Tag: chicago wedding details

A Barrington Hills wedding at Makray Golf Club – Jon and Julianne’s nuptials.

by Maggie Rife Ponce

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

Tuxedo: DKNY

Makeup: Tracee Badway (traceebadway@gmail.com)

Hair: Desi Perna, Exquisite Brides/Maginificent Brides (onsitebydesi.com,
maginificentbrides.com)

DJ: Dustin Drase, Toast and Jam (toastandjamdjs.com)

Videography: Robert Ben Zimny (rzimny3@gmail.com)

Sarah and Stewart’s Wedding at Primitive Gallery

by Maggie Rife Ponce

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!
Venue: Primitive

Caterer – Michael’s

Florist – Green

Dress – Nicole Miller

Make-up – Rosie/Salon Duo

Hair – Emilio/Salon Duo

DJ – Stuart is creating a mix of music

Cake – Cupcakes for Courage

Patti and Alfred’s Winter Wedding at Old St. Mary’s

by Maggie Rife Ponce

“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

Caterer: Maison dbarranco22@yahoo.com

Florist: Flowers-Flowers. www.flowers-flowers.com joanne@flowers-flowers.com

Venue: Prairie Avenue Gallery – Keith House events@prairieavenuegallery.com

Black Hearts Hair House- 773.525.4344

Makeup Artist: Esther Soto-esther.soto@yahoo.com

Bride’s Dresses:

Ceremony Dress – Allure Bridal

Reception Dress – David’s Bridal

Bride’s Maids Dresses-David’s Bridal

Tuxes: Formally Modern Tuxedo

Agustina and Johann’s wedding in Argentina

by Maggie Rife Ponce

A little more than a year ago I met with Agustina for the first time in a small coffee shop in Lincoln Square.  She friended me on facebook earlier when she say pictures from one of my trips.  She mentioned she was going to be married in a Argentina the following year and was interested in having me photograph the union.  Since then we’ve become great friends, so this trip to South America was extra special for me.  Not only was I taking pictures and exploring Argentina and Bolivia (those photos to come in a few blog posts), but I was sharing the experience with two great people!

Argentina was stunning, full of joyful laughter, and inviting. Agustina’s family was incredibly warm and sweet. It was amazing to meet them in person after hearing so many stories!

Check back soon for Johann and Agustina’s day after session in Uyuni, Bolivia.

I thought I’d share a few images of the remarkable vistas just a short drive outside of Agustina’s hometown, Salta.

Salta is famous for traditional gauchos, cowboy’s who herd the native horses.

The Wedding Day:

On the way to the venue where Agustina was to get ready, a person driving beside pointed out a low tire on the vehicle. “Do you think I should pull over?” Agust asked. “I think we better.  You don’t want the tire to blow out along the way.”

We pulled off at a small auto shop, where the mechanic said she’d need to change the tire. “Well ok then, but can you just try to do it fast because I’m getting married today, ” Agust said with a smile.  Throughout the whole trip she referenced the Saltena lifestyle–a casual approach to things, especially schedules. For such a thing to happen in America might send the day in a tail spin, but Agustina just shrugged and carried on. 

Agustina finalized the table arrangements for the reception while having her hair done.

Agustina’s grandma, Mamama, goes over last details for the day.  She is an amazing woman, a classic matriarch with a big heart and impeccable taste.

Agustina had her one of a kind dress made in Salta, inspired by a dress worn Christina Applegate wore to the Oscars. 

The church was overflowing with guests excited to see the couple married.

In Argentina, it’s tradition to follow the religious ceremony with a civil ceremony, which took place at the reception site.

When Agustina first came to America, she lived with The Borelli’s as their family au pair. Seven years later, they are all very close. Lisa and Mark Borelli flew in from Chicago for the occasion, to the delight of her family and friends.

Johann’s sister’s, Annie and Carina toasted the happy couple on behalf of their parents, who weren’t able to travel from Chicago, and their distant extended in the Philippines. Carina wasn’t able to hold back her tears, so Mamama, gave her a few hearty slaps to snap her out of the crying.

Ami and Amar’s Engagement Party

by Maggie Rife Ponce

Ami and Amar’s engagement session was featured earlier this year on my site.  A month or so after that shoot, the couple reached out to me regarding their engagement party. I’m so thrilled I was able to wok with them again. They’re such a fun-loving couple with great families. I had a great time getting to know their parents and siblings a little more.

For those who aren’t familiar with Indian engagement ceremonies, the event can be just as large as most weddings. The program involves a beautiful ring ceremony where the two families agree to become one and the groom presents the bride with ‘the ring.’ Though Ami already received the ring earlier this year in a gesture of clever wit and thoughtfullness (Amar had it hidden inside the diamond exhibit at the Field Museum), the ceremony signifies that she an her family officially accept the proposal.

Following this, a friend of theirs sang a beautiful rendition of their favorite Indian song.  Next,  Amar’s brother Amit lead a Bollywood dance routine–it was so good, they could have been on the stage of America’s Got Talent.

It was a wonderful night, full of meaningful moments and lots of fun. I can only imagine how incredible the wedding will be!

Almond and Loretta’s Lakeside Wedding

by Maggie Rife Ponce

https://rifeponcephotography.com/blog/wp-content

Almond and Loretta choose to have a small ceremony overlooking Lake Michigan at the Observatory. It was a beautiful Monday–sunny, warm, and peaceful. The couple plan to have a larger wedding next year in Singapore, where Loretta is from; in the meantime, they wanted to make it official in Chicago.

Loretta told me she didn’t want the ceremony to be too formal, which is why she painted her nails neon orange (love!) and wore a simple lace dress. Even though they weren’t inside a church or in front of a large audience, the two said the experience was very emotional. Loretta shed a single tear while Almond recited his vows.

Afterward, Loretta and her mom embraced in a tender hug, silently letting the tears flow.

When we took family portraits, Almond brought out oversized plastic-framed glasses for everyone alternatively to try on.  It was silly and fun!  Just one example of the couples awesome, creative taste (did I mention Almond is a super talented graphic designer?).

From there, we took a walk around the Observatory for more pictures.  They were so sweet with each other, hardly containing their smiles of joy.

Thank you so much Almond and Loretta for letting me share in your ceremony!  It was beautiful and touching.  All the best…



Lili and Michelle’s Wedding on Lake Michigan.

by Maggie Rife Ponce

I don’t know if I’m more excited to share these photos or if Lili and Michelle are to see them.  Either way, this was a very special day for the couple.

Amongst their closest family and friends, Lili and Michelle recited their handwritten vows. After they shared their first kiss,  on-lookers watching from above on the  State street bridge cheered and hooted.

The couple met at fitness class.  Michelle was Lili’s trainer.  It took nearly a year for Lili to crack Michelle’s professional distance.  Finally, a very direct text sent a clear message, “I want to be more than friends.” Considering the seriousness of their feelings, Michelle made an exception and they began dating.  Later, unbeknownst to each other, they both began ring shopping around the same time.  Michelle proposed to Lili, who proposed right back a week later. Apparently they were both in it for the long run.

The love between them was palpable.  At one point I was even tearing up. I’m so thankful I was able to share in the special day.

Big big thanks to Tom Root. You’ve been amazing this wedding season and your work is wonderful!

Florist – Angel Gardens Florist
Caterer and cake – Harry Caray’s – Gabi – gabi@hcrestaurantgroup.com
Venue – Chicago Cruises – Debbie – chicagocruises@sbcglobal.net
Liliana’s Dress – Casablanca Bridals
Liliana’s Custom Hair Piece – http://www.etsy.com/shop/HanamiGallery
Maria – headangel@angelgardensflorist.com
Michelle’s Suit – De Louice Custom Tailors
Makeup and Hair – Adriana and Lucy Carrasco – Adriana – acarrasco1973@gmail.com

Erica and Matt’s Iowa Wedding

by Maggie Rife Ponce

I have a very special connection to this next wedding.  The groom is my first cousin, whom I spent many summers with growing up.  He met his now wife Erica at a friend’s wedding six years ago.  In the first few weeks of knowing each other, Matt, a huge football fan, made a bet with Erica–if Colorado won against Nebraska, she would come visit him in Denver. If they lost, he’d be the one booking the flight.

Well Matt, being my cousin, you should know to put your money on Nebraska.

A few days after losing to Erica, Matt booked a flight to Des Moines.  Even though he lost the bet and had a confirmed ticket, they were so excited to see each other, she ended up booking a ticket for the next weekend to visit him.  Thus began their 2 1/2 year,  long-distance relationship while Erica finished graduate school.

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Erica over the years.  She’s kind, patient, fun, and a perfect match for Matt.  It was so special for me to photograph their wedding.  They’re truly in love and it was wonderful to see them both so happy.  There were plenty of tender moments and even more times of laughter.

Thank you for having me and congratulations!  Can’t wait to see you soon. Oh and Matt, GO BIG RED!


Shout Outs
Cupcakes- Scratch Cupcakery
Dj-Ultimate Entertainment
Ceremony Venue-UNI Maucker Union
Reception Venue-Sunnyside Country Club

Amy and Ryan’s Two Day Wedding

by Maggie Rife Ponce

One of the best things about being a photographer is the intimate access to so many different lives!  I LOVE that each wedding is unique and special, like Amy and Ryan’s. They split their celebration between two nights; on Friday, on a small sail boat, with the sun setting over lake Michigan, they exchanged their vows. Saturday night, they continued the party at Prairie Production with a rocking band and all their family and friends.

When I first met Amy, we shared dessert at Julius Meinl back in the Fall of 2010.  From what she told me then, I knew her wedding would be 1. Lots of Fun (they were bringing in a live band to cover rock songs all night) 2. Full of laughter (Amy has such a great smile) 3. Extra Special because their two-year old daughter would be involved.  In the spring, I was able to meet Hailey, a.k.a Dragon, during their engagement/family photo session. She is the best combination of two awesome people, and from the pictures, you’ll see she’s already  taking after her Dad’s music skills 🙂

Amy and Ryan are a fun-loving couple who bring everyone together.  For example, they made a point of introducing me to all their friends and family (who were great!) and insisted I stay for to hang after I finished shooting pictures. Within a week of her wedding, Amy had already written the nicest review on yelp!

“I used Maggie for both our family/engagement session in February 2011, and also for our wedding ceremony and reception on 8/12-13/11.  All I can say is, I could not have found a more talented, hardworking and personable photographer for such an important time in our lives. As an Art Consultant, I was looking for someone who has a good eye with an artistic vision, someone who could capture the moment yet not make anything look posed or staged.  She is extremely talented of knowing when to take shots…all our pictures came out beautifully and I don’t even remember having to pose for anything.  All of our friends/family absolutely loved having her along for the ride, and I can’t say enough about how wonderful the experience was, and how our photos turned out.  She is very quick to respond with requests, and I found that the value of the work she does for her pricepoint is unbeatable. Maggie and her photography truly made our wedding weekend special, and I can’t say enough great things about her work.”

Thank you SO SO much Amy and Ryan! I’m beyond happy for you.  Congrats and all the best to you both!

Amy randomly was pulled on stage by an A cappella group.  She was a great sport and they even gave her a wedding gift, their CD!


Day 2- On to Prairie Production to celebrate!

Ryan’s sister gave her speech inspired by Flight of the Concords in the form of a Rap. It was AWESOME!

Florist – Jayson Home and Garden (www.jaysonhomeandgarden.com/)
Artwork – Chicago Art Source (www.chicagoartsource.com)
Venue – Prairie Productions (www.prarieproductions.net)
Caterer – Kenmare Catering (www.kenmarecatering.com)
Band – The Breakfast Club (http://www.breakfastclublive.com/)
Dress(es) – Nordstrom Wedding Shop
Shoes – BCBG
Hair – Cortney Tippen at Salon Soca

Amber and Shawn’s Nebraska Wedding

by Maggie Rife Ponce

I was so happy to photograph the wedding of my sister’s best friend, Amber. I can remember back to the days when she and Katie (my sister) were those super cool older high schoolers that I looked up to in awe. Not much has changed actually–Amber’s still super cool and I feel so honored to have been a part of her wedding day. I couldn’t be more thrilled to see such a kind, generous, and fun woman married to a guy like Shawn. He’s easy going, happens to be handy with tools, and a friend to everyone. Congratulations Amber and Shawn! I wish you many many years of happiness and lots of babies