Museum of Science and Industry Engagement Session: Domonique + Antoine

I really enjoyed this morning engagement session at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. Domonique was the winner of the Dec 2016 Black Bachelorette Giveaway on Instagram. She and Antoine are set to marry in June 2017 in Chicago. 

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from their session.

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Navy Pier Engagement Session: Courtney + John

Courtney & John met on MySpace in the Spring of 2006. They hit if off from the very beginning. John knew Courtney was the one very early on, in fact, John actually proposed to her back when they were 18 years old! But of course they had to wait to graduate, get jobs and become stable adults before they could marry.

Over the past ten years, they’ve grown from being teenagers traveling by bus between Oak Lawn & Wicker Park just to be together, to now being two established successful adults building a future together. I am so honored to have been asked to document their journey to the altar and I cannot wait for their summer wedding at Noah’s in Naperville, IL.

The first thing I remember thinking about her was, “She is beautiful.” I remember looking at her and looking in her eyes and thinking that she’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. ~John

I first realized that John was more special to me than a typical friend when I realized that I couldn’t go a day without being around him. With a friend you can go without seeing them for a while but, with John I craved his presence everyday and always wanted to be with him. ~Courtney

Every day I watch Courtney get up and face the world, and no matter what it is she is dealing with she always manages to reach her goals, whether it is school, work, dealing with difficult clients, etc… She always pushes through and that just inspires me. ~John

Courtney is really great at reminding me how far I have come, how much I have accomplished, and how proud of me she is.  She is always telling me what she admires about me, but she is also constantly encouraging me to continue and keep my eyes on goal, reminding me that I still have so much more to achieve.  She probably believes in me more than I believe in myself. ~John

John is everything that I want and need, and everything that I sometimes don’t know that I need, in a man. After ten years, I still look at him and smile and know that there will never be another man on this earth better for me than him. Even through all of my flaws and when I have been at my worst, he has managed to still love me unconditionally without limits and without wavering. He is my biggest supporter and he has not once given up on me or us. I’m so thankful for him. ~Courtney

I fell in love with Courtney because she is this amazingly beautiful person that is filled to the brim with all of the kindness and compassion I felt I was lacking.  She just appeared to be this wonderful woman that loved me so much when I felt I didn’t deserve it, when I thought it wasn’t possible. ~John

I feel the most loved by John when we are together, snuggled up. We don’t have to be doing anything and he doesn’t have to do anything special for me. When he holds me close I know that there is no other place I’d rather be than in his arms and I can honestly feel how much he loves and cares for me in those moments. ~Courtney

I’m still in love with Courtney because she centers and grounds me every day.  She is my respite, in our stressful life.  Whenever I’m lost and weary she can right my compass, and remind me of everything I am grateful for. ~John

I have never met any man in my life much like John. His strength, determination, and the way he stays true to his values and beliefs are significant. His love and respect for his family and the way he goes above and beyond to help others is the sweetest character trait. Also, the way he carries himself as a strong and confident man made me love him even more. His humor didn’t hurt either. ~Courtney

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Chicago Engagement Session: RaSheila + Ryan

RaSheila & Ryan met back in 2010 through mutual friends while in school at the University of Missouri. As RaSheila tells it, Ryan stalked her for a few weeks, before they were finally able to connect for a blind date. Through school, relocating for jobs and even being long-distance for a few years, they’ve been inseparable for the past 7 years. RaSheila & Ryan have finally settled down in one place—together. They are finally home. So as it came time to capture their engagement photos, I thought to myself: what better way to commemorate this exciting time in their lives then by photographing them together in their new home?! Luckily, they were up for the adventure!

I wanted to photograph them in their natural environment so that I could create images that depicted their true authentic personalities. This journey took us all around their house, from a relaxing conversation in the living room, to a nerf war in the family room, to a pillow fight in the bedroom… if you know either of these two, then you’d know that their true personalities were captured indeed. And what a time we had!!! This is their story….

I feel most loved by Ryan when we’re doing absolutely nothing, riding in the car, laying in bed, walking our dogs… Sometimes during those moments I can feel him looking at me and he'll just say “I love you”. Ahhhhhh it gets me every time!! ~RaSheila

Everything about her face is beautiful, there’s just beauty at every angle. ~Ryan

I fell in love with Ryan because he knew all of my flaws & weaknesses and still loved me. I noticed that when I was with him, I was a better me and I didn’t want to ever live without the feeling I had when we were together. ~RaSheila

I am always on the go, not enjoying the "now" and always trying to prepare for whats next. Ryan enjoys every moment of life for what it is. What’s even more special is when he shows me what I missed/would miss if I didn’t slow down, have patience and enjoy. ~RaSheila

I just love when he holds my hand and how much bigger than mine they are. I feel like my hand was made to perfectly fit inside of his…
We were destined to be together. ~RaSheila

Not to long ago I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. I didn’t take it well as most days I was alone since we were in a long distance relationship at the time. Well, I entered into an intensive treatment plan in the Chicago area. Ryan drove all the way from Columbia, MO to Chicago to attend every treatment with me and to hold my hand through it all. To me that was the more sincere form of romance. It put things into perspective-- that it wasn’t about flowers, nice dinners, or fancy trips, but about someone giving up their time to sit in a hospital room and constantly remind you of how strong and beautiful you are. ~RaSheila

He would give his last to help someone else. He’s the last one to complain and the first one to help someone else. ~RaSheila

The thing that stands out most about the moment I proposed to RaSheila, is standing there and knowing that this was the final step in closing out the long distance portion of our relationship. ~Ryan

When am I most attracted to RaSheila?! All of the time! Especially when waking up next to her every day. I look at her a LOT throughout the day just to make sure it’s real. ~Ryan

She truly cares for so many people & has such an attention to detail with everything that she does, big or small, it’s incredible to watch that everyday, knowing that many people only see the exterior. ~Ryan

I’ve always gotten the “Oh man, you’re the one that can finally put up with everything that makes RaSheila, RaSheila!!", but truth be told, my perspective, it’s kind of the same on my end… ~Ryan

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Naperville Engagement Session: Sheena + Nicholas

"Southside girl meets Suburban boy". It’s the story of my life. For those who don’t know my personal story, I was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago and my husband, Lance, was born and raised in Wheaton, IL. We met in college and the rest was history. Sheena & Nicholas share a very similar story to mine. Turns out, Sheena even went to the same exact high school as me AND Nicholas grew up in the same suburban area as Lance!

The similarities that Sheena & Nicholas share with Lance and I are striking, and those similarities only make me love them more! Most notable is their great sense of humor and the solid friendship that they have. After being together for over 10 year, their chemistry & connection is strong. They enjoy each others company and they have SO many inside jokes that only the two of them understand. It was such a delight to spend the day with these two laughing and photographing! I can’t wait for their BIG DAY this November at the gorgeous Pazzo’s 311 here in Chicago.

To have a life fulfilled with all of the world’s joys, I need her by my side. She makes me most happy. ~Nicholas

Poise and calmness under pressure.  Difficult situations arise all the time, life happens, Sheena has a great sense of poise and calm that eases the tension of difficult situations. ~Nicholas

Family is the most important thing to my future husband.  He wants us to be happy.  We don’t need a lot but he will make sure that what we have is the best. - Sheena

He is just silly.  He makes me laugh all day long.  He makes fun of me all day. ~ Sheena

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from their session.

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LondonHouse, Chicago: Chuck + Kevin's Retirement Party

One of the most rewarding aspects of my job as a photographer is being there to document some of the most memorable moments in my clients lives'. After over the 30 years of service at ComEd (Exelon), Mr. Charles "Chuck" Walls, VP Customer Financial Operations and Mr. Kevin Brookins, SVP Strategy & Administration have retired. They closed this chapter with a festive retirement party surrounded by family, friends, and co-workers who showered them with love and appreciation. I was honored to be there to capture the memories. Congratulations on a job well done! May the next chapter of your lives be full of many great adventures and fond memories!

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this event to life...

Event Planner & Stylist: Nicole Marie Events Chicago
Cake Designer: Cake Life Chicago
Venue: LondonHouse Chicago
 

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CLICK HERE to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

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

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2017 Chicago Styled Shoot

2017 Chicago Styled Shoot with Miss Motley Photography + Nicole Marie Events

March 31 | Great Gatsby Inspired Wedding & Rehearsal Dinner | 1:00pm - 6:00pm

Location: Private Residence in Hyde Park - Chicago, IL

Nicee Martin of Miss Motley Photography + Nicole Pittmon of Nicole Marie Events are teaming up to create a phenomenal styled shoot here in Chicago for new and seasoned photographers alike. This styled shoot allows photographers, like you, to capture luxurious details & portraits without the stress of an actual wedding day. Here, you'll be able to practice finding your own creative photographic voice, or just capture some fresh images for your website or for marketing purposes. It also provides you with an opportunity to network with other fellow creatives here in the Chicagoland area.

The color palate that has been selected for this Great Gatsby inspired shoot is black and gold, with white accents. The styled shoot will take place in an elegant Victorian private residence on Chicago's Southside. With its 20-foot cathedral ceilings, Juliet balconies, chandeliers, polished Grand Piano, and open spiral staircase, this venue is sure to provide the perfect backdrop for our elegant styled shoot.

Who's it for?

• New or aspiring photographers looking to advance their skills
• Intermediate photographers looking to build their portfolio
• Professional photographers looking for new marketing images

Our Itinerary | Your day begins with a meet and greet at 1:00pm. We will begin shooting at 1:30pm with groups of two photographers each rotating through designated "stations" throughout the residence. Stations include, but are not limited to: "bride" getting ready with hair/makeup, bridal details, wedding cake/dessert table, invitation suite, full tablescape, specialty drinks & hors d'oeuvre, couples exit outdoors with a Rose-Royce Phantom, etc.

There will be 4 main models: a bride, a groom and a man and woman posing as an engaged couple. That way you'll have an opportunity to capture bridal images, as well as, party images for more versatility. There will also be several other models coming later in the day to give the space an actual party feel should you wish to capture interactive photos. A full list of contributing vendors will also be provided so that you can tag the appropriate vendors when sharing your images online after the shoot.

Attendees | This styled shoot will be limited to 12 photographers. You are encouraged to bring all the necessary gear that would be used to photograph an indoor event. Lunch will be provided.

Registration | $175 early bird rate EXTENDED through March 31..

CLICK HERE to reserve your spot today!!

Questions? Please email Nicee at nicee@missmotleyphotography.com.

We hope to see you soon!

- View the images below for sneak peeks into recent events by Nicole Marie Events -

Talley's Kitchen + Bar: Sarah's 40th Birthday

I absolutely adore Jeff & Sarah Martinath and their family. Together they have welcomed me into their home and entrusted me with the opportunity of capturing some of their most precious memories over the last year. The genuine love, affection and camaraderie that Sarah & Jeff share is infectious-- it is a relationship that I emulate in my own marriage. So naturally, I was thrilled when Jeff reached out to invite me to Sarah's 40th birthday celebration! Jeff did an outstanding job pulling off this surprise for Sarah, she was blown away!!

It was such a fun gathering complete with endless libations and lite bites provided by, Sarah's favorite restaurant, Talley's Kitchen + Bar in Clarendon Hills.  I'd be remiss if I didn't send major kudos to Krista Talley and her team. They were on top of everything!! They kept the food & drinks coming and provided exceptional service to Sarah's guest. From the owner Krista, to the bar tender, to the servers, everyone of the staff members went out of their way to make sure that everyone was well taken care of, creating a fabulous event for a fabulous lady.

Happy Birthday Sarah!!! May the next 40 years be as fabulous as the first!! xoxo

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue & Catering: Talley's Kitchen + Bar

Photography: Miss Motley Photography

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CLICK HERE to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

If you enjoyed reading about this event, why not tell the family so?! Spread the love by leaving birthday wishes in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Cracked at 695: The Northeasterners Inc, Chicago Chapter

The fabulous ladies of The Northeasterners Inc. - Chicago Chapter held their monthly gathering at Cracked at 695. They are a group of educated, talented, socially and politically conscious Black women rooted in a deep sense of sisterhood. The theme for the February meeting was obviously love and appreciation. It was a pleasure to be in attendance and to not only document their gathering, but to also capture headshots of each member to use on their website.

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this event to life...

Event Planner & Stylist: Nicole Marie Events Chicago
Cake Designer: Cake Life Chicago
Venue & Catering: Cracked at 695

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CLICK HERE to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

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

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Lincoln Park Conservatory Engagement Session: Delisha + Robert

Delisha & Robert met through mutual friends while in college at Northern Illinois University. From the moment they met their connection has been electrifying. The journey has taken them through graduation, starting new careers and then moving across the country to Settle. Yet, Chicago is still home and where they plan to marry come August 2017. So it was only fitting that they choose to capture their engagement photos here in Chicago at the Lincoln Park Broadwalk. It was a great day to get together minus the 20 degree weather, snow flurries and overcast skyline. These two snuggled up and made the best of it--they are the true MVPs! xoxo

I just love these two <3

Delisha’s smile, its beautiful and the first thing I noticed about her. ~Robert

There is not a moment in time when I don't feel loved or appreciated. ~Delisha

I feel like Robert is always surprising me with things when I least expect it. He does a great job listening to my needs and wants.  ~Delisha

Delisha was for me because she has always pushed me, never let me settle, supported my dreams and has a kind heart.  Whether that was helping me collect signatures to run for President in college, making my birthday special, or encouraging me to move halfway across the country to follow my dreams, she has always been there for me and I will always love her for that. ~Robert

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

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

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Stan Mansion Wedding: Brittney + Charles

Brittney and Charles were married on a beautiful summer day in Chicago at Stan Mansion. After their initial wedding venue closed for renovations, Brittney was such a trooper flying into town from D.C. to secure a new venue merely months before her wedding day. Though it wasn’t their initial wedding venue, I think Stan Mansion was the perfect location for this couple as it provided them with a glamorous ballroom and mansion feel, tucked away on a cozy block in Logan Square. It was urban and luxurious.

I loved everything about this wedding!! From the gold accents in the reception ballroom, to the small little bows which adorned the back of the bride and her bridesmaids high heels, to the small locket that the brides sisters wrapped around her bouquet which featured a tiny photo of Brittney and her late father.

Brittney’s father passed away back in 2008. Her father was a very loved and respected man in Chicago, who impacted the lives of countless young people during his time on earth. What I loved the most about Brittney & Charles wedding day was how their family and friends kept his memory alive throughout the day. Brittney was escorted down the aisle by her mother, but followed by a group of her uncles, who proudly proclaimed, “we do” when the preacher asked who was giving her away. Then during the reception some of the girls who was on her father’s cheerleading squad, did a celebrator cheer for the Brittney and Charles upon their entrance into the ballroom.

Later on during the reception, her uncles wouldn’t let Brittney sit alone during first dances either. As Brittney set watching her new husband dance with his mother, one of her uncles stood up and grabbed her by the hand for a first dance… the rest of her uncles then stood off to the side of the dance floor in a line, waiting for their turn to dance with the beautiful bride. When I tell you there wasn’t a dry eye in the room, it was so beautiful!!! Even I stood weeping behind my camera lens so touched by the moment. It was such a magnificent way to honor her father, a man who was like a second father to so many young women growing up. You could feel the love and respect that filled the room. I know her father was there with us that day and I am so honored to have been able to capture all the memories in his honor.

Such a fun group of girls! They truly made the day memorable for the bride.

Reminiscing on fun times shared. 
 

Her uncles were so proud about giving Brittney away.

*Swoon*

Brittney just couldn't resist joining in...

Many thanks for the fabulous team who brought this wedding day to life:
Venue: Stan Mansion
Florals: Ambassador Floral Co
Gown Designer: Bari Jay Fashions
Makeup: Kiara K Makeup
Hair: Angela C Styles
Cake Artist: Oak Mill Bakery
Cateret: Cocina Fusion
Event Designer: Event Solutions by Blue Sky Entertainment
Photographers: Miss Motley Photography

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

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

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Leigh & Lynn's 18th Birthday Celebration | Chicago, IL

“It takes a village to raise a child.” That was my biggest personal takeaway from Leigh & Lynn’s 18th Birthday Celebration. There was an indescribable warmth throughout the home as relatives, friends, neighbors and godparents poured in from the blizzard outside. Laughter and love filled the air.

Each guest was asked to bring an ornament to help the Logan family trim their tree this year. However, in actuality, it ended up being an ornament exchange, as the Logan family distributed personal, and might I add, well thought-out ornament awards to their honored guest. It was their little way of showing appreciation to their friends and family members who have loved and supported them over the last 18 years of Leigh & Lynn’s life.

Nicole Pittmon of Nicole Marie Events planned and designed the event space. She and Shawnelle coordinated fun events throughout the evening, which included: an "awards ceremony", a champagne toast with vintage 1996 Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne, a cake cutting, and a gingerbread cookie decorating contest. Many great memories were made that evening, it was a true celebration of life, family & love.

A few highlights from the birthday celebration are featured below, to view the full gallery of images click here: http://galleries.missmotleyphotography.com/loganholidayparty2016/

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this celebration to life...

Event Planner & Stylist: Nicole Marie Events Chicago
Cake Designer: Cake Life Chicago
Mixologist: Leira Knows Cocktails & Events
Catering: Fuze Catering & Events

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from the event.

If you enjoyed reading about this event, why not tell the family so?! Spread the love by leaving birthday wishes in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Hinsdale Junior Women’s Club 2016 Holiday Party

Eat. Drink. Be Merry. The Hinsdale Junior Women’s Club hosted it’s annual Holiday Party on Thursday, December 8, 2017. This sold out event was held at Davanti Enoteca, in Western Springs, IL. The HJWC Social Committee Co-Chairs: Joelle Brower, Julie Kauffman, Mistie Lucht and Puja Gupta planned a fun event full of delicious Italian cuisine, specialty cocktails and festive holiday music. It was a night to remember!

A few highlights from the open photo-booth are featured here. To view the full gallery of images click here: http://galleries.missmotleyphotography.com/hjwcholidayparty

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The Bedford Engagement Party: Christine + Travis

Christine + Travis’ engagement party took place in a private room at The Bedford - Chicago. It was a very joyous occasion as the couple was surrounded my family and longtime friends. Love was truly “in the air” that night and laughter filled the room as they all reminisced about old times. I know that Christine and Travis’ wedding day will be yet another memorable celebration in all of their lives. Congratulations on your engagement guys! I wish you both a lifetime of love and happiness.

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Click here to view the entire gallery of images from the event. 

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

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Cookie Johnson's "Believing in Magic" Book Signing

Cookie Johnson's "Believing in Magic" Private Book Signing took place in Chicago at The Grant.   This event was, as Cookie affectionately called it, "the most elegant book signing, I've had."

Click here to view the entire gallery of images from the event. 

Special thanks to the talented team who brought this event to life:

• Venue: The Grant - Chicago
• Event styling and design: Nicole Marie Events 
• Charcuterie table & catering: Chef Judson Todd Allen
• Desserts: Cake Life Chicago 

St. James Farm Engagement Session: Emily + Mike

Emily + Mike both grew up in Wheaton, IL and met through mutual high school friends about three years ago. What I love most about this couple's story is the way in which Mike has fully embraced Emily's 6-year-old daughter, Ava, as his own. It is very reminiscent of me and my stepdad. Being with them during their engagement session made me think back to the memories that I have from when my stepdad first came into my life. I thought back on how he taught me how to ride a bike, that time he surprised my brother and I with a puppy, how he would always pick me up off the floor when I'd fall out of the bed in the middle of the night, and how he always surprised me with candy and a teddy bear on Valentine's Day.

Mike is the same way with Ava. He is protective of her, playful with her and sets a great example for her of how a man should treat a woman in how he loves and cherishes Emily. When he proposed to Emily this past August at St. James Farm, he even gave Ava a mini-ring too, so that she would be included in this journey that they are on to becoming a family. Mike recalls the moment he proposed to Emily & Ava:

I remember the entire world disappearing. I'm typically a very in-tune person with all of my surroundings, the people, weather, nature, etc. But for that moment, it all vanished. I was only focused on Emily and Ava. Both of their reactions, body language and excitement.

One day Mike helped me put Ava to bed and we were just snuggled up with her. Everything about that moment felt so right and I knew he was the one. I had never introduced Ava to anyone else like that before. I love the way he treats Ava and I. I know that Mike is the type of man that I hope my daughter dates one day. Respectful, funny, hard working, passionate…I could go on and on! ~Emily

I would without a doubt have her mental strength. Its actually one of those things that amazes me every time I think deeply about it. I replay memories in my mind of times when I haven't been sure about things and have been given confidence from her. She's strong and I wish I had the ability like her to be 100% with decisions I've made and the ones that are yet to come. ~Mike

Emily, Mike and Ava are so excited to "officially" become a family next July at Fishermen's Inn and I am honored to be along for the journey.

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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

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Ohio Street Beach Engagement Session: Briana + Chris

Briana + Chris' story began in 2013 when they met in Race & Ethics class on the first class of the semester. Briana, a Chicago native, was new to Huntsville, Alabama and struck up a conversation with Chris after class inquiring about what recreational actives were available in the area. The rest was history, Chris has been offering advice, loving, protecting and caring for Briana ever since, and vice versa. 

These two have already gone through some very difficult situations together--I'm talking "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part" situations. But through all of the obstacles that they've faced, their love for one another has prevailed, and their bond, strengthened. Briana, recalls one such moment when she writes:

During one of Chris’ hospital stays. He was hooked up to a respirator, highly sedated and strapped to the bed. At this time his only communication was with pen and paper. On a piece of paper he wrote, “Are you sure this is what you want.” What surprised me in that moment is his wanting to ensure my happiness even if it cost him his own. He wasn't thinking that he could possibly die, but he was thinking of me. It was in that moment that I assured him that I was in it for the long haul.    

I mean, seriously, how could you not love these two?! After hearing about how the two of them have overcome so many obstacles together I knew that I had to make this engagement session something special. Not only was this a celebration of their engagement and their love, but it was a celebration of their lives--and that is the greatest gift of all. 

So we began the engagement session at Jane Addams Memorial Park, which is next to the Ohio Street Beach. 

We then took a short walk over to Milton Lee Olive Park which overlooks the beach.

The view from this pier is one of the best views of the Chicago Skyline--perfect for engagement photos!

"Briana has the ability to see the positive in every situation… she is everything I need, want and more…" ~Chris

"Chris is always who he says he is. He is honest and loving despite his hard exterior. I always feel safe with him and know that he will always look out for my best interest and make sure that I am happy." ~ Briana

2016 has been such a big year for Briana & Chris. Not only did they get engaged this past May, but they both graduated with their Masters in Social Work from Alabama A&M University this past spring! So of course we had to incorporate that milestone into their engagement session!! 

Navy Pier's ferris wheel, Centennial Wheel, provided thee perfect backdrop for the these photos as we wrapped up their engagement session. 

Briana & Chris, you both are already an inspiration to so many people in your lives. Congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment!!  I'm honored to be able to document another great milestone in your life come next July--your wedding day!!! xoxo

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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

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Adler Planetarium Engagement Photos: Heleen + Aly

Heleen and Aly are a well-traveled, international and adventurous couple. With Heleen being Dutch and Aly, Pakistani, there is never a dull moment with these two. They love to explore new places and activities together. Aly enjoys scuba diving and together they have swam among whale sharks and even climbed "Child of Krakatao", an active volcano in Indonesia. Even their engagement was so perfectly planned to fit their international taste.

While on a sabbatical in Indonesia earlier this year, Aly proposed on a beautiful beach in Lombok during sunset. He had the entire proposal planned so perfectly. Remembering Heleen's love for puzzles, he had jewelry made in Egypt with hieroglyphics engraved on it which spelled out 'would you like to marry me' in Dutch. Heleen had spent the day fasting with Aly and when they were breaking their fast on the beach, he gave her the jewelry and a key and had her decipher the message. It was an engagement that was true to their love and appreciation for different cultures. So naturally, they wanted to be sure that their engagement portraits celebrated both of their rich heritages. Therefore, we started the engagement session at the iconic Kinzie Street Bridge in traditional Pakistani attire.

After a quick wardrobe change, we hoped in an uber and headed to Adler Planetarium for the second half of their engagement session.

We arrived just in time to witness a gorgeous sunset. I was in awe of the warm golden haze that we captured...

...and these two were in a world of their own.

We literally shot until the sunset. Just look at that view!! It so true, that no matter how far you travel, there's no place like Chicago…. Oooops! I mean, there's no place like home :)

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Metropolitan Club Chicago Wedding: Anne + Jeff

Anne and Jeff married at Metropolitan Club on the 66th floor of Willis Tower, with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline--perfect for a couple who loves the city as much as they do!! But even more special than the spectacular views was the love and affection that surrounded this fun couple on their BIG day.

Anne and her girls got prepared at The Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection in a warm sun-filled room as the city buzzed below.

Meanwhile, across town in their home, Jeff and his groomsmen prepared for the big day.

Anne and Jeff opted to see each other before the ceremony, which created lots of time for wedding portraits. So we set off on an adventure around the city of Chicago!

First stop: the park outside their home. 

We then jumped on a trolley and headed to Adler Planetarium for more wedding photos. The view of the Chicago Skyline from the planetarium is simply to die for.

We ended our journey on the River Walk outside of City Winery. The same place where I photographed their engagement session a few months prior.

Don't you just love these two?!

Now off to the altar--the altar with a view for their wedding ceremony at the Metropolitan Club on the 66th floor of Willis Tower.

And yes, they paused for a "newly-wed selfie" before they made their exit. Such a fun pair, those two!

Anne surprised Jeff with a grooms cake that was shaped like a Michigan baseball cap. Needless to say, this Michigan fanatic LOVED it!! Way to go Anne!

There were so many laughs, memories and tears shared throughout the day as Anne and Jeff's friends and family celebrated their new union. They even took time out to commemorate Anne’s late father, Willis. Even though Anne’s father passed in 2014, he was there in spirit. He was there in the special touches, like the locket wrapped around Anne’s bouquet, and the heart patch of his favorite shirt that was stitched to the inside of her dress just over her heart.

His presence was especially felt during the reception when Anne's maid of honor stood to give her speech. She talked about the agreement Willis made with Anne before his passing and how he would let Anne know whenever he is around by leaving change, specifically silver (nickels, dimes and quarters). She then invited all the guest in the room to grab the change that she had placed in the center of their table and shower the couple with it. Before I knew it, coins were being tossed into the air and landing around my feet on the dance floor.

Love, respect, affection and honor was in the air and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. I stood there weeping like a baby behind my camera lens. Even now, as I type this, tears are welling up in my eyes. It was a special moment, very powerful and one that will never be forgotten.

Once the tears were dried, it was time to honor Willis, Anne and Jeff through dance and celebration and so the party continued.

Anne and Jeff ended their night with photos at the Skydeck Chicago on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. It was the perfect ending to such a spectacular day!

View their wedding slideshow below!

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue: Metropolitan Club 

Paper goods: Spilled Ink Press 

Florals: Davenport Design

Gown Designer: Watters Bridal

Makeup: Christine Zafiropoulos

Hair: Stephanie Minier

Cake: Bittersweet Bakery

Music: Mike Tawney

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Chicago Engagement Photos: Trista + Danny

When they first met, there was an immediate connection between them. Trista was mesmerized by Danny's blue eyes and Danny was enamored by Trista's persona and humor. Their connection was instantaneous and electrifying. They were so intrigued be one another that they spend the entire night outside sitting cross-legged on the sidewalk talking and laughing until the wee hours of the morning and the rest was history. Their love and support for one another is what every girl wishes to someday have. 

"He loves us unconditionally and everyday he wakes up and makes it the best day with his optimism. When I get home from a rough days work, he gives me a big hug and takes the weight of the world off my shoulders…" ~Trista

"I was sick and had spent time in the hospital for a scary couple of days. While there I reflected on all the different grandiose proposals I had dreamt up and threw it all away... I realized I didn’t want to wait another day, another minute to propose to the love of my life, so on the day we were celebrating Christmas I completely surprised her with the proposal and it was just a beautiful organic moment in time that I'll never forget." ~Danny

"Trista is so supportive. I feel like I could quit my job and sell peanuts at Wrigley and she’d be so happy I’m following my dreams. That kind of verbal support is empowering and satisfying." ~Danny

Trista & Danny are extremely driven, hard working and adventurous. They are also the proud parents to a beautiful boy named Connor. They are set to marry this September at Black Hawk on the River in Boise, Idaho.

Chicago River Walk Engagement Session: Anne + Jeff

Anne and Jeff are a very fun, loving and adventurous couple. They initially met through mutual friends at bar trivia and after seeing each other around a few times, they finally hit it off one night at Will’s Northwoods Inn on St Patrick’s Day 3 years ago. Anne recalls, “Jeff was wearing a 'Happy St. Patrick Swayze Day' t-shirt and I was wearing a Chi-rish shirt. I was obsessed with his and we decided it would be a great idea to switch shirts for the night. It was after the shirt switch that he asked me on our first date.”

These two are always on the go and up for a fun adventure. Not only do they have an immense love for the great city of Chicago, but they also love traveling to different places around the world and just exploring with each other. Their greatest adventure together being their trip to Europe where they visited Paris, Barcelona & Madrid. I know they will have many more exciting adventures together in the years to come.

I am most attracted to Jeff when he looks at me from across the table or at a bar. There is something in his eyes that glimmers and the connection we have in the moment is wonderful! ~Anne

At night, right as we have both hopped in bed, we will jokingly annoy each other. I feel like I’m laughing every night before bed...and for literally no reason other than Jeff saying something funny or trying to tickle me. ~Anne

When she’s at home and it’s just us, she will talk to our plants as if they are pets when she’s watering or trimming them. It sounds weird but it makes me laugh. ~Jeff

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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

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