This was another couple I clicked with from the first inquiry and knew they would be ideal clients. When I responded to Tiana's first email, I also asked how she found me. She said a good ol' internet search and were happy when finding my website as they were tired of asking other photographers if two brides were ok. Absolutely! We bonded right away over commonalities such as the love of our dogs, fun sentiments, and also the fact that my step-daughter's name is Alexis. Turns out the name coincidences didn't stop there as we'll later find out...

Alexis and Tiana decided to travel from Michigan to Chicago to say their vows and invited parents and grandparents to share the day with them. They chose Chicago because Alexis was born in Illinois and her dad and step mom live down state. Plus, who wouldn't love to tie the knot in our awesome city and take in the stunning sights! Before heading downtown to city hall, the brides shared a beautiful first look.

The brides did their research well and instead of ordering bouquets, they hired Youth & Yarrow flower truck so they could pick out their flowers themselves right in front of city hall. Youth & Yarrow donates 15% of profits to the community, especially towards opportunities for young people. Such a cool idea, company, and truck!

Then it was time to get down to business! After a short wait at city hall, it was their turn and they could not have asked for a better or nicer judge to perform the ceremony. But the city hall hospitality didn't stop there - while taking photos in the atrium, two security guards approached and asked how they had met (they had been making their own guesses) and invited them up to take some (quick!) photos on the infamous 4th floor in front of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's office!  Of course, just my "luck" I was off getting the car, but luckily my awesome second photographer and assistant, Shannon, was there to capture it!

I forgot to mention that this was in July when we had the week of oppressive heat and humidity.  It was in the 90's and impossibly muggy.  They held up beautifully! (Me, not so much!) My photo assistant, Shannon, and I even got ourselves on the other side of the camera with the couple!  Speaking of Shannon, not only is that Alexis' mother's name, but her step-mom is named Melissa - Quel Coincidence!

Then we headed around town for some obligatory Chicago sights photos.  But the best part was when the couple decided to have a first dance. They brought a blue tooth speaker with them (and I couldn't help but to bring some bubbly) and they shared a beautiful moment in front of Buckingham Fountain.  It wasn't too crowded that evening by the fountain, but these brides were completely lost in each other and would have been oblivious of others even if there was a crowd of a million.

I had such a great time getting to know these ladies, helping to plan the day, and then being part of their wedding day.  We got to know each other over FaceTime while planning as they live in Michigan.  These are definitely clients I will stay in touch with through their adventures together!