Caitlin and Brandon are both actors here in Chicago, and having busy weekend schedules to manage, they decided to hold their wedding on a Monday- a rarity for me! I can’t think of a better way to spend a Monday either… tagging alongside this loving and fun couple on one of the best days of their lives.
That day began with Caitlin, her family and her bridal party having their hair and makeup done by a team of stylists. There was a lot of happy energy in the room as all the final details were attended to…
…details like helping Caitlin into her gorgeous gown.
Caitlin’s mom got a little misty-eyed when she saw her daughter in the gown.
What a happy moment!
One more quick picture of the bride and then we were out the door.
Brandon was just about ready himself… he made sure his knot was nice and straight and then headed out to the designated first look spot.
Upon arriving at the lily pond at Lincoln Park, Brandon couldn’t help but do a little soft shoe. Once his happy feet were satiated, he took his place.
His bride wasn’t far behind, and both Brandon and Caitlin’s eyes lit up when they saw each other.
A good friend of the couple was on hand to save the day by procuring tissues for the pair.
These two were so happy that they were absolutely glowing. We wasted no time getting to work, capturing all the joy and excitement of the moment in with a series of pre-ceremony portraits:
After spending a good deal of time in Lincoln Park, we moved over to Adler Planetarium to meet up with the bridal party.
As usual, it was a little breezy by the lake, but one of Caitlin’s bridesmaids was more than happy to jump in and adjust the veil before we began group portraits in front of the best view of the Chicago skyline.
That’s a wrap!
We arrived at Greenhouse Loft, where the ceremony and reception were held, a few moments later.
Before we knew it, Caitlin was walking the aisle and joining Brandon in front of their family and friends. The ceremony was wonderful- full of laughs and heartfelt moments. Loved ones helped make the event special by delivering readings and one friend played a special song in honor of the couple. It couldn’t have been more perfect, which I hope the following collection of images conveys:
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Caitlin and Brandon were married! Congratulations!
Guests were treated to cocktail hour immediately after the ceremony, followed by a delicious three-course dinner. After plates were cleared, Caitlin and Brandon took the microphone to thank their guests for sharing in the special day.
Toasts were up next, as friends and family honored the newlyweds with messages of love and support.
The guests gathered by the dance floor as the newlyweds shared their first dance together as husband and wife.
And then it was time to really party! Everyone rushed to the floor and began to show off their best moves. See for yourself in some of my favorite images from Caitlin and Brandon’s dance party:
What a party!! Thank you for including me in the celebration, Caitlin and Brandon… and congratulations on your marriage!