What a perfect way to start a wedding celebration! Andrea’s wedding day started with a gift from her soon-to-be-husband, Shawn. Andrea’s face lit up as she admired the scents Shawn had gifted. What a thoughtful gift! She made sure to apply a dab or two before getting into her dress.
When the dress was on and the bride was ready to go, she stepped out of the bedroom, and was first seen by her mom, dad and bridesmaids. Everyone cheered and complimented…
…but her dad was mostly choked up. He was so incredibly happy!
The group laughed and had a great time as the final details were put in place. By the end, Andrea looked absolutely radiant and full of joy. I could tell this was going to be a great day!
While Andrea was getting ready, Shawn was making preparations, too. He was with his guys at the barbershop, and Rob, my second photographer for the day, was there with them. When their time in the shop was done, everyone was looking super fresh and at their best!
Shawn took his place at the spot designated for the couple’s first look. He was so nervous and excited… luckily he didn’t have to wait long for his bride to arrive.
Andrea and Shawn took their time admiring each other – they were both so sweet and loving. It was clear just how much this day meant to them both!
We moved down the river walk a bit to the LaSalle St. Bridge, where we met up with the rest of the bridal party. There were laughs and smiles all around as they posed for portraits on this iconic Chicago bridge.
Next stop was the lily pond at Lincoln Park, one of my favorite places in Chicago. It’s hard to find a space that’s more green and lush within the city limits!
All aboard! Andrea was having the time of her life and I was having a blast photographing her. The smiles and good times continued as we traveled to another fantastic photo spot…
…these colorful mosaics! They were sunshine-y and bright, just like Andrea and Shawn’s smiles!
And what’s a photo shoot without a little dancing? The crew was just getting warmed up for the evening’s dance-a-thon.
Finally, we landed at the Ravenswood Event Center where Andrea and Shawn had their ceremony and reception. When they got there, Andrea checked in with her niece who was serving as flower girl. She was so proud of her bracelet and wanted to show it off to her aunt!
Shawn helped his dad with his tie, and then it was go time.
Shawn escorted his parents down the aisle and took his place at the front of the room. Soon after, Andrea was walking, too, escorted by her father. There were so many happy tears during this beautiful ceremony!
Two of the couple’s friends who couldn’t be there in person watched the ceremony courtesy of Skype.
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Andrea and Shawn were officially married! Congratulations!
The reception kicked off with the newlyweds showing off their moves during the first dance. They had their routine down cold!
Andrea’s father kicked off speeches with his toast in honor of the couple.
Two of Andrea’s bridesmaids were up next with their funny and touching tributes to the newlyweds.
And finally, Andrea and Shawn thanked their guests for sharing in the celebration with them.
Andrea then shared a dance with her father…
…and Shawn did the same with his mother.
Then the guests joined in and the party was going full steam! These guests gave it their all on the floor. See for yourself in this collection of images from Andrea and Shawn’s dance party:
What a blast! Thanks for including me in on the fun, Andrea and Shawn! Congratulations on your marriage!
