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Let me just say that although I’m married with a wonderful husband, if I had a girl-crush on anybody, it would totally be Becky. Not only is this girl outgoing and funny, she’s smart and beautiful (with great taste in music!) and I can completely understand Sean’s infatuation. Joshua first met with Sean and Becky when they were searching for their Chicago wedding photographer at a bridal show and got to know the couple very well in the months leading up to the wedding. Not only did he shoot their engagement session with their adorable puppy, he also did some intense CrossFit training sessions with Sean. Combine all this with the fact that the couple graciously recommended us to some of their engaged friends (turning their big day into a mini-reunion) and we were so excited!
We met up with Becky and her ladies in their suite at the Renaissance Schaumburg on a beautiful Saturday morning. Her hair was already set in jumbo rollers and she danced around the room in her ‘Bride’ bathrobe, cocktail in hand and joking with her bridesmaids. We grabbed a few detail shots (those brownies looked sooo good) before kidnapping Becky’s gorgeous Demetrios gown for its own personal glamour session.
Over in the guy’s swanky digs, the atmosphere was much calmer – almost meditative (wink, wink). I am convinced that Sean has Don Draper eyes, and the suspenders and coordinated accessories completed his look. The Renaissance lobby was full of classic, vintage décor that was perfect for groomsmen portraits that look absolutely timeless.
After slipping into her (let’s be real, damn sexy) gown, Becky headed downstairs for her ‘pseudo’ first look with Sean. The couple exchanged love letters and squeezed each other’s hands in encouragement. It was such a touching and emotional moment that we all had tears in our eyes just watching them!
The guys retreated back upstairs so we could do a photo session with the ladies. They all looked so pretty in their plum gowns and we loved their orchid bouquets from Yanni Design Studio. Becky was radiating an ethereal glow, so we explored some more feminine locations including this awesome art wall and a small grove of flowering trees.
Everyone knows a good bartender is one who can keep secrets, and we’re so happy we found a good one – Becky and Sean each separately wanted to stop in the bar for a funny ‘drunk’ photo without letting the other know. We were all game for their hijinks and can’t stop laughing at the results.
Guests began to arrive and fill the jewel-toned Phoenix Room for the ceremony. The simple sheer drapery highlighted the dramatic orchids that lined the aisle. The musicians began playing “Two is Better than One” as Becky joined Sean at the altar. The couple included in their vows to each other ‘God’s Knot’ – a sort of binding commitment connecting the bride, the groom, and God together. With a sweet and simple kiss, Sean and Becky were presented as husband and wife.
Immediately following the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy infused beverages and tasty treats while we took the lovebirds off for their bridal portrait session. Sean couldn’t keep his eyes off Becky (with good reason) and you can feel their passion through the photos. The rest of the group joined in for a modern take on a classic Brady-Bunch pose – love it!
Once everyone had devoured dinner, the couple opened the dance floor with their first dance and parent dances. Becky and Sean have excellent taste in music and chose to bring in DJ Bobby De Maria to spin, transforming their party from wedding reception to downtown nightclub. Awesome beats and we’re positive we saw every single person out on the floor shaking their moneymakers!
Becky and Sean, thank you so much for inviting us not only to your wedding but also into your lives. We are honored to count you among our friends and we can’t wait to see you again at Jessica & Brett’s wedding!
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.
Iman Myles - Very creative shots, and elegant as always.