Emma Mullins Photography

Brigid and Matthew’s Lincoln Park wedding day was truly a pleasure to capture… and so very them. After getting engaged exactly one year prior (on their anniversary), they were lucky enough to snag the same date at Cafe Brauer this year! Not only that: their home is within walking distance to the venue, as you may recall from their Lincoln Park engagement session last spring. In fact, every location from their wedding day was within a one-mile radius from each other.

On wedding day, Brigid and Matt got ready separately at home. One of my favorite details from their day was the private first look inside their apartment (awww!!)! This intimate moment really set the tone for the rest of their day.

Lincoln Park Conservatory Wedding Photos

Before the ceremony, we hopped on a trolley with the wedding party and headed to Lincoln Park Conservatory. This is another one of our favorite photo locations in the city – especially useful as a rain (or cold) plan for winter weddings! We had a blast exploring the greenhouse and capturing some gorgeous pre-ceremony portraits of these two. Before long, it was time to swing by St. Clement Catholic Church and get MARRIED!

Good Time for a Guinness

Once the knot was tied, celebration was in order! The Newlyweds opted to treat their family and friends to a round (or two) of Guinness at nearby Irish pub, Galway Arms. It was such a fun, relaxed way to kick off the party… including lots of cheers and congratulations from other patrons! And the fun didn’t stop there: guess what was served as both His and Hers signature cocktails at Cafe Brauer? Guinness, of course! They even kicked off their reception with a Guinness toast to all of their guests, pints in hand.

Cafe Brauer Wedding Reception

Once the party started, it didn’t slow down. The dance floor was especially packed for the Hora, and surprise performance by Derrick Tate on saxophone! Derrick was a total crowd favorite, weaving in and out of the crowd and playing right alongside guests. If you’re looking for a unique and interactive way to get your guests on the dance floor, definitely check him out!

Late-night ballpark hot dogs were served to keep the energy up, and I don’t think Brigid or Matt left the dance floor for a moment. They even cut their wedding cake during dancing – which was homemade by Brigid, I might add (it’s true!). I’m lucky I got to steal these two away for Newlywed photos outside the venue before saying goodbye 🙂

Brigid and Matt: Thank you again for having us in March! It was an honor to be part of your wedding day, we couldn’t be happier for you both! Mazel Tov and Sláinte!!

Vendor Team

Ceremony Venue: St. Clement Catholic Church / Reception Venue: Cafe Brauer / Planner: Sarah Shelby Events / Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago / Florist: Kloeckner Preferred Flowers / Engagement ring: The Clear Cut / Wedding bands: Steve Quick Jeweler / Bride’s dress: Justin Alexander / Alterations: Weddings 826 / Groom’s suit: The Black Tux / Stationery: Fitzgerald’s Fine Stationery / Caterer: Tigerlily Events / Cake: DIY / DJ: The DJ Firm / Saxophonist: Derrick Tate / Second Photographer: Nohemi

Ywonne and Morgan’s Chicago winter wedding day was such a dream to be part of. Not many couples choose to get married in February in the city, and when I first heard from Ywonne, she said “pictures are super important to me, but not sure what options will be for taking pictures around the city if it’s cold or weather isn’t cooperative.” I was confident we would capture gorgeous imagery no matter what – and after their fall engagement session I was even more excited for wedding day.

That morning, Ywonne and Morgan got ready separately at Embassy Suites in River North. After their sweet first look inside the hotel, it was time to gather family and head to Union Station! 

Union Station Wedding Photos

We arrived at Union Station with plenty of time for portraits in all my favorite places. Ywonne and Morgan were absolutely smitten with each other, making my job super easy! If you are planning a winter wedding in Chicago, or need a backup location in case of weather, Union Station is a great option for classic, elegant wedding photos. Some of my favorite film photos from this day were taken here, too!

Osteria Via Stato Wedding

That afternoon, we made our way back to Osteria Via Stato to get ready for the ceremony. Just before guests started to arrive, a miracle happened: the skies opened up and gave us big, fluffy, white snow! Ywonne and Morgan were totally up for stepping outside for a few more portraits, making my photographer dreams come true 🙂 It was the perfect, most romantic way to celebrate their last moments of engagement. 

Morgan and Ywonne tied the knot that day inside Osteria Via Stato, a charming Italian restaurant in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. A close friend officiated the intimate ceremony, complete with personal vows. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, they made it official by candlelight and celebrated all night! Guests enjoyed a delicious meal and good company well into the evening. 

Ywonne and Morgan: Your Chicago winter wedding was the perfect way to kick off my 2025 season! Thank you again for choosing us to capture your day! All my best to you both!!

Vendor Team

Venue: Osteria Via Stato / Hotel: Embassy Suites River North / Bride’s dress: Jenny Yoo / Groom’s suit: SuitSupply / Hair & Makeup: We Only Do Pretty / Florist: Flowers for Dreams / Jeweler: Gale Diamonds / Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes / Videographer: George for EMP / Second Photographer: Sasha

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

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

LM Studio Chicago Wedding

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

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

Vendor Team

Venue: LM Studio / Hotel: Hilton Chicago / Hotel: Le Méridien Essex Chicago / Planner: Danielle Kolb Events / Bride’s dress: Evie Young Bridal / Bride’s shoes: Naturalizer / Groom’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse / Groom’s shoes: Nike / Florist: The Flower Girl Company / Hair & Makeup: Beauty by Ann Krause / Stationery: Truly Engaging / Engagement ring: James Allen / Wedding bands: Helzberg Diamonds / DJ: Toast & Jam / Caterer: LM Catering / Cake: Vanille Patisserie / Photo Booth: EMP / Associate Photographer: Alexis / Second Photographer: Nohemi

February is not the most popular month to get married in Chicago, but for some couples, it makes sense! Emily and Justin are one of those couples, and I’m so glad I got to kick off my 2023 season with their winter wedding at The Arbory 🙂

Wicker Park Wedding Photos

Our day began at one of my favorite Chicago hotels, The Robey in Wicker Park. Emily and Justin got ready with their wedding party before heading to Up Room for their first look! We got so lucky with a sunshine-filled winter day, which made the view from the rooftop extra awesome. After a few photos with the skyline, it was time to hit the town!

We made our way to the venue with a few key photo stops. Ever since their June engagement session, I knew that Emily and Justin were big music fans (their pup is named after Huey Lewis!). Naturally, we decided to stop at the Milwaukee/Honore intersection where the 2000 movie High Fidelity was filmed… and even had time to browse records at Reckless! This was one of the most fun wedding afternoons I’ve had in a while – and these two were ALL smiles!!

The Arbory Chicago

That evening, Emily and Justin were married at The Arbory surrounded by so much love. Their ceremony was officiated by a dear friend, and guests were eager to celebrate once the knot was tied! Some of my favorite details include various nods to Huey, their Parks and Recreation-themed cake, and Nike reception sneakers!! I had such a blast capturing these two and their crew… it was truly an unforgettable day from beginning to end.

Emily and Justin: Thank you again for having us in February!!! Wishing you all the happiness in your marriage and future together!

Vendor Team

Venue: The Arbory / Hotel: The Robey / Planner: Anticipation Events / Bride’s dress: BHLDN / Bride’s shoes: Dolce Vita / Groom’s suit: Indochino / Florist: Maison du Prince / Hair & Makeup: Nika Vaughan / Stationery: Minted / Jeweler: Adornment + Theory / DJ: Toast & Jam / Caterer: Catered by Design / Cake: Alliance Bakery / Photo Booth: EMP / Second Photographer: Alexis

Today’s post is dedicated to Maya and James! These two have been an absolute joy to get to know and work with over the past year. Remember their awesome pizza-and-milkshake themed Engagement Session?? After that, I could not wait for their wedding day! But of course, like many couples, the dream wedding they had planned for 2020 would not be possible. Though we’re still waiting for a time to celebrate safely with family and friends, these two didn’t want to wait any longer to be married! Early this year, they told me of their plans to wed privately on the anniversary of their first date. I couldn’t help but get excited again!!

James and Maya committed to having the Best Day Ever no matter what. Even with a few last-minute curveballs from Life, these two rolled with the punches. And – I don’t think they ever stopped smiling!! Sadly, I was in quarantine on Minimony Day… but we were lucky enough to have associate Dana take over. (Thank you, Dana!) After a private Zoom ceremony officiated by James’ brother, Dana joined the Newlyweds for photos and cake cutting. Finally, it was time to brave the weather…

It’s true what they say: when you wish for snow at your winter minimony, you just might get a BLIZZARD!! The weather gods heard Maya’s request – which made for the most unique Chicago wedding photos. Dana was there to capture every moment, from the romantic portraits in Lincoln Park to a traditional wedding day snowball fight 🙂 They even made a snowy friend at the park!

Maya and James: Thank you again for having us in January!! I am so, so happy for you two and can’t wait to finally celebrate together!

Vendor Team

Indoor venue: AirBnb/Bride’s jumpsuit: David’s Bridal/Groom’s suit: Joseph Abboud/Groom’s tie: My Bowtiful Creations/Florals: Mother of the Bride/Hair: Trixie Girl Blow Dry Bar/Makeup: DIY/Jeweler: Rogers & Hollands/Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes

Ever since Taylor & Drew got engaged, I had been looking forward to their winter Renaissance Chicago Downtown wedding. It’s true! I first heard from Drew in fall 2018, when he was planning his perfect surprise proposal over Thanksgiving weekend. Lucky me: I got to be there for the moment, meet Taylor, and capture it all! Needless to say, I was beyond excited when they decided to have me join them on wedding day 🙂

These two are an absolute delight to photograph together – never a moment when they’re not smiling from ear to ear, or stealing a glance from each other. I knew their wedding was going to be good! Drew and Taylor’s candlelit ceremony was officiated by a close friend, and I don’t think their smiles ever faded. Guests celebrated with food, drink and dancing… thanks to Bluewater Kings, that dance floor was jumping until the lights came on!

Little did I know this would be the last wedding I’d get to capture for… well, who knows how long. But honestly, I couldn’t ask for a happier day to reminisce about those pre-pandemic times. This couple’s joy is truly contagious, and gives me hope for brighter days ahead. Can’t wait to get back to weddings once it’s safe to do so <3

Taylor and Drew: Thank you again, from the bottom of my heart, for having me tag along in this part of your journey. Wishing you a lifetime of health and happiness in your future together.

Vendor Team

Venue: Renaissance Chicago Downtown/Wedding Planner: Blue Moon Events/Bride’s dress: Rita Vinieris/Bride’s shoes: Prada/Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss/Groom’s shoes: Cole Haan/Florals: The Flower Girl Company/Hair Stylist: Landon James/Makeup Artist: Lerin Johnson/Invitation: Minted/Rings: Reuven Gitter Jewelers/Live Band: Bluewater Kings/Caterer: Renaissance Chicago Downtown/2nd shooter: Jeremy

Around this time last year, Katy and Justin began planning their surprise elopement. When I first heard from Katy, I knew we’d be a great fit! These two wanted something simple but fun for their wedding day, surrounded by their closest loved ones. I’m a sucker for non-traditional wedding choices, and eager to capture a surprise wedding. This was an experience I’ll never forget!

Their plan was to invite family to their home for “holiday photos” with a professional photographer (me!) a few days before Christmas. As our session wrapped up, Katy and Justin revealed the REAL purpose of our get-together. They were getting married… the next morning! Surprise!!

These two covered all their bases – clearing everyone’s schedules and keeping the secret for months. Luckily their (adorable) toddler didn’t have much of a vocabulary, so we didn’t have to worry about him spilling the beans 🙂

Wedding day was an adventure. We jumped into a limo around 8am to make it to the courthouse by 9. After a little running around, a little champagne, and some fidget-spinning, these two finally tied the knot! Newlywed photos downtown were a must before heading back to celebrate with their guests. Even the reception location was meaningful to them, as it was Justin’s late grandfather’s favorite place. Regulars recognized our crew the moment we walked in!

Katy and Justin: Thank you again for having me in December!! I absolutely loved being part of your surprise elopement day. Wishing you all the best!

Vendor Team

Venue: Cook County Marriage Court/Bride’s dress: Badgley Mischka (via Rent the Runway)/Bride’s shoes: Jessica Simpson/Groom’s suit: Awearness Kenneth Cole/Florals: HeyBouquet/Hair & Makeup: Total Image Bridal/Invitation: Zazzle/Engagement ring: National Diamond Outlet/Bride’s wedding band: Yeefvm/Groom’s wedding band: Rob and Lean/Reception location: Sidebar Grille/2nd shooter: Jeremy

Having 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 incorporated 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 inevitable Santa hats to the surprise guest singer (Tommy’s dad), it was a Very Married Christmas indeed 🙂 Shout out to the talented vendor team who helped make this day what it was!

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.

Vendor Team

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/Christmas socks: Amazon.com/Florals: Studio AG Design/Hair: Hair and Lashes by Kaedi/ Makeup: Gilliann Charnstrom/Invitation: 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!

This year’s wedding season officially began with Emily and John’s Salvage One wedding in March. These two have been together for years, and a pleasure in front of the camera! The best thing about working with Emily and John is how obviously in love they are… thanks for making my job easy, guys!

On wedding day, we unanimously decided to have their first look at Salvage One. Ever since their December engagement session, I had been eagerly anticipating wedding day! The natural light in this venue is killer and it’s filled with vintage artifacts and pieces. Finally, it was time for church… but not before stopping at the local CTA station for a few iconic Chicago photos with the wedding party!

Second Presbyterian Wedding Ceremony

That afternoon, John and Emily were married at Second Presbyterian Church on Chicago’s south side. Their ceremony was filled with unique personal touches, including the same ring bearer pillow from Emily’s grandmother’s wedding. The gothic architecture of this building is a fantastic photo backdrop – not to mention the stunning Tiffany windows! Once the knot was tied, these two were ALL smiles and ready to celebrate 🙂

Salvage One Wedding Reception

After the ceremony, the newlyweds wanted nothing more than for family and friends to gather and celebrate with them at Salvage One. Delicious food and local beer was also a top priority – and I’d say they got their wish! Local brews served at the reception include Off Color, Pollyanna, and Argus Brewing. One of my favorite details is their homemade wedding cake, made specially for them by a dear friend. Guests danced the night away, and we didn’t say goodbye without a night photo in the courtyard, of course!

Emily and John: A million thank yous for trusting me to capture your wedding day! Wishing you all the best in your future together.

Vendor Team

Hotel: Springhill Suites River North/Church: Second Presbyterian/Dress: Amy Kuschel/Shoes: Nina/Suit: rented from The Black Tux /Rings: Brilliant Earth, Blue Nile/Invitation Design: the groom/Florals: Gratitude Heart Garden/Caterer: Honky Tonk BBQ/Cake: friend of the couple/2nd shooter: Jeremy