Emma Mullins Photography

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, guests were ready to party… and it didn’t stop there! Friends and family 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 all the happiness in the world.

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 Publishing House 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!

Happy Valentine’s Day, loves! I have been looking forward to sharing Shoshanna and Ian’s spring wedding at The Arbory for a while… and what better day than today?! After spending only moments with these two, their love for one another is not only apparent, but contagious. Their relationship truly embodies the meaning of the word romance – and wedding day was a perfect representation of that.

The day began with Ian and Shoshanna getting ready separately – Ian and his party at their new home, and Shoshanna at their downtown hotel. Their first look took place on the Chicago Riverwalk, in a location meaningful to them and central to the beginnings of their relationship. It just so happened to be an unseasonably warm April day (thanks Chicago!), which allowed us time to stroll along the Riverwalk for more photos, of course! After making time for just the two of them, we made our way to Union Station for some iconic photos with their wedding party. We even got a little rain shower on our way back to the bus!

The Arbory Chicago Wedding

That evening, Shoshanna and Ian tied the knot in an emotional ceremony underneath the venue’s gorgeous skylight. Guests listened as they professed their love for each other, stronger than ever and growing each day. This ceremony was truly something out of a romantic movie… I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place! Ian’s sister did the honors as officiant, and once the knot was tied, celebration was definitely in order!

The newlyweds were all smiles as they mingled and danced with loved ones throughout the evening. Some highlights from their reception include a choreographed first dance, vegan dinner and dessert, and lush, bohemian-style decor. It truly was a night to remember, and a genuine celebration of Shoshanna and Ian’s love.

Shoshanna and Ian: Thank you again for having us last year!! Wishing you both a lifetime of love, joy, and true romance 🙂

Today I’m excited to feature Emily and Kyle’s Cindy’s Rooftop wedding in September. When I first heard from these two, I was intrigued by their “modern, moody and minimal” vision for a wedding in this space. What’s more – it was an absolute treat to see their vision come to life (Emily’s black Rue de Seine gown was one for the books)!

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

That morning, Kyle and Emily got ready separately at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. After their first look on the iconic marble staircase, it was time for photos! Chicago weather couldn’t have been more perfect for a stroll to The Art Institute of Chicago, returning just in time to take advantage of the hotel’s unique locations. Their sweet pup Scully even dressed up for the occasion… and smiled for a photo, too!

Cindy’s Rooftop Wedding Ceremony

That evening, Emily and Kyle tied the knot on the terrace of Cindy’s Rooftop, overlooking our great city. Emily’s brother officiated the ceremony, and the musicians and DJ were all friends of the couple. Once they said I Do, they were beaming with joy and ready to celebrate!! Guests enjoyed delicious food and cocktails as the sun set over Lake Michigan, and the celebration continued into the night. Scully even stayed to greet guests and accept hugs on behalf of the happy couple 🙂

Emily and Kyle: Thank you again for having us in September!! We absolutely loved being part of your day, wishing you both all our best!

Last spring, I got to capture Anna-Kate and Greg’s gorgeous wedding celebration at Walden! Even though they had officially tied the knot in 2022, they’d always wanted to celebrate with friends and family here in Chicago. After a vow renewal ceremony on the venue’s 2nd floor, the party did not disappoint!

Walden Chicago Wedding

The day began with Anna-Kate and Greg getting ready separately at Walden. To say I was obsessed with Anna-Kate’s details would be an understatement! She truly had every accessory imaginable, customized just for her. Some DIY details by AK include the needlepointing on her jewelry box, and the entire stationery suite!

Both Anna-Kate and Greg looked spectacular for their first look on Walden’s rooftop overlooking the city. We took advantage of the view and surrounding neighborhood for photos… including underneath the El tracks! Classic Chicago 🙂 Finally, it was time to head back and get ready for their ceremony. Once these two said I Do, it was time to celebrate!!

Reception Highlights

Some of my favorite details from their reception include pops of spring color everywhere, photo booth props to honor their cats, and AK’s party dress! The evening was filled with love, laughter, and happy tears. DJ Kris kept the dance floor packed ALL night! I’m thankful the newlyweds snuck away for a few night photos with me – these are some of my favorite portraits from the entire day!

Anna-Kate and Greg: Thank you again for having us be a part of this happy day!! It was an absolute honor to capture. All my best to you both!

Aviva and Ben. Where do I begin with these two?! Their summer Skyline Loft wedding at Bridgeport Art Center was truly a dream, complete with a double rainbow (it’s true!). You may remember them from Ben’s surprise proposal in the summer of 2021… and I was fortunate enough to be there on wedding day, too!

One of my favorite things about Aviva and Ben is the pure joy that radiates whenever they’re together. Of course, this makes it easy on the photographer (thanks, guys!) – not to mention a treat to capture! The day began at Hotel Lincoln, across the street from the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool where Aviva said YES two summers earlier. After their private first look and rooftop photos at The J. Parker, we were off!

Chicago Wedding Party Photos

On our way to the venue, we made a quick stop with the wedding party was Kinzie Bridge. Besides being an iconic Chicago photo location (especially in the summer), it’s a meaningful one for Aviva and Ben. This wedding party was up for a good time, and I’m so happy we had a chance to stop here! And – lucky us, when we arrived at Bridgeport Art Center, the Sculpture Garden happened to be available for photos. Did we take advantage? You bet we did!

Skyline Loft Wedding Ceremony

Finally, it was time for the ceremony to begin. Ben and Aviva were married underneath the Chuppah in the venue’s gorgeous loft space, surrounded by the love and support of their guests. Once the glass was broken, it was time to celebrate!! I don’t think their smiles faded the rest of the day. We were even greeted with a summer shower immediately after stepping outside for newlywed photos, and these two were great sports. In case you didn’t know, rain on your wedding day IS good luck 🙂

That evening, family and friends enjoyed delicious food, drink and dancing with the newlyweds. Ben and Aviva were on Cloud Nine and the party didn’t stop there! I’m thankful they agreed to take a night photo with me after dark to show off their dance moves. No rain this time!

Aviva and Ben: THANK YOU again for having us capture your memories in June!! It’s been an absolute joy to be there from the beginning of your engagement through wedding day. Wishing you nothing but the best in Married Life!

Happy New Year’s Eve, friends! I’m pretty sure I say this every year, but it’s been nearly impossible to choose the Best of 2023 after such an incredible season. Of course, the past 12 months have flown by faster than ever… but looking back has been truly nostalgic!

This year we decided to take a limited number of weddings in order to better serve each and every couple. As a result, I have been able to build up our sister company P&M studio (give us a follow!), as well as say YES to more short-term opportunities (like surprise proposals, my FAVE!). No doubt 2023 would not have been the same without my amazingly talented team: Alexis, Amy Lynn, George, Trevor, Dan, Jess, Nohemi, Chrissy, Kate, and Jeremy. I’m lucky to get to work with such kind, professional, and skilled individuals who want the best for our awesome couples.

Highlights from 2023:

• Number of weddings captured: 33
• Elopements captured: 1
• Engagement sessions: 22
• Surprise proposals: 4 (including my first boat proposal!)
• Wedding films created: 17
• Weddings in my hometown (Milwaukee): 2
• Wedding Day Rainbows: 2 (okay, they were on the same day… but still worth mentioning!)
• Our first wedding with Albanian traditions
• My first Chicago Hot Dog Unity Ceremony
• First celebrity wedding guest
• Countless fur babies and some human babies too
• Got to see multiple former EMP couples at weddings this year!
• Working with some favorite vendors
• Working in some gorgeous new venues as well as some old favorites (list below!)

The images below are a collection of our top favorite moments and portfolio pieces from this year. We are beyond grateful to work with such wonderful couples and be part of your life events! From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to give a gigantic THANK YOU to every couple who trusted us to capture your memories in 2023. We could not be more honored, grateful, and thrilled for you all 🙂

CHEERS to a Happy and Healthy 2024!!!

It’s such a treat to reminisce about Lauren and Sam’s June Adler Planetarium wedding! These two truly had a wedding day adventure, and I’m so happy to have been there to capture it. The day began with them getting ready separately at The Gwen, and their joyful first look on the hotel’s terrace! Once Sam and Lauren were together, it was ALL smiles for the rest of the day 🙂

Rolls Royce Wedding Photos

Shortly after their first look, our own private car pulled up to the hotel and our adventure began! Driver Peter took us on a downtown tour in a classic 1957 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud I, stopping for photos in a few iconic spots along the way. We even had time to swing by Sam and Lauren’s home for photos with their pup Flora! Isn’t she the sweetest?! Finally, it was time to arrive at the venue in style and for these two to make it official!

Adler Planetarium Wedding

Lauren and Sam were married in under a golden sky on Chicago’s lakefront, steps outside the Adler Planetarium. A family friend officiated the ceremony, which included personal vows and the most vibrant spring florals. That evening, the Newlyweds got to celebrate with loved ones inside the Solarium and outside overlooking our city’s epic skyline. The dance party did NOT disappoint, and Lauren and Sam were as in love as ever. I’m so lucky to have been part of this happy day!

Lauren and Sam: Thank you again for trusting us to capture your memories this year! I wish you the very best in Married Life!!!

I first heard from Amanda and Marc in the beginning stages of planning their spring Chicago Athletic Association Hotel wedding. They were recently engaged, and I was excited to hear all of their wedding ideas! Over the next 15 months or so, it was such a joy to see their wedding day vision come to life 🙂

The day began with Amanda and Marc getting ready separately at the hotel with their wedding parties. Every detail was on point – I especially loved the shades of blue and Marc’s penguin cuff links! After their sweet first look in the White City Ballroom, we headed across the street to Millennium Park! Their entire party braved the early spring Chicago weather as we created some epic photos in some of the city’s most iconic locations. Finally, it was time to head back to the hotel and get these two married!

Chicago Athletic Association Hotel Wedding

It’s no secret that the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is one of our favorite venues in the city. If you’re looking for an elegant, historic setting to tie the knot in the middle of downtown Chicago, this is it! From the variety of photography spots inside the hotel (read: built-in rain plan) to the fact that it’s in a perfect location for out-of-town guests… there is nothing not to love. Seriously, this place is regularly filled with both Chicagoans and tourists alike!

Amanda and Marc tied the knot that evening surrounded by loved ones. Once the glass was broken and guests shouted Mazel Tov, it was time to celebrate!! Their East-Coast style reception had guests dining and dancing all night, complete with Jeni’s ice cream for dessert. This day was truly a joy to capture, I’m so happy to have been a part of it all!

Amanda and Marc: Thank you again for having us in April!! Wishing you the happiest Marriage and future together!