I first hung out with Jillian and Michael taking their engagement pictures in downtown Chicago. I titled their blog post, “Jillian and Michael are all smiles during their engagement session.” We’ll the same was true for their wedding day. This couple, who met in high school while living on cad corner blocks were so so happy to finally say their vows. As I took their pictures throughout the day, I was touched by their deep friendship with each other, and how generous and kind they were to everyone around them. I’m so happy for them; Jillian and Michael, many blessings to you both.
So much love! See all of Jennifer and Jasons’ Rockefeller Chapel Wedding Photos
Jennifer and Jason’s wedding took place at the stunning Rockafeller Chapel on S. 57th in Chicago. The location was breathtaking, as was the bride. The reception was held at the historically classic, University of Chicago’s Quadrangle Club, where guests were able to play pool during the cocktail hour, before heading upstairs for dinner.
The highlight of the night for me was the father-daughter dance where Jen and her Dad lip-sang together while dancing to The Bangles “Eternal Flame.” At one point, friends and family even started waving candles back and forth rock concert style to the heartfelt ballad.
Congrats Jen and Jason! I’m thrilled for you two! You’re a wonderful, kind pair. It was a delight being a part of your wedding day!
DJ: John Simmons from Style Matters DJs John Simmons john@stylemattersdjs.com
I’m so happy for Jon and Julianne. I’ve known this couple since I first moved to Chicago four years ago. I always tell them they’re a p0wer couple. Jon’s studying law and Julianne is going into her first year of residency as a doctor. They have more close friends than a most anyone I know, they LOVE having fun, and everyone in their presence seems to just enjoy life! Julianne said after six years, he still makes me laugh just as hard as I did on that first 3 hour car ride back from Champaign.” Also that, “Jon’s support helped keep me motivated and sane throughout medical school, and his excitement and dedication to studying law impresses me every day.”
With their wedding in Barrington Hills, I thought no better place to take them for pictures than the very location I’m set to tie the knot in a few months. This is a pretty special place for me, and even more so for second photographer Tom Root (thank you Tom for all your wonderful images) because it’s where he grew up and his parents still live. The Roots, also known as farmer Jim and Aunt Bah, generously welcomed us to their land to snap the pictures. Jon, Julianne, and even a few groomsmen, enjoyed the swing set, and we found a little shade from the heat beneath the old leafy trees.
After the pictures, it was on to the ceremony, where their long time friend Brad Pnazek officiated their vows. If he was nervous, no one could tell! He did a great job marrying this lovely couple, than rejoiced with a cold beverage afterwards.
Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Morton! I wish you both all the best!
Cake: Lovin Oven Cakery (lovinovencakery.com)
Florist: Town & Country Gardens (eventsbytcg.com)
Venue: Makray Memorial Golf Club (makraygolf.com)
Dress: Galina Signature
Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale and Priscilla of Boston
I wish I could say these were my words, but when two English teachers offer written insight into the history of their relationship, I quiet my voice, and let them take it away. So, in their own words, here is Jaclin and Danny’s story:
Danny and Jaclin met for the first time at the new teacher meetings at De La Salle Institute. According to Danny, Jaclin sat in the front row, nodding her head, vigorously taking notes. But little did Danny realize that Jaclin also took note of the good-looking academic and football coach sitting in the back of the room. A few days later, Danny and Jaclin found out they’d be teaching across the hall from each other, on the third floor of the Institute Campus. Being a first-year teacher, Jaclin would often ask Danny questions, inquiring about book suggestions and lesson plan ideas. Danny and Jaclin gradually came to know each other, albeit professionally. A few months into the school year, Danny asked Jaclin out the day of her first big yearbook project – organizing photos for all the students and faculty in the school – hoping to give her something to smile about amidst the business of the day. Danny has said ever since, “I had her at the first quatrain.”
After Danny asked Jaclin’s dad for permission to marry her, Jaclin knew a proposal was coming. Danny never approaches a task with less than 100% energy and vigor, and the proposal was no different. April 14, 2011, Danny arranged for the senior class of De La Salle, most of whom Jaclin had previously taught and Danny was currently teaching, to be part of the moment. Hundreds of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors, along with faculty and staff members, also joined the surprise proposal on the football field. Danny had already showed the seniors where to line up and when to move the crowd into a circle around Jaclin.
Three juniors – who are Danny and Jaclin’s ushers – escorted Jaclin from the courtyard, where three of Danny’s freshmen read the poem “The Good-Morrow” by John Donne, onto the football field. It was there that Danny waited to propose as Led Zeppelin’s “Thank You” played over the loudspeakers. Danny, down on one knee with ring in hand, and Jaclin, with tears and a “yes” on her lips, began their journey of marriage.
Danny and Jaclin’s first dance was to the song, “Thank You”, which they will continue to lovingly play for the rest of their lives.
Big thanks to my second, Tom Root for his help with this wedding!
Kate McCollum at K.La Designs (florist): www.kladesigns.net, KateMcCollum@gmail.com
Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica (church): www.ols-chicago.org, Father Chris @ chriskrymski@aol.com (NOTE: Father Chris is the pastor of the basilica, but Father Paul Novak of De La Salle @ novakp@dls.org is marrying us.)
Chicago Public Library – Harold Washington Library Center (reception): chipublib.org, Gerry Keane @ gkeane@chipublib.org
Brides by Demetrios (dress): www.demetriosbride.com (Streets of Woodfield, Schaumburg location), bbdchicago@demetriosgroup.com
Jewell Catering (caterer): www.georgejewell.com, Dana Konya @ dana@jewelleventscatering.com
DeeJay Thunder ENTERTAINMENT (DJ): www.mixinmymind.com, Marcus
Lindsey and Jon’s wedding brought their closest family and friend’s together in celebration of their love. It was Jon’s grandfather, a retired pastor, who married the two. He spoke to the couple of the joy, beauty, and commitment of love. Friends and classmates at Garrett Evangelical Theology Seminary ushered guests to their seats, and one performed a song of worship that brought tears in the chapel.
From here, Lindsey and Jon will say goodbye to the Evanston campus and continue their journey in Michigan, where Lindsey will start her new pastoral position. Good luck to you both and warmest wishes to your lives together!
Lots of gratitude goes to my second, Michael Boyd. Thanks Michael!
Big Thanks to these vendors:
Florist: Flowers Flowers (Evanston, IL)
Cake: Rose’s Bakery and Oak Mill Bakery
Caterer: Hilton Garden Inn
Wedding Service: Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful
Last December, I had the chance to get to know Purvi and Mohit a little during their engagement session downtown on the Magnificent Mile. During the shoot, I discovered Purvi’s genuine sweetness and Mohit’s shy smile.
Their wedding was a beautiful event–full of color, music, spicy food, dancing, and tradition. The event featured ancient ceremonies from the Hindu religion, including the Baraat–a procession where Mohit rode into the venue on a white horse to the rhythm of drum beats behind the crowd of dancing guest. Following the Baraat, the bride’s mom welcomed Mohit at the doors, preparing him with blessings, then lassoing him with a scarf and leading him to the alter (have to make sure he won’t get away!) From there, Mohit was shielded behind a beautiful, shear red fabric, shielding him as Purvi was lead into the room by her uncles.
When the scarf dropped, the two first exchanged smiles, then vows. The ceremony included various traditions, incorporating fire, seeds, string, jewelry, leaves, and even money. It was incredible to witness. If you haven’t had the chance to be a guest, or are unfamiliar with the ceremony, I definitely encourage reading up on this rich experience.
The reception a blast. Once the dancing started, it didn’t stop. Hands decorated with henna motioned in the air, and bangles chimed along to the music. I’m so happy I was able to share in Purvi and Mohit’s celebration. Big congrats to you both!
Also, big thanks to my second photographer, Michael Boyd! You were a big help and did awesome!
Shout-Out to these vendors who helped make Puriv and Mohit’s wedding a smash!
Family and friends crowded into the Buddha room at Chicago’s Primitive museum and store, where Sarah and Stewart signed their Kuttubah, taking the first step in their wedding. In between the shadows and faces of the crowd, bronze and marble statues of SE Asian Gods were spotlighted. Their praying figures seated in lotus position, were like ancient onlookers in support of the union.
After the Kuttubah signing, the group moved out of the room, past the wishing lingam and into a larger space. Along the way, guests were able to take in the artifacts within the four floor gallery space. In one such artifact–an ornamental bridal bedroom, the couple exchanged their vows.
Sarah and Stewart met years ago when she was a clerk for Stuart, who was then an attorney. Sarah has since become an attorney as well and said about their common career path, “We laugh about the times we have had to work into the early morning hours or all night–anything is better with you best friend.”
Their friendship was infectious. They have so much fun together and in turn, create a great atmosphere around them.
I’m so happy for you both and wish you all the best!
Also, big thanks to Stephanie Kitts for shooting with me!
Thank you to all the vendors who worked hard at this wedding!
“We have been a couple since before either of us was of a legal drinking age. We met at the recreation center of our college.”
Eleven years later, the couple, who scored higher than anyone EVER for knowing the other best in their marriage preparation class, sealed the deal. This self-described quiet, introverted couple, said their vows in an intimate winter ceremony in front of their immediate family and very close friends.
In an e-mail to me before their wedding, Patti wrote, “we really just enjoy each other’s company.” I could see this from our first meeting. They laugh easy, and seem utterly comfortable with each other. It was a joy to see them marry and celebrate at their reception afterwards.
I have to give the couple props (especially Patti-you’ll see why in the pictures) for bearing the cold during their portrait session. They were troopers! Thankfully, their reception was quite cozy at the Keith House also known as the Prairie Avenue Gallery. In this beautiful building in one of Chicago’s historical districts, they shared in laughs, cheers, dancing, and even a little karaoke! Congrats Patti and Alfred. All the best to you both!
I’d like to give a big shout out to the following vendors: Cake: Amy Beck’s Cake Designs. cakes@amybeckcakedesign.com
I’ve been in South America for the last 2 1/2 weeks where I photographed Agustina and Johann’s wedding and collected images from Bolivia and Argentina. I can’t wait to share the rest of the images once I’ve finished the editing. For now, here’s one sneak peek from the Agust and Johann’s post-wedding shoot in Uyuni, Bolivia. This stunningly stark location may look like a beach, but it’s actually miles and miles of salt, stretching as far as the eye can see.
Shout-Out to these vendors who helped make Puriv and Mohit’s wedding a smash!
