The weather forecast initially said rain, but Stephanie + Jordan were gifted with a day full of sunshine for their wedding at Salvatore’s Chicago!

Getting Ready + First Look

The couple got ready in separate rooms at the Hyatt downtown. Stephanie had her sisters + mom helping her get everything together while Jordan was surrounded by his best friends. They each had written a note to the other to read before their first look, a cute tradition that I see lots of couples do on their wedding day. Once everyone was ready to go and Stephanie got a chance to see her dad, Jordan and I took an Uber to the first look location at the North Pond. Of course, we had to time it right so Stephanie didn’t leave at the same time! Our coordination was a success, with an amazing first look followed by wedding party portraits.

Those who are familiar with the Lincoln Park area know that the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is one of the best photo spots in the city. Hidden away near the lakefront and around the corner from the zoo, it’s a small green oasis among towering apartment buildings and busy streets. We made sure to get a photo permit a few weeks ahead of time to ensure we’d be able to utilize the space for portraits. It’s still a free, open park, so we had to dodge all the families and little ones running around. But oh man was it worth it!

Salvatore’s Chicago

We then got to the venue, where we met up with the ultimate VIP of the evening, Larry the golden retriever! We snagged some photos of Stephanie + Jordan with their VERY good boy, then had them tuck away while guests arrived. Eager to mingle and be with their guests, the couple kept their ceremony short + sweet. Larry of course helped them walk back up the aisle!

We took some family photos in the garden while friends enjoyed cocktail hour inside. Once the space was ready, guests were invited to sit for dinner. We heard heartfelt speeches from Stephanie’s dad, her sisters, and the Best Man. The couple thanked everyone for coming before sneaking away with me to take some sunset photos outside. After first dances and parent dances, the DJ blasted the jams for everyone to boogey the night away. I always know folks are going to have a fun time when I hear Backstreet Boys and the Spice Girls!

Stephanie + Jordan truly had a perfect wedding Salvatore’s Chicago. There was more love than anyone knew what to do with. Congratulazioni! <3

Getting Ready Hotel: Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile / Venue: Salvatore’s Chicago / Coordinator: Ohana Events / Hair + Makeup: Rare Bird Beauties / Florals: Belles & Thistles Floral Design / Dress: Weddings 826 / Tux: The Black Tux / DJ: DJ Chicago / Videographer: Vanilla Video