Rachel and Nick’s wedding day had finally arrived! The day started with Rachel at the church as she made her preparations before walking the aisle. The bridal room was abuzz with excitement, especially as Rachel put on the final touch: the veil.
Rachel’s face lit up when her father walked into the room. The two shared a hug, and everyone lined up for the processional.
Rachel’s mom and stepdad made their entrance, then looked down the aisle as the bride entered, escorted by her father.
Nick smiled from ear to ear when he caught his first glimpse of Rachel.
The couple joined hands at the front of the church and the wedding mass began. This sanctuary was breathtaking… I could have spent hours shooting the interiors.
Rachel’s dad honored the couple by reading scripture…
…and then the bride and groom exchanged vows.
With vows, rings and a kiss exchanged, Rachel and Nick were married! Congratulations!
Right after the ceremony, I led the newlyweds and their bridal party around town for portraits. First stop was the iconic Chicago Board of Trade building.
Just down the street was the LaSalle Street Bridge, where we started off with some shots of Rachel and Nick…
…concluding with the brave couple climbing up on the bridge’s rafters. No sweat for Nick!
Don’t let them fool you. They were having a blast.
The guys couldn’t help themselves… the call of the bridge was too much to resist!
Once the groomsmen dismounted the bridge safely, we headed toward Revel Fulton Market, where the ceremony and reception were held. Just around the corner was this mural, so we took advantage of some free time to take more portraits.
Rachel and her bridesmaids were all stunning!
And Nick made for a very dapper groom.
Ah, the traditional pre-reception shotgunning of the beers. Amazingly enough, none of the guys were completely drenched after this exercise. I know that if I tried, I would be soaked in beer!
Check out the fun koozies, specially made for the event:
The bridesmaids were ready to party…
…and Nick was pretty pumped…
…so once Rachel’s brother got over his ice-cold-beer-induced headache, we headed to the reception.
Nick and Rachel entered the hall to the sound of cheers and applause from their friends and family.
Right away, they took center stage on the dance floor to share their first dance as husband and wife.
Dinner was served, and after plates were cleared, Rachel’s dad was the first to offer up a toast.
Nick’s sister gave a loving tribute to her brother and new sister-in-law…
…followed up by a speech given by Rachel’s brother.
Finally, the newlyweds wrapped up the speeches by thanking everyone for joining them in the celebration.
Rachel shared a special dance with her father…
…and Nick did the same with his mom.
Then everyone was invited to the dance floor! Man, what a dance party it was, too. The guests were ready to show off their best moves and celebrate long into the night. The following are just a few of my favorite images from the evening…
Rachel and Nick, you sure do know how to throw a party! Thank you for including me in the plans… and congratulations on your marriage!
