Emma Mullins Photography

Happy 2022, friends!!! Before this year’s season begins (…tomorrow), I wanted to officially share my faves from 2021. Most of you know that last year was hands-down the BUSIEST ever for all wedding professionals… and (spoiler alert!) 2022 is headed in the same direction! Though it was a bit of a whirlwind, I truly enjoyed looking back on all the memories we captured over the past 12 months. Believe me, it was NOT easy to narrow these down for the post!

Similar to years’ past, I’ve selected a mix of my favorite portfolio pieces, but also my favorite moments. Some of these couples waited for years to get married, and many have had multiple wedding dates. I couldn’t be happier to see them finally get to celebrate 🙂

2021 in a Nutshell:

• Number of weddings captured: 46 (including 3 elopements)
• Engagement sessions: 27
• Surprise proposals: 5
• Anniversary sessions: 1
• Weekday weddings: 8
• Worked with some favorite “friendors” – and made some new ones!
• Got to work at some gorgeous new venues and old favorites (list below!)

Oh – we also MOVED in 2021!! More on our new(ish) studio space in West Town coming SOON…

I am beyond grateful to each and every couple who has invited us into your lives, trusting my team to capture your memories last year. It absolutely means the world, and we couldn’t have done it without YOU! For the first time ever, we are starting a new year almost fully booked through December. Which means: If you’re getting married in 2022, get in touch ASAP!

Wishing you all a safe and happy 2022!!!

Featured Venues:

Rockwell on the River | Artifact Events | Michigan Shores Club | Cafe Brauer | Cindy’s Rooftop | Mid-America Club | Royal Sonesta Chicago | Joe’s Live | The Dalcy | Little Goat | Milwaukee War Memorial Center | Greenhouse Loft | Revolution Brewing | The Four Seasons Chicago | Columbus Park Refectory | City Hall Events | Alice Millar Chapel | Glessner House | Grant Park Rose Garden | Mercantile Hall | Renaissance Chicago Downtown | Halim Time & Glass Museum | Gallery 1028 | Ignite Glass Studios | Loft Lucia | Galleria Marchetti | Chicago Athletic Association Hotel | Viceroy Chicago | Salvage One | Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro

Catherine and AJ’s summer Greenhouse Loft wedding was an absolute delight! It doesn’t take long to see that these two are clearly a perfect match for each other. Friends and family traveled from near and far to celebrate with these two… and it was the most joyful Chicago wedding!

One thing I loved about Catherine and AJ’s wedding day was how personalized it was. From walking down the aisle together to serving cake from their favorite neighborhood bakery (shout out to Jennivee’s!), every detail was intentional. These two tied the knot in a fleeting ceremony as summer fell down outside the venue’s floor-to-ceiling windows (it was awesome!). We later learned about the family rivalry on AJ’s side – a competition for the shortest wedding ceremony! AJ and Catherine were married in a quick nine minutes… but his parents still hold the record with seven. Even though there were no trophies to award, it was still a winning day all around!

Delicious food and drink flowed throughout the night, and the rain let up in time for some gorgeous outdoor portraits (thanks, Nature!). This day was truly a joy to capture, I’m so happy to have been a part of it 🙂

Congrats again, Catherine and AJ! Wishing you the very best Married Life!!!

And just like that, it’s the end of November. I’m positive many would agree that this year has absolutely FLOWN by!! There are countless wedding days and happy couples I am eager to share… and I will soon enough (promise!). As we head into the holiday weekend, I could not think of a better couple to feature than Hannah and Chris.

Like so many newlyweds who tied the knot this year, Chris and Hannah’s wedding day was a long time coming. Their gorgeous Chicago rooftop wedding ceremony was originally scheduled for May 2020. Shortly before the day arrived, they made the difficult decision to postpone the festivities. Exactly one year later, they finally made it official at one of my favorite Chicago wedding venues, Ignite Glass Studios!

Hannah and Chris got ready separately before their stunning first look along the Chicago River. The weather was perfect for photos downtown, and we received our fair share of cheers from passersby! If you couldn’t tell, these two are a dream to photograph together. Seriously – it was as if no time had passed since their Engagement Session in 2019!

After their intimate rooftop ceremony, the newlyweds finally got to celebrate with friends and family. My favorite was their romantic first dance in the Urban Garden! Of course, no Ignite Glass Studios wedding is complete without a glass-blowing demonstration – or a night photo on the rooftop! In all, it was the happiest day… and if you ask me: well worth the wait 🙂

Hannah and Chris: Thank you again for having me in May!! Your wedding day was an absolute pleasure to capture, I couldn’t be happier for you two.

Creative Partners

Venue: Ignite Glass Studios/Wedding Planner: Wedicity/Bride’s dress: The Crystal Bride/Bridesmaid dresses: Bridesmaids Social/Groom’s suit: The Groomsman Suit/Florals: Hedonia Flowers/Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago/Invitation: Minted/Jeweler: Alexis Russell/DJ: Kate from Toast & Jam/Caterer: Amazing Edibles/Cake: Alliance Bakery/2nd photographer: Emma C

Kathleen and Jeremy’s spring wedding at the Emil Bach House was an absolute joy to capture! These two traveled from New Orleans to tie the knot in this iconic Frank Lloyd Wright house on Chicago’s North Side. Family and friends came from near and far to join these two for the occasion, and it could not have been more memorable 🙂

Frank Lloyd Wright House Wedding

We had access to both the Bach House and Lang House, where Kathleen and Jeremy got ready separately. As you can imagine, there is no shortage of iconic architecture on the entire property! Not to mention, the natural light in both houses is a photographer’s dream. We definitely took advantage of that for their stunning first look on the staircase! These two were ALL smiles, and a breeze to have in front of the camera. I could have photographed them inside this house all day!

Jeremy and Kathleen tied the knot in a lovely backyard ceremony officiated by one of Jeremy’s brothers. A friend played violin as they walked down the aisle, and you could just feel the love surrounding them. We even heard a generations-old story involving a silver dollar… but I couldn’t possibly repeat it! The afternoon and evening were all about celebrating these two with delicious food, drink, and great company. And I’m SO happy we got to sneak away for a few Newlywed sunset photos at the lakefront!

Kathleen and Jeremy: Thank you again for having us in May!! Your wedding day was a pleasure to be part of, and I couldn’t be happier for you two. Wishing you all the best in Married Life!!!

Creative Partners

Venue: Emil Bach House/Bride’s dress: Claire Pettibone/Bride’s shoes: Chelsea Crew/Groom’s suit: Brooks Brothers/Groom’s shoes: Allen Edmonds/Florals: Hedonia Flowers/Hair & Makeup: Deco Adamo/Bride’s rings: Melanie Casey/Groom’s ring: Ramseys/Ceremony musician: friend of the couple/DJ: DJ De La T/Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP/Caterer: Feast & Imbibe/Donuts: Firecakes/2nd photographer: Emma C

Want to see more from their wedding day? Check out Kathleen & Jeremy’s Highlight Film by Amy Lynn!

On a lovely spring morning in March, I was honored to attend Jake and Zoe’s intimate Cafe Brauer wedding. In fact, along with my Associate-in-Training (hi Dana!), we were the only official guests! Zoe and Jake had been planning a grand celebration in New Orleans for their wedding day. When 2020 happened, they were certain of one thing: they were going to get married that day no matter what!

Zoe’s words:

“Even though our wedding will be a small affair, we wanted a dramatic and beautiful location. We’re excited to have an intimate wedding and exchange vows with just each other — and then we’ll have a party with our friends and family once it’s safe.”

If you’re looking for a dramatic and beautiful place to get married in Chicago, look no further than Cafe Brauer! This historic building is a true Chicago landmark, right in the middle of Lincoln Park. Which means, of course, plenty of prime photo locations all within walking distance (and easy rain plan, too!). I am not at all surprised that these two decided to exchange vows here!

Jake and Zoe got ready separately before meeting for their emotional First Look. Zoe was lucky enough to have her mom join us at the hotel in the morning – these are some of my favorite moments from the whole day! When we arrived at Cafe Brauer, the couple exchanged handwritten love letters before seeing each other for the first time. These two warned me there might be some tears… and they weren’t joking! After their personal vows, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. It always seems like intimate weddings tend to get more emotional… and they are my absolute favorite to photograph for this reason 🙂

Zoe and Jake: THANK YOU again for having me capture these beautiful moments for you. Your wedding day was a pleasure to be a part of! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!!

Creative Partners

Venue: Cafe Brauer/Hotel: Waldorf Astoria/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: A New Day/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Groom’s tie: purchased in Italy/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Officiant: Wedding Day Chicago/Hair & Makeup: We Only Do Pretty/Stationery: Shutterfly, Zazzle/Bride’s rings: Phil Greengus/Groom’s ring: Grown Rings/Cake: Bittersweet

What exactly is a First Look? These days, any wedding photographer will tell you it’s when a couple decides to see each other on wedding day before their ceremony.

Some of you may be gasping at the thought of going against tradition – others might consider the trend old news. But truthfully, having a First Look on wedding day has become one of the most important decisions a couple will make. The result is usually a combination of tears and laughter… but always full of emotion.

Even though there are many advantages to having First Look, it’s not the best decision for every couple. There are plenty of arguments for and against a First Look, and most of the time I am 100% FOR it. Below you’ll find seven of my favorite reasons why!

1. Logistics.
   You want to spend as much of your wedding day together as possible. Especially for ceremonies that are later in the day, I always encourage couples to make time for a First Look. Everyone tells you your wedding day will be over before you know it, and – they’re right! If you’re apart until 6 pm, that’s a large portion of the day you could spend making sweet wedding memories with each other.
   
2. Lighting.
   This reason has everything to do with photography. Depending on what time of year you’re getting married, the sun could set anywhere between 4:30 and 8:30pm in Chicago. Keep in mind that if your ceremony begins later in the day, there may not be much time for natural light photos of you and your partner. What does this mean? No gorgeous greenery, no fall colors, no sunshine, no golden hour. Yes, we can take separate solo portraits, family and wedding party photos during daylight hours, but every single Newlywed photo from your wedding day will be taken with artificial light. If that’s not the aesthetic you’re going for, definitely consider (an earlier ceremony time or) having a First Look!
   
3. Privacy.
   It’s a moment you can enjoy together, alone. As the guests of honor you’ll have places to be, and a timeline to keep up with. Yes – your day will be filled with your favorite people, but there won’t be much opportunity for just the two of you to spend time together. Having a First Look guarantees a few moments of privacy on your wedding day. Some couples even choose to exchange personal vows during this time (in lieu of the ceremony), which makes for really unique and intimate photos.
   
4. Nerves.
   Let’s face it: your wedding day is kind of a big deal. There’s a lot going on – the result of months of planning and decision-making. Of course you want it to be perfect! No matter how your emotions may be running, any nerves will melt away the moment you see each other (pinky swear!). We’ve seen it time and time again. First Looks are one of my favorite things to photograph for this reason.
   
5. More photos!
   This might seem like an easy one, but it’s worth mentioning. If you have a First Look you’ll receive an extra set of portraits in your gallery that wouldn’t exist otherwise.
   
6. Stage fright.
   Remember when I mentioned that First Looks can be emotional? Imagine experiencing that moment in front of 100+ guests with all eyes on YOU. Be prepared to let those emotions run while on display – or not allow yourself to experience them fully. Even if you don’t consider yourself an outwardly emotional person, your wedding day could be the exception. If this does not sound appealing to you, I highly recommend a First Look.
   
7. Authenticity.
   Have you been dreaming about the look on your partner’s face as you walk down the aisle? Or, as they walk down the aisle toward you? Trust me: that moment will still be REAL and still be emotional. You will be just as excited to see each other during that moment whether you’re apart all day or spend it together.

Bonus Reason: We Like To Party!

It’s true: With a First Look, you’ll have the option to complete ALL your formal group photos before the ceremony even begins. Meaning: once it’s officially official, you can relax, let loose, and ENJOY the party alongside your loved ones. Once that ring is on your finger, not having to worry about an agenda or chasing daylight will be such a gift! Additionally, you can rest assured that we’ve already captured countless candid moments, stunning portraits, and group photos. Any time we pull you for portraits after this (night photos, anyone?!) are just an added bonus.

Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Below is a collection of pre-ceremony First Looks we’ve photographed, and a few ceremony first looks for comparison. Meaning: there’s a mix of couples who did see each other before the ceremony, and others who did not.

Can you tell the difference?

Featured couples and venues include:

Mary & William, Thalia Hall / Emily & John, Salvage One / Carly & Matt, Chevy Chase Country Club / Amanda & Rob, Rivers Restaurant / Erica & Eric, River Roast / Melissa & Anand, Room 1520 / Alex & Jason, Lacuna Events / Alissa & Mel, Mercantile Hall / Jessika & Matthew, Grant Park / Ben & Carla, Begyle Brewing / Eliza & Patrick, Chicago Athletic Association / Katie & Natalie, Ravenswood Event Center / Ada & Brendan, TheWit / Kristal & Brian, Galleria Marchetti / Dana & Noah, ARIA Minneapolis / Jenn & TJ, Galleria Marchetti / Rachel & Jon, Cozumel, Mexico / Ariel & Aaron, Ignite Glass Studios / Justin & Lani, Cancun, Mexico

Last month, I was thrilled to be part of a styled shoot at one of Chicago’s newest event spaces, Wildman BT! This venue happens to be down the street from my studio, and after touring it back in September, I could not wait to shoot inside. It won’t take much scrolling to figure out why! The historic building has been completely restored, featuring exposed brick, skylights, and a larger-than-life projector screen. Additionally, the 12,000 square foot space can be divided as needed with custom drapery. How cool is that?! If you’re searching for a unique Chicago loft wedding venue, you need to check this place out!

Don’t get me wrong, every vendor involved in this shoot did an incredible job. Shout out to Kristina and Sam of Wedicity for putting this together so flawlessly (and Sam for stepping in as officiant!). I have always been a fan of bold and colorful decor, and am in love with the jewel tones they chose to incorporate! Other highlights include delicious snacks from Feast & Imbibe. Ever heard of a pizza cigar appetizer? Me neither… until this shoot! They did smell delicious, and according to our grooms, tasted even better!

Which brings me to: Esteban and Evan. These two could not have been more perfect as our Groom & Groom! It’s always a treat to meet new couples, and they were an absolute joy to work with. Not to mention how they totally rocked their Fake Wedding Day looking dapper as ever! Thanks again for being a part of this, guys!!

If you hadn’t guessed, this shoot was an awesome way to end my 2020 season. I’m a big fan of the Chicago loft wedding vibe, and this place has it ALL 🙂 Get to scrolling and see for yourself!

Creative Partners

Venue: Wildman Boiler & Tank Co./Planning: Wedicity/Apparel: The Groomsman Suit/Florals: Hedonia Flowers/Hair & Makeup: Rare Bird Beauties/Invitation: XO Art & Design/Wedding bands: Hitched/Caterer: Feast & Imbibe/Cake: ECBG Studio/Rentals: Tablescapes/Champagne Wall: Bubbly Events/Linens: BBJ Linen

On a Thursday in August, I was lucky enough to witness Minal and Drew tie the knot at stunning Loft Lucia, steps away from their home. Like many 2020 couples, these two ended up changing their original wedding plans completely. Friends and family were to travel to Chicago from three different continents for the multi-day festivities, and unfortunately, this was no longer a possibility. But don’t worry, there’s a happy ending! After cancelling their original plans, Minal and Drew decided to add a new member to their family. Meet puppy Winston! They agree that the adorable golden retriever has made it all worth it.

After months of waiting patiently, these two were finally able to solidify Plan B at Loft Lucia. And honestly, their intimate Microwedding day could not have been more perfect! A handful of close friends were able to join them, making the celebration extra special. After their first look on the rooftop of their West Loop home, we said goodbye to Winston and headed down the street for their ceremony.

Minal and Drew put much effort into coordinating a ceremony live-stream for guests who could not attend. Their families were able to join from different parts of the world, and even their Rabbi connected virtually! The ceremony was complete with personal vows, and both Indian and Jewish traditions. Once the knot was tied it was time to CELEBRATE. And believe me, that’s exactly what they did!

Minal and Drew: Thank you again for having me in August!! I could not be happier for the two of you, and can’t wait to celebrate again when the time comes. Mazel Tov!

Creative Partners

Venue: Loft Lucia/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: BHLDN/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Florals: XO Design Co./Wedding bands: Huffords Jewelry/Caterer: Paramount Events

Want to see more Minal & Drew? Check out their formal Indian Engagement Session!

Summer is HERE!! Although the world has changed a bit since last July, I’m all about reliving those precious summer memories. One of my favorites is E&A’s lovely Firehouse Chicago wedding! From their colorful DIY decor to the unicorn bubble favors, every detail was intentional. I loved seeing their vision for a backyard summer garden party come to life!

E&A wanted a relaxed, intimate celebration close to their home, and chose to work with local vendors. There was no shortage of delicious food or beverage… including carrot cake from E’s favorite cafe and brews from Half Acre! As a fellow beer nerd, I was especially excited to see this. One of my favorite details were their custom glass jars at the lemonade stand!

These two got ready together in the Captain’s Room, surrounded by family and friends (not to mention their sweet pup Josephine!). We had just enough time to visit Hollywood Beach before their ceremony! E&A exchanged vows in the venue’s ivy-covered courtyard, underneath a neon rainbow. A dear friend officiated, and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place! Celebration continued throughout the night… note their Newlywed entrance down the fire pole! A MUST at every Firehouse Chicago wedding 🙂

E&A: Thank you again for having me last July!! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and being a part of this day. Wishing you all the happiness in your future together!

Creative Partners

Venue: Firehouse Chicago/Dress: BHLDN/Suit: Bonobos/Florals: DIY/Hair & Makeup: DIY/Invitation: Minted/DJ: Just Press Play/Caterer: City Barbeque/Beer: Half Acre Beer/Cake: Kopi Cafe

Mary Ann & Jordan’s fall wedding at The Joinery Chicago was an absolute pleasure to be a part of. From the beginning, they had envisioned an intimate, candlelit evening surrounded by friends and family. These two planned their entire wedding themselves, working with local vendors and even incorporating some DIY aspects. I loved seeing their vision come to life!

It was important to Mary Ann and Jordan that their wedding day feel like a true representation of themselves as a couple. Similarly, they wanted to find a way to honor those who were there in spirit. Every detail had its purpose! In other words, much thought went into making this day what it was.

Mary Ann’s words:

“We’re figuring out a way to get married that feels really good and natural for us. So far, that means getting married near our home in Logan Square, planning a really great dinner, lots of drinks, including one in honor of my dad using his super cheap scotch, live music – ideally, a great big, fun, loud dinner party.”

Logan Square Wedding Photos

We spent the afternoon taking photos around the neighborhood, including at Gaslight Coffee Roasters where they had their first date! A night photo at Logan Theatre was also a must. That evening, Mary Ann and Jordan exchanged vows by candlelight at The Joinery, officiated by Jordan’s uncle. The celebration that followed continued well into the night! It was a big, fun, loud dinner party indeed… in the best way possible!

Mary Ann and Jordan: Thank you again for having me in November! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and wish you nothing but happiness in your future together 🙂

Creative Partners

Venue: The Joinery/Bride’s dress: Dantela Bridal Couture/Tailor: Ette Tailor/Bride’s shoes: L’Artiste/Groom’s suit: SuitSupply/Groom’s shoes: Allen Edmonds/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Signage: Maison Blanche/Hair Stylist: Jana Hoeller/Makeup Artist: Aviana Wyall/Stationery: Jordan (groom)/Rings: Adornment + Theory/Musicians: Bowmanville, coordinated by Brooklyn Britches/Caterer: Big Delicious Planet

Alyssa and Larry’s September Ravenswood Event Center wedding was a highlight of 2019! After getting to know these two during their summer Engagement Session, I was so excited for them to tie the knot. They planned their entire wedding themselves, incorporating the most unique DIY details! In fact, the (delicious) desserts were homemade by Larry!! Not to mention the stargazing theme added to the already romantic vibe.

After their first look at the hotel, we headed to LaBagh Woods for some gorgeous outdoor photos. This wedding party was such a fun crew! We were lucky enough to sneak in a few more photos at the venue before their ceremony began. Special thanks to Aly at REC for helping make this happen!

Larry and Alyssa exchanged vows in the stunning Atrium surrounded by loved ones. A friend officiated their ceremony, and I know there wasn’t a dry eye in the place! Celebration continued with cocktails, dinner, and dancing (and dessert!). The newlyweds were all smiles all night long 🙂

Alyssa and Larry: Thank you again for having us in September!! I really enjoyed getting to know you both and had a blast at your wedding. Wishing you all the best in your future together!

Creative Partners

Venue: Ravenswood Event Center/Hotel: Skokie DoubleTree/Bride’s dress: David Tutera for Mon Cheri Bridals/Bride’s shoes: Converse/Groom’s suit: The Groomsman Suit/Bouquets: StempleShop/Florals: Fairy Godmothers/Hair & Makeup: We Only Do Pretty/Invitation: Zazzle/Bride’s rings: Stanley Brown Jewelist/Groom’s ring: Casavir Jewelry/DJ: Rachel + Kate from Toast & Jam/Videographer: Our Wedding Movie/Caterer: REC/Dessert: B’s Sweet Bites/2nd shooter: Jeremy

Ashley and Scott had been planning their Logan Square wedding at The Joinery Chicago for over a year. When their September date finally arrived, they were ready to celebrate! The Joinery was the perfect venue for the vintage, boho, “classy but casual” vibe they were going for. Add in a jewel-toned color scheme, well-dressed wedding party, and delicious Mexican cuisine… this was definitely a night to remember!

Romantic Rain

The day began with Ashley’s wedding party getting ready at Wicker Park Inn, and then braving the rainy weather on our way to The Joinery. The weather allowed us to have the most romantic first look inside the venue, overlooking the courtyard. And then, by some miracle, we had a few minutes for photos with the lush ivy wall without umbrellas (thanks, Nature!). One of my favorite things about this day was during the ceremony, when the sound of rain seemed to intensify at EXACTLY the right moment. Scott’s brother mentioned in his touching speech that it represented happy tears of their late mother, with them in spirit. There was not one dry eye among us, believe me!

The Joinery Chicago Wedding Reception

Delicious food and cocktails flowed and guests danced the night away. Scott and Ashley made sure there were plenty of late-night activities, including custom drawn portraits, Jenga, and our Photo Booth (it was a hit!). I absolutely loved getting to see this day come together, and had a blast with the entire crew. Weddings at The Joinery are always cozy, intimate, stylish, and FUN.

Ashley and Scott: Thank you again for having us!! Wishing you all the happiness in your future together.

Creative Partners

Venue: The Joinery Chicago / Hotel: Wicker Park Inn / Wedding Planner: Evelyn of Naturally Yours Events / Bride’s dress: BHLDN / Bride’s shoes: Betsey Johnson / Groom’s suit: Formally Modern Tuxedo / Groom’s shoes: Too Boot / Florals: Fab Flora / Hair & Makeup: Blush & Burgundy / Invitation: Digital Cocoa, Inc. / Rings: Adornment + Theory / DJ: Rachel from Toast & Jam / Custom Portraits: Doodlebooth / Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography / Officiant: Rev For Whatev / Videographer: Lakeshore Video / Caterer: Tamale Spaceship / Donuts: Doughnut Vault / 2nd shooter: Jeremy

Want to see more Ashley & Scott? Check out their winter Engagement Session at Garfield Park Conservatory!