Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wedding at Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club - Toni & Danny
I can literally feel the glow of the warm sunshine on my skin as we captured Danny & Tony’s beautiful portraits right behind the Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Club. The setting sun bathed them in the most glorious light and filled summer’s wildflowers and tall weeds with a glow you can only find in the Midwest during this glorious time of year…
Now that we are in the smack dab middle of January here in the Chicago Suburbs, our appreciate for days like this is sky rocketing. It’s that time of the year where hibernation and quiet allow us to actually get caught up on sharing here and it couldn’t come in more perfect timing as I’m bundled up with my warmest blanket, drinking extra hot coffee, and looking out on the dusting of snow we just received. I can literally feel the glow of the warm sunshine on my skin as we captured Toni & Danny’s beautiful portraits right behind the Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Club. The setting sun bathed them in the most glorious light and filled the wildflowers and tall weeds with a glow you can only find in the Midwest during this glorious time of year. The middle of August is one of our most favorite times of the year to shoot. To relive August 14th, 2021 is a welcomed reminder today.
Toni & Danny’s wedding day was the perfect combination of high end, yet no fuss details. Everything about Danny’s tux and Toni’s gorgeous gown was tailored, classic, and comfortable. (When you feel comfortable, it shows in your photos and we’re big fans of that.) Toni’s gown was the most flowing and luxe fabric I (Meg) had ever had the honor of getting to handle. When you have a gown like that, you can be certain that spinning and twirling is going to be a part of the game plan! Truly, this day was a dream and such a delight to be a part of. Danny and Tony, you two have our hearts! Thank you for the honor of August 14th, 2021!
The Team:
Venue - Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club
Church - Immaculate Conception Catholic Church: Elmhurst, IL
Planning - Tionna Van Gundy, Wedicity
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Videography - Amanda Cortese
Florals - Blossom and Branches
Hair & Makeup - Zano
DJ - Spinnin' Discs
Dress - Alice and Ivory
Tux - Gentlemen's Quarters Formalwear
Catering - Tasty Catering
Lighting & Photo Booth - Posh Production
Cake - Artesa Bakery
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wilmette Beach Engagement Session - Samantha & Nick
Meet me at the beach with your dog and it’s a perfect recipe for a dreamy engagement session! It was so much fun to meet Samantha & Nick in person this summer to capture their lakeside engagement photos on Lake Michigan at Wilmette Beach.
Meet me at the beach with your dog and it’s a perfect recipe for a dreamy engagement session! It was so much fun to meet Samantha & Nick in person this summer to capture their lakeside engagement photos on Lake Michigan. The weather was perfection and the green and yellow tones that late summer brings us in the Midwest makes it one of my favorite times of the year to shoot. Samantha and Nick were so fun and easy going and we are so looking forward to getting to capture their wedding day this upcoming year! It is such an honor to have them as a part of our 2021/2022 wedding family!
As the weather begins to change and the green slowly begins to disappear, we’re getting caught up slowly but surely on sharing all the warm and sunny sessions this 2021 summer brought us. And with all the new locations we were introduced too, I’m already excited about more warm and sunny lakeside sessions next summer. We truly live in the most beautiful part of the country during the summertime and the beauty is not lost on us! For beautiful lakeside engagement session inspiration, keep scrolling below.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wedding at The Pavilion Orchard Ridge Farms - Kristen & Chase
We started the day at The Goodwin Hotel and Iron Works Hotel for their getting ready photos. (Brides, if you’re looking for the most photogenic getting ready space for your wedding day, look no further than the Goodwin Hotel! We cannot get over how beautiful their space is. …with the most PERFECT rooftop for your first look.) Afterwards, we headed over to The Pavilion for their ceremony and reception…
We have been looking forward to this day for years! Literally! It’s been such a treat to get to work with Kristen and Chase ever since we met them during our first meeting. We know there has been great disappointment for our couples and their postponements, but getting to see everyone reunited this year and throwing the wedding day they’ve been dreaming of has been such a blast! These two were able to pull out all the stops and it truly was the dreamiest of days. We started the day at The Goodwin Hotel and Iron Works Hotel for their getting ready photos. (Brides, if you’re looking for the most photogenic getting ready space for your wedding day, look no further than the Goodwin Hotel! We cannot get over how beautiful their space is. …with the most PERFECT rooftop for your first look.) Afterwards, we headed over to The Pavilion for their ceremony and reception. Truly, this venue is one of our absolute favorites. Kristen and Chase may have had one of the hottest and humid days of the year, but they were such troopers and we’d say beating the heat was well worth it for The Pavilion’s views. We’re truly sad that this day is over, but we’re so thankful for these two and the gift of getting to work with them over these past couple of years. Kristen & Chase, may you have a marriage that’s as beautiful as your wedding day! It’s been such a delight to get to know you and we’re so honored to have been a part of your wedding day team.
Vendor Love:
Venue - The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms
Hotels - The Goodwin Hotel & Iron Works Hotel
Florals - Event Floral Inc.
Calligraphy - Melissa Wolf
Hair & Makeup - Britney Wilhelmi and Jaide & Co. Bridal Artistry
DJ - MDM Entertainment
Cake - By The Dozen Bakery
Videography - Oakhouse Wedding Films
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Danada House Wedding - Krissy & Mike
Rainy days at the Danada House are our favorite! In our humble opinions, there isn’t a better place in all of the Chicago Suburbs to capture a rainy wedding day.
Rainy days at the Danada House are our favorite! In our humble opinions, there isn’t a better place in all of the Chicago Suburbs to capture a rainy wedding day. It might have been overcast all day long, but all was warm and sunny the moment we met up with Krissy. She was truly a dream bride in every sense with a Momma and bridesmaid tribe to match. The moment we entered her getting ready space, we were greeted with hugs and we knew it was going to be a dream of a day. Krissy and Mike are truly two of the most down to earth, joyful, genuine, and easy going lovebirds we’ve ever had the privilege of capturing.
Krissy and Mike’s color scheme was filled with blushes, blues, pinks, corals, greens, white, and grey. (All of our favorite summer colors) Their colors brightened up their day so beautifully that we forgot all about the weather outside.
These two were troopers and even stepped outside from under our covering with their umbrellas for a few photos. After following the weather all morning, they made the call to bring their outdoor ceremony indoors and it was still romantic, luminous, and joy-filled. Sometimes everything works out for a better reason. It was such a joy to relive this day and an honor to have been a part of such a wonderful team. Thank you, Krissy & Mike, for gift of getting to be a part of your wedding team! This one is going down in the books!
Vendor Love:
Venue - Danada House
Florals - Shamrock Garden Florals
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Hair & Makeup - Patty McGuire Hair and Make-Up
DJ - Karl Knutson Boutique Entertainment
Gown - By MoriLee at Eva's Bridal International
Bridesmaid Gowns - Azazie
Suit - Men's Warehouse
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Infant Lifestyle Photography - The Cassata Family
There is absolutely no honor bigger than get to capture our couples over the years as their families grow. It seems just like yesterday that I had the honor of capturing Allison and Frank’s engagement session in downtown Chicago. And now, we get to share their second infant session on the blog today!
There is absolutely no honor bigger than get to capture our couples over the years as their families grow. It seems just like yesterday that I had the honor of capturing Allison and Frank’s engagement session in downtown Chicago. And now, we get to share their second infant session on the blog today! It has been such a treat to capture these two with their brand new babies in their gorgeous home. (Talk about home decor inspiration. Their color scheme throughout their entire house is just off the charts to get to shoot in!
Frank and Allison were made to be parents. Their boys are so blessed and their love for each other is tangible. This session is a perfect example of why we love capturing infants and families in a more “lifestyle” setting. Frank and Allison’s home is truly an extension of their family. Every room speaks to who they are. We truly feel that our families’ homes bring completeness to capturing this newborn phase. It’s where all the sleepless nights, cuddles, bath times, happy tears, first smiles, exhausted tears, and joy happen! Your homes and the walls where you bring your babies home are sacred. Thank you Allison & Frank, for the joy of getting to capture your beautiful family again! The honor doesn’t get lost on us.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Haley Mansion Wedding - Mary & Steve
We are the biggest fans of The Haley Mansion, but add the most joyful bride and her wonderful crew and it’s a recipe for perfection. Mary and Steve’s color scheme were a treat to capture! We’ll forever be fans of blushes, whites, and creams! Even her cutting cake and macaroons by Millett’s Cakes, bridesmaid dresses, and florals by Steen perfectly complimented one another!
This day was full of LIFE and SO MUCH BEAUTY! Mary and Steve tied the knot on July 3rd, 2021 and it couldn’t have been a more perfect day. This was a postponed wedding, but we think every single bit of it was worth the wait! We are the biggest fans of The Haley Mansion, but add the most joyful bride and her wonderful crew and it’s a recipe for perfection. Mary and Steve’s color scheme were a treat to capture! We’ll forever be fans of blushes, whites, and creams! Even her cutting cake and macaroons by Millett’s Cakes, bridesmaid dresses, and florals by Steen perfectly complimented one another! Also, this cutting cake decorated with macaroons was swoon worthy! Go check out the ombre inspiration below. Every bit of this day was elegant and we couldn’t have been more honored to have been a part of Mary and Steve’s team!
Mary and Steve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the honor of getting to capture your big day! We’re still swooning over it. The biggest congratulations to you both!
Vendor Love:
Venue - Patrick Haley Mansion
Hotel - Harrahs Casino
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Videography - Studio 7 Media Productions
Florals - Flowers by Steen
Hair & Makeup - Tamara Makeup + Hair Artistry
DJ - Tone Productions
Cake - Millett’s Cake
Dress - Viero Bridal
Photo Mirror - Eddy Gee Entertainment
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Naperville Wedding - Rachel & Andrew
Rachel and Andrew have known each other since they were just kids. They were high school sweet hearts and this day was pure hometown nostalgia from beginning to end. After their beautiful outdoor ceremony at the Naperville Country Club, we even made a pitstop at Naperville Central High School for a quick photo op! This day was beautiful from beginning to end, but what REALLY made this day even more than their beautiful details and locations like the Morton Arboretum was their joy, their kindness, their families, and the way they never stopped smiling at each other. (Seriously guys, they have the BEST smiles.) Their joy and happiness was truly contagious and we couldn’t help smiling all day too. However, we cried crocodile tears when it came to the speeches given at the end of the night by their family members. What a gift to love and to be loved so well. They made us feel like a part of their families by the end of the night and it was an absolute GIFT to have gotten the honor of capturing all of them.
Rachel and Andrew have known each other since they were just kids. They were high school sweet hearts and this day was pure hometown nostalgia from beginning to end. After their beautiful outdoor ceremony at the Naperville Country Club, we even made a pitstop at Naperville Central High School for a quick photo op! This day was beautiful from beginning to end, but what REALLY made this day even more than their beautiful details and locations like the Morton Arboretum was their joy, their kindness, their families, and the way they never stopped smiling at each other. (Seriously guys, they have the BEST smiles.) Their joy and happiness was truly contagious and we couldn’t help smiling all day too. However, we cried crocodile tears when it came to the speeches given at the end of the night by their family members. What a gift to love and to be loved so well. They made us feel like a part of their families by the end of the night and it was an absolute GIFT to have gotten the honor of capturing all of them.
Rachel and Andrew, We hope every bit of this long awaited day was worth it. If this was the first day of your lives as husband and wife, then I think your story is off to one beautiful start. Thank you for the honor! You’re both such a joy.
Vendor Love:
Wedding Planning - Sarah Kathleen Events
Ceremony - Naperville Country Club
Reception - Elements at Water Street
Portraits Location: Morton Arboretum
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Videography - Robert Cawthorne Wedding Films
Florals - Shamrock Garden Florist
Makeup & Hair - Patty McGuire Makeup & Hair Artists
Cake - DeEttas Bakery
DJ - Sounds Abound
Ceremony Musicians - Belle Music
Gelato Cart - Sweet Home Gelato
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Mistwood Golf Club Wedding - Jenn & Aaron
Jenn & Aaron’s Wedding day at Mistwood Golf Club was a beautiful way to tie up all the loose ends that last year brought them. It was just as meaningful as their intimate ceremony in 2020, but this time every single loved one and family member was present to celebrate and bless their marriage. Jenn’s immediate family members live in Germany, so they were unable to witness their first ceremony. June 25th, 2021 was a total redemption and a reminder of how beautiful it is to begin a marriage with the love, support, and blessings of those closest to us.
Jenn & Aaron’s Wedding day at Mistwood Golf Club was a beautiful way to tie up all the loose ends that last year brought them. It was just as meaningful as their intimate ceremony in 2020, but this time every single loved one and family member was present to celebrate and bless their marriage. Jenn’s immediate family members live in Germany, so they were unable to witness their first ceremony. June 25th, 2021 was a total redemption and a reminder of how beautiful it is to begin a marriage with the love, support, and blessings of those closest to us.
Jenn was also able to finally put on her Hayley Paige gown and twirl that gorgeous full skirt! The classic details, black suits and bridesmaid dresses, and gorgeous white florals by Kio Kreations were a treat to capture all day! And, for the very first time, we watched a live painter recreate Jenn & Aaron’s first dance throughout the reception.
We’re so thrilled for these two to have finally gotten to celebrate with their nearest and dearest, but we will absolutely miss them, as it’s been an honor to have communicated with them over the past few years! Jenn and Aaron, we wish you the happiest life together in Georgia and thank you from the bottom of our hearts to have gotten to be a part of these beautiful celebrations!
Vendor Love:
Venue - Mistwood Golf Club
Florals - Kio Kreations
Hair & Makeup - Beaute Luxe
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
DJ - Perry Dontae - Spark Entertainment
Cake - Smallcakes - Naperville
Donuts - Donut Den
Mini Pies - Happy Apple Pie Shop
Live Reception Painting - Cindy Scott
Dress - From Bella Bianca Couture Chicago by Hayley Paige
Bridesmaid Dresses - David's Bridal
Suits - Men's Warehouse
Photo Booth - Spark Entertainment
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Port Washington, Wisconsin Engagement Session - Kallie & Matt
When I met up with Kallie & Matt in their neck of the woods in Port Washington, WI for their engagement session, I couldn’t believe that I still hadn’t seen this beautiful area yet. And, I think I’m going to have to admit that it’s probably my newest favorite location for an engagement session.
I think I could live in the Midwest my whole life and still never cease to be amazed by the beauty of this area in the summertime. We live right between the City of Chicago and the border of Wisconsin. The diversity of the rural and urban areas that we have driving access to with one hour keeps us on our toes. Even after living here for almost 9 years now, we’re still discovering new locations. I have to be honest though, the Wisconsin area has been stealing our hearts lately. Have you ever heard the stereotype about everyone in Wisconsin being so dang nice? Well, it’s true and we have the most incredible couples to prove it. When I met up with Kallie & Matt in their neck of the woods in Port Washington, WI for their engagement session, I couldn’t believe that I still hadn’t seen this beautiful area yet. And, I think I’m going to have to admit that it’s probably my newest favorite location for an engagement session. There’s no where more beautiful in the summertime than Lake Michigan. The cherry on top was getting to shoot these two love birds who were up for ANYTHING! Y’all, walking down these dunes was not for the faint of heart, so huge props to Kallie for going with it like a pro! Matt and Kallie were such a treat to capture because they’re two of the most playful, fun, and carefree souls I’ve ever met. We were already excited about their wedding day and now it’s without a doubt going to be one for the books! Kallie & Matt, thank you so much for the honor of getting to capture this little part of your engagement in your stomping grounds! September of 2022 cannot come soon enough and we’re off the charts ready for it!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | The Abbey & Pier 290 Wedding - Beth & Pat
June 19th was a dream of a day. Beth and Pat’s destination wedding at Pier 290 in Lake Geneva was truly one for the books. All the magic was made possible by a dream team of Lake Geneva vendors who made everything so lovely. We were so excited to get to start with day with Jillian Nieman and capture some of the most beautiful colors by Lily Pots. (Seeing that color palette right off the bat helps set the tone instantly for what’s to come!) Also, can we just talk about how incredible Jillian Nieman is! She’s truly one of the most sincere makeup artists we’ve ever encountered. …she literally did Beth’s makeup with the bouquet to perfectly match Beth’s lip color to her florals. She also comes along for touchups throughout first look, portraits, and ceremony.
June 19th was a dream of a day. Beth and Pat’s destination wedding at Pier 290 in Lake Geneva was truly one for the books. All the magic was made possible by a dream team of Lake Geneva vendors who made everything so lovely. We were so excited to get to start with day with Jillian Nieman and capture some of the most beautiful colors by Lily Pots. (Seeing that color palette right off the bat helps set the tone instantly for what’s to come!) Also, can we just talk about how incredible Jillian Nieman is! She’s truly one of the most sincere makeup artists we’ve ever encountered. …she literally did Beth’s makeup with the bouquet to perfectly match Beth’s lip color to her florals. She also comes along for touchups throughout first look, portraits, and ceremony.
Just like so many other couples planning their 2020 weddings, Beth and Pat needed to postpone their wedding to 2021 so they could be surrounded by their nearest and dearest. It’s been such a joy to get to communicate with Beth over these past two years. She’s truly one of those brides that you look forward to getting to spend the day with …and by the end of this day, we couldn’t help but want to be friends.
Beth and Pat started their day at The Abbey Resort and Spa. (In our humble opinions, THE BEST way to get yourself into that relaxed lakeside vibe for waterfront portraits will always be at this iconic resort! After their sweet first look, Beth & Pat were joined by all of their children and family members. There’s nothing more beautiful than two families coming together to become one and their ceremony overlooking the lake at Pier 290 encompassed all of those emotions and beauty. Directly after they said “I do” with one of the most epic flower tosses of all time, the Duchess of Lake Geneva’s Cruise Line awaiting Pat, Beth, and their guests for cocktail hour and a ride circling the entire lake before dropping them back off for their reception. I think if we were to concoct the most perfect day, it would include every single part of this beautiful wedding.
Beth & Pat, we truly couldn’t have been more honored to have been a part of your team! We know this day has been a long time of anticipation and waiting! Your love for each other is so genuine and sincere, but it’s all of that plus your love for your children that has melted us. Thank you and the biggest congratulations!
Vendor Love:
Resort - The Abbey Resort & Spa
Venue - Pier 290
Florals - Lily Pots
Hair & Makeup - Jillian Nieman Makeup & Hair
Cruise - Cruise Lake Geneva
Cake - Julie Michelle Cakes
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Cantigny Park Engagement Session - Rebecca & Talen
This weekend, Illinois was showing off for us. Cantigny Park is one of those local locations that I could never get bored of. So, between the weather, the light from this past weekend, and getting to know Rebeca and Talen a little bit better during their engagement session, it was such a beautiful reminder of what a gift this job is.
We’ve been waiting more than a year for an evening like this one. I’m talking even beyond what 2020 was. Every February, when we think about packing up and moving South to warmer temps, it’s evenings like this one that keep us here. It’s our lush green parks, the most beautiful summer golden hours, and the kindest Midwestern couples that keep us put in this neck of the woods. I love engagement sessions because they really do give me a chance to get to know our couples before the big day and start building a relationship, trust, and confidence before we arrive on their wedding day full speed ahead. When I headed down to the Wheaton area for their engagement session at Cantigny Park, one of the very first things they told me was that they really “weren’t picture people”. Anytime one of our couples tells me that, it’s music to my ears. It means their genuine personalities and laid back attitudes will be a treat to capture. There won’t be any extra layers that we have to shed to get down to what really maters about our time together. Their connection with each other won’t be overshadowed by any extra productions.Couples who don’t consider themselves “picture people” are our kind of people!
This weekend, Illinois was showing off for us. Cantigny Park is one of those local locations that I could never get bored of. So, between the weather, the light from this past weekend, and getting to know Rebeca and Talen a little bit better during their engagement session, it was such a beautiful reminder of what a gift this job is. I think if you work in the events industry in any capacity, this past year most likely played with your psyche to say the least. After getting to spend an evening with these two, I’m more than hopeful about the year ahead and beyond. Rebecca and Talen, we cannot wait for your big day!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Celeste Wedding - Sam & Jordin
It was such an honor to get to capture Sam & Jordin’s Chicago wedding! We’ve gotten to spend a couple weddings with Sam and it was such a treat to see some of our past couples again. Despite the restrictions that Chicago was still under on May 15th, I think every part of this day was perfectly planned and tailored to fit both Sam & Jordin. Their laid back, yet sophisticated style was a TREAT to get to capture. After their ceremony, the first place we stopped was their condo for a mini rooftop session with their dogs, Duke & Shredder. They incorporated their love for their fur babies in the cutest details throughout the day (Head down for their gorgeous watercolor invites and signature cocktails). These two reminded us how important it is to stick to your guns on how you want to send your day. It’s ALL about the two of you and your memories. Do the things that make you happy and skip anything extra that doesn’t. It’s that simple.
Sam & Jordin, thank you for the honor! This day has been a long time coming and we’re so excited to share all the love and beautiful details!
Vendor Love:
Hotel - The Gwen
Church - Saint Alphonsus
Venue - Celeste
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Florals - KI House
Makeup & Hair - Bridal Beauty Team
Invitations - Emily Quigley Ink
Dress - Sarah Seven
Suit - ALESSANDRO PIRÈS
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding - Laura & Terry
There are no words for how excited we were for this day. Laura and Terry have been such a joy to work with as they’ve navigated what this year has brought and they were the most perfect couple to kick off this 2021 wedding season. I think “delightful” is an understatement in describing these two and the way they interacted with one another, their families, and their friends.
One of the most memorable moments from their day was right after their first look. They gathered their bridal party and parents to have their very own private vow ceremony before we left for church. Their joy was contagious and it was the perfect reminder of what a true privilege it is to get to stand witness and capture these moments to treasure for generations to come.
Laura and Terry, it was such a gift to be a part of your beautiful day! If this is a picture of what is yet to come, then it’s one beautiful future for your family! We hope you had the best time in Hawaii!
Vendor Love:
Getting Ready - The Westin North Shore
Church - St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church
Venue - Chevy Chase Country Club
Planning - Hailey Andersson, Simply Elegant Group
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Videography - Whole Heart Video
Florals - Kay Sordel
Makeup - Makeup By Jaycie
Hair - Antigua Bridal Hair
Cake - Lovin' Oven Cakery
Dress - Elysee by Enzoani
Tux - Thomas James
Strings - Yazz Jazz
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Engagement Session - Laura & Terry
We are so excited to begin our 2021 wedding season this year! So, it’s the perfect time to share Laura & Terry’s beautiful Chicago Engagement Session in Lincoln Park and North Avenue Beach as we gear up for their May wedding! We SO excited to kick this year off and we so insanely thankful for our couples this year!
We are so excited to begin our 2021 wedding season this year! So, it’s the perfect time to share Laura & Terry’s beautiful Chicago Engagement Session in Lincoln Park and North Avenue Beach as we gear up for their May wedding! We SO excited to kick this year off and we so insanely thankful for our couples this year!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Engagement - Julia & Matt
What a treat to get to meet up with Julia and Matt downtown this week! It can be really unpredictable in the spring, so after one raincheck, we met up on the Riverwalk on a perfect April day. The blossoms were in full bloom all over the city. Julia and Matt are as lovely as they come. I know we’ve mentioned it before, but we are so incredibly grateful for the kind and laidback couples that we get the honor of capturing this year. We’re so excited for their wedding day! Until then, here’s a little preview of these two lovebirds and their Spring Engagement Session in Chicago.
What a treat to get to meet up with Julia and Matt downtown this week! It can be really unpredictable in the spring, so after one raincheck, we met up on the Riverwalk on a perfect April day. The blossoms were in full bloom all over the city. Julia and Matt are as lovely as they come. I know we’ve mentioned it before, but we are so incredibly grateful for the kind and laidback couples that we get the honor of capturing this year. We’re so excited for their wedding day! Until then, here’s a little preview of these two lovebirds and their Spring Engagement Session in Chicago.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Backyard Wedding - Ashlie & Andrew
We've never had the opportunity to capture an actual backyard wedding until 2020. Ashlie and Andrew’s day was hands down one of the loveliest, most romantic, and intimate weddings I’ve ever witnessed. They said “I do” in their parents’ backyard surrounded by their closest friends and family members. We dodged the rain during their first look and portraits by going back and forth between the yard and the front porch. And just after their ceremony and family photos, the heavens opened up and it was a summer rain storm for the books. Despite all the hardships of 2020, this day is one of my favorites. So much heart, intentionality, and all about what matters most. The biggest congratulations to Ashlie & Andrew!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Spring Outfitting Guide
Spring Outfitting Guide
Gravitate towards pastel colors that are soft and light. Too much deep and dark tones will make the skin appear more sallow during this time of year. Depending on how early or late into Spring it is, the earth can be more brown and bare. To counter the brownish tones, dress in light and airy color tones. Pure white is wonderful as an accent color, but limits the types of light that are flattering to shoot in. Pastel tones such as soft blushes, blues, and lavender are very flattering during this time of year. (Reference the gallery below) It’s usually fairly windy in Spring, so breezy long dresses or skirts would photograph beautifully! Think fabric that you can be twirled in easily! Long dresses or skirts can also elongate and create a sliming effect on camera. (A God-send for both Engagement Sessions, Maternity Sessions, and lifestyle sessions right after baby is born.) For men, long pants, rather than shorts also help elongate. Also, steer clear of horizontal stripes. They almost always broaden and create an illusion that you are wider than you really are.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | 2021 Mini Sessions
2021 Mini Sessions
Each year we look forward to seeing past couples and their growing families, as well as meeting amazing new couples and families for our annual mini sessions! Usually, we are trying to squeeze these sessions in at the last moment since weddings have been our main focus for the last 9 years. 2020 has given us a new perspective and appreciation for family and lifestyle photography. It’s such a privilege to capture your family, whether its a family of two or ten, toddlers or fur babies, and we can’t wait to see you again!
This year we have planned four Mini Session weekends for 2021 available for booking depending on the season you are most interested. These weekends are reserved on a first come, first serve basis and you can reserve your date and time below.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wedding Prep- Planning For Your Getting Ready Photos
Take a deep breath. You've got this! And we've got your back. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you're going to enjoy every single moment. Because when you blink, it's all over! A well planned timeline will not only ensure you're going to have a stress free day, but it ensures that we can capture every single moment for you to treasure for decades to come! Let’s talk all about Wedding Prep and everything you need to ensure its beautifully documented!
Its all in the details…
Take a deep breath. You've got this! And we've got your back. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you're going to enjoy every single moment. Because when you blink, it's all over! A well planned timeline will not only ensure you're going to have a stress free day, but it ensures that we can capture every single moment for you to treasure for decades to come! Let’s talk all about Wedding Prep and everything you need to ensure its beautifully documented!
wedding prep PHOTOS
These first couple of hours are a fabulous way to set the tone for the entire day! Every bride deserves to enjoy the morning with her girls and get a little TLC. If you have the luxury of hiring a makeup or hair artist to take care of you and your bridesmaids, we strongly encourage you to do so. (And if you need a recommendation, we would LOVE to send you a list of our favorites!) These artists are experts at ensuring your hair and makeup will last till the very end of the day. Having a team in place to take care of those getting ready details ensures that you will get to sit back, relax, and have a wonderful time with your closest ladies. So, turn on some music, and enjoy a mimosa or two!
Location
If possible, we recommend that the bridesmaids and groomsmen get ready at the same location (hotel or ceremony location). If you’d like to have final prep photos taken of both the bride and groom, it’s so helpful for not only your photo/video team, but it’s also helpful for the bride, groom, planners, and florists. Lots of communication and transferring of details / information is happening at the beginning of the day. It can save a whole lot of headaches on everyone’s end if everyone is in close proximity. If it is not possible to get ready at the same location, then we recommend getting ready no further than 20 minutes away from each other. This will ensure that you’re getting the most captured with us during our time with you.
Looking for a photogenic Prep Location?
It’s all about natural light and neutral colors. Your space doesn’t need to be huge. It also doesn’t necessarily have to have those creamy white walls either. It’s the natural light that’s the most important factor. White ceilings also help immensely and color tones that compliment your color palette.
DETAILS
When we arrive to the Bridal Suite, we always recommend that we start off with the Bride's detail's right away. We've found that if we don't, the day rolls like a snowball and we will never get a chance to shoot those important details later on. So, have all your details ready to go when we arrive.
Here’s what we’ll need from you:
- dress (& your special hanger if you have one)
- rings
- A ring box (if you decide on having one)
- shoes
- veil
- invitations
- loose blooms from your florist (*such a beautiful detail to incorporate. Make sure you ask your florist with plenty of notice )
- jewelry
Here’s what we’ll bring with us:
- flat lays (to arrange your paper goods, rings, and shoes on)
- silk ribbon
- A light blue Mrs. box to arrange your ring in
- Cheese cloth
- extra neutral fabric
We also recommend giving us 30 minutes to shoot all of these details when we arrive. As soon as we are finished we are focused on you, your ladies, and all the candid bliss of wedding prep! Get your cute robes on and lets pop the champagne!
GETTING INTO THE DRESS
We are true believers that this moment should be savored and never rushed over! This is when the day gets REAL! Remember to give yourself plenty of time to get into your dress. We recommend 15 - 20 minutes. Especially if there are intricate buttons, details, or lacing involved! And, if it's just a simple zip, make sure to still give yourself extra buffer time just in case. We've seen some last minute wardrobe malfunctions, but there's no stress if you've given yourself plenty of buffer time to handle those fixes with the help of your lady squad.
useful items you might want to have on hand:
- steamer
- scissors
- needle & thread
- button hook
- Static guard
- stain remover pen (never use before testing on a small unseen portion of the dress)
*We love to encourage whoever is helping you into your dress to get dressed first so they’re confident and photo ready. We’ve got your momma’s back too!
GROOM & GROOMSMEN
We encourage the groom to set aside just 30 minutes for getting ready photos. We encourage you to be “pants ready”. That means that you’ve already showered, hair is ready, pants, undershirt, and base shirt are ironed and on. Let those last details be captured during Jordan's arrival such as neckties, cufflinks, jackets, and watches.
* A note about Neckties: If you have never tied a necktie before, make sure to practice before the day of your wedding. It can be quite a learning experience and time consuming if you wait to try for the first time on your big day. There are lots of great youtube videos out there to learn ahead of time.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Autumn Wedding - Sarah & Scott
This was our very last wedding of 2020 and I can’t think of a better way to have capped it all off. Sarah & Scott were absolutely amazing navigating all the changes just days before their wedding as the Chicago area began shutting back down again. Many of their plans may have changed, but it didn’t seem to phase them or the joy and celebration that was October 31st, 2020. They decided on changing their reception space to a small intimate gathering with their closest family and friends at a friend’s beautiful home in the suburbs. It truly was such an honor to capture and witness such a sacred day. 2020 has changed how we see weddings and it’s all been because of the most incredible couples this year who decided that their love couldn’t be canceled. We celebrate Sarah & Scott. Their attitudes, their joy, their ability to roll with all the punches 2020 may have brought their way. If every couple can get through the challenges of what 2020 brought and still decide to tie the knot regardless what what or how they envisioned their day to be, then we truly believe they’re going to be able to weather the storm. Because marriage isn’t perfect. It’s full of a few unseen 2020’s. But, it’s about the commitment to saying yes every single day even if the circumstances surrounding you aren’t perfect. …and even though Sarah & Scott’s plans may have changed, we think it turned out even more perfect than the original plan. These two are the real deal and they showed every bit of that during this season. We respect and appreciate them both! Enjoy all the beauty from their perfect day!
This was our very last wedding of 2020 and I can’t think of a better way to have capped it all off. Sarah & Scott were absolutely amazing navigating all the changes just days before their wedding as the Chicago area began shutting back down again. Many of their plans may have changed, but it didn’t seem to phase them or the joy and celebration that was October 31st, 2020. They decided on changing their reception space to a small intimate gathering with their closest family and friends at a friend’s beautiful home in the suburbs. It truly was such an honor to capture and witness such a sacred day. 2020 has changed how we see weddings and it’s all been because of the most incredible couples this year who decided that their love couldn’t be canceled. We celebrate Sarah & Scott. Their attitudes, their joy, their ability to roll with all the punches 2020 may have brought their way. If every couple can get through the challenges of what 2020 brought and still decide to tie the knot regardless what what or how they envisioned their day to be, then we truly believe they’re going to be able to weather the storm. Because marriage isn’t perfect. It’s full of a few unseen 2020’s. But, it’s about the commitment to saying yes every single day even if the circumstances surrounding you aren’t perfect. …and even though Sarah & Scott’s plans may have changed, we think it turned out even more perfect than the original plan. These two are the real deal and they showed every bit of that during this season. We respect and appreciate them both! Enjoy all the beauty from their perfect day!
Vendor Love:
Church - Our Lady of Perpetual Help: Glenview, IL
Videography - Our Wedding Movie
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Hair & Makeup - Deco Adamo
Gown - Jenny Yoo
Florals - Polly’s Petal’s & Particulars
