This gorgous, fun-loving, AMAZING day is going to be one I think about for a long time. From the intimate ceremony in Millennium Park, to the *roasts* during their reception (yes, roasts)… Jordyn and JD really know how to CELEBRATE. And I felt it every second of the day as their Chicago wedding photographer!

Here’s the thing: some weddings follow a script, but Jordyn and JD threw that out the window and wrote their own.

They wanted to make this day something that felt really personal to them, but they didn’t want to elope or break all the traditions. So they just bent them their way. 

Say less. I’ll be there with my camera every time.

Getting Ready at The Pendry

They started the morning tucked inside The Pendry in downtown Chicago. Jordyn sat by the window in the softest light, her hair swept into a low, sleek bun with loose face framing pieces that are so chic. Her off the shoulder gown hugged in all the right places. Clean lines and old school elegance.

JD kept it classic in a perfectly tailored black tux and bow tie. He was the picture perfect counterpart to her!

There was an ease to the morning. Laughter and champagne sips.

A quiet kind of anticipation before their intimate ceremony in Millennium Park.

They met up right outside the elevators for their first look. JD was SO excited to see his bride, and they laughed and hugged. Really reveling in the “holy sh*t it’s our wedding day” excitement!

After their first look, we wandered outside the hotel to take couples portraits out by the water.

These were some of my favorites of the day. (But who am I kidding, I could never choose). I love the juxtaposition of the busy street and their timeless vibe that just makes them pop from the environment. Fingers crossed they frame these portraits all over their house.

We took these outside the Carbide and Carbon Building, Jordyn and JD held hands like they had the whole city to themselves.

The gold details and art deco architecture gave everything that old school glamour vibe.

Then it was time for their intimate ceremony in Millennium Park!

An Intimate Ceremony in Millennium Park

This park is iconic for a reason! It really showed off in the best way for their big day. Towering trees framed the aisle. The Chicago skyline stood tall in the background. It felt so organically grand, but still somehow so private & personal.

Also, can we have a moment for the cutest ring bearers ever!? They were adorable!

These two designed their nuptials so they would be surrounded by close friends and family. They were seated in simple white chairs on the lawn. No massive production, but alllll the meaning. The bride and groom said their vows while their beloved city hummed in the distance.

Newlywed Portraits in the City

After “I do,” we wandered the city while their guests went to Gibsons Italia to kick off the party.

Jordyn’s long veil floated down the sidewalk. His arm wrapped around her waist. It was cinematic, but like, without trying. The best kind of art in my head.

This is the magic of crafting an intentional day.

You get to just exist together and forget the camera for a minute. And then you get newlywed portraits like these:

A Reception Designed to Have Fun

After portraits, Jordyn took a minute to go change. She slipped out of her gown, and into a cocktail dress that was every bit as stunning on her as the first.

She was absolutely dazzling in the twinkling reception lights, cocktail in hand.

Gibsons Italia set the scene perfectly, with river views and warm city lights. Instead of traditional speeches, they opted for roasts from their closest friends. Everyone laughed until they cried, and I think that’s how it should be!

If a wedding reception isn’t a time to let loose and really enjoy life… then when is? You know?

They also had a tarot card reader. A magician weaving through the crowd. Signature cocktails flowing all night.

If you want dial down the expected during your reception, and add that electric pop feeling… copy this list for your notes because this was SUCH a fun reception:

• Hire a tarot reader or live illustrator
• Swap speeches for lighthearted roasts
• Create a signature cocktail moment
• Add surprise entertainment like a magician
• Change into a second look that feels like you

Jordyn and JD proved that an intimate ceremony in Millennium Park can lead to a reception that feels like the best dinner party you have ever been to.

All while celebrating their nuptials in a way that is true to themselves. Sign me up for a hundred more weddings like this one! Congratulations, you two lovebirds!!!