Jill + Michael

I can't quite put into words just how amazing it was to photograph this wedding, but I'm going to do my best.

The beautiful bride here, Jillian, is my cousin. As family, I've always thought how wonderful it is that we each share our unique talents (authors! hairstylists! musicians! videographers! actresses!) and will always lend a hand-- or our talents-- to each other. Hey, we're family. It's what we do! Though this may be a bordering on what's acceptable to share in the 'professional world', I've spent some of the toughest nights of my life (after a bad breakup and brand new move to Chicago) in my cousin Jill's old apartment. Hell, she's even the first person to introduce me to IPA's! And to those that know me, you understand how much I love India Pale Ales ;)  I will never, ever forget that-- and look, some odd eight or nine years later we're here, both married, savoring life's adventures. Its incredible. To Jill, I love you always! : )

 

- - - - -

Details:
Ceremony: Murphy and Son's Irish Bistro
Reception: Murphy and Son's Irish Bistro
Photos: La Baugh Woods, Winnemac Park
Dress: Vera Wang
DJ: Chicagoland DJ Services
Menu: BBQ Ribs, Mac N' Cheese (yes, seriously!! it was amazing!!)
Cake: Sandra Evans
 

Mike + Cat

When I first met up with Mike + Cat to discuss their plans for the day, it was simply this: a dinner party, with a splash of wedding. No formal shots, nothing too posed, just feelings and emotions from what was to be the best "dinner party" they have ever thrown. I've known Mike since 2009 and was humbled to be a part of his and (gorgeous!) Cat's day. They are the most incredibly talented and radical people you will ever meet. As I went back while editing these photos, I couldn't help but have the same giddy feelings I did while I was there-- you can just see the joy on so many people's faces. Love is a beautiful thing, especially when we can all share in that celebration side by side. (And maybe bust open a few piñatas while we're at it.)