I was in Rosemont earlier this fall to photograph Kalyn and Mike’s wedding. They said their “I do’s” and held their reception at the Westin Ohare, where I met Kalyn in her bridal suite as she made her preparations. Kalyn was just having her makeup finished when I arrived, and her mom was waiting close by to help the bride into her dress and attend to the final details.
Kalyn was ready to walk the aisle. Before we left the suite, though, she opened a gift from Mike. Kalyn couldn’t help but smile at the thoughtful present from her groom!
Meanwhile, Mike was already in the spot we chose to stage the couple’s first look. Kalyn made her way up to Mike, the two embraced, and spent a few minutes admiring each other. Finally, the two practiced reading their vows to each other in preparation of the ceremony. It was a beautiful moment!
Right next to the hotel was a park where the bridal party was waiting for us to arrive and take pictures. It was so convenient to have such a picturesque spot at our disposal!
Mike’s sisters were especially excited for picture time!
I’ll have to remember this park for future shoots… it’s lovely! You can see for yourself in this collection of images from the pre-ceremony session:
Soon after our portrait session ended, Kalyn was walking down the aisle with her father and mother. They were so proud of their daughter… you could tell Kalyn’s parents were both doing their best to hold back tears.
Kalyn joined Mike at the front of the room and the ceremony began.
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Kalyn and Mike were married! Congratulations! The two made their way back down the aisle, leading guests toward cocktail hour.
After cocktails, guests filed into the ballroom where dinner was served. When everyone was done eating, the newlyweds took to the floor to share their first dance as husband and wife.
Kalyn’s parents thanked the guests for sharing in the wedding with their family…
…and then Kalyn’s Maid of Honor gave a speech.
Mike’s Best Man was up next with his toast in honor of the newlyweds.
And Mike’s sisters gave words of love and support for their brother and new sister.
Finally, Mike and Kalyn thanked everyone gathered for sharing the special day with them.
Dancing began with parent dances. Here, Kalyn shares a spin around the floor with her father.
Kalyn’s mom was ready to party! She was one of the first to show off her moves.
In fact, everyone was ready to dance and have fun, as you’ll see in this collection of my favorite pictures from Kalyn and Mike’s dance party:
What a party! Congratulations on your marriage, Kalyn and Mike! Thank you for including me in the celebration!
