This wedding at the Gwen Hotel definitely came with a view! Gianna + Tyler put together a gorgeous ceremony + reception for their closest family and friends to celebrate with them.

First Look + Portraits

I can’t stress this enough– it’s so important to have my couples be honest with me about what parts of the day mean the most to them. That’s why I loved when Gianna + Tyler told me that getting-ready photos were not a priority at all. They wanted all of my attention to be on candids + portraits. As planned, I showed up right before they had their first look so I could document it. We then walked the 2 blocks over to the Wrigley Building by the Riverwalk to get more photos. Upon returning to the venue, I snagged some detail shots and photographed their families.

Wedding at the Gwen Hotel

I am OBSESSED with the Gwen Hotel. Especially for micro weddings! The venue has two balconies attached to a 2 bed/2 bath suite with a foyer. The whole thing feels like a penthouse, especially with the breathtaking views. The couple hung out in one of the rooms while their guests arrived. Everyone grabbed a glass of champagne as they found their seats and their guitarist began to play. Tyler and Gianna were each walked in by their parents and got married by their good friend Matthew. After everything was made official, the couple mingled with their guests on the second terrace while the first balcony was flipped for dinner. Tyler made sure to show me his great socks that were personally knit by his (new) wife!

The reception details were truly impressive. The floral structure created for their sweetheart table in itself was a true feat. I found myself constantly picking my jaw up off the floor as I photographed this part of the evening. We heard speeches from the couple’s dads (Gianna’s father gave a record-breaking 30 minute toast) and watched the couple have their first dance. After Gianna + Tyler danced with their families, I took one last photo of them with the perfect view of the John Hancock building as their backdrop.

Everything about this wedding at the Gwen Hotel was just ✨magical✨ and I left with the biggest smile on my face! :)

Venue: The Gwen Hotel / Makeup: Sandy Thinnes / Dress: Allure Bridals / Florals: Juliet Tan Floral Design / Cake: Bittersweet Pastry Shop