Tag: chicago wedding photography

Harold Washington Library Reception-Jaclin + Danny’s Wedding!

by Maggie Rife Ponce

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!






Shout outs to these awesome vendors!!

Tracee Badway (make-up artist): traceebadway@gmail.com

Alliance Bakery (cake): www.alliance-bakery.com, Mitchell Peedin @
info@alliance-bakery.com

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

Carter @ carter.cityofdls@live.com

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: White House Black Marke

Lindsey and Jon are married!

by Maggie Rife Ponce

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

DJ: Enchanted Evening

Dress: Tara Keeley

Tux: Men’s Wearhouse

Purvi and Mohit’s Traditional Hindu Wedding

by Maggie Rife Ponce

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!

Decorator (includes flowers, lighting, everything): Ravi’s Mandaps Site: http://
www.ravismandaps.com/mandaps.html Email: ravismandaps@gmail.com

Make-Up and Hair: Bela Shah Email: bushah60@gmail.com (no site)

Venue: Waterford Banquets site: http://www.waterfordbanquet.com/

Caterer: India House http://www.indiahousechicago.com/

DJ: DJ Raja. Site: djrajaonline.com Email: djraja@gmail.com

Photo booth: MJ Photo Booth. Site: http://www.mjphotobooth.com/ Email:
Mike@mjphotobooth.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

Ashley + Rex’s Winter Engagment Session at Millenium Park and North Ave. Beach

by Maggie Rife Ponce

For weeks Rex told Ashley he wouldn’t make it to Christmas in Cincinnati with her family. The two hadbeen dating long distance since Ashely moved back to her home town to work as a pediatric physical therapist.  Because of the distance, Ashely was really hoping to see her far away love.

Two days before Christmas, her mother asked Ashley to make a last minute gift run.  The shopping route took them past Ashley and Rex’s Freshman dorms (where they met nine years ago). There, waiting on the same steps they climbed together on a daily basis, was Rex. Ashely’s mom pushed her out of the car, (she at least stopped first) leaving the two alone.  As she approached, Rex bent to one knee and amongst hundreds of glowing candles, asked Ashely to be his wife.  She happily accepted!

Sunday shoot day with second photographer Tom Root

by Maggie Rife Ponce

One of my second photographers,Tom Root and I went out shooting on Sunday to stir the creative juices and talk about the upcoming session.  We’re both closet hipsters, or wait no, were real artist, or does calling ourselves artist therefore make us hipsters?  Either way, we love urban settings, graffiti, chain link fences, cool texture, and exploring-so, I guess according to that description, we might have hipster tendencies 🙂 No matter–if in fact we are, than I’m embracing it!

Chicago Ave. was our location of choice for this adventure.  If you follow the train tracks beneath the overpass, you find a walls of graffiti and remnants of vagabonds. The light poured in like one big, oversized soft box, creating a perfect source for going over different descriptions.  I made Tom turn this way, that way, then all the way back around again while I showed him hatchet, Rembrandt, and back, rim, and beauty light.

We had a blast shooting-(though our next workshop we’re happily accepting volunteer models).  We channeled scenes from Stand By Me-balancing on the rails like gymnast on a beam.  We took the tracks one direction, than back the other. After about an hour or so, our fingers were numb from the cold and it was time to go back.  I’m already looking forward to our next workshop adventure!


Purvi and Mohit’s Engagment Session at Millenium Park and The Magnificent Mile

by Maggie Rife Ponce

When Purvi brought up their engagement session, she told me she really wanted pictures captured beneath Christmas lights. She also hoped for snow, not for the whole season, mind you, but rather for the sake of the pictures. “It’s funny because for the pictures, I am hoping for snow on the ground, but in reality, I’m hoping the snow never comes! ”

Unfortunately the snow did come, but not soon enough. Still, there’s one redeeming factor in the streets being dry–it made it much easier for Purvi to cross the streets in her Christmas gift from Mohit, classic black Louboutins, with that signature red strip that matched perfectly with her darling peacoat.

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 Day After Portrait Session in Uyuni, Bolivia

by Maggie Rife Ponce

A few days after Agustina and Johann’s wedding, we jumped in a pickup truck with our guides, Joaquin and Dani, gas tank loaded on the back of the bed, and headed North.  After two days of driving, we arrived in Uyuni, Bolivia. Llama farms dotted the countryside and locals sold hand woven fabrics along the road. After having a quick bite of local fare, we headed outside of town to the salt flats. This celestial terrain stretches for miles as far as the eye can see.  The expanse of salt is remnants left over from what once was an ocean or sea.

On the dry cracked land, dressed in their wedding attire, I snapped pictures of the newlyweds. It was a beautiful setting for a couple that radiates. Thank you for having me along to document your wedding and experience Bolivia and Argentina!

A few Outtakes:Our guide Dani strikes a pose.  He wanted to be a part of the portrait session. Dani and Joaquin smile for a photo.

Dani uses a stick and plastic tube to siphon gas into the tank. This was a first for me!

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.