There’s something magical about watching the city skyline come to life as you glide down the Chicago River, especially when it’s with your closest family and friends, toasting to the beginning of an unforgettable wedding weekend.

For Greg and Mark, that’s exactly how they chose to welcome their guests: with a sunset celebration aboard Chicago’s First Lady Cruises, planned to perfection by Kelly of Shannon Gail Events.

Why Host a Welcome Party?

A welcome party is the perfect way to greet guests, especially those traveling in from out of town, and set the tone for the weekend ahead. It breaks the ice, gives everyone a chance to connect before the big day, and lets the couple spend relaxed, meaningful time with loved ones in a more casual setting.

But this wasn’t just any welcome party. With the river glistening beneath them and the skyline glowing above, this night was pure Chicago charm, and pure joy.

The Venue: Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

Hosting a welcome party aboard Chicago’s First Lady combines elegance and entertainment with an iconic city experience. Guests boarded the boat at golden hour, greeted by drinks, fun music, and unforgettable views.

The cruise offered a fresh breeze, unobstructed photo ops, and an atmosphere that felt elevated yet completely comfortable. As the sun set behind the city and the lights reflected on the water, the evening felt more like a movie than a gathering.

A Chicago Welcome Like No Other

There’s something uniquely memorable about hosting part of your wedding weekend on the water. It gives guests an immersive Chicago experience they’ll never forget and gives you a moment to pause, breathe, and soak it all in before the main event.

Whether you’re dreaming of something intimate and romantic or lively and energetic, a First Lady Cruise welcome party sets the perfect tone.

Vendors:
Planning: Shannon Gail Events
Venue: Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

The getting-ready portion of the day is one of my absolute favorites to photograph. It’s the calm before the celebration, filled with anticipation, laughter, and those quiet in-between moments you’ll want to remember just as much as the reception. But to get the most out of these photos, a little intentional planning can go a long way. Here’s what I recommend for the best getting-ready photos on your wedding day:

1. Choose a Thoughtfully Lit Space

Natural light is a photographer’s best friend. If you have a choice, opt for a room with large windows and lots of soft, natural light. It makes a huge difference in the look and feel of your photos—skin tones are more flattering, and details photograph beautifully. Bonus: clean, neutral walls and minimal clutter help keep the focus on you.

2. Keep the Space Tidy (or designate a ‘messy’ corner)

Getting ready can be chaotic, and that’s totally okay! But designating one area for bags, clothes, coffee cups, and curling irons helps keep the rest of the room photo-ready. If there’s a couch, window, or chair you love, we’ll naturally gravitate toward it for portraits—so keeping that space clear is key.

3. Have Your Details Ready to Go

Before I arrive, set aside your key details. This would include the rings, invitations, perfume, shoes, jewelry, vow books, and anything else meaningful to you. This allows me to jump right in and start documenting everything, while you sip coffee (or champagne!) and soak in the moment.

4. Coordinate (But Don’t Overthink) What Everyone Wears

Matching robes or pajamas are a cute touch, but not required. The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and confident. Solid colors or soft patterns tend to photograph best, especially in neutral tones or something that complements your wedding palette.

5. Build in Buffer Time

Things often take a little longer than expected—hair, makeup, final steams. Giving yourself extra time helps avoid rushing and leaves room to enjoy the process (and sneak in a few relaxed photos before the dress goes on). We’ll also have time to capture both the little moments and the beautiful portraits.

6. Don’t Forget the Emotion

This is such a beautiful part of the day—sharing a letter, a hug with your parents, a first look with your wedding party. These emotional beats are some of the most powerful images you’ll look back on. Let them happen naturally, and trust me to document them as they unfold.

7. Trust Your Photographer

Ultimately, this part of the day is about connection and feeling present. I’ll gently guide where needed, but I’m mostly there to observe, anticipate, and capture the realness of the morning. Your only job? Take it all in.

The “getting ready” photos set the tone for the day’s story—and when done right, they’re filled with meaning, beauty, and joy. With a little planning and trust, they’ll be some of your favorite frames

Have questions or want help planning your timeline? I’m always happy to help.

Julia and Luke’s Spring engagement session in Lincoln Park:

Some couples just radiate joy — and Julia and Luke are absolutely one of those couples. We met for their engagement session on a classic spring day in Chicago: full of soft light, vibrant blooms, and plenty of wind (the kind that turns your hair into a character of its own). But despite the gusts, these two never stopped smiling — and their connection made every frame worth it.

We started in Lincoln Park, where the trees were already bursting with vibrant spring color — pinks, whites, and greens all around us, creating the perfect backdrop for such a sweet couple. Julia and Luke have a way of putting each other instantly at ease. The laughs came naturally, the glances were genuine, and there was such an easy rhythm between them, which made perfect sense once I learned their story.

Julia and Luke actually started out as friends back in college, which, after spending a few minutes with them, makes total sense. There’s an easy comfort between them, the kind that comes from knowing each other for years. Over time, that friendship turned into something more, and now here we are getting ready to celebrate their wedding day.

After Lincoln Park, we made our way down to North Avenue Beach. The wind didn’t let up — if anything, it picked up — but Julia and Luke embraced it. They ran, danced, practiced a few unforgettable lifts, held on to each other for warmth, and looked out at the skyline together — a perfect mix of playful and intimate moments.

Congratulations, Julia and Luke! Cannot wait to celebrate your wedding day!

A Winter Engagement Session in Lincoln Park:

There’s something incredibly magical about winter in Chicago—especially when you’re bundled up with the one you love, sipping warm coffee and exploring the city’s hidden gems. This January, I had the absolute joy of capturing an engagement session that perfectly blended cozy city vibes with natural beauty, all set in the heart of Lincoln Park.

We kicked off the session at Elaine’s Coffee Call, tucked inside the Hotel Lincoln. If you haven’t been, Elaine’s is the kind of spot that feels like a warm hug. The smell of espresso, the vintage charm, and the quiet hum of locals reading or catching up with friends—it’s the perfect pre-shoot meeting point, especially on a chilly Chicago afternoon.

Lorena and Nick grabbed their go-to drinks, snuggled into the window seat, and just existed in that sweet space between excitement and calm. Those early photos? Soft laughter, stolen glances, fingers intertwined around paper cups—pure magic.

We made our way into Lincoln Park, letting the skyline peek through leafless trees, and the occasional snow-covered path set the scene. Even in winter, this park is stunning. The bare branches, soft light reflecting off the snow, and quiet calmness made it feel like we had the whole place to ourselves.

We paused near the South Pond Nature Boardwalk, with the Honeycomb Pavilion giving us a bit of architectural flair where they twirled and walked hand-in-hand ever so sweetly.

A Note on Winter Sessions

To all the couples out there thinking winter is too cold for photos—don’t sleep on January. The light is softer, the city feels more intimate, and with a great coat and the right coffee shop, you’ll never even notice the chill.

So excited for the wedding!

Celebrating Arash and Taylor’s proposal at London House in Chicago.

There’s something undeniably romantic about a Chicago rooftop proposal—especially when it happens just days before Christmas. With twinkling lights, the festive city skyline, and the Chicago River below, the rooftop at London House Chicago was the perfect setting for this sweet couple’s surprise engagement.

At 3:00 PM on a crisp December afternoon, Arash arrived with Taylor at London House’s iconic rooftop, bundled up against the winter chill. She thought they were just stopping by to take in the view—one of the best in the city. But as the skyline stretched behind them and holiday music played softly in the background, he got down on one knee.

Her reaction was pure joy—laughter, tears, and a glowing “yes” that echoed above the Chicago streets. With the sun low in the sky and the city sparkling in the distance, it was a moment straight out of a holiday romance movie.

But the surprises didn’t stop there.

As she tried to catch her breath and take it all in, the doors to the rooftop opened—and out came their families, who had been secretly watching the proposal unfold from inside. There were cheers, hugs, and happy tears all around. The couple’s surprise proposal with family added a layer of meaning that made the moment even more unforgettable.

Together, they celebrated with champagne, shared stories, and enjoyed the magic of the season against the stunning Chicago skyline.

Fall family photos in Lincoln Park: Fall in Lincoln Park is the perfect combination of vibrant colors, sunshine, and natural beauty, creating a breathtaking backdrop for family photos. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying time together, a sunny fall day in Lincoln Park will provide memories that last a lifetime. So, gather your loved ones, put on your favorite fall outfits, and head to Lincoln Park for a photoshoot that captures the beauty of the season—and your family—at its best.

Timing Is Key: A Sunny Fall Day

The beauty of fall in Chicago is undeniable, but it’s important to consider the timing of your photoshoot. For a sunny day photoshoot, the golden hour – which happens shortly after sunrise and before sunset – is especially enchanting. The soft, diffused light during this time creates a warm, glowing effect, making your family photos look even more intimate and radiant. If you’re shooting midday, the sunshine will add vibrancy to the leaves, creating a stunning contrast against your family’s attire.

Pro Tip: Aim for the early morning or late afternoon for the best light, avoiding the harsh midday sun, which can create unwanted shadows.

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos

Autumn is all about layers, texture, and rich colors, and choosing the right outfits for a fall family photoshoot can make all the difference. For a coordinated but not overly matched look, choose colors that complement the surroundings – earthy tones like mustard yellow, olive green, burnt orange, and deep burgundy work beautifully with the fall backdrop. Textures like chunky sweaters, scarves, and denim add visual interest without distracting from the natural beauty of Lincoln Park.

Making the Most of Your Photoshoot

To truly capture the essence of your family, let the natural beauty of Lincoln Park guide the session. Have fun with candid moments—laughing together, playing in the leaves, or simply walking hand-in-hand down a tree-lined path. These spontaneous moments will often result in the most genuine and heartwarming photos.

HUGS FRIENDS!

Claire and Kenny’s intimate Chicago wedding day: In today’s wedding world, the trend of smaller, more intimate weddings is on the rise. Couples are increasingly opting for ceremonies with fewer guests, focusing on quality over quantity. A small wedding party creates a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing the couple to spend meaningful moments with their closest family and friends without the stress of a large-scale event.

One of the most memorable moments of any wedding day is the first look—the intimate moment when the couple sees each other for the first time before exchanging vows. For this couple, the Riverwalk in downtown Chicago was the perfect backdrop for such a cherished moment.

As Claire stepped toward Kenny, the excitement and emotion were palpable. The Chicago River, winding its way through the heart of the city, provided an idyllic setting. From the stunning bridges to the towering skyscrapers, it felt like the city itself was celebrating with them.

For couples dreaming of a memorable wedding without the overwhelming fuss, an intimate Chicago wedding with a small wedding party and a first look by the Riverwalk could be the perfect option. With stunning views, unforgettable moments, and a focus on what truly matters, it’s a celebration that is as beautiful as it is meaningful.

Wedding Creative Team:

Florist: @nikosflowerdesigns
Hair/ makeup: @tranquilitysalonco + @shan_tranquility
Dress: @bellabridesmaids
Suit: @formallymodern_chicago

Congratulations friends!

Leila and Joey’s engagement session in Chicago’s West Loop started with a favorite location and a greeting from the cutest little pup named Olive.

The West Loop is a dynamic neighborhood, blending the past and present seamlessly. From the iconic Fulton Market District to the lively Randolph Street, this area has endless locations to celebrate love, from graffiti-covered walls to the iconic Chicago skyline. The mixture of colorful murals and historic brick buildings provides the perfect balance of urban vibes and natural beauty.

For their session, Leila and Joey wanted a location that was not only in the middle of their favorite city, but also allowed them to share their joy with their adorable dog, Olive. As dog lovers, they knew that their furry friend was an essential part of their story and wanted her to be included in their photos. And with a little bit of planning, the West Loop area on Green Street turned out to be the ideal location.

So excited for this wedding!

Maternity photos at Montrose Harbor in Chicago: Rachel and Connor first started with a family of 3. One just happened to be a dog.

I first met these two for their engagement photos with their adorable dog Kota. We spent a cold winter afternoon down by the riverwalk and were lucky enough to catch some of the prettiest sunshine sneaking through the buildings.

That following August, we celebrated their wedding at Cafe Brauer with photos all around Lincoln Park. Kota of course joined in on their first look and a few wedding party photos. These three were always so much fun to photograph. So when they told me they wanted to get maternity photos, I was overjoyed.

With a big love for the city of Chicago, they wanted to make sure we showcased it in yet another big-life milestone. So we made our way up North to one of my favorite spots to look over the skyline, Montrose Harbor. Once again, sweet Kota joined us as one of the cutest ‘BIG SISTER’ dogs to be. We truly lucked out with a gorgeous blue sky and a sunset that, well, speaks for itself.

I was overly excited about that unbelievable sky and so thrilled to see these two as parents. I knew they would be the most kind-hearted and loving mom and dad. This maternity session for sure goes down in the history books as one of my favorites.

For even more sweetness, scroll down to see a few of sweet baby Stella’s newborn photos.

Congratulations Rachel and Connor!

WELCOME BABY STELLA!

And for a little comparison fun, here is their wedding day on the same stairs compared to their newborn session day. Kota, and now Stella as well, both stealing the show.

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU ALL!

An Evening of Elegance and Celebration with Rachel and Adam at The Fairlie.

Located in Chicago’s West Loop, The Fairlie provided the perfect space for an elegant and joyful reception. Its contemporary design paired with luxurious finishes created a warm and inviting atmosphere. The couple’s love story continued to unfold through speeches, toasts, and laughter, all while guests enjoyed the exquisite culinary offerings. The reception was filled with music from the amazing band Rod Tuff Curls & The Bench Press, making it clear that this couple’s joy was contagious.

The hora dance, a central Jewish wedding tradition, got everyone on their feet. Friends and family joined in the circle, lifting the bride and groom high in celebration of their union. The sounds of the band Rod Tuff Curls & The Bench Press filled the air, and the room was alive with energy, love, and well-wishes.

The evening continued with heartfelt speeches, a delicious meal, and plenty of dancing. The couple shared their first dance as a married couple, and it was a moment that will be forever etched in their hearts.

When it comes to wedding day memories, there’s one moment that stands out among the rest: the first look. It’s the intimate, private moment where the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their special day, before all the excitement of the ceremony and the whirlwind of guests. For many couples, this moment is something they’ll never forget, and what better place to experience it than Chicago’s stunning Riverwalk?

Every city has its signature landmarks that make for great backdrops in wedding photos. Think about your favorite spots in the city: a colorful mural, a historic building, a famous bridge, or even a local café with funky decor. These landmarks not only make your photos feel more personal but also ground your wedding day in the unique character of the place where you’re celebrating.

For example, in a busy city like Chicago, you could capture some amazing moments with the wedding party on the Chicago Riverwalk by the Wrigley Building, with the iconic architecture of the city behind them.

I had the unique opportunity to spend not one but two days with this adorable couple. I photographed their family and friend-filled rehearsal the night before at Quartino Ristorante in Chicago. I knew right away that the number of smiles and friendly greetings I received would be a direct indicator of the fun to come for their wedding day. Rachel and Adam and their wedding party were the best group to work with. They were the sweetest duo, and their smiles never left their faces. They exuded happiness, and it was an honor to be their photographer.

Rachel and Adam’s wedding creative team:

Venue : @fairliechicago
Planner : @thecreativeplanners @alexakarkazis
Florist : @flowersfordreams
Tux : @formallymodern
Dress : @dantelabridalcouture
Dresser : @rebeccadoroshuk
Draping/lighting : @atmosphereeventsgroup
Ceremony Music : @3rdcoastlive
Linens : @windycitylinen
Band : @rodtuffcurlsandthebenchpress
Hair : @magnificentbrides
Makeup : @shannonobrienweddings
Video : @smilingtoadproductions
Transportation : @mmlimousine1300
Cake : Beth Puzes @cakes.by.beth

Congratulations friends and thank you for two very unforgettable nights!