Katie and Elliott traveled to Chicago all the way from the UK for their wedding day, and they chose a fantastic place to hold their ceremony: the University of Chicago’s Rockefeller Chapel. I joined up with Katie as her day began in, of all places, the “Uncommon Room”.
Katie was tucked away in the Uncommon Room with her bridesmaids- a group that included Elliott’s two daughters- who helped the bride into her gown. While the bride attended to a few last minute details, the bridesmaids took turns finishing up their makeup.
Katie couldn’t keep the happy tears back, and blotted carefully as to avoid a makeup mishap. The perils of a wedding day!
This bride was good to go!
A young guest gave his “thumbs up” as the processional began. The wedding party made their way to the altar where Elliott was standing with his groomsmen. He was beaming from ear to ear when he saw Katie make her entrance.
The ceremony was every bit as gorgeous as the chapel. Katie was escorted to the altar by her mother, who presented the bride, and a wedding full of love and meaning was underway.
With rings and vows exchanged, Elliott broke a glass before sharing a first kiss with his wife. Mozel Tov!
Congratulations, Katie and Elliott! A fist bump was shared and then the newlyweds made their exit down the aisle.
The newlyweds took a few moments to themselves after the ceremony, and when they exited the chapel, they were showered with flower petals.
Their youngest daughter was so sweet- she was incredibly happy for her family!
After the guests had been greeted, the family set out on the historic University’s campus for a round of portraits before heading to the reception.
The campus is full of architectural beauty- I need to take advantage of these wonderful backdrops more frequently!
The family was having a blast, posing for portraits among the pillars and arches, and I was having a great time too, as we explored the campus.
Elliott grabbed the coats as we prepared to go…
…but not before one last picture in front of this colorful, blooming tree.
Next up, we joined the wedding party to take pictures with some of Chicago’s best sites. Our first stop was the Adler Planetarium, with its amazing view of the city skyline. After a few adjustments to the bride’s gown, we were ready to get down to business.
We headed a few blocks north, into the Loop for the next set, which were taken at the Art Institute garden. I was blown away by the fact that this location was essentially empty– we had run of the entire garden!
And what’s a trip to Chicago without a visit to the Bean? The girls were especially excited for this stop, and they had a blast checking out our city’s most famous sculpture.
Our last stop before the reception was the LaSalle Street Bridge, which also boasts one of the best views of our city.
Finally, we arrived at the reception where Katie and Elliott made their grand entrance. Their loved ones cheered and applauded as they took their seats and the toasts began.
First up to the microphone was their daughter, who had words of love and support for her parents.
Toasts wrapped up with loving tributes from the Maid of Honor and Best Man, both of which had Katie and Elliott laughing and crying.
A meal was served, and while guests finished up, Katie, Elliott and I snuck outside for a few sunset pictures.
Beautiful! Thank-you for sharing your day with me, Katie and Elliott, and congratulations on your marriage!