Emma Mullins Photography

Kitt and Will’s Wildman BT wedding in this year was truly a day to remember. Not only were these two bursting with joy the entire day, but every detail seemed to fall perfectly into place. Avid bird-watchers and all-around lovers of plants and animals, nature was a prevalent theme in their style and decor. Their reception table numbers were even bird-themed (illustrated by Will!). These two got engaged in nature, so it only made sense for their wedding day to represent this part of their lives.

Kitt’s words:

“My fiancé and I just moved to Chicago a year ago… We like craft beer, good food, and wandering around in nature looking for bugs and birds and butterflies. We got engaged in a flower garden when Will told me to come to where he was because there was a frog, but then there wasn’t a frog, he was down on one knee.”

Garfield Park Conservatory Wedding Photos

Of course, we ran with the theme and opted for pre-ceremony photos at Garfield Park Conservatory. While we didn’t see many birds or butterflies, we had a blast exploring the houses and trying to stay cool in that tropical paradise! Kitt and Will were a breeze to photograph, and before we knew it, we were on our way to get these two MARRIED.

Wildman BT Wedding

Will and Kitt said I Do that evening surrounded by loved ones, underneath the venue’s gorgeous skylight. A dear friend officiated the ceremony, which was filled with laughs and happy tears! Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed delicious food, tiki drinks (named after the Newlyweds’ cats), and a PARTY on the dance floor. Certainly, Kitt and Will’s epic first dance kicked off the celebration – complete with a projected image of butterflies at exactly the right moment. This giant screen is one of the venue’s most unique features… definitely utilize it if you’re getting married here!

Kitt and Will: Thank you again for having us in September!! Your wedding day was a dream to capture… wishing you a lifetime filled with love, joy, birds and butterflies 🙂

Looking for more wedding inspiration from Wildman BT? Check out the Blog post below!

Evan & Esteban Microwedding

Creative Partners

Venue: Wildman BT / Planner: VR Inspirations / Bride’s dress: Lihi Hod / Alterations: Belle Atelier / Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka / Groom’s suit: Indochino / Florist: VR Inspirations / Beauty Team: Elle Artistry / Stationery: Fabled Papery / Bride’s ring: Family heirloom / Groom’s ring: Jewelry by Johan / DJ: Style Matters / Caterer: Cocina Fusion / Cupcakes: The Flower Cupcake Co. / Second Photographer: Jeremy

One of the highlights of my year was getting to see Mahala and Marla walk down the aisle together. I first heard from these two in 2019, when they were each focusing on grad school and their long-distance relationship. Three years, two PhDs, and one pandemic later, they finally got to have the wedding they’d been planning for years! I’m so happy to have been there to capture the beauty and joy of this day.

The festivities began at First United Church of Oak Park, Mahala’s childhood church! Marla and Mahala got ready separately there, sharing a first look in the outdoor garden before the ceremony. Some of my favorite moments were Mahala’s brother performing a song during the ceremony, and their fun bubble exit on the way to the reception!

Garfield Park Conservatory Wedding Reception

If you’re familiar with the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, it should come as no surprise that photographers absolutely LOVE this space. Mahala and Marla’s wedding was actually the first time I’d taken photos there since January of 2020! We visited all the rooms together (The Fern Room is my fave!) including the in-bloom Monet Garden outside of Horticulture Hall. The space alone is a photographer’s dream, but… when newlyweds look at each other like this?? I could have taken photos of them together all day!

The evening was filled with delicious food and drink, heartfelt words from friends and family, and LOTS of dancing. I was lucky enough to steal them away for a few night photos in the Desert House! This day went by so, so fast and I’m lucky to have been a part of it 🙂

Mahala and Marla: Thank you again for having me capture this day for you! I’m so happy you finally got to have the wedding of your dreams. All my best to you both!!

Creative Partners

Ceremony Venue: First United Church of Oak Park / Reception Venue: Garfield Park Conservatory / Suit: Bindle & Keep / Florist: Taylor Augustine / Stationery: Minted / Wedding bands: Automic Gold / Wedding bands: Jennie Kwon Designs / Ceremony Musicians: Bride’s brother / Caterer: Corky’s Catering / Cake: Courageous Bakery / Second Photographer: Emma C

Want to see more Mahala & Marla? Check out their sweet Valentine’s Day engagement session on the Blog!