Emma Mullins Photography

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!

This year, I was lucky enough to ring in 2025 with Mitch and Maura’s New Year’s Eve wedding at Walden Chicago! Like many, I had been looking forward to this day for a long time. Not only are New Year’s weddings always a blast, but Walden is one of our favorite Chicago venues. And of course, Maura and Mitch are a treat in front of the camera! We even shot a couple rolls of black and white film 🙂

Walden Chicago Wedding

The day began with these two getting ready separately at Walden, surrounded by their favorite people. The wedding party seriously brought so much energy… making this time extra memorable! One of my favorite details was Maura’s vintage veil from the 1980’s, which belonged to her late mother. As you can see, Maura looked absolutely stunning – the veil was a perfect addition to her wedding day look! Mitch looked dapper in all black, and their sweet first look inside the venue was bursting with joy.

We spent the afternoon hanging out inside Walden with the wedding party, making sure to capture some awesome moments throughout the space. Maura and Mitch could not stop smiling – making our job easy! That evening they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony officiated by a friend. Once the knot was tied, the celebration – and countdown to 2025 – was ON! Guests enjoyed custom cocktails, a delicious meal, and a party on the dance floor! I’m lucky the newlyweds agreed to brave the weather with me for a few night photos on the rooftop with that magical skyline view!!

New Year’s Champagne Tower

As the clock approached midnight, guests gathered on the dance floor for a countdown celebration. In true New Year’s Eve fashion, Mitch and Maura poured a dazzling champagne tower, marking the start of 2025 as a married couple. The cheers, excitement, and love in the air made for the perfect way to ring in the new year!

Maura and Mitch: Thank you again for having us in December!! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together and all the best in Married Life!

Elizabeth and Leah’s fall Osteria Via Stato wedding was an absolute joy to be part of. These two are so clearly smitten with each other – it’s impossible to catch a moment where they’re not smiling when they’re together. Remember their Chicago Cultural Center engagement session from last year?! After that, I just knew their wedding day was going to be epic (and it was!!).

The Ivy Room Chicago Wedding Photos

Wedding day began with the brides getting ready separately at Embassy Suites hotel in River North. We were lucky enough to capture their first look in the magical, ivy-covered courtyard just across the street! You may recognize this space from The Ivy Room at Tree Studios – another of our favorite Chicago wedding venues. Special thanks to Lisa from Café Crèmerie for helping make this possible!

After an emotional first look, Elizabeth and Leah were joined by their loved ones for more photos, of course! Not only was this crew dressed to impress, but complemented by the most stunning and colorful florals! It also happened to be the most gorgeous October day in Chicago, perfect for an afternoon stroll. The party made their way downtown for some iconic city photos with the Chicago River, before heading back to the restaurant.

Osteria Via Stato Wedding

That evening, Elizabeth and Leah were married at Osteria Via Stato surrounded by candlelight, colorful florals, and their favorite people. Elizabeth’s mother did a beautiful job officiating the ceremony, which featured a handfasting ritual symbolizing the couple’s deep bond and commitment. Once the knot was (literally tied), the newlyweds jumped the broom – and it was officially official!!

Guests enjoyed delicious food, drinks, and LOTS of dancing throughout the evening. One of our favorite details from this day was the custom dessert table, including homemade Greek and Bavarian treats by family and friends. And as you may know, we can’t say goodbye without stepping outside for a night photo! I’m so happy Elizabeth and Leah agreed to let us steal them away for a few street photos with the city lights 🙂

Elizabeth and Leah: Thank you again for having us last fall!! May your love continue to grow, shine, and inspire everyone around you. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, you two!

Throwing it back to SUMMER today with Sean and Mike’s awesome South Branch Tavern wedding! Not only was this day long-anticipated by their loved ones (they have been together since high school!)… but I was so looking forward to it as well. Fun fact: I first met these two at Alex and Jack’s City Hall Events wedding in 2021! Since then we have been lucky enough to capture some great memories for their families over the years (HI Meg and Pat!)… and I knew their day was going to be just as awesome 🙂

Chicago Union Station Wedding Photos

The day began with Sean and Mike getting ready separately, before their emotional first look on Monroe Street bridge. Amy Lynn captured this beautifully in their Highlight Film – check it out below! Soon after, we headed to nearby Union Station with their crew for some classic Chicago wedding photos. The party looked dapper as ever in tuxes and blue, floral print gowns! If you’re looking for an elegant indoor photo location in the city with great natural light, Union Station is one of my favorites. Pro tip: make sure you secure a photography permit for this location ahead of time! 

South Branch Tavern & Grille Wedding

Before long, it was time to get these two MARRIED. We made our way to South Branch Tavern, and the space was soon filled with their loved ones – including pup Goose! Remember this happy guy from their fall engagement session?! Truly, seeing Goose was one of the things I was most excited for! 

Michael and Sean were married that evening along the Chicago River outside their venue. A dear friend officiated the ceremony, framed by impressive floral trees reminiscent of Italy. – who is this vendor??  Once it was official, the celebration was ON!! The Newlyweds enjoyed the reception mingling with their guests and dancing the night away. As always, these two were a treat in front of the camera and up for all my ideas. They even let me shoot a roll of black and white film! 

Sean and Mike: Thank you again for trusting my team to capture your memories! We couldn’t be happier for you two and wish you nothing but the best.

See more of Michael and Sean’s wedding day in their Highlight Film below!

My final post this year goes out to Rosie and Scott! I loved everything about their Salvage One Chicago wedding in September. I’ve said it before, but this is easily one of our favorite wedding venues in City. Besides being a super awesome store full of antiques and unique items, it’s a memorable (and photogenic) place to get married! Scott and Rosie even got a practice round during their Salvage One engagement session last spring. 

Salvage One Chicago Wedding

The day began with these two getting ready separately at the venue. One thing I love about this space is the great natural light – something we always seek for getting ready photos! I was obsessed with the pops of color in their florals and invitation suite… it happened to pair perfectly with the venue’s vintage pink furniture.

After their first look in the courtyard, we had plenty of time for photos with the wedding party around Salvage One. Seriously, I could spend hours taking photos inside this space! It was a lot of fun to shoot a roll of film in this space, too – I think the timeless look and rich tones turned out so great 🙂 

That evening, Rosie and Scott were married surrounded by their favorite people. Rosie’s brother officiated the ceremony, full of laughter and happy tears. The Newlyweds were SO excited to make it official, and I couldn’t be happier for them! Guests celebrated by dancing the night away under the disco ball, another iconic staple of Salvage One. One of my favorite details was their custom chalkboard art made by their friend Anna-Michal of Late Night Chalk Show!

Rosie and Scott: Thanks again for having us this year!! Your wedding day was a joy to capture… all my best to you both! 

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 🙂 

Meagan and Luke’s Rockwell on the River wedding this summer was one of the highlights of our year. It’s true what they say about Chicago in the summertime – if it’s your first time visiting our city, you’ll never leave! Looking back at their summer engagement session from last year, these two can’t get enough of the season! They hoped to share that feeling with their family and friends on wedding day, many of whom would be traveling to Chicago for the occasion. Meagan’s words:

“Since we are both from different parts of the country, we really haven’t had the opportunity to bring our family and friends together. We are going to have a live band and I don’t want anyone to leave the dance floor for the entire time!”

Rockwell on the River Wedding

That evening, Luke and Meagan tied the knot at the always beautiful Rockwell on the River. Their ceremony took place underneath the venue’s signature skylight, officiated by one of Meagan’s sisters. When they finally said I Do, the party was ON!! Guests enjoyed delicious food and drink throughout the evening – note their custom cocktail in honor of pup Louie! One of my favorite details was the surprise dance dedicated to Meagan’s parents, celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. It’s clear these two care deeply for their loved ones… not to mention that they’re so loved by so many.

As you may have guessed: Meagan’s wish came true and the dance floor was PACKED from beginning to end. I’m lucky to have been able to steal them away for a night photo in between sets! Oh – I’m pretty sure there was a full moon, too… pair that with rain on your wedding day, and it’s the BEST of luck 🙂

Meagan and Luke: Thank you again for having us capture these memories for you. Your wedding day was truly a joy to be part of! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness together.

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!

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!!

In March, we kicked off 2024 wedding season with Morgan and Jarett’s LM Studio Chicago wedding! Remember their adorable Chicago engagement session last year?! I have been counting the days until their wedding ever since!

The day began with Morgan’s side getting ready at Hilton Chicago, and Jarett’s at Le Méridien down the street. After their first look on the Hilton hotel staircase, the crew took a stroll across Michigan Avenue for photos in Grant Park! The wedding party stunned in black tie attire and shades of sage, and Morgan and Jarett were all eyes on each other. Before long, it was time to head back to the studio and get these two married!!

LM Studio Chicago Wedding

That evening, Morgan and Jarett tied the knot at LM Studio surrounded by loved ones, overlooking our incredible city. Their emotional ceremony included several personal touches, such as honoring each of their mothers with a single rose. Once it was officially official, everyone was ready to PARTY… and it didn’t stop there! Guests enjoyed delicious food and drink, and the newlyweds were happy as can be. Not to mention the PARTY on the dance floor that lasted well into the night! Alexis was lucky enough to sneak them outside for a few night photos – some of our favorites from the entire day 🙂

Morgan and Jarett: Thank you again for having us this year!! It was an absolute honor to be part of your day. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to 2024! Wishing you two alllll the happiness in Marriage!!