Soho House Wedding with Vintage Style and Disco Reception | Courtney + Colin | Destination Wedding Photographer
Soho House Wedding with Vintage Style and Disco Reception | Courtney + Colin | Destination Wedding Photographer
This is one of those weddings that starts off calm and ends wild! But in the best way possible! Courtney and Colin started their wedding day getting ready at the Soho House. They signed their marriage license, drank champagne, ate chocolate chip cookies and had friends around them! Emily Katz did Courtney’s hair and Gold Dust Woman did the makeup! Courtney’s whole outfit was curated vintage and her earrings were from local designer, Cities in Dust. Our friend Alisha, was filming on a Super 8mm Camera the entire day, and it turned out stunning!
Colin is a wine sommelier at a the Bonhomme restaurant group, so all of the venues were in that talented group for their wedding day. The ceremony was held at Beatnick on the River, The intimate dinner was held on the private second floor of Mama Delia’s, and the Disco reception took place at Disco Bar. Between the ceremony, where their friend officiated for them, there was wine and walking around downtown for a few portraits. Then after the dinner, everyone started to add glitter to their makeup and everyone ubered over to the Disco Bar. Once we were there, it was endless dancing, a completely lit dance floor (both literally and figuratively), two DJ’s and lots of joy! Courtney and Colin truly had a wedding that reflected who they both were as people and their eclectic styles weren’t put in a box! I’m so honored to have captured these moments from their stylish, inspiring and party of a wedding day!
PHOTOGRAPHY - MELODY JOY CO // GETTING READY LOCATION - SOHO HOUSE CHICAGO // DRESS - OLIVIA OLIVIA GC // SHOES - PLUME VINTAGE // EARRINGS - CITIES IN DUST // CEREMONY VENUE - BEATNIK ON THE RIVER // RECEPTION VENUE - MEAL: BOTÁNICA CHICAGO // RECEPTION VENUE - PARTY: DISCO CHICAGO // DJ - DANIEL VILLARREAL // SUPER8 VIDEOGRAPHY - ALISHA TOVA // FLOWERS - TAXA FLORA // HAIR - EMMY KATZ HAIR // MAKE-UP - GOLDUST WOMAN // RING - NADIA SHELBAYA
Modern Micro Wedding | Destination Wedding Photographer | Celeste Chicago Wedding | Modern Rooftop Restaurant
Modern Rooftop Restaurant Bar Venue | Celeste Chicago Wedding | Destination Wedding Photographer | Best Downtown Chicago Micro Wedding Venue
Alyeesha and Joe started their wedding day getting ready in a beautiful suite overlooking Millennium Park at the Chicago Athletic Hotel on Michigan Avenue. I absolutely love the details and vendors they chose for their wedding day. By starting at a historic hotel in the center of downtown, they were able to do their first look with the backdrop of the bustling city streets behind them. We then strolled around downtown Chicago for bridal portraits all along La Salle to the Board of Trade. After wrapping up the portraits of the two of them we headed in car over to the venue, where they had their intimate ceremony and reception at the enclosed rooftop of Celeste.
The Florist for the wedding day was Asrai Garden. I’ve done quite a few weddings with them now, and their floristry always amazes me. They not only choose unique and beautiful combination of flowers, but are so good at creating a beautiful space for your personal vision. Alyeesha curated all of the pieces for her long bridal dining table and the florals fit into the table scape perfectly. Her candle and vase options she collected were just lovely together. As for the food, the lovely team at Celeste could not have done a better job. I mean, I’m already a huge fan of fried chicken, but especially when you put it in a beautiful plating and stunning setting… bon appétit!
Between their ceremony and reception, they went down to the second story to have canapés and a champagne tower with their loved ones. While they were all catching up with each other and congratulating the bride and groom, the team over at Chicago Vintage Weddings was busy flipping the space upstairs into a stunning room to dine. When everyone came back upstairs the whole space was transformed into a dinner by twilight, candles and string lights above them. The rest of the evening of was full of laughter and joy as speeches were made, desserts were eaten and endless shots taken. All in all, this micro wedding was filled with all of the love that one would wish to be surrounded by on your wedding day. So incredibly grateful to be a part of this memorable day. x
Wedding Venue - Celeste / Wedding Photographer Melody Joy Co. / Hotel Bridal Suite - Chicago Athletic Hotel / Wedding Dress - Galvan London / Bridal Hair Stylist - Hannah Aubrey Hair / Wedding Makeup Artist - Shannon O’brien Weddings / Henna Tattoo Artist - Henna Tattoo Chicago / Wedding Planner - Chicago Vintage Weddings / Custom Wedding Florist - Asrai Garden / Venue Restaurant Group - Bonhomme Group
San Juan, Puerto Rico Wedding | Iglesia de San José | Destination Wedding Photographer
San Juan, Puerto Rico Wedding | Iglesia de San José | Destination Wedding Photographer | Alexa Blanco Weddings
Daniel and Alexandra started their wedding day by getting ready with their loved ones in suites overlooking Isle Verde Beach in the dreamy coastal city of San Juan. After spending a quiet morning with their friends and family, everyone caravanned together over to the historic district of Old San Juan. They were married at the stunning church, Iglesia de San José, which is the oldest church in Puerto Rico. They had a beautiful catholic ceremony with their loved ones surrounding them and passed down traditions. As they walked out of the church as a married couple, the first thing they did was go for a stroll on the cobbled streets of old San Juan for moments of just the two of them (with myself and the the filmmaker, Daniel, not too far away). It was sweet to see everyone congratulating them on the streets as a festival was taking place. We also popped in to get a cocktail for the groom at La Factoría (which is a must if you ever find yourself visiting Old San Juan).
After strolling around the city center we headed back to the church for a few more portraits before heading back to the resort at Isle Verde Beach for their reception. Upon arriving at the reception, we walked to the shoreline to get a few portraits just as the sun was setting. Their bridal party met us on the beach and then everyone was announced into the reception for an evening of dancing with their favorites to local live music. Even the groom’s dad played a bit of his trumpet with the band. The lively tune of the evening was exactly the kind of party you want to have on the night of your wedding. This was truly a beautiful day and a beautiful celebration of love! x
Puerto Rico Wedding Planner - Alexa Blanco Weddings & Events | Wedding Ceremony - Iglesia de San José in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico | Wedding Resort - Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort | Wedding Reception Venue - Isla Verde Weddings | Wedding Florals & Design - Natalia Liriano | Live Wedding Band in Puerto Rico - Wedding Band PR, Sin Prisa Music | Bridal Hair & Makeup - Nicolle Potencial | Wedding Cake - Sabe A Gloria PR | Puerto Rico Wedding Filmmaker - Eternum Films, Danny Gutierrez
City Chambers Edinburgh Elopement | Emily + Laurence | Scotland Wedding Photographer | Harriette Gordon
City Chambers Edinburgh Elopement | Scotland Wedding Photographer | Harriette Gordon Bridal Dress | Snapdragon Edinburgh Florist | The Fall Bride | Edinburgh wedding photographer
Emily and Laurence started their wedding day by meeting two of their best friends, who were their witnesses, on the royal mile in the Edinburgh City Chambers courtyard. I knew Emily and Laurence were having a formal wedding celebration with their friends and family at the weekend, so when she walked up wearing the most chic and fashionable outfit with full hair and makeup and beautiful florals, I was the most pleasantly surprised! I get so excited when couples, even for their intimate Edinburgh City Chambers ceremony, decide to wear something memorable for that day as well as their larger wedding party with their friends and family! Her dress was from purchased from The Fall Bride, which has some of the most unique dress designers around, like Harriette Gordon, which is the designer who made her short, fun bridal gown! And her florals were from an Edinburgh florist, Snapdragon, located in Bruntsfield, where they are also regulars!
After the intimate ceremony at Edinburgh City Chambers, where one of her friends delivered the sweetest poem about their lives, we headed out to take portraits around the old town of Edinburgh. Both Emily and Laurence met in Edinburgh as students putting on a show during the Fringe, so not only is the city a special place for them, but that part of town is as well.
After we strolled around the royal mile for a bit taking their bridal portraits, they mentioned wanting to grab a bite to eat before meeting up with their friends later. I, of course, only try to take on one shoot a day, so was happy to walk over with them afterwards to wherever they were headed to. So we made the journey through The Meadows over to Elliott’s Edinburgh for them to grab food and drinks. Elliott’s is one of their favorite places to eat and the staff knew who they were, which was the best! They ended the day with endless congratulations on their strolls and then I said goodbye so they could enjoy the rest of their intimate ceremony wedding day with just each other. It was a really relaxed and sweet way to have your legal ceremony and I loved how true to themselves they were. These type of days really fuel my creativity and give me so much joy to see couples doing things in their own unique and unconventional ways, and making their wedding day all about each other and what they want, as it should be.
I love living in Edinburgh and being an edinburgh wedding photographer and edinburgh city chambers is one of my favorite wedding venues in edinburgh. x
Wedding Dress - The Fall Bride, Harriette Gordon // Suit - Beggar’s Run // Edinburgh Florist - Snapdragon // Hair & Makeup - Kate Elliot Muir // Edinburgh Restaurant - 27 Elliott’s Edinburgh // Ceremony Venue - Edinburgh City Chambers Weddings // Sunglasses - Ray-Ban
Morgan's on Fulton Chicago Wedding | A Modern Fulton Market Wedding | Chicago Wedding Photographer | Destination Wedding Photographer
Morgan's on Fulton Chicago Wedding | A Modern Wedding Venue in Fulton Market | Chicago Wedding Photographer | Destination Wedding Photographer
Frankie and Patrick started their wedding day at The Hoxton Hotel. They were both surrounded by family, friends and they even had their sweet pup with them. Frankie had one of my favorite Chicago makeup artists, Joey, doing her makeup alongside Susan Ford and Paide McNalon on hair. Her final custom bridal look was put together by Dominic Lacquaniti. He was there every step of the way, making sure every piece of her gown was fluffed correctly. Dominic Lacquaniti also did Patricks entire groom outfit, so if you are wanting one person to be your sole designer, Dominic Lacquaniti is who you’re looking for. Patrick also had Star Wars cufflinks, which my husband (who second shot this wedding with me) and I completely appreciated.
Patrick was waiting for Frankie outside of the entrance of The Hoxton Hotel for their private first look in the middle of the West Loop. We then strolled around the block for portraits of just the two of them before hopping on a party bus to drive around Fulton Market for wedding party photos with the entire bridal party.
We made sure to capture the Chicago city skyline in the background of their wedding day as this city holds a special place in their heart.
After we roamed around Fulton Market with the bridal party and took photos in the Alleyway across from the Soho House, we strolled over to Morgan’s on Fulton for the wedding ceremony. We took a few photos in the ceremony spaced by the windows while they were able to watch their guests slowly start to arrive outside. At Morgan’s on Fulton, the ceremony space was candlelit with large windows that naturally lit the room as well. It was such a romantic and cozy ceremony with petals that lined the aisle beautifully. After Frankie and Patrick said “I Do”, everyone headed upstairs to enjoy the main selling point of Morgan’s on Fulton, the rooftop event space. It has a clear wall and ceiling that opens up above and on the sides, with a full open balcony wrapped around the reception space, where guests were able to freely roam all night with an outdoor bar on the balcony all evening long. There were also lounge areas with couches that overlooked the Fulton Market area of Chicago, along with the beautiful skyline. At sunrise, everyone headed inside the event space walls for their formal seated dinner table settings for the grand entrance of Frankie and Patrick. They were greeted with a warm welcome from all of their loved ones as they went straight into their cake cutting and first dances.
The way the clear ceiling and walls create a romantic city atmosphere at Morgan’s on Fulton, the guests are able to feel like they were sitting in the middle of the skyscrapers while surrounded by the bustling nightlife below.
There was a lot of dancing, led by the talented Toast and Jam DJ, and Frankie eventually changed into a shorter party dress to easily let loose on the dance floor surrounded by her friends! I love when there is so much joy, smiles and fun on a wedding day! There is something about dancing like no one is watching that really inspires me in people. I love when couples forgot that I’m there and they are just truly enjoying the company of their loved ones and celebrating uninhibited and in their true form. I’m truly grateful to document vibrant wedding days like this one was at Morgan’s on Fulton for this beautiful couple inside and out, Frankie and Pat. x
Wedding Hotel Suites - The Hoxton Hotel Chicago | Wedding Planning - Jessica Levi for Clover Events | Wedding Design - Revel Group | Wedding Florist - Revel Group | Make-up - Joey Claeyssen and Susan Ford Hair | Wedding Hair Stylist - Paige McNal | Custom Wedding Dress - Dominic Lacquaniti | Wedding Shoes - Jimmy Choo | Custom Groom Look - Dominic Lacquaniti | Bride + Groom Rings - Summit Diamonds, Scott Shear | Fulton Market Ceremony + Reception Venue - Morgan's on Fulton | Cocktail Hour + Reception Caterer - Morgan's On Fulton & The Italian Bakery | Wedding Reception DJ - Toast & Jam | Wedding Filmmaker - Kane & Co Wedding Films
Elske Wedding | Chic Indian Ceremony & Rehearsal Dinner | Elske Indian Wedding
Elske Wedding | Chic Indian Ceremony & Rehearsal Dinner | Elske Indian Wedding | Chicago Indian Wedding Photographer | Michelin Star Restaurant Wedding Venue
Alyeesha and Joe decided to have their traditional Indian Ceremony during their rehearsal dinner with their families the night before their wedding day in downtown Chicago the next day. They had their Indian ceremony and dinner at a highly renowned Danish influenced restaurant, named Elske. They not only were James Beard finalists but they have a Michelin Star as well. The private second floor of Elske was the perfect place for them to decorate the space for an intimate Indian ceremony. Alyeesha had a beautiful program made for Joe’s family to share what every tradition meant and it was so sweet to learn along with everyone!
If you’re looking for an intimate space for your rehearsal dinner, wedding or even an intimate Indian ceremony, I could not recommend Elske enough. From the modern architecture and minimal design, to the uniquely Danish inspired food, to the wonderful service, this restaurant is the place to book if they’re available. I hope you enjoy these sweet images as much as I enjoyed capturing them! x
Spry Wines | The Best Wine Bar & Bottle Shop in Edinburgh, Scotland
Spry Wines | The Best Wine Bar & Bottle Shop in Edinburgh, Scotland | Edinburgh Photographer
When Spry Wines first opened I was asked to document the space, that specifically focused on the architecture and design that was done by Izat Arundell. This neighborhood wine shop and bottle bar is not only a beautiful interior, but has excellent local food options as well. So if you ever find yourself in the center of Edinburgh or visiting Scotland, you definitely need to make your way over to Spry Wines for a delicious and enjoyable evening with friends or your loved one.
Page One Pilates | West Loop, Chicago | Workout Classes | Branding Photography
Page One Pilates | West Loop, Chicago | Workout Classes | Chicago Lifestyle Photographer
If you are searching for a place to workout in Chicago. Seriously, look no further. Page One Pilates is centrally located, right in the heart of the industrial and happening West Loop of Chicago. Their interiors are gorgeous, as they renovated an old factory to be a modern industrial and cozy space with a soft and warm color palette. It’s one of the most beautiful and relaxing spaces to workout. And with their lounge areas and lovely community of ladies here, it’s a great way to make new friends if you’re new to the city or just looking to find like minded and awesome new friends to hang out with!
I can’t recommend this team of instructors enough either. Not only do my friends rave about them, but upon meeting them myself, they are true gems and the sweetest humans. They are not only certified and knowledgable in what they are teaching, but they are so helpful and care about guiding any level of person who comes in to workout with them, from beginner to advanced. The details don’t go unnoticed and I’m just so proud to have been able to capture such lovely women and this beautifully designed workout space.
They have classes with machines, on mats, online, or even remotely within the city sometimes! There are so many ways to get involved in community, but doing it through working out is a really fun way to go! So again, if you’re searching for a solid pilates class or pilates gym to start attending in Chicago, this is your place! Page One Pilates is a beauty! Below are a few shots of the classes and instructors in Page One Pilates’ beautiful West Loop location!
Laguna Beach Engagement Session | Hotel Joaquin Boutique Hotel | California Wedding Photographer
Hotel Joaquin Boutique Hotel | Laguna Beach Engagement Session | California Wedding Photographer
Christine and Wade decided to have their engagement session at one of their favorite Boutique Hotels in Laguna Beach, Hotel Joaquin! It’s an incredibly well designed boutique hotel with a beautiful restaurant and pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The beach at the bottom of the street is the most relaxing and secluded cove to sit, lay or run around and take images on. The shoreline is lined with sandy shores and a rocky cliff topped with beautiful palm trees swayed in the wind. If you ever find yourself out in California or are looking for a romantic getaway or relaxing solo retreat, I would highly recommend Hotel Joaquin. This boutique hotel is now one of my favorites and I can’t wait to visit with Ross soon. x
Christine and I have been keeping up with each other for many years, as we connected with each other online over her denim brand, Just Black Denim, which you all should also look into for some solid styles of denim. When she asked me to fly to California to capture her and Wade on digital and film, I could not be more excited to finally meet and hang out! I flew to LA and then drove down to Laguna Beach to spend the day with Christine and Wade! We met in the restaurant of Hotel Joaquin first and grabbed a bite to eat and caught up. Afterward we ate, we started the session by taking images in their super beautifully designed room. The neutral palette with pops of color, eclectic mid century furniture and the unique tapestry art work on the wall really made the space a lovely one to document. After shooting in the tiled stairwell, bar area, stylish lobby and then the pool and lounge area, we walked down to the beach, just a short 1 minute walk away! We then strolled up and down the shoreline of Shaws Cove until the sunset.
After our session was over we decided to hang out in the lobby of Hotel Joaquin for a few hours just chatting away! I had the best hot chocolate drink I’ve ever had and their charcuterie board was amazing! All in all, this day was so life giving, relaxed and a beautiful one! Already can’t wait to not only visit Hotel Joaquin again with my husband, but to be able to hang out with these two gems of humans again! x
The Peninsula Chicago Hotel Wedding | Downtown Chicago Elopement | Luxury Chicago Elopement Photographer
The Peninsula Chicago Hotel Wedding | Downtown Chicago Elopement | Luxury Chicago Hotel | Chicago Elopement Photographer
Karina and Matt started their elopement in downtown Chicago by doing a champagne toast in their suite at The Peninsula Hotel on Michigan Avenue. After they opened a few gifts, Matt saw Karina in her dress for the first time, they headed down Michigan Avenue for a stroll to meet the officiant and say “I do!”
Karina had a beautiful bouquet of jewel toned flowers that matched her chic and jewel toned green dress. I loved how minimal yet beautiful it was! Once we met up with the officiant at the Fourth Presbyterian Church, she led them in their vows and exchanging of rings. After they committed to spend the rest of their life together in the stunning church courtyard downtown, they signed their papers and were officially newlyweds!
We took a few more portraits in the courtyard and then strolled back down to The Peninsula Hotel, where we parted ways and they continued onto a beautiful and private evening together. I honestly love when couples do what feels right to them on their wedding day.
All of this to say, if you want to wait and spend your day with your loved ones, then do that, because it’s important to you and that definitely matters. And in the same vain, if you want to take your next step into married life with just your fiancé by your side, then do it! either way should be celebrated and I am here for all of it! I personally eloped to St. Lucia this past November with my husband and can really appreciate this kind of wedding day as well as the larger ones, because we also still want to have a larger wedding with all of our family and friends in the years to come!
I truly loved how romantic this day was and am so grateful for every couple who asks me to document their day, no matter how large or intimate! x
New Mexico Elopement | El Monte Sagrado Taos Wedding | New Mexico Wedding Photographer
New Mexico Elopement | El Monte Sagrado Taos Wedding | New Mexico Wedding Photographer
I met Ann in 6th grade. We went to middle school together and naturally got close because of being in band classes together. Throughout the years we became even closer and realized we lived close to each other on neighboring islands in Savannah and would hang out at each others houses watching movies and joining all of the same clubs and sports. I mean, I wasn’t athletic at all, but joined cross country and soccer just because Annie and a few other friends were on the teams. ha. We also were very dedicated marching band, orchestra, chess and art club members. As well as being in advanced classes, we basically were overachievers, had similar personalities and got along well because of it. Over the years we have visited each other wherever we lived, from visiting her at University, to wherever our lives brought us, from GA, to DC, to NYC, to Chicago to Colorado. She’s just a gem of a human…. so why wouldn’t I also come along to document her marry the man of her dreams in New Mexico!
I have been around from the start of Clint and Annie’s relationship, and it’s basically a romance movie. To sum it up in a short and sweet way, they were both flying home for the holidays and had the same layover, they met at the airport and realized they were going to the same city but never met before. When they got there they kept in touch, met up with friends downtown and never stopped talking. The rest was history! There are loads more details of sweetness and the journey in between meeting and marriage, but in the end, their similar respect and love for each other makes these two one of my favorite couples!
Annie and Clint decided to say “I do” with just the two of them in one of their favorite ski resorts they frequent, El Monte Sagrado! El Monte Sagrado resort is located in the heart of Taos, New Mexico. They booked a moroccan themed suite that included a hot tub in the backyard and two rooms for them to get ready separately on the morning of their wedding day to have a first look. Clint waited in the greenhouse on the property of the resort, the very place that he proposed to Ann. When she walked up he was speechless. They said their vows to each other and then Ann surprised Clint by singing and playing a song on her ukulele for him. They then signed their marriage license back at the suite and Ann made an incense alter and had a moment of silence for her late father, who was the sweetest man. She also read letters that all of her loved ones wrote her, that her younger sister had collected from anyone who was close to Annie. They really were surrounded by the love of their community on their wedding day, even from afar.
After their ceremony afternoon at El Monte Sagrado, they both put on their hiking boots and we headed for the Rio Grande Gorge for wedding portraits! The timing worked perfectly in the end, because we were able to shoot in the desert at sunset and into that magical blue hour at dusk. The canyon, the landscape, the light and the mountains in the background all made such a beautiful end to this special day for two very special humans. Truly could not have loved documenting, witnessing and celebrating these two anymore than I did. Cheers to everyone who has found a way to marry the love of their life during this season of so much change. x
The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion Wedding | A Romantic Pennsylvania Elopement
The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion Wedding | A Romantic Pennsylvania Elopement | Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer | Melody Joy Co.
This elopement weekend was such a beautiful one, snow storm and all.
It started with me flying to Harrisburg, PA a few nights before because of a snow storm rolling in and flights were starting to be canceled. I thankfully, with getting there a few nights before we were able to to get dinner and catch up over a solid Italian meal. Briana and Taylor were so welcoming and fun to hang out with! What started as a casual meal, ended with a lively night of Taylor teaching me how to properly hold a sword and move my feet while fencing at their apartment, as he is a legit fencer and even is a part of a local swordsmanship fencing chapter and takes classes!
On the morning of their wedding day they got ready in their beautiful apartment that overlooks the capitol building in the center of the historic downtown of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They got ready with their two cats, in separate rooms while Taylor made drinks for them and they listened to their favorite playlists. When Briana walked into her living room to have Taylor see her in her dress for the first time, she wanted me to surprise him and put on the theme to Outlander just before she walked out, which always makes him emotional, and it definitely worked.
We then drove in the snow storm (“we” as in Taylor) to The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion for bridal portraits. They knew they wanted somewhere beautiful to commemorate their special day and The Ashcombe Mansion could not have fit their aesthetic any better. Taylor and Briana even brought their favorite swords from their collection, to have in a few of their images with them. When walking around The Ashcombe Mansion we found a room with wallpaper of knights riding on horses…with swords! It was the perfect backdrop to document them with their swords. I just love that they both fence and both can share in such a unique and historic hobby together.
On the fencing note, after we left The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion, we returned to their apartment where they surprised their fencing class on Zoom, and got legally married in front of them! One of their classmates was ordained and married them before their fencing history class started. They read their vows in front of their swords that were surrounded by candles. And in the candlelight, they were finally married and ended the day with port and sharing in their passion for fencing with friends.
I love that they found a way to take portraits somewhere beautiful, without having to have a formal wedding there. I think that during this season of life, as elopements are becoming a more regular occurrence, I think everyone should consider going to a venue for portraits, even if just for an hour! I thought it was a lovely idea and in the end, even with endless snow coming down on their wedding day, it ended up with them as husband and wife, and lifelong memories documented to remember this special day with! x
Chic Downtown Chicago Micro Wedding | Madelyn + Paul | Elopement Wedding Photographer
Chic Downtown Chicago Micro Wedding | Madelyn + Paul | Elopement Wedding Photographer
Elopements at city hall are some of my favorite! And Madelyn and Paul truly did it right! They started the day getting ready with their favorite people, and then did their first look just outside of the Thompson Hotel in the center of downtown Chicago. They then hopped in a limo with some bubbly and headed off to the Chicago Cook County Marriage Court. After they went in with their marriage certificate in hand and their masks on their faces, they came out with their arms in the air and rejoicing as they just got married during this craziness of a year! They had their parents and siblings waiting just outside the courthouse doors to cheer them on right after they left the courthouse and to give them all of the hugs!
Then the newlyweds went for a limo ride through Chicago and we stopped by a few of their favorite neighborhoods and some beautiful streets downtown. We ended up in the fashion district of downtown and roamed around the streets by shops like Dior and Versace, before heading to Gibson’s Steakhouse, where their immediate families were waiting to celebrate and enjoy a meal with them upstairs in a private dining room. All in all, this was a simple day, filled with beautiful little details that all focused on the bride and groom! In the car ride they opened up a bag of gummy bears their friends gave them, popped champagne and took Fujifilm Instax photos to have little take aways straight away from their special day!
This day was such a memorable one, and not just because of the beautiful bride and groom and their amazingly city chic attire, but because they just did what they wanted! These two, just like many couples had another plan before this one, and when this year became what it became, they just had to figure it out. And in the end, when you want to get married, you just figure out a way to make it happen, even if that means just the two of you in your city at the courthouse, dressed in your best! Madelyn and Paul were so relaxed all day long and were truly just so happy to finally become husband and wife and to start their “forever” together. I loved being able to witness their joy on this day. From start to finish, there was just so much love, joy and laughter, and that, to me, is what makes a wedding day the most beautiful of all! x
Dress - Sarah Seven // Hotel - Thompson Hotel // Wedding Reception - Gibson’s Steakhouse // Wedding Ceremony - Chicago Cook County Marriage Court // Flowers - Bride’s Mother (She did amazing!)
Romantic Micro Wedding in Chicago | Amina & Vinnie | Chicago Elopement Photographer | Melody Joy Co.
Romantic Micro Wedding in Chicago | Amina & Vinnie | Chicago Elopement Photographer | Melody Joy Co.
Amina and Vinnie revived my love for intimate micro weddings! This wedding day started with Amina and Vinnie getting ready together in their downtown high rise flat. We then walked around downtown Chicago to take portraits in some of their favorite pieces of architecture. The first stop was The Chicago Theatre, next was The Board of Trade building on La Salle, then there was The Art Institute of Chicago on Michigan Avenue. We must have walked a couple of miles downtown, but we had so much fun together strolling around and Amina was extra impressive with how good she was at walking long lengths in heels! She said her Thunder Heel Pumps from Prada were plenty comfy!
After we took their portraits we walked up Michigan Avenue to the ceremony and reception venue, The Skyline Club. The Skyline Club is the Penthouse of a high rise overlooking the Chicago River. If you are looking for a stunning rooftop view surrounded by skyscrapers as your outdoor rooftop wedding ceremony backdrop, then The Skyline Club would be the perfect fit for you! You can also have indoor or outdoor seating for your cocktail hour or reception!
The night resumed with endless family time, a thank you speech, their cake cutting, a delicious meal and a table of homemade desserts! All in all, I would say having a micro wedding with just twenty of your closest family and friends is the way to go to be able to enjoy these season, specifically with the laws in different countries, or if you simply want to provide a higher quality of celebration for your loved ones. The less people you have attend your micro wedding as well, the more time you have to have full conversations with all of them too! Overall, it’s a sweet way to have a celebration while still making it feel intimate and just about you both. If you ever need any advice on elopements or a micro wedding, I would be happy to share my thoughts on venues, styles, details and timelines that will work well for a beautiful micro wedding day! x
Wedding Dress - Emilia Wickstead Bridal // Wedding Shoes - Prada // Wedding Head Piece - Jennifer Behr // Wedding Portraits - Board of Trade Building and Art Institute of Chicago // Wedding Florals - Design de Flores // Chicago Wedding Venue for outdoor Ceremony and indoor Reception - The Skyline Club //
Destination Elopement Portraits on a Lake | Romantic Canoe Wedding Portraits | Melody Joy Co.
Destination Elopement Portraits on a Lake | Romantic Canoe Wedding Portraits | Melody Joy Co.
Gabe and Karla were married in 2017. They are some of the sweetest humans and creative couples I know. I watched a thriller movie about a cabin in the woods with Karla one evening and thought to myself… let’s go to a cabin in the woods and do a shoot! So I went straight to Airbnb and found a cabin in Michigan for us to do this elopement wedding shoot. We were able to capture wedding portraits of them in a canoe that came with the lake house. Not only was it a way for me to create something beautiful during this season, but I love giving real life couples memories that they can cherish forever. They both are so full of creative juices from Karla running a music school for children with Little Parade Music, and Gabe doing music production, Illustration for children’s books, recording, leading worship, a talented barista and all around loving human to everyone around me. I’m so grateful for these wonderful and inspiring cousins of mine and I’ll never tire of capturing the different seasons of their life. Enjoy these moody portraits of them in a canoe on a lake. x
And if you’re interested in my capturing couple or bridal portraits of your love and you, please reach out here.
I would love to create something beautiful with you!
Varca Bridal | Chicago Wedding Dress Designer | Melody Joy Co.
Varca Bridal | Chicago Wedding Dress Designer | Melody Joy Co.
I’m always amazed at the detail that Sarah puts into her gown collections. Varca’s latest bridal collection has so many interesting sleeves, cuts, fabrics and even removable extensions! So anyone from the more minimal to the more extra bride has something they can relate to! Varca names all of her gowns after names of women who has inspired them and her! Go check out Varca’s Instagram to see the names for each individual gown. Below are a few of my favorite images of each wedding dress, taken in her new studio space.
Sarah, of Varca Bridal, designed and is making me a custom wedding dress! I could not be more excited about having one of her custom pieces. Ever since she reached out to me about a shoot a few years ago, I instantly fell in love with her style and her as a person! If you’re looking for someone to make you a custom gown that will feel 100 percent like you mixed with Sarah’s creative energy, then definitely reach out to be one of her few custom brides that she takes on each year. I feel so honored to be one of them for this year!
Let me know if you all have any favorites, my favorite from her collection is definitely the VERONICA, and not just because I grew up collecting and ready Archie Comics endlessly. The sleeves are just amazing and totally give the dress that 19th century glam. The earrings that Sarah paired with each dress for this shoot were handmade by Ashley Jordan, of the Fashion Collective. Her earring line is called Akin Studio. Ashley’s statement earrings are all made of polymer clay and compliment Varca’s wedding gowns beautifully.
The hair for this shoot was done by Juan José of Hair by Juan José. His personality is exactly what you want on your wedding day, smiley, fun, just a joy to be around! And of course he created the perfect relaxed updo’s to compliment these beautifully detailed and structured gowns. All of the makeup for this collection shoot was done by the lovely Alyssa of Makeup by Alyssa Cruz. Her soft smokey eyes and natural tones are exactly what a bride should want on their wedding day so they feel a bit done up, but also feel like themselves. These soft hair and makeup I believe are the perfect way to feature your Varca dress or any wedding dress on a wedding day. I’m just all about the natural hair and makeup look for any occasion, personally.
Well enough of my words and badly written sentences, enjoy scrolling through all of the beauty that Varca has created for her brides this year. Truly honored to capture such beautiful works of art, as that is exactly what they are. x
Wedding Dress Collection - Varca Bridal / Makeup - Alyssa Cruz / Hair - Juan José / Photography - Melody Joy Co. / Wedding Jewelry - Ashley Jordan of Akin Studio, Fashion Collective / Models - Vinithra + Leilani
Tarlair Swimming Pool | Open Air Pool in Scotland | Travel Photographer
Tarlair Swimming Pool | Open Air Pool in Scotland | Travel Photographer
I love visiting new places. They don’t need to be the most epic mountains or popular locations in the country, just a place that is new to me. I will always find a way to connect to the atmosphere wherever I find myself, by strolling around the area and taking it all in.
For this trip, my birthday weekend to be exact, we ventured to the north east of Scotland in Aberdeenshire. We stayed in the Aberdeen countryside in a remote hut with a wood-burning hot tub. It was simple and all we needed for a simple and sweet getaway. We stopped at so many abandoned castles, structures and quiet coastlines along the road up north. But one of my favorite places I laid my eyes on was the Tarlair Outdoor Swimming Pool. It was commissioned in 1929 and opened in 1931. Between Tarlair’s Art Deco architecture and the history it has during the war times has made this a Grade A building by Historic Scotland. It’s truly a beautiful sight. Even with all of the buildings and pools clearly unmaintained, there is a bit of happiness that you can still see when imagining all of the times that were had there when it first opened. The designers were so thoughtful with the structure and the location could not be more perfect. It is perfectly placed just below a cliff, right on the beach front. The architects had designed pumps to bring in the ocean water to the multiple layers of pools. The steps into the pool were so thoughtful and well designed. Overall, the Art Deco architecture design had me over the moon.
And as a side note, as there may be others who will visit this beautiful piece of Art Deco architecture in the future, just to remember to be mindful of where you’re walking, because depending on the water and tide, this particular area can be extremely wet and slippery around the pool edges. Locals are there usually walking their dogs and it is a really peaceful place for a mindful stroll, reading a book or taking a few images, but not a place for masses to gather, play loud music or disturb locals in this peaceful little area (as well as any area in The Highlands, truly).
This location was just a dream for me, as someone who loves architecture and the stillness and quietness of a historic, desolate structure. This was such a great place to think. In fact, shortly after Ross and I arrived, we both parted ways to stroll around the area and look at the details of the area, as it felt more like a sacred sanctuary, unlike the usual natural scenery locations in Scotland that we visit. I love visiting places with Ross and love how these road trip experiences bring us closer together with the many memories made. From the music we listen to in the car, to our conversations about how these abandoned structures used to be thriving, to the snacks we choose at local markets, to the crazy weather and random ways we end up spending our evenings (like figuring out how to get the best temperature from a wood-burning hot tub in the rain). We always have so much fun together and make the most of any situation, and I’m so excited to continue to experience new places and making beautiful memories with Ross for the rest of my days. x
Edinburgh Wedding | Ruth + Mark | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer
Edinburgh Wedding | Ruth + Mark | Scottish Bride | Edinburgh Wedding Photographer | Scotland Wedding
Edinburgh Weddings are some of my favorite! The architecture in this city is like no other. But truly, my favorite part of this wedding day is that Ruth and Mark are some of our best friends in Scotland and we were honored that they wanted Ross and I to capture their wedding day! Ruth and I actually were introduced by a mutual friend on Instagram telling us to meet at Cairngorm for coffee simply because he “thought we would get along well.” Well, he was completely right, because now she is one of my best friends here in Scotland!
Ruth started her wedding day at The Place Hotel with a morning of drinking mimosas and having a stunning view of the rooftops of Edinburgh. Mark spent his morning with his groomsmen at his home overlooking The Fourth Bridge in South Queensferry. His guys were doing cartwheels in kilts (good thing Ross was there to capture that craziness in person, because of course I couldn’t post all of those) and drinking coffee from The Manna House, their favorite local cafe. Both Ruth and Mark are such laid back individuals and both just wanted relaxing mornings with their best friends. Those are my favorite kind of mornings.
The Place Hotel is right next door to their ceremony location at P’s & G’s Church, so she was able to easily walk down the street and straight down the aisle for her ceremony. Ruth had the entire sanctuary of P’s & G’s transformed into a whimsical space full of nature and the outdoors. I even spent a day walking along the beaches of Scotland collecting sea glass to use as decor with Ruth. If you are looking for endless beautiful sea glass, the shores of the Dalmeny Estate have a lot that get washed up along the shore. In the end, they were able to gather enough blue and green sea glass to hang on all of the branches that they foraged from a local estate. After their ceremony, everyone caravanned down to the cobblestoned waterway of Quay Commons, in Leith, for an afternoon cocktail garden party in the sun! We then strolled through Custom Lane for their bridal portraits. They played a bit a ping pong in front of Williams and Johnson and just relaxed for a while, just the two of them, before greeting a couple hundred of their closest friends and family back at P’s & G’s for a night of Scottish wedding traditions and wedding party!
The guests (just a few, 400ish of them) were all greeted with a custom drink and handmade wedding favours, a bar of soap from the Isle of Skye company, Skye Soap. There were dances, speeches, a live band the whole evening and some solid ceilidh dancing! It was just the perfect evening and there is nothing better than walking away from a wedding and not wanting it to end. I’m so happy to have celebrated this wedding day with Ruth and Mark. With every unique wedding I capture, I’m left with memories that I’ll cherish forever and I couldn’t be more grateful for beautiful wedding days like this one.
Just in case you wanted to see Ross and I in action, these above photos show us in our happy place, dancing alongside everyone while capturing the fun happening all the way until the final dance, which is my favorite one! I truly love my job and celebrating the couples I’m documenting!
The images below are from the day-after shoot! We started at Fortitude Coffee and had flat whites before we headed off to roam the streets of the city where these two fell in love.
Edinburgh Wedding Photographer - Melody Joy Co. | Edinburgh Wedding Venues - Ps & Gs Church (ceremony + reception), Cafe Tartine (starter), Papillion (main) + Quay Commons (dessert) | Edinburgh Celebrant - Rev. Michael Mair | Edinburgh Wedding Videographer - Sandy Butler Videography | Edinburgh Wedding Dress - House of Mooshki (bespoke) at Edinburgh Bridal Boutique - Pretty Woman | Jewellery + accessories - Róis Scottish Sea Glass Designs | Bridesmaid outfits - Coast | Scotland Groomswear and kilts - The Kilt Store, Edinburgh | Edinburgh Wedding Florist - Narcissus | Edinburgh Wedding Band Entertainment - Corra | Edinburgh Bridal Make-up - Alicia Avenzzano | Custom Scottish Wedding Favours - Isle of Skye Soap Co. | Edinburgh Set design - Big House Productions
Bohemian Bride | Boho Bridal Fashion Editorial | Chicago Wedding Photographer
Bohemian Bride | Fashion Editorial | Chicago, IL | Destination Wedding Photographer
The dictionary definition for Bohemian as a noun is “a socially unconventional person, especially one who is involved in the arts” and as an adjective is “socially unconventional in an artistic way.” I wanted to give background to the word that is really trending in weddings and style nowadays. The technical definition is about someone who is artistic and unconventional in their society, a going against the grain type. The reason I believe most bohemian styles tend to portray florals and the hippie style is because of the era of when the term was initially coined. Either way, that is how it is meant when used in the bridal and wedding world. This bohemian bridal fashion shoot was styled by Ariana Anderson, a stylist based in Chicago, IL. The florals in the hair and amazing blunt eyeshadow was created by Michelle of Mink loves Makeup, another Chicago based hair and makeup artist. These hair and makeup designs really feature the bohemian floral style in a minimalist way. And of course, the bohemian feelings couldn’t be portrayed without the deep emotions and beautiful modeling by Chicago based model and artist, Dominique Ashanti.
I’m so grateful to be able to have these days of creativity in between shooting weddings. Being able to come together with like minded friends in the creative field and just have the freedom to create and knowing that whatever comes from it is exactly what is was meant to be, is such a beautiful thing. These portraits were taken in my Chicago home. As I’m transitioning within the next year to living full time in Scotland after I get married, I’m trying to cherish having this beautiful open space to create inspiring editorials. This season of life living in Chicago and traveling back and forth to Edinburgh to see my fiancé has been a beautiful one, and being in one place all of the time will be wonderful, but I will always look fondly on the creativity that this space has given me during this season of life in Wicker Park, an artistic neighborhood in Chicago.
Ariana Anderson, Styled By Ariana - Chicago Stylist | Dominique Ashanti - The Lovely model + Amazing Painter | Michelle of Mink Loves Makeup - Chicago Makeup Artist
If you’d like me to capture an editorial and have ideas for a fashion shoot, please reach out below and
I would love to create something beautiful with you!
Chicago Engagement Session | Kayla + Julio | Montrose Beach Lakefront | Lake Michigan
Kayla + Julio | Chicago Engagement Session | Montrose Beach Lakefront | Lake Michigan | Chicago Wedding Photographer
I had the immense privilege of capturing these two beautiful souls on the shores of Montrose Beach for their engagement photos. These images were taken as Chicago was transitioning from winter to spring, which of course, Chicago takes a while to do so the sand had layers of snow and the lake still had a thin layer of ice over it. We enjoyed strolling along the lakefront and running around beach, it actually helped us to stay warm. Although you wouldn’t know these two were freezing most of the time, because they are not only naturals in front of the camera but thankfully their sweet love distracted them both from the colder weather.
Kayla and Julio are both lovely creatives. Kayla not only is an industry leader in essential oils, but she also makes beautiful handmade earrings at of clay. Her jewelry company is called Wind & Wild Co. If you love supporting local makers, then definitely check out her work and go give her a follow! Julio is a talented musician and knows how to pick a solid taco place! After our session they invited Ross and I to join them for a double date to their favorite Mexican restaurant in Logan Square, Chicago. It was honestly some of the best guacamole I’ve had yet! The day was really a beautiful one and these two were such a joy to be around!
I’m always really grateful to capture genuinely kind humans like these, and if you’re a kind human, couple or business, I’d be honored to photograph you in your element as well! Cheers to loving what you do and cheers to these two beauties for being such a lovely pair together, inside and out!
