In December, I had the pleasure of wrapping our 2023 season with Ellen and Sean’s wedding at City View Loft! These two got engaged last February, and spent most of last year planning the most festive, romantic, and joyful celebration. I absolutely loved that every detail had a unique and personal touch! Their wedding day was truly a representation of their love for each other, as well as the most important people in their lives.

Downtown Chicago Wedding Photos

Ellen and Sean both got ready at the Springhill Suites in River North, and after their first look on Hubbard they were ALL smiles! We soon departed for a city tour with the wedding party to some of my favorite downtown Chicago locations. The holiday lights (and Sean’s custom suit!) made for the most festive December wedding photos! Finally, it was time to head to the venue so these two could make it official 🙂

City View Loft Wedding

Later that evening, Ellen and Sean were wed in the downstairs loft space known as Kitchen Chicago. A dear friend officiated the ceremony, which included the traditional Irish ring warming! Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed delicious food, cocktails, and the Newlyweds’ favorite board games. One of my favorite details were the custom puzzle pieces on each dinner table, which formed a handwritten love letter to their loved ones. Such a creative and personal touch… these two thought of everything! I’m lucky they agreed to brave the (mild) December weather for a few romantic night photos before we said goodbye!

Ellen and Sean: Thank you again for having us last year! Your wedding day was a dream to be part of, wishing you all the happiness in the world.

Romantic photo of bride and groom in LaSalle street downtown Chicago before their winter City View Loft wedding

Stephanie & Patrick’s Loyola University Wedding at Madonna della Strada

Last September I had the pleasure of capturing Stephanie and Patrick’s Chicago wedding day, starting at the historic Madonna della Strada Chapel at Loyola University. Both their ceremony and reception locations held much significance to them, having met as students at Loyola years ago!

Stephanie’s words:

“We are so thrilled to be having our wedding ceremony at the campus at Madonna della Strada Chapel. It means a lot to us since we did meet there, and Patrick also popped the question at Loyola as well! There is a lot of sentimental value that Loyola holds for us!”

Stephanie and Patrick arrived at Madonna della Strada just in time for a first look before the ceremony began. This stunning church had no shortage of photogenic angles… and SO much light! I think it’s safe to say it’s a wedding photographer’s dream church. After they said I Do, we got to explore campus with the wedding party and then headed downtown!

Osteria Via Stato Wedding Reception

Celebrating their marriage at Osteria Via Stato was so intentional for Stephanie and Patrick. As avid travelers and self-proclaimed “big foodies,” their mutual favorite place in the world is… you guessed it, Italy! Having their family and friends gather at this Chicago restaurant was the next best thing to traveling overseas together. Of course, the food did not disappoint – if you live in Chicago and have never had a meal here, you are missing out! Guests enjoyed delicious dinner, dancing, and a late-night gelato bar 🙂

Stephanie and Patrick: Thank you again for having us last year!! I absolutely loved seeing your vision come to life and wish you all the happiness in your future together.

Loyola University wedding ceremony at iconic Madonna della Strada Chapel in Chicago

Jen & Steve’s Downtown Chicago Library Wedding at 190 S. LaSalle

This summer, I had the honor of photographing Jen and Steve’s Downtown Chicago wedding at The Library at 190 S. LaSalle. This was my first time inside the venue, and it did not disappoint! The entire day was bursting with love for these two, and I’m so happy to have been a part of it.

Steve and Jen got ready separately before the ceremony at Immaculate Conception, which happens to be where they went to grade school together! One of many personal touches throughout their day, which made it so much more meaningful. After the stunning ceremony, it was time to celebrate! We got to stop at some of my favorite downtown locations with the wedding party before heading to the venue for their reception.

The Library 190 Wedding

We arrived at The Library with just enough time for the newlyweds to join their guests for cocktails. Jen and Steve were together for 13 years before tying the knot, much of their relationship being long-distance. I love how they tied in the travel-theme to their reception decor, including a custom globe guestbook, luggage tag escort cards, and tables named after countries they have visited together. But I think my favorite part of the evening was when they ICED their wedding party when they entered the reception! This had me laughing for a while 🙂

Steve and Jen were so excited to finally celebrate with their guests and dance the night away. Lucky for me, they let us steal them away for a few night photos on LaSalle! These are some of my favorite photos from the entire evening, showcasing the unique downtown venue and their happy newlywed faces.

Jen and Steve: Thank you again for having us in July! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together!

Vendor Team

Ceremony Venue: Immaculate Conception Catholic Church / Reception Venue: The Library at 190 S. LaSalle / Hotel: W Chicago City Center / Planner: Anticipation Events / Bride’s dress: Martina Liana / Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka / Groom’s suit: Formally Modern Tuxedo / Florist: Flowers for Dreams / Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago / Stationery: Truly Engaging / Engagement ring: Brilliant Earth / Bride’s ring: Macy’s / Groom’s ring: BellyssaJewelry / DJ: DJ-Chicago / Caterer: Catered by Design / Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP / Second Photographer: Nohemi

Want to see more Jen & Steve? Check out their awesome Highlight Film by Amy Lynn!

Romantic photo of bride and groom kissing on Riverwalk before Chicago library wedding reception at 190 S. LaSalle

Mindy & Daniel’s Joyful Artifact Events Wedding

Mindy and Daniel’s Artifact Events wedding in May was a pleasure to be part of. These two are so clearly smitten with each other, it made the entire day seem like a breeze! Add in an A-List vendor team, gorgeous Chicago weather, and one of the most unique venues in the city… I knew their wedding was going to be GOOD.

Daniel got ready with his party at home, while Mindy spent the morning at her parents’ place nearby. We conquered holiday weekend traffic and made it to the Art Institute gardens for an emotional first look! This is one of my favorite Chicago portrait locations, and definitely worth a stop for any downtown wedding day. After a few more iconic photo-ops, we headed north. It was time to get these two MARRIED!!

Artifact Events Wedding

Artifact Events is part of the industrial corridor on historic Ravenswood Avenue. The venue itself is massive – offering multiple options for weddings and other events. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity for photos in the North Atrium before their courtyard ceremony!

That evening, Mindy and Daniel made it official in an intimate ceremony officiated by Daniel’s sister. One of my favorite details was Daniel’s father playing the Oud during the processional! Once the knot was tied, I don’t think they stopped smiling for a second. It was an absolute joy to capture the love and support surrounding these two on this day 🙂

CONGRATULATIONS, Mindy and Daniel!!! Thank you again for having us this year! Wishing you the very best in your future together.

Artifact Events wedding ceremony in south courtyard with columns and greenery