Carolyn and Michael were married at the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago a couple of weeks ago. It stormed like crazy the morning of their wedding, but thankfully, just in time for all the festivities to begin – the rain let up and it ended up being an absolutely beautiful night for a wedding (as you will see)!
The thing that struck me most about these two during the planning process was how calm and prepared they both were, and in turn – how relaxed it made them on their big day. The ceremony was so personal and absolutely beautiful, and included a poem that Carolyn wrote for Michael (read by one of their friends). Carolyn is an incredibly talented and intelligent woman, and on top of all her other achievements, she apparently can also write some amazing poetry! (The poem had everyone in tears, including Michael …and myself!)
All in all – it was a perfect night – filled with lots of personal touches (like photos of the two of them from all different races they’ve run together at each table), laughter, love, tears, and most importantly – some awesome dance moves! 😉
We made time for portraits before the ceremony so that Michael & Carolyn could enjoy most of their time afterwards celebrating with family and friends!
Absolutely loved her dress! I’m all about low/open backs! Beautiful!
They also opted to do a First Look before the ceremony – which really helped with portrait timing throughout the rest of the day! This way we could take care of most of the bridal party photos before the ceremony and leave the time after the ceremony for some family photos and bride/groom portraits… It was perfect!
And now… ceremony time!
For those who worry that the First Look will take away from the moment they see each other walking down the aisle – look no further than this photo for proof that each moment is special in its own right! The look on Michael’s face in the photo below says it all! (And gets me crying every time I see it!)
Loved this moment I snuck up on (below) after the ceremony! So sweet…
Carolyn & Michael, thank you so much for including me in your beautiful day! I wish you two all the best in the world!!
