,

Garfield Park Conservatory Wedding: Michele + Walid

,

2015 has been a good year for this couple, full of celebrations and new beginnings. I first met Michele and Walid in March when their family of 2 became 3 and they brought little Elliot into the studio for newborn portraits. He was so cuddly and sweet.  A few months prior, Michele and Walid had secretly eloped here in Chicago at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. This fall, they decided to host a wedding reception at the Garfield Park Conservatory with their families and close friends. It was a wonderful celebration indeed!

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Morton Arboretum Engagement: Nellie + John

“…watching Nellie break into her solo dance routine at her Pom team’s Spring Dance Showcase. I was extremely preoccupied with work around that time and didn’t realize how much effort she was putting into this. But when I watched her dance that night and her girls break into utter glee, I was reminded of how truly amazing she was. I was also filled with guilt that I had briefly allowed myself (b/c of work) to forgot how truly amazing she is and how lucky I was to be with her. It was at that moment I realized how stupid I was to have someone so special in my life and for not dropping everything else going on to IMMEDIATELY propose to her. I started researching engagement rings the very next day and purchased one a couple of days later.” ~John

For me, it is easy to get so consumed with meetings, with shooting and with editing that I too can forget just how blessed I am to have my husband in my life. So reading John’s words were so endearing. The love, compassion and gentleness that he shows Nellie is so heartfelt and sweet. I am so honored to be apart of their journey. Can’t wait until their romantic wedding at Englewood Resort & Spa!

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Pazzo's 311 Chicago Wedding: Felicia+ Bart

Felicia & Bart's urban wedding took place on a warm summer day at Pazzo's 311 in Chicago, Illinois. Their marital union is a result of dreams, fate and the childhood wishes of a three year old girl. Growing up Felicia's mom always teased her about her preschool friend Bart and how everyday after preschool, Felicia would come home and tell her that she was going to marry Bart and they were going to have 13 children! Felicia often thought her mother made the story up because after all, how could a three year old already be planning a family? Fast forward 15 years to a few weeks before Felicia is set to head off to college while she is attending her friend Britton's graduation party. Britton, walks up to a group of her and her friends and introduces them to his college roommate, Bart. Felicia immediately recalls her mother's stories and tells him, "I went to preschool with a guy named Bart." As luck would have it, this was the same Bart from preschool! A few months later the two reconnected while Bart was in Chicago during Thanksgiving break and the rest is history!

The decor for this spectacular wedding is just as unique as this couple's story. The blue and purple color scheme was inspired by Felicia's favorite flower, orchids, and a navy blue James Bond tuxedo with a black lapel. Felicia loved the idea of having gold as the accent color since it was less common then silver. Consequently, gold accents ended up being much harder to find which lead to a few DIY projects which included: table numbers, gift card box, menus, escort cards, etc. In the end, these colors came together in a very tasteful and elegant way.

miss_motley_photography_0293.jpg
miss_motley_photography_0294.jpg
miss_motley_photography_0323.jpg
miss_motley_photography_0324.jpg

View their wedding slideshow below!

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this celebration to life...
Venue: Pazzo’s at 311
Event Planner: One Fine Day Events
Cake Designer: Oak Mill Bakery
Makeup Artist: Danielle Rochon Makeup
Floral Designer: Bella Flora Inc
Cinema and Video: Borrowed and Blue Productions
DJ: Charles Protege

If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

Wilmette Sheridan Shores Engagement: Amanda + Nick

There’s no greater feeling than walking away from a photo session feeling 100% reassured that photography was what you were created to do in life. That’s how I felt the night I wrapped up Amanda & Nick's engagement session. The chemistry between the two of them was so electrifying and they were so free and natural in front of the camera–seriously every photographers dream! We began their engagement at the Bahá'í House of Worship then took a stroll across the street to the beach just in time to catch a beautiful sunset. So excited for their wedding next summer at the Sheridan Shores Yacht Club!

miss_motley_photography_0387.jpg

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Downtown Elmhurst Engagement: Courtney + Andrew

Before even meeting these two in person I knew I was in for a treat. Just listening to how each of them describe the best qualities of the other was so endearing, I just knew the sparks would fly during their engagement session- and boy did they fly! It was so fun to watch them cuddle in the freezing cold. They definitely warmed my heart. Can’t wait to celebrate their big day!!! 

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

South Loop Engagement: Felicia + Bart | Chicago Wedding Photographer

I can’t even begin to describe how amazingly adorable this couple is. Their story is literally like a fairy tale–something straight out of the movies. They first met while in preschool, where a young Felicia would proclaim to her mom that she was going to marry Bart someday (talk about a self-fulfilling prophecy). Fast forward about 16 years and they reconnect with one another through a mutual friend just before heading off to college in separate states. They strike up a fast friendship and soon after begin dating. Even from several hundred miles away, their love for another remained strong. Now here they are about 9 years later on their way to the alter and their love for one another is stronger than ever before, so much that I could honestly feel it during their engagement session! I seriously had major goosebumps while editing their images. I am so honored to have been chosen to capture these special moments for them. Congratulations Bart & Felicia, I cannot wait for their glamorous summer wedding at Pazzo's 311 next year!! 

Makeup by Danielle Rochon Makeup

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

Chicago Wedding: Colleen + Nick

Sometimes you have to work hard to pull the emotions and expressions out of a client being photographed, other times, the sparks just fly on there own. This is one such case. Watching Colleen smile brightly while staring into Nick’s eyes will give you shivers. You can just tell that they are made for each other. Her bubbly spirit is the perfect compliment to his serious demeanor. After spending the day with them, I have learned that even though Nick looks like a stern serious guy- he loves his family dearly, is a loyal friend and he’s crazy in love with his bride. Colleen and Nick, it was a pleasure to be apart of your big day! Congratulations!

Special thanks to Collin Pierson of Collin Pierson Photography for second shooting this wedding with me! 

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Austin Lo'ren | Chicago Headshots

There was never a dull moment growing up with my cousin Lauren.  From running through the house playing tag,  getting in trouble for breaking something, to putting on dance performances for our entire family during the holidays-- we always had a blast together.  Lauren was the dancer in our family. She was always bouncing around, flipping and bustin' moves.  I, on the other hand, was what I like to call "rhythmically-challanged".  I had no rhythm, no coordination, and no confidence to try to perform in front of anyone.  But it never failed, every holiday season Lauren would choreograph a dance, force me learn it and make the entire family sit down and watch.  I'd be behind her stumbling over my feet and butchering all the steps she spent hours teaching me and she'd be grooving right along.  I've never met a person who loved to dance as much as she does, it just comes naturally for her.  She was destined to dance.

Lauren, I am so honored to be apart of your journey and to be able to capture these shots for you.  I wish you much success in all your endeavors.  When you make it big, don't you forget about us little people. Lol. 

Love ya girlie! :)  

,

Matthew Jeremiah 6 days old | Chicago's Newborn Photographer

,

Little Matthew and his big sisters Anna & Angelina seriously gave me baby fever.  I had the best time cuddling with this little cutie and giggling with his sisters.  They are all so very sweet.  Just from being around them for the short time that I was, I could tell that their lives are filled with parents and family members who love and adore them to the fullest.  I foresee a lot of fun days ahead for these 3!  Welcome to the world, Matthew! 

Chicago Botanic Garden Wedding: Brittany + Joel

From the day we initially met in the corner of a coffee shop, I knew Brittany & Joel would be an amazingly photogenic couple. Just as I expected, this vintage bride was stunning on her wedding day! So much that I wasn’t the only photographer snapping photos of her that day. As we walked through the Chicago Botanic Garden strangers were wiping out their phones left and right taking photos of her! It was so funny! The smiles, laughter and great attitudes were just what we needed to get us through the storm that rolled in later that day. Thanks to great supportive friends, a fun uncle who officiated the ceremony and hard-working vendors, even the rain outside couldn’t put a damper on this bride’s radiant glow! Congratulations Brittany & Joel!!

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Luke 10 days old | Chicago's Newborn Photographer

Meet Luke!  I've been waiting for his arrival all year long!  His mother, my dear friend Galina, and I have been planning his newborn session since January.  He was the perfect little sleeping baby and he was oh soooooooooooo sweet… I mean just look at those cheeks!!!  I can't wait to watch him grow up over the years!  Love this wonderful family.   

Welcome to the world, Luke!

Chicago Botanic Garden Engagement: Colleen + Nick

Walking through the Chicago Botanic Garden for Nick & Colleen's engagement session made me remember how wonderful it was to be engaged to the man of my dreams. How sweet it is to love and be loved in return. It is a true blessing. 

Watching them smile at one another was so contagious and their laughs were even more endearing. 

The love that these two share is so captivating and warm. Congratulations Nick & Colleen, I cannot wait to celebrate your wedding this September! 

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

The Perfect Father's Day Gift | Chicago's Family Photographer

From the moment we spoke over the phone, I knew I'd be working with a spectacular family.  Kelly was interested in using portraits from her session to gift to her father and father-in-law for Father's Day- how thoughtful is that?!  She came to our session prepared.  She had the wonderful idea to have me capture a photo of her son blowing a dandelion because her father had a photo of her doing the same when she was a child.  I thought it was a great idea- and to be honest, the photos of her and Aaron with the dandelions are some of my favorite captures from this session!!  I love when my clients add sentimental value to the images we create, it makes what I do all the more worth it to know that these images will be so highly valued by their family.  

,

Morton Arboretum Maternity Session | Galina + Chris

,

A few years ago when I decided I wanted to start my own photography business, I mentioned my idea to my small group from church.  Galina & Chris were pregnant with her first child Benji.  She eagerly volunteered to allow me to photograph her son when he was born.  Benji was the first newborn I'd ever photographed and I researched techniques for weeks in preparation for his session.  I realized that being a professional newborn photographer was more than just taking a baby and laying them down on a blanket and taking a snapshot of him or her.  It requires the photographer to be skilled in soothing techniques, newborn safety, posing, lighting, editing, etc.  Now here we are a few years later and after investing countless hours, money, sweat and tears I am finally at a place where I can proudly call myself a professional newborn photographer.  It's been a long hard road and this is only the beginning.

Galina, you are the reason I chose to specialize in newborns.  And this experience has grown and stretched me in ways I would have never imagined.  I thank you for trusting me with the most precious gift in your life when I was still an amateur and for being my #1 fan and supporter (aside from Lance, of course).  Your constant encouragement and kind words has gotten me through so many rough patches where I've been ready to throw in the towel.  Your friendship is invaluable to me.  I look forward to photographing your family in the years to come- so and Chris need to keep those babies coming ;-)  

Love ya, girlie!  

Drury Lane Winter Wedding: Eric + Michelle

The holidays are all about good food, celebrations, and making memories with those you love the most. This winter wedding was nothing less than that. Seeing Eric and Michelle celebrate their love for one another surrounded by their large families and friends was such a wonderful heart-warming experience. I wish you both all the best on this new journey as husband & wife!

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography