September in Chicago offers a magical blend of summer’s warmth and the first whispers of fall, creating an ideal setting for a memorable wedding. For one lovely couple, their September wedding unfolded with a perfect blend of romance, elegance, and personal touches. From a heartfelt first look at the church to an enchanting reception at Theater on the Lake in Chicago, every moment was meticulously planned and beautifully executed.

We first met this couple through other couples that we’ve previously done weddings for, this is our fourth couple of the friend group to book us and it’s so fun and we just love them all! They were both so sweet and easy to work with, they’d seen our work from their friends' weddings, so they trusted us to capture their wedding day. It was also so fun being able to capture their wedding after seeing them as guests at other weddings that we’ve photographed, small world! You can find a photo of all 4 couples cheering together towards the end of this blog, go look and see if you can spot them.

We were able to capture the rehearsal dinner the night before at RPM Events. This venue provided beautiful views of the Chicago river, just breathtaking. It was a lovely Chicago evening, a wonderful start to the wedding weekend!

Throughout their wedding, they had a few unique and special touches, for example personal letters to each other, gifts for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, and photos with Tenny (their adorable dog) who had a flower collar, it was so special.

The day began with a touching first look at St. Chrysostom’s Episcopal Church, where the couple shared a private moment before the ceremony. The architecture of the church courtyard provided a stunning backdrop for this intimate exchange. As the couple saw each other for the first time, the joy and emotion were palpable, setting the tone for a day filled with love and celebration.

The ceremony at St. Chrysostom’s Episcopal Church was a grand and moving affair. The church’s historic charm and stained-glass windows created a breathtaking setting for the couple’s vows. Surrounded by family and friends, the couple exchanged heartfelt promises, sealing their union in a ceremony that reflected both tradition and personal significance. You could see them bursting with happiness through their big smiles as they came down the aisle.

As the evening approached, everyone headed to Theater on the Lake for the reception, a venue known for its stunning views and sophisticated ambiance. A venue we had always dreamt of working at! The reception space was transformed into a haven of romance, with candles casting a warm glow and hanging white wisteria adding a touch of enchantment. The carefully curated decor created an atmosphere that was both intimate and grand, perfectly reflecting the couple’s style and vision.

One of the highlights of the evening was a special surprise: a quick visit from the couple’s beloved dog, Tenny. This heartfelt moment added a personal touch to the celebration and brought smiles to the faces of everyone present. This pup was a huge cuddle puddle of love!

The reception was a true celebration of love and joy. Heartfelt speeches from family and friends touched everyone’s hearts, adding a personal and emotional layer to the festivities. The couple’s choice of family wine added a unique and personal touch to the evening, creating a sense of warmth and connection among the guests. It was pretty neat watching the dad siphon the wine for everyone.

The night was further enlivened by a super talented band, whose music had everyone dancing and enjoying the celebration. The lively tunes and energetic performances ensured that the dance floor was never empty, and the party continued well into the night.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear that this wedding was not just an event, but a cherished memory for everyone involved. The perfect blend of elegance, personal touches, and joyful celebration made this September wedding a day that will be remembered with fondness and love for years to come. We are so thankful we were connected to these two lovebirds and wish them all the happiness… and hope to see them again as guests at future weddings!!

Vendors:

JDetailed Events

Decor - HMR Designs

Bride Hair - Lia Nika Vaughan Bridal Artists

Bride Makeup - Elena Denning

Bride Dress - Katherine Tash