First Look

These images are by far my most favorite. Rob and I opted to do a first look and I couldn’t have been happier that we did. As I mentioned earlier this week, I was terribly nervous all day and seeing him in the privacy of the hotel room was exactly what I needed to get rid of my nerves. I was hiding in a room when he first came in and then walked out, touched his shoulder, and naturally, started crying. It was such a wave of emotion, but I’m so glad that it happened here with the two of us and not down the aisle. We were only in the room for about ten minutes, but it was so wonderful to get to spend some time alone with your groom, before all the craziness starts.

By the time we went downstairs and out for images, my stomach had stopped churning and I felt silly for being so nervous in the first place. If you’re anything like me, do a first look. I’ve heard that people want to save that first look when going down the aisle, but I’m glad we didn’t. When I walked in, I was so overwhelmed that Rob was probably the fifth person I looked at!

We took our portraits at Olive Park with the Chicago skyline and four other wedding parties — popular spot — and then headed to the Chicago History Museum for the main event!

P.S. How dapper does Rob look?! I keep telling him he needs to wear tuxes more often!

Wedding Vendors

CEREMONY & WEDDING VENUE: Chicago History Museum / DRESS: my mom’s gown, re-designed by Patti Flowers / SHOES: Michael Kors / TUX: custom Hickey Freeman by Culwell & Son / BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Jenny Yoo Aidan Dress / PHOTOGRAPHER: Taylor Lord / FLOWERS: Stems Chicago / CATERER: Food For Thought / WEDDING PLANNER: LK Events, Nicole Zenner / BAND: Gold Coast All Stars / CAKE: Amy Beck Cake Design / MAKEUP: Brian Sutherby, Muse Salon / STRING QUARTET: Artistrings / OFFICIANT: Rev. Dave Angle

photography by Taylor Lord