Kate and Mike got married a few weeks ago at The Carleton in Oak Park.
I joined Kate in her hotel room when she was getting her makeup done.
Kate wasn’t the only one getting all pretty.
Kate’s mom watched as her daughter got ready for the big day.
Kate only had a few touches left, like this gorgeous bracelet…
…and her red shoes!
Her sister was fanning back tears- she didn’t want to mess up the make-up!
Kate made sure everything was in place and secure as we headed out to meet Mike.
He was waiting in the hotel lobby to see his bride for the first time.
He was so excited to see her!
They shared a quick hug…
…and then we headed out for photos, bouquet in hand. Kate’s bouquet and attendant flowers were done by Pollen, a green florist here in Chicago.
We jumped on the interstate and made the quick trip to downtown Chicago. First stop: The Art Institute of Chicago.
A little rain didn’t dampen spirits! Everyone was more than happy to get close and huddle up.
The wedding party headed out, umbrellas in had, across the street to Millennium Park.
Here’s the wedding party, posing under the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
We kept up our trek through the park.
Here’s Mike’s sister, gazing out the window as we moved on to our next stop at Union Station.
I took a few solo shots of Kate before we headed inside.
Kate and her bouquet.
There are always great spots to shoot at in the train station.
Whew! All this photography works up a thirst…
Kate needed a coffee break to recharge!
This crowd definitely ran on Dunkin’.
The party bus made it’s way out of downtown and back to Oak Park for the ceremony.
This groomsman was conserving energy in preparation for the party.
We arrived back at the hotel with plenty of time to spare.
Her mom found her seat and settled in as the ceremony got underway.
Kate gives her dad a big kiss on the cheek after he walks her down the aisle.
Mike takes a look at his beautiful bride.
Mike’s mom watches her son as the ceremony gets underway.
Mike delivers his vow to Kate.
Kate’s dad wipes away a quick tear.
Kate’s sister.
Mike puts the ring on Kate’s finger.
Such a beautiful ballroom. Kelly from Clementine Custom Events helped out with the planning of the big day.
This ceremony was a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.
A big kiss at the end.
Congratulations!
Cocktail hour started with me sneaking in a shot of Kate’s dad at the bar!
Are the girls pickin’ on you, little guy?
The flower girl took a coloring break.
Meanwhile, the grown-ups enjoy cocktail hour.
Mike wonders where his drink is.
Here’s Kristin from Toast & Jam getting worried after running out of Diet Coke. I understand completely, Kristin. Diet Coke is wedding vendor fuel!
The guests were all relaxing and enjoying each other’s company.
Here are some of the centerpieces. Kate made them herself!
And their cake, deliciously and expertly made by Amy Beck Cake Design.
The couple encouraged their guest to put their thumbprints on this mural.
It filled up with leaves as the evening went on.
Kate and Mike began the reception with their first dance.
Then Mike’s mom delivered a toast to her son and new daughter-in-law.
And Kate’s dad welcomed Mike to the family.
Mike gave his guys a hug after the best man’s speech.
Then another toast of congratulations to the happy couple.
Then it was time to party!
Everybody coupled up and hit the dance floor.
Kate’s mom and dad shared a slow dance.
He called this dance “The Pepper Mill”.
Kate and Mike were having a great time partying with their guests.
Kate and Mike have two dogs that they love very much. We used the ring shot to make sure they were represented!
I had an awesome time working with you, your family and friends, Kate and Mike! Congratulations again on your marriage!