LaSalle Bridge wedding photos Posts

Caitlin & Daniel’s Joyful May Wedding at The Arbory

This spring, we had the honor of capturing Caitlin and Daniel’s Chicago wedding day at The Arbory over Memorial Day weekend. Not only was this day bursting with alllll the feels, it was the perfect way to kick off Chicago Summer! This was also the first wedding we got to capture in full on film, as well as digital (shout out to our film photographer, Sophie!). And when it came to the weather forecast, we encountered some of the best wedding day luck I have ever experienced.

The Pendry Chicago

When we met Caitlin and Daniel at The Pendry that day, it was pouring rain. As I recall, rain was forecasted for the foreseeable future. No matter: we were all aboard with Plan B for photos (aka Rain Plan!). Caitlin and Daniel got ready separately with their favorite people, and when it was time for their first look, the skies cleared! They were able to share this happy moment right outside, with the iconic Carbide and Carbon building as a backdrop.

We decided to take advantage of the weather, and got to explore downtown Chicago as originally planned! It was truly a Wedding Day Miracle… and these are some of my favorite photos from the entire day. When we arrived at The Arbory, we had full sun – and the happiest bride and groom you ever did see 🙂

The Arbory Wedding

One thing I love about The Arbory wedding venue is the variety of picturesque locations, all in one place. I’m so happy we had a chance to take a few photos around the space before guests arrived! After signing their ketubah in the venue’s bridal suite, it was time for the ceremony. Caitlin and Daniel were wed underneath a gorgeous skylight (with the sun peeking through!), surrounded by loved ones. Once the knot was tied, these two were READY to celebrate! When I first heard from Caitlin, she described their wedding day vision this way:

“We just want our wedding to have a fun, classy, and genuine feel and celebrate with all our favorite people!”

Truly, I couldn’t have described their day any other way. Some favorite details include their wedding cake made by their friends, energetic dance floor, and Caitlin’s party dress!! This day was an absolute pleasure to be part of, I’m so glad we were there to capture it all.

Caitlin and Daniel: Thank you again for having us this year!! We wish you all the best in your new life together.

Newlyweds celebrate at the end of their wedding ceremony at The Arbory Chicago

Rose & Layne’s Chicago Rooftop wedding at Lacuna Lofts

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!!

Experience an enchanting Lacuna Lofts Chicago wedding with an outdoor ceremony on a rooftop, where guests are seated, the wedding party stands proudly, and a breathtaking city skyline serves as the perfect backdrop.

Madeleine & Justin’s Summer Ovation Chicago Wedding

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 this place 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!

Just married bride and groom cheer with their guests under skylight at Ovation Chicago wedding ceremony

Festive Chicago Wedding at City View Loft – Ellen & Sean

In December, I had the pleasure of wrapping our 2023 season with Ellen and Sean’s wedding at City View Loft! These two got engaged last February, and spent most of last year planning the most festive, romantic, and joyful celebration. I absolutely loved that every detail had a unique and personal touch! Their wedding day was truly a representation of their love for each other, as well as the most important people in their lives.

Downtown Chicago Wedding Photos

Ellen and Sean both got ready at the Springhill Suites in River North, and after their first look on Hubbard they were ALL smiles! We soon departed for a city tour with the wedding party to some of my favorite downtown Chicago locations. The holiday lights (and Sean’s custom suit!) made for the most festive December wedding photos! Finally, it was time to head to the venue so these two could make it official 🙂

City View Loft Wedding

Later that evening, Ellen and Sean were wed in the downstairs loft space known as Kitchen Chicago. A dear friend officiated the ceremony, which included the traditional Irish ring warming! Once the knot was tied, guests enjoyed delicious food, cocktails, and the Newlyweds’ favorite board games. One of my favorite details were the custom puzzle pieces on each dinner table, which formed a handwritten love letter to their loved ones. Such a creative and personal touch… these two thought of everything! I’m lucky they agreed to brave the (mild) December weather for a few romantic night photos before we said goodbye!

Ellen and Sean: Thank you again for having us last year! Your wedding day was a dream to be part of, wishing you all the happiness in the world.

Romantic photo of bride and groom in LaSalle street downtown Chicago before their winter City View Loft wedding

Amanda & Marc’s Classic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel Wedding

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!

Bride and groom kiss in the White City Ballroom at their spring Chicago Athletic Association Hotel wedding

September Wedding at City Winery Chicago – Rachel & Joe

I absolutely loved being part of Rachel and Joe’s September wedding at City Winery Chicago. You may recall from their University of Illinois engagement session that they’ve known each other since pre-school… Needless to say, the day had been much anticipated! Originally from Illinois, these two traveled from New Jersey to tie the knot in our awesome city.

The day began with Rachel and Joe getting ready separately at Hyatt House in the West Loop. After their romantic first look on the hotel terrace, we headed out for a downtown adventure! I’m so happy these two wanted photos in some of my favorite Chicago locations – in particular LaSalle Street bridge and the gardens at Art Institute of Chicago.

City Winery Chicago Wedding

That evening, family and friends gathered in the stunning outdoor garden area at City Winery Chicago. Rachel and Joe said I Do in warm, golden light, in a ceremony officiated by a friend. Guests enjoyed cocktails and local wine in the garden followed by dinner and (lots of) dancing in the Barrel Room! One thing I love about City Winery is the variety of swoon-worthy photo locations. We made sure to take advantage of our surroundings for plenty of Newlywed photos, including champagne to end the evening!

Rachel and Joe: Thank you again for having us in September!! It’s been a delight getting to know you two these past years. Wishing you nothing but the best in Married Life 🙂

Just married couple cheers as they exit their summer City Winery Chicago wedding ceremony in outdoor garden

Stephanie & Patrick’s Loyola University Wedding at Madonna della Strada

Last September I had the pleasure of capturing Stephanie and Patrick’s Chicago wedding day, starting at the historic Madonna della Strada Chapel at Loyola University. Both their ceremony and reception locations held much significance to them, having met as students at Loyola years ago!

Stephanie’s words:

“We are so thrilled to be having our wedding ceremony at the campus at Madonna della Strada Chapel. It means a lot to us since we did meet there, and Patrick also popped the question at Loyola as well! There is a lot of sentimental value that Loyola holds for us!”

Stephanie and Patrick arrived at Madonna della Strada just in time for a first look before the ceremony began. This stunning church had no shortage of photogenic angles… and SO much light! I think it’s safe to say it’s a wedding photographer’s dream church. After they said I Do, we got to explore campus with the wedding party and then headed downtown!

Osteria Via Stato Wedding Reception

Celebrating their marriage at Osteria Via Stato was so intentional for Stephanie and Patrick. As avid travelers and self-proclaimed “big foodies,” their mutual favorite place in the world is… you guessed it, Italy! Having their family and friends gather at this Chicago restaurant was the next best thing to traveling overseas together. Of course, the food did not disappoint – if you live in Chicago and have never had a meal here, you are missing out! Guests enjoyed delicious dinner, dancing, and a late-night gelato bar 🙂

Stephanie and Patrick: Thank you again for having us last year!! I absolutely loved seeing your vision come to life and wish you all the happiness in your future together.

Loyola University wedding ceremony at iconic Madonna della Strada Chapel in Chicago