A completely unique ceremony in the heart of downtown Chicago!
9.7.24
Janese and Alan had their wedding reception at Porter Kitchen and Deck right on the river. Their ceremony was right outside the venue in a public park, with the El train and boats zooming by them. The couple loved the feel of being in the middle of the city, noises and all! We started the day at a hotel nearby, where Janese got ready with her bridesmaids and her mother and Alan got ready with his best man. The couple had their first look at Riverpoint Park overlooking the Chicago River. Yes, there were tears! I captured their private vows before we went to the riverwalk to take portraits.
Before their ceremony, the couple and their wedding party walked along the riverwalk, enjoying those quiet moments together. It was a beautiful September day, and everyone was so happy to enjoy the weather. One of my favorite feelings on a wedding day is the calm vibes of the couple just spending time together and talking about their mornings and how excited they are to walk down the aisle. Janese had the most beautiful botanical bouquet and long veil, and we captured so many windswept moments.
The couple’s ceremony was held just outside Porter Kitchen and Deck on a set of circular concrete stairs overlooking the Chicago River. The weather was perfect for an outdoor ceremony too. Janese’s long veil blew in the wind, and it looked so cinematic. Some of my favorite moments from the day were like this: completely unposed and unscripted. Following their ceremony, everyone headed inside to Porter Kitchen and Deck for cocktail hour. The best thing about this venue is they also have a deck right on the river!
Janese and Alan went right into their first dance at the reception, followed by some toasts (and roasts!) from friends and family. We snuck away for some beautiful night photos along the river before they each shared special dances with their parents. They ended the night with dancing, drinking, and sharing giant soft pretzels! Janese also changed into the cutest party dress for dancing. I absolutely love a personal wedding, and everything about this day felt so authentic to Janese and Alan. I hope to get to shoot another wedding at Porter Kitchen and Deck soon; it left a lasting impression on me.
Congratulations, Janese and Alan!
VENDORS:
Venue: Porter Kitchen and Deck
Film: Scanned and developed by Bellows Film Lab
