Liz + Mickey // Chicago

I got to meet Liz and Mickey over a Skype call last fall as they were interested in meeting me but were living in Minneapolis. We got along right away and I loved their energy. I was actually a referral from Jackie, my fall bride and event coordinator at their reception and wedding space, shout out to Homestead on the Roof! Another amazing thing about this wedding location is that it’s hop, skip and a jump from my house. Three blocks to be exact! It was a mild winter day, it hadn't snowed much so nothing on the ground but we were all hoping for a bit of  real life snow globe for photos.

We met at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and walked over to Millennium Park for some shots in the garden before heading back to the hotel room for a quick champagne toast with close family. From there, we headed to West Town so they could sign their Ketubah, created by artist friends. From their reaction, you can notice how much they loved it (tears!). 

The ceremony was done in the main area of Homestead on the Roof and everyone just turned their chairs around from the dimming tables to watch in the marriage ceremony. They created a chuppah out of birch trees and an heirloom fabric. Liz’s family is from the former Soviet Union and they had lots of amazing traditions and everything was full of laughter. Her sisters wouldn't let Liz forget how lucky she was that she never had to attend kindergarten there. Their Russian was a bit rusty but they came through giving Mickey and Liz their wedding blessings. The food was incredible, the dancing was epic and then SNOW! I hope you love these as much as me, and congratulations to Liz and Mickey! I loved your wedding!

XO

J

Kat + Colin // Chicago

I first met Kat and Colin at a restaurant in our neighborhood, sipping on cocktails, getting to know each other and going over their vision. They were so sweet and so in love, I was very happy they decided to book me for their 2017 fall wedding. The day came and it was one of the rainiest days of the year with intermittent downpours that would flood the streets. I arrived at The Aloft Hotel in River North, first meting with Colin and then separately, Kat. There was lots of laughter and a carefree attitude about the rain, they were just excited to get started. I took photos of the getting ready and like city brides do, she jumped in a cab and headed over to The Roof Crop. The first look was epic, Colin’s reaction to Kat coming off the elevator was priceless, jaw dropped, hands on face and then they both burst into tears. I love being able to witness these moments! After the ceremony Kat and Colin surprised their guests with a marching band complete with drums and brass, and Chicago flag painted tuba. We walked approximately four blocks over puddles and past honking cars. These are some of my favorite photos of the day and I just want to say that clear umbrellas are adorable and I kind of want them as a prop in my future wedding photos (noted future brides!)  

The reception was held at Low Res Studio which is an agency during the week and a rad event space by the weekend.