Gillson Park Wedding: Libby & Michael
Gillson Park wedding days have a special kind of magic, and Libby and Michael’s celebration at Gillson Park was the perfect mix of heartfelt, relaxed, and beautifully meaningful from the very beginning.
Getting Ready at Graduate Hotel
The day started at The Graduate Hotel in Evanston, where the atmosphere felt calm but full of anticipation. Libby got dressed surrounded by love, laughter, and those quiet pockets of emotion that always feel so genuine. There were deep breaths, warm hugs, and the unmistakable excitement that comes right before everything truly begins. By 1:45, we were on our way to Wilmette and ready for the day to unfold.
First Look and Portraits in Gillson Park in Wilmette
Their first look took place in the Wildflower Garden at Gillson Park, tucked into soft greenery and peaceful scenery. It felt intimate and emotional, one of those moments where time slows and it becomes just the two of them. Afterward, we moved through the park for portraits, stopping by Wallace Bowl, exploring garden paths, and using the steps as a beautiful backdrop. With no wedding party, the entire portrait time stayed focused on Libby and Michael. No wedding party allowed for genuine connection, laughter, and space to simply enjoy being together.
Family, Ceremony, and the Start of Celebration
Family photos followed in a quiet garden area that offered privacy, warmth, and time to soak everything in before guests arrived. The ceremony at Lakeview Center felt heartfelt and sincere, surrounded by 135 people who love them deeply.
Soon after, cocktail hour began and the celebration truly came to life. Guests gathered, speeches were shared, and the room filled with laughter and happy emotion. A standout moment was surprising Libby’s mom with giant cannoli, and the joy and reaction made it unforgettable.
Dinner, Dancing, and Sunset at the Beach
Dinner flowed naturally into dancing, and the night filled with music, movement, and the kind of joyful energy that makes wedding days so special. Just before sunset, we slipped away to the beach for photos in the soft evening light. It felt peaceful and golden, a quiet and beautiful pause in the celebration, and such a meaningful way to capture the day.
A Night Full of Love – Gillson Park Wedding
From getting ready in Evanston to the last dance at Gillson Park, this Gillson Park wedding was filled with connection, warmth, and so many unforgettable moments. Weddings like this remind me why I love what I do. Photography should let you relive the big moments along with all the little in-between ones that tell the real story of your day.
If you are planning your own Gillson Park wedding or a celebration anywhere in Chicagoland, I would love to document it for you. Reach out to learn more about wedding photography coverage and how we can capture your story in a way that feels true to you.
CHICAGOLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
VENDORS
- PHOTOGRAPHY / SARAH NADER PHOTOGRAPHY
- VENUE / LAKEVIEW CENTER AT GILLSON BEACH
- PLANNER / CITY CHIC
- GOWN / Alice & Ivory
