As a photographer, I am always looking for themes, constantly thinking not only of the moment itself, but also what will make the best shot and how the shots will go together to tell a love story.  This wedding was a classic one, and throughout the day I noticed that “gold” kept suggesting itself as a theme.  As I think about this, I am reminded of the quote from Alfred Lord Tennyson: “Love is the only true gold.”  Tennyson, a man of action, advocated being in the moment and treasuring relationships rather than things.  This is very apropos for Anna and Jose.

When Anna and Jose had their first date at Venetian Night in Chicago, Jose noticed Anna’s eyes and sense of humor.  Anna had found her match in Jose, as well; his charm, confidence, and heart of gold swept her off her feet.  In the years to come, they would find that their shared interests brought them together and that laughter and fun were continually a part of their lives.

There’s nothing like a wedding in Downtown Chicago.  With its classic architecture, bridges, and gardens, a photographer never tires of what the Windy City has to offer.  This time, Anna and Jose took us on a whirlwind limo tour of the city as we stopped to capture photographs at The Art Institute Gardens, the famous Michigan Avenue median (where they stopped for a dip and a kiss), and at the Tribune Tower along The Magnificent Mile.  It was here that they ran across the street, dodging yellow cabs, and vogued in front of golden doors.

The bride’s sweeping, cathedral length veil was fitting for a ceremony at Chicago’s St. Hyacinth Basilica.  As you can see from the pictures, the church is alive with color and history;  it is golden, ornate and architecturally stunning.  I had the feeling that as this couple took their vows that they were truly joined to each other, to the church, to the couples who had walked the aisle before them, to the sacred and holy ritual of marriage.

Dancing brought this couple together, so it wasn’t long before they joined guests on the floor at Venuti’s Ristorante and Banquets in Addison, IL.  The bride and groom sizzled on the dance floor;  I have never seen such a sick dip as when Jose floated Anna almost to the ground.  I loved it.

Congratulations, Anna and Jose, and thanks for letting me be a part of this day with you.  May your love always be golden.  A big thank you, as well, to Jen Fontaine for asking me to shoot this wedding with her.

Although, as I said in my last post, big churches have been good to me lately, I was ready for a chance to mix-it-up with an outdoor venue.  Ken and Sara’s wedding at the Del Webb community in Huntley, IL.  was a breath of fresh air, literally.  Sara had contacted me a few months ago inquiring specifically about outdoor weddings.  She mentioned that she had seen my work as she searched for a Chicagoland wedding photographer and admired the various weddings featured on my site.  I’m always flattered when my work makes such a good introduction for me.

Outdoor weddings are fabulous, especially when the weather allows for it.  They allow me to capture nature, beautiful landscapes, and incorporate those settings into the ceremony and reception, using them to highlight the celebration.  Truly, every couple looks stunning against nature’s backdrop.

I love the vibrancy of this wedding.  The strong, vivid tones of the flowers, the lush foliage, the variety of expressions worn on the bride’s face, the emotions displayed by the groom after the ceremony, the small and intimate reception where all guests were interconnected.  There was so much for me to explore.  I enjoyed playing spy through the trees during the ceremony, something I try to do when the venue allows for it.

As I was working on these images, I couldn’t help but keep a smile on my face because of the good vibes and emotions coming out of every single image.  This was not just my own perception, but it is actually how these two individuals are in real life.  As I met with them, I was able to experience firsthand their genuineness toward each other and their down-to-earth temperaments.  I challenge you to go through these images without having a smile on your face, as well.

Best to you, Ken and Sara, as you begin this journey together.