Chicago Jewish Orthodox and Sephardic Persian Wedding Photography at Belvedere Banquets – Adina & Ilan

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Jewish Orthodox weddings have quickly become my favorite type of Chicago wedding to photograph – I strongly believe that EVERY wedding should include shtick because I’ve quickly learned that there is no better way to discover the true hidden talents of family and friends.   Combine the Jewish shtick with dark, dashing Persian good looks (like Shaina & Moshie’s wedding) and you get a celebration for the books.  Which is why we were so excited for Adina and Ilan’s Jewish Orthodox/Sephardic Persian wedding.  But don’t let their sweet ‘Precious Moments’ romance and ring-pop proposal fool you – these two Maryland alumni are full of sass and laughs and a little east-coast spice and we were beyond excited to photograph their big day!

When we arrived at Belvedere Banquets on the morning of the wedding, we found Adina in the bridal prep room with the team from Love My Results Beauty highlighting her already porcelain skin and already looking like a princess with her ivory robe and sparkly tiara.  While we were sympathetic to Ilan’s attempts to get a glimpse at his bride, we shooed him away from the lobby before bringing down Adina’s gown and accessories for a photo shoot.

Once Adina swapped her robe for her beautiful Blue by Enzoani gown and glittery TOMS, she met Ilan at the bottom of the staircase for their First Look.  The courtyard outside featured an ivy-covered wall that was perfect for portraits and you couldn’t guess that we were outside on what was probably the only hot day this summer, with as calm and cool as these two looked.  We noticed little pops of color every time Ilan or one of his brothers walked by, so we made sure to get a few detail shots of their socks as well as Adina’s creamy bouquet from A Gentle Wind Florist before heading inside to cool off and begin the festivities.

Guests began to arrive for the Kabbalat Panim, with the men joining Ilan in the Tisch room and Adina welcoming the ladies on her throne next door.  The music and excited chatter from the two rooms filled the banquet hall, coming to a crescendo with the men parading in for the Badeken.  Ilan pulled the veil over his bride for her final blessing before the ceremony.

The aisle was lined with stunning floral arrangements of submerged orchids topped with hydrangeas and roses, although nothing could top the beauty of Adina’s smile as her parents escorted to the chuppah and her waiting groom.  The light framed them perfectly, reflecting off the fabrics and giving them an ethereal glow as they exchanged vows.  The sound of breaking glass brought wishes of ‘Mazel Tov’ from around the room and the crowd surged around the newlyweds, singing in celebration as they escorted them to the yichud.

At this point we recognize the signature table settings from Danziger Catering and we know that Karen and her team provide an excellent meal and well-executed reception, so we were super excited to see their pretty plum chargers accenting the pewter centerpieces on the tables.  Adina and Ilan were welcomed in through arches and directly to the dance floor for the first dance set.  After a quick break to wine, dine, and toast, everyone filled the dance floor again for my personal favorite, shtick.  I am constantly amazed at the acrobatic feats and although I’m an IU alumni, I definitely appreciated the boisterous performance of the Maryland fight song (complete with UM apparel.)

Adina and Ilan, thank you so much for choosing us to photograph and participate in your amazing wedding.  We were charmed by the way you teased each other and your cute stolen glances during the ceremony – you are too adorable and we can’t wait to see you again soon!

If you are looking for a wedding photographer in Chicago to capture the memorable moments at your wedding, and interested in our availability and pricing, please drop us a line using the online inquiry form here.