On a lovely August day last year I had the pleasure of capturing Ada & Brendan’s downtown Chicago wedding. Without a doubt, this day was bursting with joy from beginning to end! These two got ready separately before their emotional first look in the lobby of TheWit, where Brendan was waiting for Ada with a bouquet of red roses (I know!). After an exchange of letters and gifts, it was time for some downtown Chicago wedding day photos with yours, truly 🙂

If you can’t tell from the photos, Ada and Brendan were a blast to explore the city with! We stopped at the most iconic photo locations, not to mention they received PLENTY of congrats from passersby! When it was time to head to the North Side, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity for some CTA photos at their local stop. Ada loves the area surrounding the Paulina station, and I’m so glad we stopped here for a few!

Finally, we arrived at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro just in time to dodge the summer rain. Ada and Brendan were married in an intimate ceremony officiated by a mutual friend. One of my favorite things about this day was how intentional everything was – including DIY details by Ada! Every guest seemed to be bursting with happiness for these two, not to mention the newlyweds themselves. Truly, this was the most wonderful day… I’m so happy to have been a part of it!

Ada and Brendan: Thank you again for having us in August!!! All my best to you both and your future together!

Terrence and Shawn’s Cindy’s Rooftop wedding in September was one for the books. When I first heard from these two, they told me of how they met, their dog Clover, and 2019 engagement. Like many other couples, their original wedding plans were affected by the pandemic… which brings us to Cindy’s!

After a little re-planning, these two decided to tie the knot in an intimate ceremony at one of Chicago’s most iconic locations. Shawn and Terrence got ready with their families at the stunning Chicago Athletic Association Hotel overlooking downtown. They read personal letters to each other before meeting on the marble staircase for their happy first look! Before the ceremony, we had a chance to take photos inside the hotel and in the gardens at Art Institute of Chicago (my fave!). This crew was a blast to hang with – I love that they included their siblings as the wedding party!

Finally, it was time to get these two married. Terrence’s father officiated the ceremony on Cindy’s terrace, and I don’t think there was a dry eye among us! As soon as the knot was tied, cheers and applause erupted from their guests… and also patrons at the restaurant!! It was truly an unforgettable moment. Positive energy filled the air for these two the entire evening 🙂

Terrence and Shawn: Thank you again for having me in September!! Your Cindy’s Rooftop wedding was a highlight of my season. I wish you nothing but the best in Married Life!

Want to see more Terrence & Shawn? Check out their Sunrise Engagement Session featuring pup Clover!

I’m so excited to share Jolene & Will’s summer Revolution Brewing wedding! I met these two early last year, shortly after their New Year’s Day rooftop engagement. Their plan was to have a fun, intimate wedding in their neighborhood surrounded by their favorite people. What’s not to love about that?!

Jolene’s words:

“We love beer almost as much as we love books; pretty much all our travels are Beercations… Revolution Brewpub is the perfect place for us to have our wedding. It feels like our backyard!”

Of course, it’s always a treat to hear from fellow Beer Nerds… and I love that they wanted to tie the knot so close to home! After their downtown spring engagement session, I was counting the days until their wedding.

Wedding day was an ADVENTURE. We started the day downtown at TheWit, with the happiest first look on their outdoor terrace. After stopping at a few iconic photo locations, we found ourselves in the middle of Chicago weather! These two and their party were total champs, even with the last minute detour and change of plans. And – lucky us – we were still able to get some awesome photos in Logan Square… in all kinds of weather!

Revolution Brewing Wedding

That evening, Jolene and Will were married in an intimate ceremony at Revolution, officiated by a friend. Once the knot was tied, the summer brews began to flow! One of my favorite things about their wedding day was all the personalized details. From the book-themed decor (they are both English teachers) to their homemade wedding cake by Will’s sister, no detail was left out! We ended the evening with a night photo on Jolene and Will’s rooftop (the very same place where they got engaged!).

Jolene and Will: Thank you again for having me in July!! Wishing you the happiest marriage filled with books, travel, and delicious beer 🙂

In June, I had the pleasure of capturing Katie and Brad’s intimate Little Goat Diner wedding ceremony. These two had originally hoped for a destination wedding in the Italian countryside, but the world had other plans. Nevertheless, they were committed to tying the knot… and I’m so happy they decided to do so right here in Chicago!

Brad and Katie got ready separately at Nobu Hotel, steps away from the rooftop where they’d marry that afternoon. (I LOVE that we could see Little Goat’s rooftop from their hotel suite!) Lucky for us, the afternoon rain let up just in time for portraits around the neighborhood. We walked to some of my favorite spots in the West Loop, and Katie and Brad were all smiles! Before long, it was time to get these two married 🙂

The intimate rooftop ceremony was officiated by a mutual friend, and couldn’t have been more lovely. One of the things Katie and Brad were excited for in Italy was the delicious food and drink (who wouldn’t be?!), so it only made sense to choose Little Goat as an alternative. If you’re not familiar, Little Goat Diner is among the dozens of recommended restaurants in Chicago’s Restaurant Row. Naturally, the refreshments were a highlight of the evening! Brad gave a heartfelt toast to their guests before dinner, and we even had a chance for sunset photos between courses. All in all, it was the most wonderful Chicago wedding day anyone could ask for!

Katie and Brad: Thank you again for having me in June! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness together.

Nancy and Wade’s fall North Pond Restaurant wedding was an intimate, joy-filled evening. These two tied the knot on a Tuesday in November, two days before Thanksgiving! The date was no accident: Nancy and Wade chose to marry on what would have been Nancy’s parents’ 60th anniversary. In fact, Wade’s parents were wed the same year, only months before! I loved how they chose to honor their families in this way. A candle burned for each of their late parents during the church ceremony, with Wade’s sweet mother proudly in attendance.

Like many wedding days last fall, Mother Nature gave us a healthy dose of rain! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: no matter what the weather on your wedding day, your photos will be beautiful. I promise!! Personally I love the romantic vibe of raindrops falling, not to mention the unique photo opportunities we wouldn’t have otherwise. One of my favorites from this day was the outdoor group photo during a pause in the rain. Nancy and Wade wanted one photo with all their guests, so we gave everyone a sparkler and made it happen! Many thanks to Nathalie at North Pond for helping organize and assist.

These two have been a joy to photograph and are so obviously in love. Even their reception music consisted of love songs Wade had sent to Nancy throughout the course of their relationship. How sweet is that?! After dinner, Wade professed his feelings for his wife in front of all their guests. It was such a heartfelt moment 🙂

Nancy and Wade: Thank you again for having me last fall! It was an honor to capture your wedding day, and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

Vendor Team

Church: Luther Memorial/Venue: North Pond Restaurant/Bride’s dress: Hayley Paige from Alice in Ivory/Bride’s shoes: Christian Louboutin/Groom’s suit: Sartori Amici/Florals: Farmers Market Garden Center/Hair & Makeup: Art + Science salon/Invitation: Minted/Engagement ring: Jared/Wedding bands: family heirloom (originally Wade’s parents’ rings)/Videographer: Paul for EMP/Caterer: North Pond/Cake: Amy Beck Cake Design

Want to see more Nancy & Wade? Check out their morning Engagement Session at Garfield Park Conservatory!

Sam and Eric’s Chicago wedding at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro took place down the street from their home. Friends and family traveled from all over to celebrate with them – and what a celebration it was! After their colorful spring engagement session I KNEW this was going to be a fun party 🙂

When I first heard from Sam, she was so excited to marry Eric. He had surprised her with an engagement ring the day before a Paris vacation, and she was absolutely thrilled! One of the first decisions they made was to include their pups, Penny and Scout, in the festivities. Although they weren’t able to attend the ceremony, a First Look appearance was the perfect alternative (aren’t they adorable?!). Check out the pups on their stationery, too!

Handmade details included the flower girl baskets and dog collars (both by Eric’s mom), place card easels (made by Eric) and reception signs crafted by a friend. Sam’s good friend Justin officiated the ceremony, and the party started right after “I Do!”

Sam & Eric: Thanks again for having me last September! I had such a blast on your wedding day. Wishing you all the happiness in your future together.

Vendor Team

Venue: Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro/Hotel: Hotel Lincoln/Bride’s dress: independent designer, purchased from Gilt/Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka/Groom’s suit: Indochino/Florals: The Flower Girl Company/Hair & Makeup: Blush & Burgundy/Save the Dates: easyprintPD/Invitation: JALprints/Bride’s rings: Zales/Groom’s ring: his father’s/DJ: Zach from Green Line Talent/Caterer: Mrs. Murphy & Sons/Desserts: Sweet Mandy B’s

When Katelyn and Corbin told me they were planning a Chicago Cultural Center civil ceremony, I was so excited! Elopements and smaller wedding ceremonies are always my favorite to capture, and theirs was no exception. If you’re not familiar, the Chicago Cultural Center dedicates one Saturday every month to civil ceremonies for ten lucky couples. Ceremonies last about 3-5 minutes and cost a mere TEN DOLLARS. It’s true! Just takes some planning ahead (not too much!) and a little luck 🙂

Katelyn and Corbin met in Pittsburgh and moved to Chicago together three years ago. Their families traveled from all over the country to spend the day with them! The couple got ready with friends at their Humboldt Park home before heading downtown. After their ceremony, the three of us got to spend the afternoon visiting some favorite Chicago locations! Corbin and Katelyn are members at The Art Institute of Chicago, so photos in the gardens were a must.

Finally, it was time to regroup with family and head to Bridgeport. If you live in Chicago and haven’t been to The Duck Inn, trust me – you are missing out! The food and cocktails here are beyond fabulous, and the staff were awesome. This was exactly what Katelyn and Corbin wanted: an intimate, relaxed wedding reception with delicious food and great company. Way to go, you two! Thanks again for having me document your Nuptial Fest!!

Want to be like Katelyn & Corbin?

Are you engaged? Is a big, elaborate wedding day not for you? Civil ceremonies like Katelyn and Corbin’s are by appointment only and must be made in person. Find more info on how to have your own Chicago Cultural Center civil ceremony HERE!

Vendor Team

Ceremony Venue: Chicago Cultural Center/Reception Venue: The Duck Inn/Bride’s dress: Silver Moon Vintage/Groom’s suit: Richard’s Fabulous Finds/Florals: A New Leaf/Rings: G.V. Jewelry/Caterer: The Duck Inn/Cake: Moody Tongue

Jen and Pete’s West Loop restaurant wedding was one big, happy celebration. If you didn’t know, getting married at a Chicago restaurant has its perks! Most can accommodate both ceremony and reception, the spaces are always unique, and – bonus! – the food is guaranteed to be delicious! Jen and Pete decided on Nellcôte for many of these reasons… not to mention their first date happened next door at Green Street Smoked Meats! Sneaking over for a few wedding photos was pretty much a given.

Guests traveled from near and far to witness Jen and Pete tie the knot. They wanted the day to be simple, romantic, and encompass all the things they love about their city and each other. For example, they had no formal wedding party or traditions – they just wanted to celebrate! After their lively summer engagement session I couldn’t wait to capture their wedding day!!

The weather was perfect for a fall wedding. We stopped at some favorite Chicago locations before heading to the ceremony – and they couldn’t help but smile the whole time! Seriously, I can’t think of a moment either of them weren’t beaming ear-to-ear. After their ceremony, guests enjoyed an intimate cocktail hour at RM Champagne Salon. But once the party started back at Nellcôte, it lasted all night long! One of the first things Jen mentioned while planning their wedding was: “All I want to do is dance!!” And the bride wasn’t the only one dancing… see for yourself!

Jen and Pete: Thanks again for having me in November!! It was so great getting to know you last year and finally getting to capture these memories 🙂 All the best to you both in your adventures together!

Vendor Team

Venue: Nellcôte Restaurant/Hotel: Crowne Plaza West Loop/Bride’s dress: Aisle Chic/Bride’s shoes: Caparros/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Groom’s shoes: Allen Edmonds/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago/Invitation: Shutterfly/Save The Date: Vistaprint/Rings: Windy City Diamonds/DJ: Ryan from Style Matters/Caterer: Nellcôte/Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography/2nd shooter: Jeremy

Sarah and Jonathan’s fall West Loop wedding at Herbarium was a most unique celebration. From the artisan favors crafted by their families, to the DIY origami invitation, every detail was intentional. One of my favorite details was Sarah’s custom manicure! It perfectly matched the venue’s wallpaper. How cool is that?!

Similarly, Sarah and Jon borrowed taxidermy dioramas from the Field Museum. Yes, you read that correctly! If you didn’t know, items from the Harris Learning Collection are regularly available for rent. Butterflies made a lovely backdrop for their dessert table.

Herbarium was the perfect space to host their intimate West Loop wedding reception. In fact, Bad Hunter happens to be Sarah’s favorite Chicago restaurant! Most importantly, Sarah and Jon wanted to share a delicious meal and memorable evening with their guests. I’d say they got their wish! Guests danced the night away while the newlyweds couldn’t keep their eyes off each other. In all, the day was truly a pleasure to be a part of.

CONGRATULATIONS, Sarah & Jon! I loved seeing this day come together, thanks again for having me at your Herbarium wedding! All my best to you both!!

Vendor Team

Hotel: The Robey Chicago/Church: Wicker Park Lutheran/Venue: The Herbarium at Bad Hunter/Bride’s Dress: BHLDN, customized by Julia Needlman/Bride’s shoes: Irregular Choice/Salon: Twisted Scissors/Hairpiece: A Bit of Love/Bride’s makeup: DIY/Earrings: J. Crew/Groom’s suit: Adrian Park/Groom’s shoes: Fluevog/Bride’s rings: Mineralogy/Groom’s ring: Jewelry by Johan/Manicurist: Astrowifey/Florist: Pollen/Catering: Herbarium/Taxidermy dioramas: The Field Museum/DJ: Nicole Yalaz/Lighting design: A Posh Production

Rachel and Mike’s Chicago restaurant wedding at The Bristol was planned in a mere nine weeks. It’s true! Mike proposed on Mother’s Day of this year, and these two were so excited to wed they just couldn’t wait! They wanted their celebration to include those closest to them, as well as delicious food and a cocktail-centric reception. The Bristol was the perfect choice!

We stopped for portraits at Wrigley Field (a must for them), Salvage One (my happy place!) and some favorite Bucktown murals before heading to the ceremony. One thing I loved about this wedding was how family-focused the entire day was. Mike and Rachel made sure that each parent, sibling, and niece played a role in their wedding day, reflecting the importance of family in their lives. Not to mention, they even allowed time for a cameo appearance by their adorable Goldendoodle, Maisie!

I had a blast getting to know Rachel and Mike and photographing their wedding this summer. I’m also completely in awe of their dedication and love for one another! Seriously – in nine weeks, these two planned a wedding, a honeymoon, moved in together, got married, and vacationed in Paris. Whew! I guess it’s true what they say: when you’re in love, anything is possible 🙂

CONGRATS again, Rachel and Mike!! All the best to you both in your future together!

Vendor Team

Venue: The Bristol/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: Bella Belle (Maisie!)/Hair: Teezd Hair Salon/Makeup Artist: Outer Beauty/Groom’s suit: SuitSupply/Rings: Blue Nile/Florist and decorator: Ivy Leaf Studio/Signage: groom’s father/Caterer: The Bristol/Cake: Alliance Bakery