It was Heather and Todd’s wedding day, and the bride was just completing her preparations when I arrived at The Blackstone.
Todd’s mother and niece were with Heather, watching with big smiles as everything came together.
Face mask! This is a must so that the hard work of the hair and makeup stylists isn’t ruined…
…when it’s time to slip into the dress.
Luckily, Todd didn’t need a face mask to slip into his suit. But he did appreciate the assist from his groomsman in making sure the tie was neat and tidy.
Heather received a helping hand with her veil, too.
And earrings completed the look.
Leah and I were absolutely in love with Heather’s dress, which was designed by Vera Wang. What a beauty!
I posed her against this wall in the hotel for a portrait…
…before we headed out into the street for a few pictures before the the ceremony.
February in Chicago… Heather had to put in extra effort to protect her dress from the wet, wintery weather.
But this lucky girl had an amazing crew on hand for help.
The big moment had arrived. Anthony Navarro from Liven It Up Events helped Heather and Todd plan and execute the atmospheric decor for the ceremony.
The guests found their seats and Todd took his place at the front of the room, followed by the attendants.
Heather’s mother and father walked her down the aisle, making sure to give their daughter big kisses before taking their seats.
A good friend of the couple’s presided over the ceremony, which he began with welcoming words for the guests.
Todd couldn’t keep his eyes off his gorgeous bride.
Heather’s mom and dad watched proudly from the front row.
Their friend did a great job officiating…
He even made the wedding party crack some smiles!
Heather and Todd made their wedding vows in front of their friends and family.
They exchanged rings and hugs…
…and then they were married! Congratulations!
Heather’s bridesmaids attended to the dress before we took post-ceremony portraits.
While the bridesmaids finished up, I took some pictures of Todd.
And then Heather joined in.
The three of us jumped outside into the February weather for a few pictures with the city skyline in the background.
And then it was back to the bridal suite for a quick celebratory drink before the reception.
Cheers to the newlyweds!
Heather and Todd made their big entrance to the reception and were met with cheers and applause from their guests.
First piece of business was cutting the cake. Theirs was baked by Mary at Take the Cake.
After a wonderful dinner, Heather’s father took the microphone to thank the guests for sharing the day with his family.
Heather had two maids of honor…
…and each had a loving toast in honor of their friend.
Todd’s best man wrapped up the speeches with some words of advice for the groom.
Todd’s father enjoyed the speech for sure!
Then the coupled shared their first dance as husband and wife.
Heather’s dad was up next for a father-daughter dance.
And then Todd’s mother took a turn with her son.
Finally, everyone hit the dance floor.
Rachel and Kate from Toast & Jam played the hits that kept everyone on the dance floor.
Heather’s mom was having a blast. Here, some of her friends are using her dress as a dancing prop!
Heather’s brother was quick to show off his killer dance moves.
The dance floor was rockin’!
Event planner Anthony Navarro were impressed by the dancing talents of the guests.
Whew! What a party!
And what a memorable day. Love was all around!
Congratulations on your marriage, Heather and Todd! Thanks for sharing the day with me!