Chicago History Museum Wedding: Michelle & Eric

Michelle and Eric’s Chicago History Museum wedding was such a unique and memorable day to photograph. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I don’t always get timelines like this, and I loved how intentional and relaxed the entire experience felt from start to finish. Their Chicago History Museum wedding was split into two parts, which made the day feel slow, peaceful, and really present in the best way.

Getting Ready

I started the morning at the Claridge House at 7:30 a.m. for getting ready. The couple actually began the day together in a very calm way before Eric headed off to get into his wedding suit. There was something really peaceful about the whole morning, like everyone was just enjoying the moment without rushing. Michelle then stepped into her beautiful lace gown and shared a first look with her bridesmaids, who were each wearing colorful, mismatched dresses that added so much personality to the morning. She also had a very emotional first look with her dad, which was such a meaningful part of the day.

After that, we walked over to Restoration Hardware for Michelle and Eric’s first look. It was relaxed, fun, and honestly felt like the perfect way for them to see each other before heading into the rest of their Chicago History Museum wedding day. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I love when couples build in time like this because it allows everything to feel more natural and less rushed.

Chicago History Museum Wedding

From there, we made our way to the Chicago History Museum for their ceremony. We took couple portraits inside and around the area before guests arrived, and they even included their dog in some of the photos, which was such a sweet touch. Their Chicago History Museum wedding ceremony was outdoors on a hot and sunny summer day. It was especially meaningful because a family member officiated, which made the entire experience feel even more personal. One of the cutest moments was their dog walking down the aisle with Eric.

After the ceremony, we did a big celebratory guest photo on the steps of the Chicago History Museum, which was so much fun and full of energy. The couple then enjoyed a brunch cocktail hour, and after that there was a nice break in the day. I met back up with them later downtown along the Riverwalk for sunset portraits, which gave the gallery a completely different city feel. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I always love when couples carve out time for evening portraits like this.

BLVD Steakhouse Reception

Their reception at BLVD Steakhouse was intimate and beautiful. The semi outdoor space, incredible food, heartfelt speeches, and relaxed atmosphere made it feel like the perfect ending to their Chicago History Museum wedding experience. There was no dancing, just great company, food, and conversation, which felt very true to them.

Michelle and Eric, your Chicago History Museum wedding was thoughtful, emotional, and so beautifully paced. Such an honor to be part of your day. Congratulations again