The big day had finally arrived for Cara and Wayne. The bride to be, seen here with her mom and adorable baby, was just putting the finishing touches on her bridal look when I arrived at her hotel suite. The morning had gone fabulously, with Cara surrounded by her bridesmaids and family while she prepared. Now that she was ready to go…
…it was someone else’s turn to get ready!
Cara was ready to go!
Meanwhile, Wayne was getting ready, too. After the tie was tied perfectly and everything looked great, the handsome groom made his way to the designated “first look” location.
Wayne and one of his groomsmen shared a few laughs while waiting for Cara to make her arrival.
Cara, escorted by her father, was trying to spot Wayne.
He took his position, and soon enough, Cara was at his side.
The couple shared a kiss, looked each other over for a few moments, and then we were off to shoot pre-ceremony photos. The ceremony and reception were both held at the Art Institute, so we had full run of the place. We made the best use of the grounds, too, as we took the first round of photos and group portraits in the museum’s garden.
When the portraits were all done we headed inside. We were far from done!
There were so many photo opportunities inside the galleries… it was hard to find a place to start! So we started in the main hall, just inside the entrance.
Not far from the entrance is the famous Seurat painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte”. Of course we had to get a picture in with this permanent Chicago attraction!
And we had to get a picture in with this Chicago attraction, too!
We had just enough time for one last portrait before the ceremony began.
Wayne took his place and watched as Cara descended the staircase, escorted by her father.
Cara took her place alongside Wayne and Cara’s uncle, who officiated the ceremony, began the proceedings.
With rings, vows and a first kiss exchanged, Cara and Wayne were married! They were met with cheers, applause and high-fives as they made their way back down the aisle and into cocktail hour.
Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and conversation…
…while the other guests enjoyed exploring the museum. Meanwhile, I enjoyed taking pictures of all the fun stuff that was going on!
When cocktail hour was over, the guests took their seats for dinner and enjoyed a fantastic meal. While people were eating, Cara and Wayne’s son led off speeches, with a little help from his granddad. Next up were the Best Man and Maid of Honor, both of whom had thoughtful messages of love for the newlyweds.
And of course there was cake! Here, Cara and Wayne take turns tasting the sweet treat.
Now that the meal was over, the bride and groom (as well as their guests!) were ready to party! The newlyweds warmed up the dance floor…
…and friends and family were quick to join in. Enjoy these pictures from Cara and Wayne’s dance party!
I asked Wayne if he and Cara would like to head outside for some night pictures with the city skyline. It was hard to drag the groom away from his guests, but I eventually succeeded.
Congratulations on your marriage, Cara and Wayne! It was such a fun day… thank-you for sharing it with me!
