Emma Mullins Photography

Today we’re throwing it back to Kate and Ben’s October wedding celebration at The Dalcy! This day was filled with personal details, gorgeous fall weather, and neverending smiles. And after their romantic winter engagement session the year before, I expected nothing else!

Ben and Kate got ready separately at The Westin River North, a prime location for photos overlooking the Chicago River. After a typical downtown photo adventure, it was time to get these two married! We headed up north to St. Ben’s with just enough time to spare before the ceremony began.

St. Benedict Church Ceremony

It’s no accident that Kate and Ben chose to marry at St. Ben’s in North Center. Fun fact: this also happens to be where Kate’s parents first met years ago! From a photographer’s standpoint, it did not disappoint (cathedral ceiling? yes please!). These two were all smiles throughout the ceremony, and once the knot was tied, it was time to party!!

The celebration kicked off with Four Star Brass Band performing for guests outside the church, followed by the happy newlyweds. One of my favorite parts of this day was the Second Line that followed – a nod to Ben’s New Orleans roots! The parade led us around the block, and eventually into busses headed straight to The Dalcy. Fun fact: we made such a commotion that the neighbors posted about it on Reddit!

The Dalcy Wedding Reception

Centrally located in the West Loop neighborhood, The Dalcy has become one of my favorite Chicago wedding venues over the years. With its spacious terrace and city views, multiple indoor and outdoor photo locations, and top notch food and drink from Aba – it’s the perfect place to bring loved ones together. Not to mention the elegance of this space is guaranteed to impress!

The newlyweds danced the night away with their guests, and couldn’t have been happier. And – remember that these two are champagne connoisseurs?! Of course, we had to pop a celebratory bottle on the street! I’m obsessed with how these night photos turned out and so happy they let me steal them away for a few 🙂

Kate and Ben: Thank you again for having us last October!! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness and all the best in Married Life!

Vendor Team

Ceremony Venue: St. Benedict / Reception Venue: The Dalcy / Hotel: The Westin River North / Planner: Rachael Steacy Events / Bride’s dress: Allure Bridals / Reception Dress: Sachin & Babi / Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka / Groom’s suit: SuitShop / Florist: Kee Floral Design / Hair Stylist: Loft Twelve Salon / Makeup Artist: Melanie Larson Artistry / Stationery: Minted / Engagement ring: Béjé / Groom’s ring: Dana Rebecca Designs / Brass Band: Four Star Brass Band / Live Band: TVK Orchestra / Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s / Photo Booth: EMP / Second Photographer: Jeremy

Throwing it back to last SUMMER with Haley and Anthony’s wedding reception at Morgan’s on Fulton! As you may recall, these two eloped in Milwaukee last May with their immediate families and sweet pup, Fletcher 🙂 Since then we’d been counting down the days until they’d get to celebrate with family and friends at home in Chicago!

West Loop Wedding Photos

Haley and Anthony got ready separately at The Emily in the West Loop, surrounded by their favorite people. After their joyful first look outside the hotel entrance, we took a quick stroll around the neighborhood! Shout out to the manager at Time Out Market who invited us to take photos with the epic Rahmaan Statik mural honoring Virgil Abloh. I’m pretty sure this impromptu invitation was inspired by Anthony’s wedding shoes!

Morgan’s on Fulton Wedding Reception

That evening, we made our way to the venue in time for finishing touches before guests arrived. And when they arrived, they were ready to celebrate! Just like their marquee says: it was Party TIME. I don’t think the newlyweds stopped smiling or hugging people the entire night!

Delicious food and drinks flowed, and lots of kind words were said about the happy couple. Some highlights include their elopement photos on display for guests to see, and custom cookies to honor sweet Fletcher! We were even greeted with a little Chicago weather as dancing began, and the newlyweds were great sports about taking a night photo in the rain. It IS good luck you guys… I promise!!

Haley and Anthony: THANK YOU again for trusting me to capture both your elopement day in Milwaukee, and Chicago celebration last year! You two are an absolute delight in front of the camera, wishing you nothing but the best in your future together.

Vendor Team

Venue: Morgan’s on Fulton / Hotel: The Emily Hotel / Planner: Simply Elegant Group / Bride’s dress: Sarah Seven / Bride’s earrings: Mejuri / Bride’s shoes: Staud / Groom’s suit: Indochino / Florist: Flowers for Dreams / Makeup Artist: Tesoro Beauty / Hair Stylist: Rachel Does Hair / DJ: Odd Couple Music / Second Photographer: Trevor

Want to see more Haley & Anthony? Check out their joyful Milwaukee elopement on the Blog!!

Last spring, I got to capture Anna-Kate and Greg’s gorgeous wedding celebration at Walden! Even though they had officially tied the knot in 2022, they’d always wanted to celebrate with friends and family here in Chicago. After a vow renewal ceremony on the venue’s 2nd floor, the party did not disappoint!

Walden Chicago Wedding

The day began with Anna-Kate and Greg getting ready separately at Walden. To say I was obsessed with Anna-Kate’s details would be an understatement! She truly had every accessory imaginable, customized just for her. Some DIY details by AK include the needlepointing on her jewelry box, and the entire stationery suite!

Both Anna-Kate and Greg looked spectacular for their first look on Walden’s rooftop overlooking the city. We took advantage of the view and surrounding neighborhood for photos… including underneath the El tracks! Classic Chicago 🙂 Finally, it was time to head back and get ready for their ceremony. Once these two said I Do, it was time to celebrate!!

Reception Highlights

Some of my favorite details from their reception include pops of spring color everywhere, photo booth props to honor their cats, and AK’s party dress! The evening was filled with love, laughter, and happy tears. DJ Kris kept the dance floor packed ALL night! I’m thankful the newlyweds snuck away for a few night photos with me – these are some of my favorite portraits from the entire day!

Anna-Kate and Greg: Thank you again for having us be a part of this happy day!! It was an absolute honor to capture. All my best to you both!

Vendor Team

Venue: Walden / Planner: Kalila / Bride’s dress: Petoskey Bridal / Alterations: Ette Tailor / Bride’s shoes: Kate Spade / Groom’s suit: Balani / Groom’s shoes: Ferragamo / Florist: The Local Petaler / Hair & Makeup: Gold Plaited / Stationery: Designed by Anna-Kate / Wedding bands: Noémie / DJ: Best Life Entertainment / Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s / Dessert: Dipsy Desserts / Photo Booth: EMP / Second Photographer: Dan

On a Thursday in August, I was lucky enough to witness Minal and Drew tie the knot at stunning Loft Lucia, steps away from their home. Like many 2020 couples, these two ended up changing their original wedding plans completely. Friends and family were to travel to Chicago from three different continents for the multi-day festivities, and unfortunately, this was no longer a possibility. But don’t worry, there’s a happy ending! After cancelling original plans, Minal and Drew decided to add a new member to their family. Meet puppy Winston! They unanimously agree that the adorable golden retriever has made it all worth it 🙂

After months of waiting patiently, these two were finally able to solidify Plan B at Loft Lucia. And honestly, their intimate Microwedding day could not have been more perfect! A handful of close friends were able to join them, making the celebration extra special. After their first look on the rooftop of their West Loop home, we said goodbye to Winston and headed down the street for their ceremony.

Minal and Drew put much effort into coordinating a ceremony live-stream for guests who could not attend. Their families were able to join from different parts of the world, and even their Rabbi connected virtually! The ceremony was complete with personal vows, and both Indian and Jewish traditions. Once the knot was tied it was time to CELEBRATE. And believe me, that’s exactly what they did!

Minal and Drew: Thank you again for having me in August!! I could not be happier for the two of you, and can’t wait to celebrate again when the time comes. Mazel Tov!

Vendor Team

Venue: Loft Lucia/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: BHLDN/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Florals: XO Design Co./Wedding bands: Huffords Jewelry/Caterer: Paramount Events

Want to see more Minal & Drew? Check out their formal Indian Engagement Session!

Catherine and Steven are some of the kindest, most wonderful people you will meet. Both of them so obviously head-over-heels for each other, they made my job a breeze! I’ll admit I had been eagerly anticipating this day since our quirky engagement session last summer (Skee-Ball and Bride of Chucky dolls?? Come ON!). Their intimate West Loop wedding was a joyous celebration of their love 🙂

Some of you may recognize Catherine as the Senior Editor of alternative wedding blog Offbeat Bride! This is one of my choice resources for DIY wedding inspiration and non-traditional ideas. As you can imagine, Catherine and Steven adopted a similar mindset while planning their own wedding. Some especially unique details included Catherine’s flowy ombre skirt and Steven’s custom-designed (by himself!) wedding band.

One of my favorite things about this day was seeing it all come together. Catherine and Steven wanted a low-key affair with delicious food, personal decor, and surrounded by loved ones. Brique was the perfect location! A close friend officiated the ceremony, and – as if we’d planned it all along – the unforecasted dreary weather ended just as they were saying their I-Do’s. I don’t know who was beaming more – our newlyweds or that golden sun!

Catherine and Steven: THANK YOU again for having us in May. This was a truly unforgettable day and we could not be happier for you two! Congrats again!!

Vendor Team

Venue: Brique Chicago/Hotel: Crowne Plaza West Loop/Wedding Planner: An Event Less Ordinary/Bride’s skirt: Wardrobe by Dulcinea/Bride’s top: Anna Sui/Bride’s shoes: Sole Society, DIY/Groom’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse/Groom’s tie: Target/Florals: Leelee’s Garden/Hair & Makeup: Brooke Klay Artistry/Invitation: Minted/Bride’s rings: Madelynn Cassin Designs/Groom’s ring: Revolution Jewelry Designs/DJ: Toast & Jam/Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography/Caterer: Boutique Bites/Dessert: Dipsy Desserts/2nd shooter: Jake Wood

Jen and Pete’s West Loop restaurant wedding was one big, happy celebration. If you didn’t know, getting married at a Chicago restaurant has its perks! Most can accommodate both ceremony and reception, the spaces are always unique, and – bonus! – the food is guaranteed to be delicious! Jen and Pete decided on Nellcôte for many of these reasons… not to mention their first date happened next door at Green Street Smoked Meats! Sneaking over for a few wedding photos was pretty much a given.

Guests traveled from near and far to witness Jen and Pete tie the knot. They wanted the day to be simple, romantic, and encompass all the things they love about their city and each other. For example, they had no formal wedding party or traditions – they just wanted to celebrate! After their lively summer engagement session I couldn’t wait to capture their wedding day!!

The weather was perfect for a fall wedding. We stopped at some favorite Chicago locations before heading to the ceremony – and they couldn’t help but smile the whole time! Seriously, I can’t think of a moment either of them weren’t beaming ear-to-ear. After their ceremony, guests enjoyed an intimate cocktail hour at RM Champagne Salon. But once the party started back at Nellcôte, it lasted all night long! One of the first things Jen mentioned while planning their wedding was: “All I want to do is dance!!” And the bride wasn’t the only one dancing… see for yourself!

Jen and Pete: Thanks again for having me in November!! It was so great getting to know you last year and finally getting to capture these memories 🙂 All the best to you both in your adventures together!

Vendor Team

Venue: Nellcôte Restaurant/Hotel: Crowne Plaza West Loop/Bride’s dress: Aisle Chic/Bride’s shoes: Caparros/Groom’s suit: Suit Supply/Groom’s shoes: Allen Edmonds/Florals: Flowers for Dreams/Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago/Invitation: Shutterfly/Save The Date: Vistaprint/Rings: Windy City Diamonds/DJ: Ryan from Style Matters/Caterer: Nellcôte/Photo Booth: Emma Mullins Photography/2nd shooter: Jeremy

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.

Vendor Team

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

Nicole and Jason’s City Winery Chicago wedding was everything they’d hoped it would be: a cozy, intimate affair surrounded by their favorite people. These two were so excited to finally marry each other when the day arrived! The winery’s Barrel Room was the perfect setting for a romantic candlelit ceremony.

We were lucky enough to set up their first look at the Cerise rooftop overlooking Chicago! The three of us braved the crisp October weather together for photos (Nicole in her mom’s vintage fur!). Nicole and Jason wanted portraits in some iconic Chicago locations that were also meaningful to them. I am so happy we had time for some fun photos in the West Loop before their ceremony!

Highlights

Highlights from the day include Nicole’s wedding gift to Jason, a silver airplane paperweight reminiscent of their spontaneous first date. She also donned a lovely gold pin as her guardian angel, in memory of her late father. It was so sweet! A few pink roses in Nicole’s bridal bouquet represented other loved ones who had passed… something I’d never seen before. I loved this unique way to memorialize those who were there in spirit.

One other first for me at this wedding: a cameo appearance by a certain Frank Sinatra doll! I’m so happy to have been there to capture this moment, and Jason’s hilarious reaction. The doll’s significance is a secret safe with me… you’ll have to use your imagination 🙂

Thanks again for having me, Nicole and Jason!! I enjoyed every moment of your wedding day (not to mention the killer dance party!). All my best to you both in your future together.

Vendor Team

Getting Ready location: Virgin Hotels/Bride’s dress: Hayley Paige/Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka/Groom’s suit: Hugo Boss/Rings: James Allen/Invitation: Minted/Hair: Erin Graham/Makeup: Evy Papadopoulos/Officiant: Michael Moody/Cake: City Winery/DJ: Katy from Toast & Jam/Florist: Redberry Floral Designs