Emma Mullins Photography

Erica and Eric’s Chicago River Roast Wedding was such a blast! It was a hot, July day in the city… exactly what you hope for when planning a summer wedding. Family and friends traveled from near and far to witness their union, and believe me, the celebration did not disappoint!

The day began with Erica and Eric getting ready separately at The Westin River North. After their happy first look on the Riverwalk, these two were eager to get the party started! We toured the city with the wedding party and got to visit some iconic locations, such as Buckingham Fountain and the skyline view outside Adler Planetarium. They even had custom drink coozies for each member of the party!

River Roast Wedding

Early that evening, Eric and Erica said I Do in the Monarch Room surrounded by loved ones. Their ceremony was classic, elegant, and SO full of joy – in fact, some of my favorite ceremony photos of all time are from this day!

Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed gorgeous weather while sipping cocktails along the Chicago River. The night continued with delicious food, dancing, and the biggest Newlywed SMILES!! Eric and Erica wanted a classic Chicago wedding, and I’d say it came together perfectly. I was even lucky enough to capture their first piggy-back ride as husband and wife 🙂

Erica and Eric: Thank you again for having me in July!! This was such a fun day to capture, wishing you both all the happiness in the world.

Creative Partners

Venue: River Roast Chicago/Hotel: The Westin River North/Bride’s dress: Madeline Gardner/Bride’s shoes: Nina/Groom’s suit: Alexandre of England/Florals: Florist and Hound Design/Hair Stylist: Joey Zaprzal, Hairchology/Makeup Artist: Angela Makeup/Invitation: XOXO Invites/Rings: Imperial Jewelry Company/DJ: O’Dea Entertainment/Caterer: River Roast/Cake: Bittersweet Pastry Shop

Want to see more Erica & Eric? Check out their spring engagement session with surprise Chicago fog!

Jenn and TJ’s Chicago Galleria Marchetti wedding was a much anticipated event. After a year-plus engagement, these two were ready to tie the knot and celebrate! TJ proposed on a private Chicago River cruise, and I met these two shortly after. Check out their unique 2018 Engagement Session commemorating that day!

Wedding day was filled with joy and support from friends, family and loved ones. Jenn and TJ’s first look took place down the street from their home, with their adorable pup Sunny, of course! We traveled to a few iconic locations (including my fave, Garfield Park Conservatory) before heading to the ceremony. I’m sure you can tell from the photos, but their hilarious wedding party was one for the books!

Overcast skies opened up like clockwork for their outdoor ceremony at La Pergola. The space looked incredible with hanging greenery and candlelight. Champagne was flowing and guests celebrated with the newlyweds into the night 🙂

TJ and Jenn: Thanks again for having us in September!! Your day was a joy to capture and we wish you both nothing but happiness.

Creative Partners

Venue: La Pergola at Galleria Marchetti/Hotel: Aloft River North/Wedding Planner: Grace from Lionhearted Events/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: J Crew/Groom’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse/Florals: Steve’s Flower Market/Hair & Makeup: Zea Salon/Invitation: Minted/Rings: Ethan Lord Jewelers/Ceremony musicians: Signature Ensemble/DJ: Music by Design/Videographer: Paul for EMP/Cake: Mariano’s/Cupcakes: Nothing Bundt Cakes

See more from Jenn & TJ’s wedding day in their Highlight Film!

When I first heard from Brittany and Jonathan about their Museum of Surgical Science wedding, I was immediately intrigued. They had been together for several years, and were even technically married by the time we met! It’s true… these two made it official in October 2018 so that Brittany could follow Jon to Switzerland for work. They still wished to celebrate with friends and family in Chicago, on what would be a perfect fall evening. And – guess what? It just so happened to fall on their one year anniversary!

Brittany and Jon planned much of their wedding from overseas. Brittany crafted much of the DIY decor, including the florals and table centerpieces. One of my favorite details were Jon’s T-Rex cuff links, reminiscent of their Field Museum engagement session earlier that week! Their “Books and Space” theme grew from Brittany’s love of Medieval literature and Jon’s dream of becoming an astronaut 🙂

This day was such a pleasure to be a part of. From the friends and family in attendance to the unique decor, the day was so full of love. Brittany and Jonathan just radiate when they’re together… making my job easy! I don’t think there was a dry eye during their ceremony.

Thanks again for having me, you two!! Cheers to a lifetime of happiness and adventure together.

Creative Partners

Venue: International Museum of Surgical Science/Hotel: Claridge House/Bride’s dress: Morilee Madeline Gardner/Bride’s shoes: Steve Madden/Groom’s suit: The Black Tux/Cuff Links: The Tie Bar/Florals: DIY/Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago/Invitation: Minted/Rings: AAA Jewelry and Diamond Exchange/Caterer: Beyond Catering

Patrick and Eliza’s stunning Chicago Athletic Association wedding was much anticipated, to say the least! After a two-plus year engagement, they were ready to tie the knot! (Check out their engagement session from last August here!) Family and friends traveled from near and far to celebrate these two, and believe me: a celebration it was.

When I first heard from Eliza and Patrick, I immediately knew we’d be a great fit. It was clear that the people surrounding them and all the little moments were more important than looking like the cover of a magazine (although they could be… have you seen these two together??! Fire AND style!). Since that’s basically my photography style in a nutshell, I’d say we were a perfect match 🙂

There are so many moments from this day that I will never forget. From their intimate first look in the White City Ballroom to the emotional ceremony… I don’t think there was one dry eye (seriously)! The weather even cooperated for some lovely garden photos at the Art Institute of Chicago. One of my favorite moments was our champagne night cap on Madison Avenue (shout out to Regina for helping make this happen!). One thing’s for certain: this day was all about making memories.

Eliza and Patrick: THANK YOU so much for having us this year!! You two were a joy to photograph and I wish you nothing but happiness in your journey together.

Creative Partners

Venue: Chicago Athletic Association Hotel/Wedding Planner: Regina of Amelia Cole Events/Bride’s dress: Rita Vinieris/Bride’s shoes: Journee, Vans/Groom’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Hair & Makeup: Bridal Brigade/Invitation: Minted/Bride’s rings: Noémie, Brilliant Earth/Groom’s ring: Bellyssa Jewelry/DJ: Okyne Medialab/Cake: Cake Chicago/Catering: CAA/Dessert: CAA/2nd shooter: Jeremy

Ariel and Aaron’s summer Ignite Glass Studio wedding took place on a beautiful Thursday in August. Their prayers for nice weather paid off – there was not a cloud in the sky! It happened to be the first day of the Chicago Air and Water Show, but these two didn’t need the additional entertainment. This eventful wedding day was filled emotion, tradition, and loved ones from near and far.

Guests traveled from all over the world to join Ariel and Aaron as they entered into marriage. Neither of them native Chicagoans, these two met in our city by chance. Now they call Chicago home, and getting married here was so intentional! After about a week of separation before their wedding, Ariel and Aaron were reunited during their rooftop Bedeken. The courtyard wedding ceremony was immediately to follow.

Some of my favorite details from this day include their DIY ceremony program The Newlywed Times, their lively dance floor (I don’t think one guest remained seated), and of course the epic Donut Wall (Ariel’s favorite!). Guests even got a live glass-blowing demonstration by the artists at Ignite during the reception! How cool is that?! Their only portrait request was to replicate a black-and-white wartime photo

Getting to know Ariel and Aaron was an absolute pleasure. As some of the most friendly, generous people you will ever meet, their wedding day had no shortage of smiles! Seriously – when these two are together, you can just feel the love 🙂 I think each and every vendor who helped make this wedding day come together would agree!

Ariel and Aaron: Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for having us in August!! Your wedding was a joy to capture, I wish you nothing but the best in your future together. Mazel Tov!!

Creative Partners

Venue: Ignite Glass Studio/Hotel: St. Jane/Wedding Planner: Wedicity/Bride’s dress: purchased at Something New Bridal, tailored by Ette/Bride’s shoes: Converse/Groom’s suit: Ted Baker/Florals: YJ Decorating/Hair Stylist: Pin Me Up Chicago/Makeup: Family member/Invitation: Zola.com/Rings: New York Jewelers/Violinist: Ruby Harris/DJ: DJ Chicago/Caterer: Zelda’s Catering/2nd photographer: Jeremy

Alex and Jason’s Lacuna Lofts wedding was a highlight of our summer. Not only are these two super friendly, affectionate, and in LOVE, they know how to throw a party! Guests traveled from near and far to witness these two exchange vows and celebrate into the night.

Jason and Alex wanted to keep things local by tying the knot in their neighborhood. For instance, Jason got ready at their Pilsen home, while Alex enjoyed her morning at The W Hotel downtown. When we all met at Lacuna for their first look, sparks flew! Their stylish wedding party joined us for photos at the venue. Let me tell you: this crew had no trouble staying cool in the 100+ degree Chicago weather.

These two are so clearly surrounded by love and support. This celebration would not have been what it was without the countless friends and family in attendance! The entire EMP team was present to capture their day, and it was an absolute pleasure to be a part of. One of my favorite things was the furry guest who joined us for champagne at night… you’ll see what I mean.

Alex and Jason: THANK YOU again for having us in July!! We loved your wedding and wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

Creative Partners

Venue: Lacuna Lofts / Hotel: W Chicago City Center / Wedding Planner: VS1 Events / Bride’s dress: Pronovias / Bride’s shoes: Kailee P / Groom’s suit: J. Ferrar / Florals and Decor: Elegance Decor / Hair Stylist: Pierre Melo / Makeup Artist: Monica Rogers /I nvitation: Vistaprint / Engagement ring: Professional Gems Jewelry / Wedding bands: Zales / DJ: Best Life Entertainment / Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP / Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography / Caterer: LM Catering / Dessert: Vanille Patisserie / 2nd shooter: Jeremy

Want to see more Alex & Jason? Take a look at their Highlight Film by Amy Lynn!

My wedding season kicked into full swing this year with Katie & Natalie’s June Ravenswood Event Center wedding. One of my favorite venues in Chicago, these two planned their celebration on all three floors! In short, that means a gorgeous, light-filled ceremony, an intimate cocktail hour, and dinner in the venue’s colorful showroom. This first floor is probably my favorite – complete with vintage cars and neon signs! The perfect place to party the night away… which this crowd was especially good at 🙂

Natalie and Katie’s wedding day was a much-anticipated celebration of their union amongst family and friends. Natalie’s aunt officiated the ceremony, and after reading their own vows I don’t think there was one dry eye in the building! With each stolen glance, each heartfelt speech (one in rap form!), and the love this couple shares, the EMP team were more than honored to be there.

Katie and Natalie: Thank you again for having us!! Best wishes to you both for a lifetime of happiness together.

Creative Partners

Venue: Ravenswood Event Center / Dresses: Eddy K Italia, White One Bridal / Florals: DIY / Custom Nikes: Nike.com / Hair Stylist: Kellie McIntire / Makeup Artist: Vanessa Rose Makeup / Invitation: designed by Katie / Wedding Bands: Persin & Robbin / Engagement Rings: Karat Jewelry Group, Jared / DJ: Cage & Aquarium / Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP / Caterer: Ravenswood Event Center / Cake: Molly’s Cupcakes

Want to see more Katie & Natalie? Check out their awesome Highlight Film by Amy Lynn!

Planning a winter wedding in Chicago takes some courage. Weather is especially unpredictable, daylight is limited, and outdoor ceremony locations are off-limits. But for Elissa and Tommy, the decision was an easy one! Tommy proposed on Christmas morning, and they chose to relive that magic by tying the knot the following holiday season.

Christmas Theme

When I first heard from these two, they described their Chicago loft wedding as “Old English pub during Christmastime.” If that’s not warm and cozy, I don’t know what is! Elissa and Tommy included the holiday theme into various details. For instance, they exchanged Christmas gifts before their first look, and the groomsmen wore theme socks! Not to mention their pinecone cake topper, a gift from Tommy’s sister.

Chicago Loft Wedding

That evening, Tommy and Elissa exchanged vows in an intimate candlelit ceremony on the longest night of the year. Elissa stunned in her Sarah Seven gown, and Tommy’s welcome speech could not have been more perfect. From the abundance of Santa hats to the surprise guest singer (aka Tommy’s dad), it was a Very Married Christmas indeed! This day would not have been the same without the talented creative team who helped bring their vision to life.

Elissa and Tommy: Thank you again for having me in December! I absolutely loved being part of your wedding day and wish you all the happiness in the world.

Creative Partners

Venue: Gallery 1028 / Hotel: The Viceroy / Wedding Planner: JPB Designs / Bride’s dress: Sarah Seven / Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bride’s earrings: Melinda Rose / Groom’s suit: Jos. A. Bank / Florals: Studio AG Design / Hair: Hair and Lashes by Kaedi / Makeup: Gilliann Charnstrom / Stationery: Minted / Engagement ring: Mon Ami Jewelry / Wedding bands: Blue Nile, Zales / Bridesmaids dresses: Dessy Collection / Live Band: Bluewater Kings Band / Caterer: Calihan Catering / 2nd Photographer: Jeremy

Want to see more Tommy & Elissa? Check out their summer Bucktown Engagement Session!

I cannot express enough wonderful things about Natalie and Ana’s Chicago loft wedding at Concord Fifty-Five in August. From our first meeting, I knew we’d be a perfect fit! These two love to travel, and they planned to wed exactly one year after the date Ana proposed in Central Park. Every detail was purposeful, from the signage to the centerpieces to the color scheme. And, bonus: just look at the way they gush over each other! I could not wait to photograph their wedding 🙂

Many aspects of their wedding day were either handmade or personal in some way. In fact, most decor items were repurposed from the Nashville Flea Market – one of their favorite trips together! Others were salvaged and shined up for the occasion with help from family members. Guests enjoyed delicious food from Café con Leche in Logan Square, where Ana and Natalie had their first date! Finally, we ended the night with a dazzling sparkler exit photo including all their guests. What an incredible scene to be a part of.

Ana & Natalie: Thank you again for having me capture your wedding day!! You two were a joy to work with and I wish you forever happiness. CONGRATS again to you both!

Creative Partners

Venue: Concord Fifty-Five/Both brides’ dresses: David’s Bridal/Both brides’ shoes: Steve Madden/Hair + Makeup: Chicago Avenue Salon/Engagement and wedding bands: Zales/Florals: Sprout/Officiant: Erika the Officiant/Caterer: Café con Leche/DJ: Angels With an Edge/Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes

September has always been my biggest wedding month. This year, I got to start it off with Melissa & Anand’s Room 1520 wedding! Their awesome fusion wedding day included both Hindu and Catholic traditions. In fact, they had TWO ceremonies, two wardrobe changes, two sets of formal photos… and one giant CELEBRATION!! This was such a fun day to be a part of, from beginning to end.

One of my favorite things about Anand and Melissa is that they are ALWAYS smiling together 🙂  Ever since their May engagement session, I have been so, so excited to capture their wedding day! Family and friends traveled internationally to witness their union, including some familiar 2017 newlyweds (pictured below!). From their first dance to Justin Timberlake’s Morning Light to the Crêpe bar for dessert, the festivities did not disappoint! Many thanks to the incredible vendor team that helped make this day possible.

Melissa and Anand: Thank you again for having me!! I had a blast getting to know you both and wish you so much happiness.

Creative Partners

Venue: Room 1520/Planner: Annie from Urban Allure Events/Bride’s Saree: from India/Bride’s Dress: BHLDN/Hair + Makeup: We Only Do Pretty/Henna: Grace at Thread Away/Florist: Fasan Florist/Invitation: Minted/Rings: Diamonds on Wabash/Design: Elegant Event Lighting/Caterers: Cocina Fusion, Godavari Restaurant/DJ: Michael from Cage & Aquarium/Photobooth: Grin + Bear Booth/2nd shooter: Joe U

Carla and Ben’s tropical-themed Begyle Brewing wedding was unique in so many ways. When we first met, they had a pretty clear vision of how they wanted the day to look and feel. After hearing about their unique ideas, I was all in! The countdown to wedding day had already begun 🙂

Carla’s words:

“We are channeling mid-century modern tiki vibes….so think clean design, lots of white and gold, and tropical foliage. Our venue is a brewery loft space, with exposed brick and a big windows overlooking Ravenswood Ave (Malt Row). We are going for an intimate, casual, nonreligious CELEBRATION with only our closest family and friends.” 

See what I mean?! Some of you know that I’m a big fan of tiki-anything, and also a huge craft beer nerd. I’m so happy the stars aligned so that I could capture their wedding day!

Carla’s project-managing skills definitely came into play while planning their wedding, which was attended by family and friends from all over. Everything came together “on-theme” – they even had their guests wear tropical prints and Hawaiian shirts! One of my favorite details was incorporating speeches from their wedding party into the ceremony. This allowed the reception to have a very laid-back vibe with no strict agenda. Guests enjoyed fresh beer, food and games while dancing the night away!

Ben and Carla: Thank you again for having me! This was such a unique day to be a part of and I wish you so much happiness in your marriage.

Creative Partners

Venue: Begyle Brewing / Dress: BHLDN / Suit: Zara / Groom’s Tie: Louis Vuitton / Groomsmen’s Hawaiian shirts: Reyn Spooner / Rings: Brilliant Earth / Florist: Details in Bloom / Invitation: Minted.com / Tiki Centerpieces: TikiMaster.com / Day-of Coordinator: Jenny Cunningham / Caterer: Big Star / Dessert: Doughnut Vault

Want to see more Ben & Carla? Check out their sunny spring Engagement Session!

Lynn and Marker’s June Ivy Room Chicago wedding was fashionable, elegant, and overflowing with happy tears. These two were together for a decade before tying the knot, and their wedding was an all-around celebration!

The entire day included unique personal touches. For instance, they exchanged heartfelt gifts before the ceremony (note Lynn’s bridal sneakers). Additionally, their virtually identical vows were not planned – how sweet is that?! My personal favorite detail was the custom cake topper featuring their beloved pup Jake!

After a decadent dinner and heartfelt speeches, these two were ready to hit the dance floor. When the bride changes into Nikes, you know it’s going to be a party! Champagne flowed and guests celebrated into the night. I’m lucky the newlyweds let me steal them away for a few night portraits in the courtyard! As gorgeous as this venue is during the day, it absolutely dazzles at night 🙂

Creative Partners

Lynn and Marker: thanks again for having me document your day – I had so much fun! CONGRATULATIONS to you both!!

Venue: The Ivy Room at Tree Studios/Hotel: Dana Hotel and Spa/Dress: BHLDN/Tux: Banana Republic/Hair and Makeup: Rare Bird Beauties/Rings: Droste’s Jewelry Shoppe/Bride’s Shoes: Stuart Weitzman/Bride’s Sneakers: Nike Air Max 270/Earrings: Oscar de la Renta/Cuff links: family heirloom/Invitation: Minted/Bow Ties: The Tie Bar/Groom’s Shoes: Johnston & Murphy/Florist: A Stem Above/Cake and Desserts: Defloured Bakery/Cake topper: The Knot/DJ: Toast & Jam/Videographer: With Love Productions