Emma Mullins Photography

Another highlight of 2025 was Vivienne and Zach’s Lincoln Park wedding at Salvatore’s. These two planned an intimate celebration in their current hometown of Chicago, inviting loved ones from near and far. After their downtown Chicago sunrise engagement session, I could not wait to get these two behind my lens again!

Lincoln Park Conservatory

On wedding day, Zach got ready at their River North home, while Vivienne and her party began in nearby Lincoln Park. Zach traveled to Vivienne for an intimate first look, and then we headed out for portraits at Lincoln Park Conservatory. These two were all eyes on each other – plus, I could have played with Vivienne’s veil all day! I really enjoyed having this special time with just the two of them, allowing time and space to create memories together. For any couples considering a private photo time on wedding day, I highly recommend this!

Downtown Chicago Wedding Party Photos

We made our way downtown to meet their crew for photos at some of the most picturesque Chicago locations. The skyline, the sparkling water, and gorgeous September weather created the best backdrop for classic city photos. Their stylish wedding party brought the energy, and were a blast to hang with all afternoon! Not to mention, the way that Zach and Vivienne look at each other makes my job all too easy. Finally, it was time to head to Salvatore’s and get these two married!  

Salvatore’s Wedding

That evening, Vivienne and Zach were married in a romantic ceremony at Salvatore’s in Lincoln Park. A close friend led the ceremony, complete with personal stories that had guests in laughter and tears. Once it was official, Vivienne and Zach could not stop smiling! Celebration continued throughout the evening with delicious dinner, drinks, and a lively dance floor. Highlights include their impressive first dance, and a romantic sparkler photo to end the evening.

Vivienne and Zach: Thank you again for having me in September! It has been such a pleasure getting to know you both and seeing your wedding day vision come to life. All my best in your future together!!

Yan and Jimmy’s September wedding at The Joinery was filled with calm energy and overwhelming joy. If you remember from their spring Oak Park engagement session, these two could not be more in love… and it shows! Nohemi and I were super excited to see these two again and capture the celebration. 

Yan got ready at home with friends and family – including her parents who traveled from China for the occasion – and Jimmy at a friend’s house nearby. Surrounded by lush greenery in the courtyard of their future shared home, their first look was both intimate and emotional. This was one of my favorite moments of the day! It really set the tone for everything ahead.

Wicker Park Wedding Photos

Soon after, we headed to the 606 trail for some Wicker Park wedding photos with their wedding party. The golden sunshine and early fall air were a perfect scene to showcase the happiness of this group. One detail I especially loved were the fans carried by Yan and her wedding party. This crew was dressed to impress!

The Joinery Chicago Wedding

Our final destination was The Joinery in Logan Square. This is one of my favorite Logan Square spaces – the gorgeous skylight, private courtyard, and abundance of natural light photo locations make it a great choice for weddings and events! We took advantage of the ivy wall for some portraits on film before the ceremony, and before long, these two were walking down the aisle as husband and wife. 

Yan and Jimmy held a private Tea Ceremony upstairs with their immediate families following the wedding ceremony. They wore traditional Chinese wedding attire and served tea to their elders, a sign of honor and respect as their families become one. Yan’s father gifted the newlyweds a traditional Chinese stamp, carefully handcrafted himself (it was so beautiful!). Meanwhile, guests enjoyed specialty cocktails from Fig Drinks in the courtyard, and Yan and Jimmy joined their guests soonafter. Highlights from the evening include their Create-Your-Own-Portrait guest book, desserts from Spinning J, and Yan’s stunning red reception dress!

Yan and Jimmy: Thank you again for having us in September! We are honored to have been part of your day. Wishing you the best in Married Life!

A Jazz Era Celebration

Jen and Sean’s September wedding at Wildman BT felt like a glamorous 1920’s party brought to life. Guests arrived in their best Jazz Era fashion, and the entire day carried that vintage sparkle. The theme was came as no surprise – if you’ll remember from their Garfield Park Conservatory engagement session, these two met while swing dancing! Lori of VR Inspirations carried out their wedding vision beautifully at this stunning venue, one of our top favorites in Chicago. Jen and Sean also offered their own personal touches, including stationery handmade by Sean, and gold feather fans made by Jen for her wedding party.

Downtown Chicago Wedding Photos

Their day began in the West Loop, where Sean and Jen got ready separately with their wedding parties. After their first look on the hotel terrace, we headed to Union Station and the Financial District for some iconic Chicago wedding photos. We had a blast with this crew all afternoon – from having a vogue moment to strutting their stuff, and a few pro dance moves, of course! Jen and Sean even shared a romantic dance in the street before it was time to head to Wildman BT. 

Wildman BT Wedding

When we arrived at the venue, the sun was beaming and energy was high. It’s always a treat to be back at Wildman BT – not only are the staff SO friendly and helpful (we’re neighbors!), it’s truly one of the most unique, photogenic event locations in the city. I love every opportunity to create photos inside this gorgeous space!

That evening, Jen and Sean tied the knot in a heartfelt ceremony, complete with personal vows and a Cairn-building ceremony. A family member officiated, and these two were all eyes on each other. Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed custom cocktails and delicious drinks in the Jazz Era style! One of my favorite details were the subtle nods to their cat Barley, who, unfortunately, was not invited. 

The celebration continued with bites from The Food Truck Hub, live music by Naomi & Her Handsome Devils, and swing dancing lessons for their guests. Naturally, the Newlyweds danced the night away in each others’ arms.

Jen and Sean: Thank you for inviting us to capture your incredible day! We absolutely loved every moment of your Wildman BT wedding, and celebrating this new chapter with you both.

Want to see more of Jen & Sean’s day? Check out their Highlight Film below!

Fionna and Brendan’s Lacuna Lofts wedding in September felt like a warm love letter to Chicago. Not only was their day a pleasure to capture, we got lucky with perfect (I mean perfect) Chicago weather. The day featured good vibes all around, which set the tone for the rest of the day. Truly, I had been looking forward to this day even before their winter engagement session this year… and after their first look, it was time to get the party started!

Ping Tom Park Wedding Photos

We stopped at Ping Tom Memorial Park with their families and wedding party for photos before heading to the venue. The blue and white murals are always a fun choice here – and this crew looked extra chic in their own shades of blue! I especially loved our series in front of the willow trees, with the golden sun peeking through. Fionna and Brendan could not keep their eyes off each other, and soaked up every bit of the love surrounding them.

Rooftop Ceremony with a View

From the moment we arrived at Lacuna Lofts, it was clear this evening would be unforgettable. This is easily one of our favorite venues in Chicago, from the in-house catering to the variety of unique photo locations, and the iconic rooftop, of course! Brendan and Fionna tied the knot that evening in the most colorful sunset ceremony, with the absolute best view of Chicago’s skyline. Guests participated in a ring warming ceremony, an Irish tradition that encourages those in attendance to offer their love and best wishes. A mutual friend officiated the emotional ceremony, making every word feel more personal and true to them.

Music Theme Wedding Reception

Guests celebrated on the rooftop with delicious food and drinks, as day turned into night. The festivities continued in the Reverie Gallery with blessings, kind words, heartfelt stories, and a surprise Wedding Day Malört! Their pup Maizey was also represented by take-home treats for other pups who were not able to attend (aww!). One of my favorite details was their reception table theme: each named after a live music show they’d attended together. Of course, the night featured non-stop tunes and a packed dance floor, featuring Fionna and Brendan. It was an added bonus to take them back up to the rooftop for some romantic newlywed photos at night!

Fionna and Brendan: Thank you again for having us capture your incredible day! We loved being part of every moment and couldn’t be happier for you two!!

Another major highlight of 2025 was Lisa and Colm’s summer wedding day at The Arbory Chicago. These two got ready separately with their wedding parties: Colm at their home and Lisa at a rental home nearby. The morning was filled with laughter, and energy was high all around! After their romantic winter engagement session at The Art Institute of Chicago, I was so excited for them to see each other.

First Look at Garfield Park Conservatory

One fun fact about Lisa and Colm is that they own over 65 house plants. Yes, you read that correctly! As you may guess, taking wedding photos at Garfield Park Conservatory was never even a question… starting with their first look. The moment these two saw each other, you could feel the joy radiating off of them. Seriously – these two are always a breeze in front of the camera! We took our time in the fern room and were eventually joined by their families and wedding party. Colm’s side traveled from Ireland for the event, and we were especially excited to welcome them!

The Arbory Chicago Wedding

When we arrived at The Arbory, the most lovely smell of fresh florals wafted through the air. The ceremony design and colorful hanging floral installation were truly a sight to see, thanks to Noelle of Olive Fine Weddings and Allison of Stems Chicago! As guests filled the space, their excitement was contagious. Lisa and Colm said I Do that afternoon surrounded by loved ones, in a personalized ceremony led by the one-and-only Liz Rae. These two made it official in front of their witnesses with the ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting.

That evening, friends and family danced the night away in honor of the newlyweds to a mix of American pop and Irish music, including a lively first dance to Dreams by The Cranberries. Colm and Lisa were bursting with happiness, and it was an absolute pleasure to capture their day! I’m so happy they let me pull them off the dance floor for a few night photos with the venue’s unique decor.

Lisa and Colm: Thank you for inviting us to capture your beautiful summer wedding day. We couldn’t be happier for you two! Comhghairdeas!!

Moira and Nick’s Salvage One wedding in September was every bit as joyful and eclectic as they’d envisioned. Not only is Salvage One one of my personal favorite wedding venues in the city, I could not imagine a more perfect place for these two to tie the knot. Especially after their summer home engagement session featuring all things vintage, including theatre seats similar to those at the venue!

First Look and Film Photography

Our morning began at The Emily in Chicago’s West Loop. Moira and Nick got ready separately, each with their personal fashion choices that added to the distinct style of their day. We headed to Salvage One separately for their sweet first look inside the bridal suite! Both of their faces lit up immediately when they saw each other, and stayed beaming throughout the evening. Moira’s vintage gold dress and pink veil absolutely stunned with the colorful florals – and Nick looked dapper in his custom plaid suit!

One of my favorite parts of capturing their day was the fact that I got to work with both color and black and white film. And honestly – I love them both equally! As colorful as this day was, the black and whites definitely had their moment. Nick and Moira were easy to photograph as always, and we took our time exploring the different levels of Salvage One before the ceremony.

Salvage One Wedding

That evening, loved ones filled the vintage pews to witness these two make their union official. A highlight of the ceremony was when Nick’s dad performed Airplane by the Beach Boys on piano… but what Moira didn’t know is that Nick coordinated for all of their guests to sing along! I’m honored that he included our team in this surprise – it was fun to memorize lyrics in the weeks leading up to their day. Moira was truly surprised, and the entire ceremony was full of life, emotion, and great stories. Shout out to their friend Ursula for officiating!

Once the knot was tied, guests celebrated in the courtyard with cocktails and delicious bites. Friends performed live acoustic music, led by Jess Baldissero. Dinner and dancing followed upstairs, in a room decorated with disco balls, neon signs, vintage glassware and dried flowers. One first for me at this wedding: dancing The Hokey Pokey! It was fun to see this family tradition come to life!

Moira and Nick: Thank you again for inviting me to capture your joyful day. I couldn’t be happier for you two! Wishing you all the best in Married Life!!

Planning your own Salvage One wedding, and looking for inspiration? Check out these other favorite weddings on the Blog!

Rosie & Scott | Cierra & Steve | Emily & John

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, which you can view 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 with blooming trees by LivingArt USA. 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 our ideas). I was thrilled when they asked me to include 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 in Married Life!

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 🙂