Cameras ready! Lauren had hers ready to go as she was getting ready for the big day.
Brandon from Sonia Roselli was working on Lauren’s make-up when I arrived.
When Brandon was done, Korena, also from Sonia’s, worked her magic on Lauren’s hair.
Ed sent this card along with flowers he had delivered to Lauren’s room while she was getting ready.
Lauren’s mom takes a good look at her daughter and wishes her well.
I had Lauren pose for some pictures before we made our way out of the hotel room.
Meanwhile, Ed was dressed and ready to go.
He grabbed his four groomsmen and they went to the garden by the Art Institute for Ed’s first meeting with Lauren.
Ed was doing a great job being patient and flexible with the schedule.
Ed prepared himself when he heard that Lauren was close by.
He was one happy man when he saw her!
They shared a brief greeting…
…then it was picture time!
Love the Art Institute gardens!
The bronze cowboy was out on display, and he was happy to cooperate and pose for a few pictures.
The whole group moved on through the grounds of the Art Institute…
…and on to the skywalk. Big wave from everyone.
We got off of the skywalk and headed into the heart of downtown.
Watch out, Lauren! There’s a dress monster! Oh, wait. That’s a bridesmaid giving Lauren a hand.
Next up was the LaSalle St. Bridge.
Lauren and Ed shared a joke and a wink.
The whole wedding party joined them.
After the bridge, it was time to head to the ceremony.
Lauren and Ed held their ceremony and reception at A New Leaf here in the city.
I love shooting here!
Lauren takes a minute to pose in the garden.
It was beautiful there, but those mosquitoes were no joke! Good thing the bridesmaids were prepared.
The couple sat down to sign the Ketubah, surrounded by their close family.
Ed’s mom watches and smiles as they start the traditional signing.
There were two officiants present for the signing. Ed’s pastor and Lauren’s rabbi.
WIth the Ketubah signing complete, Lauren’s mom sneaks in for a quick kiss.
The guests were all in place and ready for the ceremony. Lauren and Ed snuck off to prepare themselves.
He took his place under the Chuppah and watched as Lauren entered.
Her dad walked her down the aisle.
The flowers on top of the Chuppah were amazing. Michelle from A New Leaf did all of the floral work for the day.
Lauren’s brother gave a reading during the ceremony.
The exchanged their vows and their rings.
The pastor gave them a special blessing as part of the ceremony.
The guests sent out a congratulatory cheer…
…and then Ed broke the glass.
Mozel Tov!
Lauren’s mom gives her well wishes before they headed downstairs for cocktails.
A string quartet serenaded the guests.
Love was all around.
Everyone was enjoying the drinks and hors d’oeuvres that Food for Thought provided.
Check out that ring!
While Lauren and Ed were busy mingling with their guests, I ducked back inside to take some detail shots.
The ceremony programs.
Each drink had it’s own special flag.
Every guest was invited to fill out a Mad Lib with advice for the couple. I love Mad Libs!
I had one of the bridesmaids show off the wonderful bouquets.
I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of shooting at A New Leaf.
With so many cool plants, it’s right up my alley.
Hello, little leaf. I have a plant like this at my house!
I rejoined the rest of the group in time to catch Lauren’s dad’s speech.
Lauren got choked up as he spoke.
Then Lauren’s maid of honor gave a toast to the newlyweds.
Then it was the best man’s turn with the mic.
He had Ed’s mom and dad in stitches.
While cutting the cake, which was made by Sweet Mandy B’s, the DJ played the situation-appropriate “Pour Some Sugar on Me”.
Lighters up!
Then Lauren and Ed had their first dance.
Wisely, they decided to not dance to a Poison song.
They finished up with a twirl.
Then they grabbed some chairs. It was time for the Hora!
Ed was having a great time while he was lifted up.
The dancing didn’t end with the Hora, of course!
Dustin from Toast & Jam was there to keep the hits coming and the dance floor packed.
I made my way around the dance floor watching everyone showing off their best moves.
Then I grabbed Lauren and Ed, and took them outside for one last photo.
Thanks for sharing your day with me, Lauren and Ed. You’re such a fun couple. Congratulations on your marriage!