It was Emily and Brad’s big day! Emily, who just had her hair styled by Jessica Tiddes and makeup done by Bomber Betty was ready for her walk down the aisle.
But first, the dress.
Emily was ready for her first meeting with Brad, but not before a big hug from her mom.
Emily took her place at the designated location inside Room 1520 where the ceremony and reception were going to be held.
Emily walked through the curtains and wrapped her arms around Brad.
Then we were off about town to take pre-ceremony photos.
I was a big fan of the color scheme the couple chose for the groom’s suit.
The energy was high as we took photos in front of some of my favorite Chicago backdrops.
The sky was clouding up, but nothing was going to rain on Emily’s day.
Brad got out the trusty umbrella just in case any drops fell.
We got lucky- no rain!
But Emily’s shoes needed some attention.
The couple was giving this wedding day shoot their all, and we were hitting a ton of spots.
Emily, Brad and I began taking pictures on the Kinzie St. bridge….
…where we were joined by the rest of the wedding party. Brad and his groomsmen took a few sips from the flask in between pictures.
Everyone was on high alert, watching out for the crotch hand.
One last picture on the bridge…
…and then it was time to head back to Room 1520.
Emily and Brad’s best friend was there to greet them!
With the ceremony about to begin, guests grabbed a program and found their seats.
Emily’s father escorted her down the aisle…
…where she met Brad and the ceremony began.
Emily’s mom was sure to have some tissues close at hand.
Emily’s cousin sang a solo in honor of the couple, and in this picture, Emily’s aunt leans forward excitedly as the music cues up.
Emily leans into Brad during the solo.
Emily and Brad delivered their vows….
…and shared a kiss after exchanging rings.
Congratulations!
The guests began cocktail hour while I set out to take detail shots.
Emily and Brad had these buttons custom made as favors.
Emily’s beautiful bouquet was designed by Justin Wieder of Cut Floral.
Charms featuring photographs of departed loved ones was on display.
And roses- tons of roses!- each with it’s own vase.
And then it was dinner time. People were protecting their plates, for sure!
Emily and Brad make their grand entrance into the reception area.
And walk right up for their first taste of wedding cake, courtesy of Sweet Cakes by Keisha.
As the meal wrapped up, Emily’s dad took the microphone with some advice for the newlyweds.
Brad’s best man was up next with his toast.
After the toasts were completed, Emily and Brad shared their first dance together as husband and wife.
Followed by an emotional father and daughter dance.
Brad enjoyed some laughs with his mother during their dance together.
And then everyone hit the dance floor.
Emily from Toast & Jam played the hits that kept everyone moving on the dance floor.
The party was a success and everyone was having a great time…
…until the crotch hand reappeared.
Emily put an end to it quick, though!
Congratulations on your marriage, Emily and Brad! Best of luck to you both as you begin your life together as husband and wife!