Look at this beautiful, glowing bride! From the moment I arrived to photograph her getting ready until the end of the day, Jane had that smile on her face. She was elated and excited to marry Michael and I was just as happy to share in the celebration with them.
Jane had rented an AirBnB to use while getting ready, and her mom and sister were there with her, helping out as needed.
She looked gorgeous. One last detail to put in place…
…and we were out the door, on our way to Jane’s first look with Michael.
Jane and Michael chose a scenic spot in Lincoln Park to share their first look. As you can imagine, the two lit up when they saw each other. They were both riding on cloud 9 as we began our pre-ceremony photoshoot in the park.
I love this picture of the two together– you would never know that we took this picture in the middle of Chicago!
I could’ve spent all day photographing this beautiful couple on this gorgeous day… but it turns out that they had a wedding to go to!
When we arrived at the church, Michael and Jane took a moment to visit the chapel and pray together. These two met at a bible study group at the very church in which they were married. This parish will be a incredibly special place for them throughout their lives, I imagine!
Minutes later, Jane was escorted down the aisle by her father. Jane joined Michael before the priest and the two participated in a traditional Catholic mass. Some of my favorite images from the ceremony are included below:
I loved the bright blue color of the sanctuary’s ceiling.
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Michael and Jane were married! Congratulations! The two made their way down the aisle, out the door…
…and onto the party bus with the bridal party. We had some big plans for portraits before heading to the reception. The first stop was the LaSalle Street Bridge, where the group gathered in front of this iconic view of downtown Chicago.
When we were finished on the bridge, we began to make our way to Oak Park for the reception. Spirits were high, as you can imagine, and everyone was ready to have a great time.
They even did a little singing on the way!
Here, Jane says hello to her future niece or nephew. Jane’s sister will be welcoming her child very soon… it’s a big year for Jane’s family!
The newlyweds entered the reception hall to the sound of cheers and applause from their family and friends. They made their way to the head table, and soon after, everyone was enjoying the meal.
As dinner was wrapping up, Jane and Michael took to the microphone to thank their guests for sharing in the day with them.
Jane’s dad was up next with his loving tribute to the couple.
Jane’s sister did a beautiful job with her speech…
…and Michael’s brother had the groom laughing with his toast.
Michael’s grandpa was listening intently to the speeches from the front row.
After the last speech, Jane and Michael shared their first dance together as a married couple.
Then Jane shared a parent dance with her dad…
…and Michael did the same with his mom.
Then it was everyone’s turn to dance! And boy, was this group ready to party. See for yourself in this collection of images from Michael and Jane’s dance party!:
Guests were in for a special treat as Michael’s glee club performed one of their favorite numbers for everyone.
It looks like you had the time of your life, Jane and Michael! I’m so happy I was able to share it with you! Congratulations on your marriage!
