March can be a dull month for many Chicagoans. With the exception of St. Patrick’s day, the month is cold, dark and grey. For Carissa + Steven, however, March will always be their anniversary month as they get to celebrate their Revolution Brewing wedding year after year.

Getting Ready

Like any classic traditional wedding, my second shooter Nate and I started off by heading down to the Loews Hotel in Rosemont, where the pair were getting ready in separate rooms with their wedding parties. I was with Carissa as she smiled and giggled her way through getting her hair done and having her best friend Kailey (also the Maid of Honor) do her makeup. Her bridal party, some of the sweetest ladies I have ever met, got very emotional when Carissa came out in her STUNNING Floravere dress. Even I teared up a bit as the bride hugged her best friend. It was off to Revolution Brewing for us!

The First Look Down the Aisle

When I first talked with Carissa about her big day, she said that Steven wanted only one thing: to not see her until she walked down the aisle. “Do you think he’s going to cry?” I asked. “Oh for sure!” Carissa replied. I discussed everything with Nate on the day of so we would be ready. When the time finally came when we were at Revolution Brewing Brewpub, all cameras were pointed in the right direction when Carissa walked down the aisle and… oh my goodness… Steven got so emotional, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. His face said everything about the love they shared. This was true love.

An Emotional Night to Remember

The beautiful ceremony was followed by family pictures, cocktail hour, cake cutting and then speeches. Carissa’s little cousin went to give a speech, but got so emotional she couldn’t finish it! Luckily the Maid of Honor Kailey came up to the microphone to help everyone hear what she had written down. HOW CUTE??

There were toasts, beer, dinner, more beer, dancing, and did I mention beer (it IS brewery, after all!). Everyone boogied the night away and had a fantastic time. I truly felt so honored to have been able to capture Carissa + Steven’s Revolution Brewing wedding. Not only because they are incredibly kind people, but because Revolution Brewing personally holds a special place in my heart. I worked there for a number of years and I’m still close with all of the staff! I love love LOVE photographing weddings there and I’m looking forward to many more in the future. :)

Getting Ready Location: Loews Hotel

Dress: Floravere

Flowers: Steve’s Flower Market

Venue, Cake & Catering: Revolution Brewing Brewpub

DJ: Jerry Hall