Nicole & Roger’s Perfect Seven Bridges Golf Club Wedding
Nicole and Roger’s story started out as most modern love stories do. . . on the internet. In Spring of 2019 they matched on Hinge. Due to Roger “not mixing work with personal life” they unmatched after just three messages. . .
Nicole and Roger’s story started out as most modern love stories do. . . on the internet. In Spring of 2019 they matched on Hinge. Due to Roger “not mixing work with personal life” they unmatched after three messages. Then, in September of that same year, Nicole got into a minor fender bender in Berwyn and Roger was there in full firefighter gear to save the day. They both noticed the other, but chose to not mention the infamous Hinge fail. Then in October, Nicole came across Roger on Bumble, and decided to swipe right yet again. This time, it ended with drinks at Imperial Oak on October 29, and the rest they say is history! Then, on July 19, 2023 after a great day of exploring Door County, Nicole and Roger got engaged!
From the moment I met Nicole and Roger at our Studio I knew that these two were meant to be together. I loved getting to know them better at their engagement session last Fall – they are just so easy to be around and so comfortable with one another, it was truly a joy to take their pictures! These two are honestly just perfect together, being around them makes me believe in true love. Conrad and Ryan and I were beyond excited to celebrate their wedding with them this August at Seven Bridges Golf Club!
When we arrived at Nicole’s childhood home to take pictures of the girls getting ready we were greeted by so much joy, and Nicole was absolutely glowing. Nicole had a sweet “first look” with her Dad on the staircase at their home (I just LOVE a good staircase moment) and then we made our way to Seven Bridges for things to really get started. We took some pictures of the girls on the course before moving them back inside and swapping out for Roger and the guys. When I saw Roger for the first time that day I told him how gorgeous Nicole looked and he couldn’t hold back his emotions. It was honestly one of the sweetest moments I have ever shared with a groom, the way he loves her is so beautiful. As the ceremony began Roger had his back turned to the building and turned around just as Nicole reached the end of the aisle, his reaction to seeing his bride was so emotional and perfect. After their sweet ceremony we snuck off with Nicole and Roger for some pretty golden photos before the reception began. Once Nicole and Roger were introduced to their cheering guests it really felt like a party – we loved hearing each toast and clinking our glasses along with the newlyweds’ friends and family to get them to kiss. After gobbling up THE most delicious donuts we have ever had from DeEtta’s Bakery the dance floor opened and everyone rushed to party, it was honestly just the best night. We would do it all over again if we could, sending so much love and gratitude to this wonderful couple!!
Congratulations, Nicole and Roger, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Nicole and Roger’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Petal Station
Trudy’s Flowers
HAIR
Lisa Murphy
MAKEUP
Amanda Devon
WEDDING DRESS
Ashley & Justin
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Wedding Design Studio
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES
Azazie
WEDDING DONUTS
DeEtta's Bakery
Stacy & Nick’s Emotional Chevy Chase Wedding
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her . . .
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her in quiet simple ways. He would give up his seat and offer treats to Stacy, and once Duncan was born Nick continued to help Stacy as their friendship grew stronger. They became best friends and eventually started dating,
Stacy, Nick and Duncan all love playing board games together, in fact, Nick proposed to Stacy using a Boggle board with “willyoumarryme” hidden in the puzzle! Conrad loved getting to know Stacy, Nick and Duncan at their engagement session last Fall, this little family is beyond sweet together. When their wedding day finally arrived their playfulness and love for Duncan were on display through all the little details at Chevy Chase Country Club.
After Stacy got dressed she did the sweetest “first look” with Duncan, his response to seeing his Mom as a bride was beyond adorable. Once Stacy saw Nick the tears really started to flow, there were happy tears from both the bride and groom throughout the day. Nick wrote separate vows for Duncan that he shared during their ceremony, it was so beautiful and touching. After the ceremony Duncan asked Stacy and Nick why they were both crying so much, they had to explain that they were crying because they were just so happy.
Through it all it was just the most beautiful and emotional day, we were overjoyed to be there to celebrate with these three!
Congratulations, Stacy and Nick (and Duncan!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stacy and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
A Perfect Petal
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST
Appease Inc.
WEDDING RINGS
C.D. Peacock
WEDDING GOWN
Ashley and Justin Bride
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Brides by Young
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Calvin Klein
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
Nicolete & Terry’s Unforgettable Silver Lake Country Club Wedding
We first met Nicolete and Terry at his sister April’s wedding last Fall. April and Chris’ wedding was one for the ages, we absolutely love them and had the best time with their family and friends. But one thing we won’t forget . . .
We first met Nicolete and Terry at his sister April’s wedding last Fall. April and Chris’ wedding was one for the ages, we absolutely love them and had the best time with their family and friends. But one thing we won’t forget from April and Chris’ wedding was Nicolete roasting her future father-in-law while he gave his father of the bride speech at The Beverly Country Club. Nicolete came prepared with a sign that said “Wrap it Up” that she held up for Terry Sr. to see after he had spoken for about five seconds LOL.
When we learned that Nicolete and Terry were engaged and we would be photographing their wedding we were so excited. I loved getting to know Nicolete and Terry at their beautiful engagement session at Montrose Beach over the summer. Nicolete absolutely slayed her outfit for her engagement session (including a custom “Mrs. McMahon” denim jacket that she bought for herself LOL), but the best part of that day was getting to see the love between these two. They are both kind and considerate and just perfect for each other.
When Nicolete and Terry’s cold November wedding day came around, Conrad and Lindsay and I made our way back to the McMahon’s home for getting ready photos. Nicolete looked gorgeous and was wearing THE cutest satin pajama short set with their custom wedding date. After she got dressed in her beautiful Essense of Australia gown we made our way to St. Christina’s for the ceremony. Nicolete had the sweetest “first look” with her Dad down the aisle at St. Christina’s, they both cried as she privately shared a letter of gratitude she had written for her Dad.
As their ceremony began, Terry’s reaction to seeing Nicolete walk down the aisle was just amazing. This south-side cop let the tears flow as he watched his gorgeous bride walk down the aisle with her Dad, it was the more beautiful moment. During the unity candle ceremony Nicolete extinguished the candle with her fingers as all of the guests laughed. Afterwards we recreated April and Chris’ epic veil moment from last year (possibly making it that much more epic and dramatic – we absolutely love shooting in this gorgeous light-filled church!)
When we arrive at Silver Lake Country Club we had to rush taking photos because we were all freezing our asses off, I don’t know if I have ever been so cold while taking pictures!! After a pretty sparkler “send-off” just before the cocktail hour we settled in for an awesome dinner and party. When Terry requested Celine Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” the dance floor filled for an unforgettable singalong that ended with Nicolete sliding across the dance floor in her wedding gown! It was just the best day and one that we will always remember!
Congratulations, Nicolete and Terry, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Nicolete and Terry’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Redberry Floral
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Kennedy Blue
MENSWEAR
Calvin Klein
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Makeup by Caroline O
WEDDING CAKE
Orland Park Bakery
Mackenzie & Killian’s Picture Perfect Chevy Chase Wedding
Mackenzie and Killian met in 7th grade, she was the first person to welcome him to his new school. They went to high school together but didn’t talk much as they had different friend groups and interests. During college, they reconnected . . .
Mackenzie and Killian met in 7th grade, she was the first person to welcome him to his new school. They went to high school together but didn’t talk much as they had different friend groups and interests. During college, they reconnected via Facebook while Killian was stationed in the Navy in Japan. After talking via video chat for a few months, Killian relocated back to the States and Mackenzie flew to meet up with him in person. They knew they had found something special and continued their long distance relationship for the next year. Mackenzie moved to New Jersey to be with Killian in 2020 during the pandemic. In May of 2021, one day after her birthday, Killian got down on one knee and proposed at the beach on Jersey Shore. Mackenzie’s mom was visiting from Illinois and was able to celebrate and witness the whole thing.
After first meeting over Zoom during the height of Covid, I was so happy to meet Mackenzie and Killian in person for their engagement session at Independence Grove early this Summer. I had a great time getting to know them that afternoon and was so excited to celebrate their wedding at Chevy Chase in August! Mackenzie looked beautiful and was so happy, Killian is more reserved but was clearly having a great time with his groomsmen as we took photos out on the course together. It was a beautiful day topped by a gorgeous sunset, we are always thankful for the opportunity to photograph weddings at Chevy Chase!
Congratulations, Mackenzie and Killian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Mackenzie and Killian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOTGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Sylvia's Amling's Flowers
HAIR & MAKUP
Beaute Luxe
Meredith and Okoye’s Romantic New Year’s Eve Wedding
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye . . .
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye:
After I shot this I joked that they needed to call me when they got engaged. We got to know Meredith and Okoye over the years through mutual friends, and they kindly once modeled for a special styled shoot we did at Room 1520 in 2018. When Okoye popped the question last summer I was SO excited when Meredith reached out to ask if I would photograph their wedding!!
Meredith and Okoye chose the beautiful Hyatt Lodge in Oakbrook for their New Year’s Eve wedding. When we arrived it was SO great to reconnect with Meredith and her bridesmaids, anyone would envy this incredibly supportive girl-squad! I absolutely LOVED their reactions when they saw their gorgeous friend as a bride! First looks will always have a special place in our hearts, and the moment when Okoye saw Meredith on their wedding day was so incredibly sweet. After some quick (and chilly!) pictures outside of the Hyatt Lodge we traveled to Visitation Parish in Elmhurst for their traditional and emotional ceremony.
After making things official then the party kicked off, I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than celebrating a wedding with friends!! We settled back in at the Hyatt Lodge for a night of delicious food, drinks and dancing, it was the perfect night!
Congratulations, Meredith and Okoye, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Meredith and Okoye’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHER
Vanilla Video
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Danielle Kolb Events
VENUE
Hyatt Lodge Oakbrook Chicago
FLORALS
Pesche’s
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Pin Me Up Chicago
WEDDING GOWN
Van Der Velde
WEDDING SHOES
Loeffler Randall
WEDDING RINGS
Ed Schmelzle & Sons
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Hayley Paige
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo Elmhurst
Nicolle and Billy’s Elegant Chicago Engagement Session
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area . . .
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area. We first met at Union Station and explored that area together while getting to know each other better. From there we made a quick stop at the gorgeous Chicago Board of Trade before settling in at the Riverwalk. After first meeting on Zoom it was such fun to get to know Nicolle and Billy better during their engagement session, I can’t wait to celebrate their New Year’s Eve wedding with them next year!!
Danielle & Peter’s Pretty River Forest Country Club Wedding
Danielle and Peter met their sophomore year at Illinois State University; their roommates were dating and this friendship quickly blossomed into something more. They went ice skating on their first date; years later when Peter wanted to propose . . .
Danielle and Peter met their sophomore year at Illinois State University; their roommates were dating and this friendship quickly blossomed into something more. They went ice skating on their first date; years later when Peter wanted to propose he invited Danielle to go ice skating with him again but she turned down the invitation, leaving poor Peter to wait another week to pop the question!
I loved getting to know Danielle and Peter (and their adorable dog Archie) at their engagement session in Lincoln Park last summer. They are just so kind and relatable, and clearly made for one another.
On their wedding day, Danielle got ready with her bridesmaids at her childhood home. As a surprise, the girls all wrote sweet notes on the bottom of Danielle’s bridal shoes, loving words to carry her through her wedding day. Danielle’s Dad walked her down the block to St. Raymond’s for their traditional Catholic ceremony. After they were pronounced husband and wife Danielle and Peter exited to rousing cheers from their family and friends and were greeted outside by Archie, the goodest boy who was SO happy for his Mom and Dad!
When we arrived at River Forest Country Club everyone was ready to celebrate the newlyweds! After a delicious meal EVERYONE got up and danced along with the amazing Wedding Banned, honestly THE best wedding band EVER! It was a perfect night for the perfect couple, we were so happy to be a part of this wedding!
Congratulations, Danielle and Peter, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Danielle and Peter’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
David's Bridal
Hair & Makeup
Jack Alexander Hair Salon & Spa
Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal
Wedding Shoes
David's Bridal
Menswear
Mens Wearhouse: Vera Wang
Florist
Laura LaTragna (Family Friend)
Wedding Rings
Mary Tuttle (Grooms Mom)
Desserts
River Forest Country Club
Reception Coordinator
Marsela Dine
Kristal & Chris’ Lovely Kemper Lakes Wedding
Kristal and Chris met online, and after one amazing first date they have been together ever since! Their shared love of traveling took them to Turks and Caicos before the pandemic hit, where Chris proposed…
Kristal and Chris met online, and after one amazing first date they have been together ever since! Their shared love of traveling took them to Turks and Caicos before the pandemic hit, where Chris proposed to Kristal at night on a private beach (swoon!)
I loved getting to know this sweet couple at their winter engagement session downtown at the Museum Campus. They are kind and genuine and share a beautiful love for one another.
We were so excited to celebrate Kristal and Chris’ wedding day at Kemper Lakes Golf Club. From Kristal’s sweet first look both with her Dad and her groom to their emotional lakeside ceremony to their romantic first dance it was truly the perfect day.
Congratulations, Kristal and Chris, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kristal and Chris’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Davids Bridal
Hair
Kathryn Wereminksi from Forbici Salon
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Betsey Johnson
Menswear
Men’s Warehouse
Florist
Jau-Ling Chou
Wedding Rings
Reuven Gitter
Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery
Wedding Coordinator
Eugenia from Bring The Party Events
Cassidy & Brad’s Wedding Reception
Cassidy and Brad met online and went on their first date at Arlington Ale House. Last summer Cassidy and Brad got married in front of their closest family and friends at St. James in Arlington Heights. Conrad was there…
Cassidy and Brad met online and went on their first date at Arlington Ale House. Last summer Cassidy and Brad got married in front of their closest family and friends at St. James in Arlington Heights. Conrad was there to photograph their sweet backyard celebration in 2020 and was happy to see them again this year to be a part of their long-awaited celebration!
Cassidy wanted their 2021 event to be a relaxing celebration, they had patiently waited so long for the chance to party with their family and friends! After she got ready at home with Brad sweetly helping her, they loaded up onto a gorgeous white trolley with their wedding party and headed back to St. James. Cassidy and Brad renewed their vows and were able to take some mask-free photos at St. James before heading out to Recreation Park to capture pics of their wedding party in downtown Arlington Heights. Finally everyone made their way to The Metropolis Ballroom for a perfect wedding reception – it was the best day, a great reminder that good things come to those who wait!
Congratulations, Cassidy and Brad, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Cassidy and Brad’s vow renewal pictures, click here
VENDOR DETAILS:
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Bri’Zan Couture
Hair
Kimberly May
Makeup
Autumn Gammel
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Kelly & Kate
Menswear
Mens Warehouse
Florist
Soukal Floral
Wedding Rings
Mike Gale, Gale Jewelers
Desserts
Oak Mill Bakery
Venue Coordinator
Shawna McGarry
Videographer
Bella Tiamo
Jenna and AJ’s Happily Ever After
Jenna and AJ’s love story reads like a fairy tale. They are truly perfect together, a princess who found her prince in someone who shares her love of music. Jenna works at The Metropolis and met AJ through his Mom…
Jenna and AJ’s love story reads like a fairy tale. They are truly perfect together, a princess who found her prince in someone who shares her love of music. Jenna works at The Metropolis and met AJ through his Mom, once they connected there were instant sparks between them! They grew to love each other and on their two year anniversary AJ proposed to Jenna in New York City, her favorite place in the world.
As Jenna and AJ planned their wedding they imagined a beautiful storybook celebration. But when Covid descended and life became filled with uncertainty this sweet couple was forced to change their plans. Jenna and AJ chose to get married on their original wedding date and exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony at Hey Nonny in front of their immediate families and closest friends. It was a perfect day. And this year, Jenna and AJ finally got their “happily ever after” when we all gathered together at Victoria in the Park for the most beautiful celebration. The atmosphere was so charged with love and joy we truly didn’t want it to end, from the first sparkly moments to the packed dance floor with our friend Ken from Amp Event Professionals we had such a wonderful time finally properly celebrating Jenna and AJ!
Congratulations, Jenna and AJ, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jenna and AJ’s happily ever after photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Videographer
Something Blue Photography
Venue
Victoria in the Park
Hair and Makeup
Rania and Silvana from Studiano's.
Bridesmaid Dresses
B2 by Jasmine Bridal
Wedding Shoes
Express
Menswear
Larr Brio
Florist
Budget Bride
Wedding Rings
Brilliant Earth
Colleen & Craig’s Christmas in July Chevy Chase Wedding
Colleen LOVES Christmas. She notoriously puts up her tree way earlier than anyone else, and she had always dreamed of having a Christmas wedding. She had planned the Christmas wedding of her dreams before Covid forced those plans to change…
Colleen LOVES Christmas. She notoriously puts up her tree way earlier than anyone else, and she had always dreamed of having a Christmas wedding. She had planned the Christmas wedding of her dreams before Covid forced those plans to change. Colleen’s dreams of snow and mistletoe were dashed when her and Craig had to move their Chevy Chase celebration to July of 2021.
In his love for Colleen, Craig suggested they plan a “Christmas in July” wedding. These two are both incredibly thoughtful, and their genuine love for their friends and family was on full display on their wedding day. Conrad and I were so happy to see so many familiar faces at Colleen and Craig’s wedding; we photographed Craig’s sister’s wedding a couple summers ago and it was so great to reconnect with them! Both of these families have so much love for each other, and everyone was so kind to us at Colleen and Craig’s wedding. One of our favorite moments was Colleen’s sweet first look with her Dad and brother, everyone was crying (including us!) when they first saw Colleen in her gorgeous wedding dress.
It was amazing to work with our dear “friendors” Ken and Ryan at this wedding – Ken of Amp Event Professionals is the hardest working and kindest DJ we know, it’s always amazing to watch him work his magic on the dance floor. And Ryan of RJO Photo is always a great partner and good for a ton of laughs when we get to work together! This was such a magical day filled with joy, love and so many beautiful moments. When it was time to say goodnight we mixed up a batch of fake snow to give Colleen her snow and mistletoe photos, it was the perfect ending to this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Colleen and Craig, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Colleen and Craig’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Videographer
RJO Photo
Wedding Dress
Morilee From Here Comes The Bride
Hair and Makeup
Jaycie Ganek
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Menswear
Calvin Klein
Floral
Fabbrinis’ Flowers
Lauren and Ian’s Chevy Chase Summer Wedding
Lauren and Ian used to work together, but she didn’t see him as more than a coworker until she ran into him years later. Their paths crossed again at a friend’s birthday bar crawl, and Lauren won Ian over by buying him shots that night at the bar…
Lauren and Ian used to work together, but she didn’t see him as more than a coworker until she ran into him years later. Their paths crossed again at a friend’s birthday bar crawl, and Lauren won Ian over by buying him shots that night at the bar.
After that night Lauren and Ian were inseparable, and soon they were engaged. Conrad loved doing a fun Blackhawks engagement session for this sweet couple in the winter of 2019. Lauren and Ian’s path to their big wedding day was long and winding due to circumstances beyond their control. Covid pushed them to have an intimate wedding celebration last summer, which was one of our favorite backyard weddings of the pandemic. Their love for the Blackhawks was sweetly woven into the details last summer, and when we all gathered again in 2021 for their big celebration at Chevy Chase there were lots of fun Hawks details to go around.
Their big party was well worth the wait, we had the best time celebrating with Lauren and Ian’s family and friends. During their vow renewal, Ian (a man of few words) sweetly told his wife “I love you so much I would marry you twice.” And we love this couple so much, we would happily photograph them over and over again.
Congratulations Lauren and Ian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Lauren and Ian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue
Videography
Our Wedding Movie
Wedding Gown
Jenny Yoo From Brideside
Wedding Rings
Helzberg
Florist
JH Events and Flowers
Wedding Cake
Lovin Oven
Wedding Coordinator
Josh Nilsson
Wedding Shoes
Badgley Mischka
Menswear Designer
Men’s Wearhouse
Val and Brad’s Hotel Baker Family Affair
Val and Brad have been friends for a long time, and they found their friendship grew after they each navigated divorce after kids. They bonded and soon fell in love, but their amazing children also developed a beautiful connection with each other. As this family relationship grew stronger…
Val and Brad have been friends for a long time, and they found their friendship grew after they each navigated divorce after kids. They bonded and soon fell in love, but their amazing children also developed a beautiful connection with each other. As this family relationship grew stronger, Val’s daughters and Brad’s son REALLY wanted them to get married. Val and Brad’s kids were the driving force behind them deciding to get married, and they were SO excited when that day finally arrived.
Set against the charming backdrop of the Hotel Baker in St. Charles along the Fox River, Val and Brad’s wedding day was nothing short of perfect. Our friend Elyse of Two Sisters Events served as day-of coordinator to make sure everything went smoothly and created the most GORGEOUS bouquets and arrangements for the wedding. Val looked absolutely STUNNING in her form-fitting gown from Crystal Bride. It was such a sweet moment when her daughters helped her into her wedding dress!
Congratulations, Val and Brad, we wish you and your beautiful family a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Val and Brad’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
VENUE
Hotel Baker
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORALS & DAY-OF COORDINATION
Two Sisters Events
Amanda and Zach’s Intimate Backyard Wedding
Amanda and Zach always wanted to have a small, intimate backyard wedding. When so many couples were forced to go in that direction because of Covid, these two embraced the opportunity to plan the wedding of their dreams…
Amanda and Zach always wanted to have a small, intimate backyard wedding. When so many couples were forced to go in that direction because of Covid, these two embraced the opportunity to plan the wedding of their dreams. Zach is a firefighter and Amanda is a nurse, celebrating these two essential workers like this was so perfect. They invited only their closest family and friends, and Conrad got to go along to photograph this beautiful day (his friend’s Mom is the groom’s Aunt and officiated the ceremony).
Zach’s Mom helped pull together all of the pretty details to transform Zach and Amanda’s backyard for their wedding day. Their yard was the perfect backdrop for their joyful ceremony, once Amanda and Zach were declared husband and wife there was a lot of clapping and hugging to go around!
After some photos and a champagne toast, Zach pulled his motorcycle into the backyard for photos (another perk of getting married at home!) From their yard Conrad took them to downtown Bloomingdale for some golden-hour portraits against the town’s quaint backdrop before they headed back for a relaxing dinner. It was the perfect day for this amazing couple!
Congratulations, Amanda and Zach, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Amanda and Zach’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
Anna and Zach’s Romantic Spring Wedding
Over the last year we have celebrated weddings on a more intimate scale than we once did. Covid forced brides and grooms to scale back and rethink their original celebrations, and as wedding photographers and videographers we had to change gears along with our couples.
Over the last year we have celebrated weddings on a more intimate scale than we once did. Covid forced brides and grooms to scale back and rethink their original celebrations, and as wedding photographers and videographers we had to change gears along with our couples. We first met Anna and Zach over Zoom (something I had never heard of in the early part of 2020) and were excited for the opportunity to celebrate their wedding in April 2021.
When Anna and Zach’s big day arrived, we were excited to see a big wedding party ready to celebrate this sweet couple. Their day was filled with memorable moments, but our favorites took place during their beautiful ceremony at St. Celestine church. Zach tried not once but TWICE to kiss his bride at the wrong moment during the ceremony, it was such a funny and sweet testament to how much he loves Anna. When the time finally came for them to kiss and they were pronounced husband and wife then the party began!!
After the ceremony Anna and Zach joined their wedding party for photos at the Monument Park in Rosemont for photos before we settled in at Allegra for a night of celebrating. Our good friend Ken of Amp Event Professionals created the perfect atmosphere for Anna and Zach’s wedding by going above and beyond (like he always does!) and surprised them with an amazing video tribute from their friends and family who couldn’t attend the reception. Then during the first dances Ken had prepared amazing audio of Anna and Zach talking about the love they have each other and their parents. It was really beautiful to watch everyone become so emotional during these special dances!
Congratulations, Anna and Zach, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY // VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DJ // PHOTO BOOTH
Amp Event Professionals
VENUE
Allegra Banquets
WEDDING DRESS
Reddington Bridal
FLORIST
Quashtoff’s Flowers
JEWELER
Oak Park Jewelers
Meredith and Okoye’s Lincoln Park Fall Engagement Session
I first met Meredith and Okoye at her friend Catherine’s wedding years ago. I remember snapping this picture during the cocktail hour and telling them that I wanted to shoot their wedding one day!! Because, COME ON, HOW ADORABLE ARE THESE TWO?!
I first met Meredith and Okoye at her friend Catherine’s wedding years ago. I remember snapping this picture during the cocktail hour and telling them that I wanted to shoot their wedding one day!! Because, COME ON, HOW ADORABLE ARE THESE TWO?!
Fast-forward a year later and we needed to find two beautiful people to model for a styled shoot we were putting together in honor of Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding. Meredith and Okoye generously came and modeled for us and our dream team of vendors for this gorgeous Royal Tea Party styled shoot at Room 1520. And we all officially fell in love with Meredith and Okoye that day, these two are just the kindest most generous people and so truly in love with one another. I remember when Meredith came out in the beautiful tea-length dress that Concetta of Cettina Bridal and Okoye became emotional seeing her as a bride. He told me later that he was glad that the “look” of this styled shoot was so different from their personal style and that it didn’t spoil the idea of what Meredith would look like on their real wedding day. SWOON . . .
Fast-forward another couple of years and Okoye FINALLY popped the question to Meredith in July and I squealed with excitement when I saw the news on social media. I was even happier when Meredith reached out and they asked if we would photograph their wedding on New Year’s Eve next year, what a truly bright spot for me in this otherwise difficult year!
I met Meredith and Okoye at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory for their engagement photos at the end of October. It was a perfect fall day, and we had so much fun together exploring the boardwalk and taking these beautiful pictures. I truly can’t wait to be there when these two exchange their vows and become husband and wife, it will have been SO worth the wait!!
Congratulations, Meredith and Okoye, I am so honored to be a part of your love story and can’t wait to celebrate your wedding next New Year’s Eve!!
To see all of Meredith and Okoye’s gorgeous engagement photos, click here
Nada and Rami’s Romantic Lincoln Park Proposal
We first got a call at the studio from Rami’s cousin, she was helping him plan the PERFECT surprise proposal for his girlfriend, Nada. From that first conversation with his sweet cousin to the moment he dropped to one knee we had butterflies for this beautiful couple!
We first got a call at the studio from Rami’s cousin, she was helping him plan the PERFECT surprise proposal for his girlfriend, Nada. From that first conversation with his sweet cousin to the moment he dropped to one knee we had butterflies for this beautiful couple! Rami worked SO hard to make sure every detail was perfect before proposing to his gorgeous girlfriend. He enlisted friends from work to set up a romantic boho-backdrop overlooking the water and skyline at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory. While his coworkers scrambled to set the stunning scene, Rami and Nada walked the boardwalk hand in hand and saw several other couples get engaged. Nada wondered to herself if Rami might be ready to ask too, but figured that their moment had not yet come.
As the sun started to set and his squad put the finishing touches on the vignette, Rami asked Nada if she wanted to take a selfie by the pretty backdrop. In that moment he dropped to one knee and asked the love of his life to be his wife. It was a happy blur of tears and laughter and hugs, and in the chaos Rami mistakenly slid the gorgeous solitaire by European Jewelry Inc. onto Nada’s right hand instead of her left. Of course she said yes and was completely blown away by her new fiancé’s thoughtfulness in pulling off the perfect surprise. They could not stop smiling as they popped open a bottle of champagne, high-fived his coworkers and snuggled together against their beautiful backdrop. It was just magical, the most romantic proposal, Conrad and I were completely honored and overjoyed to be there to witness this new chapter in Nada and Rami’s life together. We can’t wait to follow their love story as they now excitedly plan to become husband and wife!!
Congratulations, Nada and Rami, and thank you for letting us be a part of this unforgettable moment!! We wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Nada and Rami’s romantic proposal pictures, click here
Nicole and Jesse’s Beautiful Micro Wedding
Nicole and Jesse had grand plans for their wedding celebration, but like so many were forced to scale back and reconsider when the pandemic settled in. They shifted gears and decided to celebrate in their front yard, and it truly was the sweetest and most intimate ceremony.
Conrad loved working with this laid-back in love couple when he shot their engagement photos last fall, and was so excited to see them again on their wedding day. In their kindness, they trusted Conrad to lead them to Wildwood Nature Center to take their wedding photos. Wildwood happens to be across the street from where Nicole went to elementary school! After their sweet first look at home with their adorable dog, Nicole and Jesse were up for anything as they adventured off the path at Wildwood to get the perfect shots. Punctuated by their beautiful florals created by Romance in Blooms this was THE perfect backdrop for their wedding photos!
After finishing at Wildwood Nature Center they returned to their home for an emotional wedding ceremony in their front yard. There wasn’t a dry eye present as Nicole and Jesse exchanged their vows in front of their (socially distant) guests. It was a beautiful day that Conrad was so thankful to be a part of.
Congratulations, Nicole and Jesse, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Nicole and Jesse’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
Caitlin and Griffin’s Moving Makray Wedding
Caitlin and Griffin planned their dream wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club well before the craziness of 2020 settled in. As their wedding day drew closer they knew they would have to limit their guest list to 50 people to stay within the acceptable range of events held in Illinois.
Caitlin and Griffin planned their dream wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club well before the craziness of 2020 settled in. As their wedding day drew closer they knew they would have to limit their guest list to 50 people to stay within the acceptable range of events held in Illinois. Being both very laid back and chill people, Caitlin and Griffin were able to scale back their celebration but still have a wedding that was completely centered on the love they share.
Choosing to follow tradition Caitlin and Griffin waited until their ceremony to see each other. But Caitlin did get in a sweet moment with her Dad when he saw his little girl for the first time as a bride. It was so moving when they saw each other, and just as sweet then when Caitlin’s Dad walked her down the long aisle to Griffin. After their emotional ceremony Caitlin and Griffin let loose toasting a beer together before heading out on the golf course for photos with just the two of them. They loved that time they had together, just exploring and being present in the first moments after they officially became husband and wife. This was a beautiful day that we were so thankful to be a part of.
Congratulations, Caitlin and Griffin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Caitlin and Griffin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Love is Essential - Announcing Our Winning Couple!
In the heaviest days of 2020 I longed for something positive to lift my spirits. I sought ways to give back to the amazing essential workers who sacrificed so much for our community. I needed something that would give me hope for my professional future in the wedding industry. Together with my steadfast partner Conrad we dreamed up LOVE IS ESSENTIAL, the gift of a FREE wedding for a deserving couple. A radical gift to encourage, give back, and honor essential workers. A spark of generosity that we hoped would catch fire amongst our peers in the wedding industry.
I called my dear friends Ken of Amp Event Professionals and Jenny of JPB Designs and asked them to come on board. To donate their services and help plan a gorgeous wedding in the heart of downtown Chicago. Over the last 5 months we have met on Zoom every week to plan this amazing wedding. We have welcomed so many amazing vendors already on our journey. We searched the Chicago area for the PERFECT couple to receive this gift. A couple whose love story was greatly impacted by the pandemic. A couple who serves their community in love and put their own love on hold in this time of ongoing crisis.
Susan and Zach applied for Love is Essential after hearing about it from a family friend. They didn’t think it was legit at first, and I suppose that makes sense. In what has been a negative and heavy year it does seem unlikely that something like this could be possible. But we fell in love with Susan and Zach from their application video and Zoom interview and we knew they were our perfect Love is Essential couple. Susan and Zach both serve our community, veterans and the homeless population at James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago. We surprised them with the big news at their sweet new home and then continued the surprise at her sister’s with their closest family for the “engagement party they couldn’t have.” We love this couple and are so excited to share their story with you as we plan their dream wedding!
Congratulations, Susan and Zach, we can’t wait to get to know you better in the coming months! We are so excited to celebrate your dream wedding in 2022!!