Emma Mullins Photography

It may not surprise you that this year, Chicago neighborhood engagement sessions have been more popular than ever. Lots of couples are choosing to stay close to home, which, in my opinion, is never a bad idea! I always encourage couples to personalize this session – whether we visit the place of your first date, hang around the neighborhood, or chow down on classic Chicago hot dogs. At Jackie and Mike’s engagement session, we did all three!

I met these two at Commonwealth Tavern in Roscoe Village, where they each grabbed a pint of Great Lakes Christmas Ale. Oh – have I mentioned they’ll be tying the knot at my favorite Chicago brewery next fall?! I can’t wait!! We sat at the same table where they first met years ago, and after beers it was time to adventure. These two were total champs with the brisk fall weather – and we got to visit some of their favorite neighborhood spots! Special thanks to the staff at both Commonwealth and Byron’s Hot Dogs for letting us take photos inside!

After sunset, we decided to swing by Music Box Theatre (another mutual favorite of ours) for some iconic night photos. Mother Nature even gave us a light snowfall to play with! These are some of my favorite photos from our entire session, I’m so happy we stopped here!

Jackie and Mike: I had a blast hanging out with you two at our session! Your wedding day is going to be SO much fun, I’m already getting excited for it all 🙂

Looking for more Chicago neighborhood engagement inspo? Check out these other favorite sessions on the Blog!

Megan & Taylor: Rogers Park | James & Maya: Logan Square | Caitlin & Brett: Lincoln Square |
Libby & Avi: Lakeview | Kaitlyn & John: Wicker Park | Alex & Jack: West Loop

What a winter we’ve had, Chicago! I’ve been a bit quiet on the Blog lately, taking time to focus on my health and prepare for the upcoming season. Usually, this is the time of year when I review past weddings and sessions to update my portfolio. And – surprise!! There are still a few favorite engagement sessions that never made it to the Blog. With this February weather and extra time indoors, I thought I’d take the opportunity to finally share.

First up: Taylor & Megan! You may recognize these two from their October elopement last fall. Of course, that was not their first time in front of my camera! I was lucky enough to spend a winter snow day with them for their neighborhood engagement session. And by winter… I mean early November (thanks, Chicago!). As you can see, the unseasonable snow didn’t stop us from having the BEST time!!

I met these two at one of our mutual favorite Chicago locations, Music Box Theatre. Shout out to the staff for letting us warm up inside for a bit! We definitely took advantage of the “Coming Soon: Marriage Story” posters (perfect, right?!) and the cozy vintage vibe of the lounge. When it was time to brave the weather, Megan and Taylor were troopers! We went on a snowy neighborhood engagement adventure, stopping at some prime Rogers Park locations.

Little did I know this would be one of my last sessions before everything changed… seems like a lifetime ago! More from the “before times” coming up SOON 🙂