Intimate Covid Wedding

Chicago Wedding Photographer

Covid has changed many lives and taken a big toll on weddings in 2020. Many couples have resorted to small and intimate weddings. Outdoors and backyards were a big hit since you can invite a couple of people and keep your distance. Thea and Mike have three small children and have opted for an intimate wedding in their home. It was just the them, an officiant and myself. The children were taking a nap and grandma was on duty in the backyard in case.

We went to a close forest preserve to get some intimate shots and came back for some family and kids photos to remember the day by. The kids are tiny and they needed to be able to be more flexible than a full on wedding. I think everything turned out in their favor. It was a beautiful day and congratulations to the couple.

Intimate Chicago Wedding
Intimate Midwest Wedding
Intimate Wedding Photographer
Park Ridge Wedding
Park Ridge Wedding
Chicago Wedding Photographer
Chicago Wedding Photography
Park Ridge Wedding
Wedding Photographer
Chicago Wedding
Chicago Wedding Photos
Wedding Family Photos
Chicago Wedding Photos
Chicago Wedding Photos
Chicago Wedding Photos
Intimate Wedding
Chicago Wedding Photos
Chicago wedding photos
First Kiss
Chicago Wedding Photos
Midwest Wedding Photographer
Chicago Wedding Photos



Covid Wedding Rescheduled to Grandpas Horse Ranch

Wedding-7.jpg

Paul and Kim got married May 16th , right in the heart of Covid19. They were originally planning to get married in Florida. They have had this plan for a year now, with the uncertain times they were not able to have the wedding they wanted. Their Grandfather, however has a beautiful horse ranch and they were able to have an incredible wedding. Everyone was far apart enough to be able to enjoy the company of all their loved ones, in a time of Corona.

With all the smaller weddings, happening during Corona, I’m really admiring and appreciating the wedding season more. The intimate weddings are spent more focused on the couple and their love than the guests and their needs. It really is a better way to celebrate your love.

Wedding Signage
Horse Ranch Wedding
Wedding Prep
Wedding Dog
Wedding-114.jpg
Wedding-40.jpg
Wedding-30.jpg
Wedding-110.jpg
Wedding-122.jpg
Wedding-128.jpg
Wedding-132.jpg
Wedding-99.jpg
Bridal Portraits
Bridal Portraits
Wedding-50.jpg
Wedding-51.jpg
Wedding Dog-66.jpg
Wedding Groom and Dog-140.jpg
Wedding-148.jpg
Wedding-410.jpg
Wedding-146.jpg
Wedding-135.jpg
Wedding-414.jpg
Bride
Wedding-157.jpg
Wedding-165.jpg
Wedding-431.jpg
Wedding-174.jpg
Wedding-183.jpg
Wedding-177.jpg
Wedding-190.jpg
Wedding-199.jpg
Wedding-201.jpg
Wedding-240.jpg
Wedding-206.jpg
Wedding-207.jpg
Wedding-217.jpg
Wedding-223.jpg
Wedding-231.jpg
Wedding-250.jpg
Wedding-252.jpg
Wedding-209.jpg
Wedding-208.jpg
Wedding-219.jpg
Wedding-232.jpg
Wedding-245.jpg
Wedding-251.jpg
Wedding-257.jpg
Wedding-261.jpg
Wedding-279.jpg
Chicago Groom
Chicago Groom
Chicago Wedding party
Horse Ranch Wedding
Chicago Bride
Chicago Photographer
Chicago Bride
Chicago Wedding Photographer

Chicago Rooftop Maternity Photos

When Jenin asks you to photograph her maternity looks on top of Chicago, you say yes, especially since Veronica Sheaffer is involved. Nothing is ordinary form those two. Jenin is a blogger and Veronica is a local designer that was, recently on project run way. Her romantic poet blouses is what she is known for. This is her new line that everyone can rock, even a pregnant chick! It was snowing, it was cold, we couldn’t get the dresses wet because Veronica was going to New York with them that weekend, but as they always say, the best memories are made from things that go wrong. Everything always works out in the end and the photos came out beautiful.

Notice Jenins awesome gold boots. They are my favorite.

Mama: Jenin Paradise
Dresses: Veronica Sheaffer
Earrings: Iris trends
location: London House Roof Top

Chicago Maternity Photos
Chicago Maternity Photos
Chicago Maternity Photos
Chicago Maternity Photos
Chicago Maternity Photos Victoria C photos
Chicago Maternity Photos Victoria C photos
Chicago Maternity Photos Victoria C photos
Chicago Maternity Photos Victoria C photos
Chicago Maternity Photos



Chicago Albanian Muslim Wedding

This family is very special to me. Adem, the groom, has been a member of our family since he was maybe 4. His mother and entire family are the most kind and giving people. Photographing their wedding is like photographing my own brothers wedding. I’m so happy to have been able to be a part of their special day.

Notice in their culture the groom gets prepped by the family. They shave and do his hair, but then everyone comes around to wish him happiness and mess up his look.

Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Albanian wedding
Chicago Albanian Wedding
Chicago Muslim Wedding
Chicago Wedding
Chicago Muslim Wedding
Chicago Muslim Wedding
Chicago Albanian wedding
Chicago Albanian wedding
Evanston Wedding
Shakespeare Garden Wedding
Shakespeare Garden Wedding
Evanston Wedding
Chicago Lakefront Wedding couple

A New Simple Way to Make Wedding Invitations

Chicago Wedding Invite.jpg

Recently, I had the pleasure of trying Basic Invites.  It’s a super simple way to make wedding invitations. The best part about Basic Invites is they have an address collecting service.  If you are like me, who doesn’t stay up to date on the ever changing addresses of friends and family, you need to use this service. It is the simplest way to get everyones information without really being involved.  Planning a wedding is a heroic feat, involving so much detailed planning and collecting addresses shouldn’t be another task on your list. Basic Invites uses a free address collection service to request addresses with just three simple steps. Share a link via social media or email, collect addresses, and get free envelope printing.

Another great thing about them is they offer free, completely customizable websites for wedding. The mobile friendly templates are super easy to use. You can instantly upload all of your wedding details, along with engagement photos, and a convenient map with directions for your guests. Choose from 180 colors, and a design suite to perfectly match your wedding invitations!

Chicago Wedding Invite-4.jpg

My favorite is the Seal & Send Wedding Invitations, your guests will love it because they include a tear-off RSVP piece included!  Below is a photo of one of the seal and send invites. The printing even has fully customizable foil options to set your invitation apart from all of the others. The guest's addresses are printed on the front of each invitation so no envelope is necessary! All you have to do is use their address collecting service and upload them onto your design. Once they make the invitations and send them to you, all you have to do is add postage, fold your and secure them with a sticker! It doesn’t gets easier than that. I wish this was available for my wedding. 

Basic Invites will send you out samples so you get to actually touch and hold your invites before placing a full order. Be sure to check out the clear cards or any of the gold foil. I ordered both for samples for a couple of my flat lays and they are all great quality. It’s so refreshing to deal with their responsive customer service too.  

Highlights

Free Wedding Websites - Completely customizable wedding websites! They're mobile friendly and super easy to use. You can instantly upload all of your wedding details, along with images, and a convenient map with directions for your guests. Choose from 180 custom colors, and a design suite to match your wedding invitations!

Almost Unlimited Colors - Basic Invite is one of the few websites that allows customers almost unlimited color options with instant previews online. You can change the color of each element on a card, with over 180 different color options. The card can be exactly how you want it, down to the littlest detail. This is what sets them apart from any other online stationery company and is their biggest draw.

 Custom Samples - Basic Invite allows customers the ability to order a printed sample of their invitation so they can see the card’s paper quality and how it will print before they have to place their final order.

 Over 40 Different Colors of Envelopes - Just as colorful with their enveloped as they are with their invitations. You can choose from over 40 different envelope colors so that you can make your invitation stand out even before they are opened. All of the envelopes are peel and seal so the envelopes can be closed quickly and easily. 

 Over 900 Wedding Invitation Sets - Each of the wedding invites are part of a set. They have all the wedding stationery you need, like save the dates, wedding invitations, enclosure cards, wedding menus, wedding programs, and even matching thank you cards!

 Free Address Collection Service - Use their free address collection service to request your addresses with just three simple steps. Share a link via social media or email, collect addresses, and get free envelope printing.

Seal & Send Wedding Invitations - The seal and send wedding invitations are an all-in-one wedding invitation with a tear-off RSVP postcard included! The Seal & Send is the newest collection. Currently, offered in over 30 designs including foil options and they are all customizable. Guest's addresses are printed on the front of each invitation so no envelope is necessary! All you have to do is share a link, collect guest addresses, and upload them onto your design. Once you receive your order, add postage, fold your invites, and secure them with a sticker! Simple and easy.

Get Social with Basic Invite - @basicinvite

Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter

Chicago Wedding Invite-2.jpg

Chicago Wedding with a touch of Disney

I had the pleasure of photographing this beautiful wedding which featured subtle hints of Disney, including a “mermaid bouquet” that constituted of vibrant pops of purple and turquoise.  The bride opted for artificial flowers so that she could preserve a fond detail of her wedding. The planning and execution of their wedding reflected who the personality of the couple perfectly.  Not only did they take shots, but beers were shotgunned at the altar. We had so much fun shooting the newlyweds and their great group of friends.  Many cheers to Mike and Stephanie.

Wedding Team

Wedding Planning: Olive Layne Weddings
Getting ready and first look Venue: The Robey Chicago Hotel
Venue : Greenhouse Loft
Caterer: Feast and Imbibe
Dj: Toast and Jam DJ’s
Make up : Alluring Beauty

Chicago Wedding
Disney Themed Wedding Bouquet
Chicago Bride
First Look at the Robey Chicago Hotel
The Robey Hotel Chicago Wedding
The Robey First Look
The Robey Hotel Chicago Wedding
Chicago Wedding Couple
Union Station Wedding Chicago
Union Station Chicago Wedding
Groom Union Station
Chicago Bridal Party Union Station
Groom Party at Union Station
Chicago Wedding Bus
Chicago Bride and Father
Chicago Bride and Mom
Shotgun at the Altar
First Kiss
First Kiss
Disney Table Set up
Wedding Father Speech
Bride and Groom during speeches
Speeches
Mom during speeches
First Dance
First Dance
Father Daughter Dance
Son and Mother Dance
Father Daughter Dance
Outdoor wedding family photo
Wedding Family photo

Best Chicago Locations for Holiday Photos

Chicago’s beauty becomes even more evident during the winter season, a great city to be in for the holidays. With all the lights and decorations through the whole city, you’re bound to stumble on an ideal location for shooting photos. I have ranked my top 3 locations in Chicago to achieve the best Christmas atmosphere. If you are looking to get either family photos or seasonal engagement photos around downtown Chicago, these definitely are contenders for the best holiday decor.

1. Wrigley Building

One of my favorite spots to photograph weddings and engagements. There is a huge tree standing in the middle and garland draped all around the building. Be sure to snap some photos by the river, as well. I highly recommend going on a Sunday morning to avoid the crowds.

Chicago Holiday Photos
Chicago Christmas Photos
2P4A3958-Edit.jpg
Chicago Wrigley Building

2. Chicago Water Tower

Not only is this a historic site that is open for the public to venture inside, but another favorite spot for holiday photos. It’s always decorated so tastefully and all the trees are overflowing with lights. To be extra romantic, take a carriage ride; the horses park right there. Once again, if you want to avoid the crowds come on a Sunday morning. This is a popular spot and a great break the middle of all the Magnificent Mile shopping.

Chicago Water Tower Holiday Photos
Chicago+Water+Tower+Holiday+Photos
Chicago Water Tower Holiday Photos
Chicago Water Tower Christmas Photos

3. Millennium Park 

Millennium Park has so much to do around the holidays. Starting with a large Christmas tree that is lit up with a fun lighting ceremony and a large ice skating rink right under neath the Bean. You can cross off a lot of touristy destinations with this location and have some fun at Maggie Daley Park, rent skates at the ice rink or visit the Art Institute next door.

Millennium Park Holiday Photos
Millennium+Park+Holiday+Photos
Millennium Park Christmas Photos
Millennium Park

Happy Holidays - Victoria

Fall Mini Sessions

Family+fall+session.jpeg

The season for family photos is here and it’s time to think about those holiday cards. This year I did my best to make it super easy for you, where you can schedule the minis yourself. I am offering 3 different locations and dates.

What you get - 20 minute photo session with up to 6 people. 15 fully edited digital images with all printing rights.

Simply click on the date and location you are interested in to pick your time slot. The location at Winnemac Park does not allow dogs, but feel free to bring your furry family member to the other locations.

If you have any questions, please reach out either by email or phone. I respond faster to texts.

Sunday, September 22 at Winnemac Park - 5100 N Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 60625

Wednesday, October 9 at Wilder Park- 175 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126

Sunday, October 13 at At River Trail Nature Center - 3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook, IL 60062





Tips for Fall Mini Sessions

Chicago Family mini sessions

You finally booked your family sessions and are super excited to get some snaps of everyone, but now what? Here are some helpful hints to get you started and hopefully make life easier. Please don’t stress , I know a lot of moms stress about this day. Take a deep breath, you just got everyone out of the house and they all look nice. Thats an accomplishment itself.

Fall Family sessions
Fall Family session
  • Avoid bright colors, they reflect on to your face and cause a color cast.

  • Avoid Large logos.

  • Don’t match too much.

  • Rich colors and patterns are great for fall, I know a lot of moms tend to lean towards leopard print and it looks great in photos.

  • You can’t go wrong with a natural pallet.

  • Heels will sink in the grass and you will have to walk in the gravel, plan head for that. If you need hight, boots and wedges are recommended for outdoor sessions.

  • Make sure there are no hair ties on wrists.

  • Pack an extra outfit for kids in case of spills and messes.

  • Wear comfortable clothing, if you are not comfortable it will show in the photos.

  • For younger kids please bring a toy or whatever gets their attention.

  • Wipes for snacks and noses.

  • Be rested and well fed. If you plan to eat after the shoot please have some snacks before hand.

  • Let your child’s personality shine, not every photo they will smile for.

  • Kids will be kids - just roll with it.

  • Have fun with the family and enjoy each others company.

  • Do not stress, trust your photographer.

To book fall mini sessions in October. Click here for availability.






Paris in Chicago

This Chicago wedding photoshoot was inspired by 18th century France Rococo, mostly a painting called “The Happy Accidents of the Swing” by Jean-Honoré Fragonard.

Since we can’t fly to France and have a wedding at the Versailles, we found a contender. Cuneo Mansion in Vernon Hills is the Versailles of Chicago. The building is pink, it is surrounded by gardens decorated with statues and fountains. Everything inside is meticulously preserved from the gold leaf bathroom to the original tiffany china in the kitchen. The delicate chandelier that hangs in the breakfast room will remind you of Marie Antoinettes Petit Trianon in Versailles. It’s what fairy tales are made of.

We incorporated pastel colors and tea stained sepia paper for the invites. Veronica Sheaffer brought her incredible talent with delicate yet modern pieces to match the aesthetics of the property. Small details like flowers and feathers on shoes tied into the cake colors and decorating.

Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-92-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-101-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-12-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-82-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-48-1200x1801.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-7-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-82-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-40-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-28-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-93-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-56-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-54-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-16-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-79-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-98-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-11-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-89-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-49-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-72-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-22-1200x800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-86-1200x1800.jpg
Chicago-Wedding- Photography-Parisian-Inspiration-91-1200x1800.jpg

Venue: Cuneo Mansion & Gardens
IG: @loyola_cuneomansion
www.luc.edu/cuneo/

Dresses: Veronica Sheaffer
IG: @veronicasheaffer
www.veronicasheaffer.com

Flowers: Persephone Floral
IG: @persephonefloral
www.persephonefloral.com

Model: Sierra Campbell
IG: pLeaseleavebynine
www.sierradesiree.com

Stationery and Calligraphy: Maison Blanche Lettering

IG: @maisonblanche_lettering
www.maisonblanchelettering.com

Chicago-Wedding-Parisian.jpg

Hair & Make Up: Jennifer Jade Alvarez / Refined Beauty
IG: @RefinedBeautyBoutique
Www.refinedbeautyboutique.com


Rentals : The Festive Frog
IG: @thefestivefrog
www.thefestivefrog.com

Linens: FS Linens
IG: @fslinens
www.fslinens.com

Cake: Grannys Cakes
IG: @grannyscakeschicagoland
www.grannyscakes.net


Jewelery: Eskell
IG: @eskellchicago
www.eskell.com

Photography: Victoria Chukarov
IG: @Victoriachuk
www.VictoriaCphotos.com