Your wedding day is a collection of moments—some bold, some quiet, all worth remembering. My wedding collections ensure a seamless experience while capturing every detail with an editorial, documentary-style approach.
- 2 Photographers
- Complimentary Couples Session
- Planning Assistance
- Online Gallery
- Print Credit
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply.
Starting at $7,500
Not every love story needs a big stage. Whether you're planning a small, intentional wedding or an adventurous elopement, your day deserves to be captured with just as much artistry and emotion.
- One Photographer
- Planning Assistance
- Online Gallery
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply
Starting at $2,000
Couples
Sessions
These sessions are all about the two of you and your relationship. Maybe you just got engaged, or you’re visiting Chicago and want some epic photos in this epic city. How about an anniversary session? Whatever you're celebrating together, I’m here to document it.
- 1 hour, additional hours available
- Outfit planning
- Travel is welcomed; additional fees may apply
Starting at $750
At the core of my photography philosophy is a deep reverence for capturing the essence of people and things. I strive to uncover the stories that lie beneath the surface. Whether it's the genuine connections between people in love or the intricate details of an ancient ruin, I firmly believe that everything has a unique narrative waiting to be unveiled.
The Process
Send me a message and tell me what you’re looking for. I’m here to help you find the right photographer. Maybe it’s me!
We’ve met, it’s magical, and we want to make this official. Through the wonder of the internet, we can do everything online!
I’ve got you. I’ll send you everything you need; all you need to do is show up and have a great time.
Your photos are ready. Grab your favorite snack, drink, and person ...and immerse yourself in the awesomeness of you.
Hooray! First, make sure you click the arrows below and read the rest of this FAQ section to answer any initial questions you may have. When you're ready to meet, scroll down to view my schedule and book a call. After we meet, I'll create a proposal for you based on your needs. A signed agreement and 25% retainer are required to secure your date. A payment schedule will be created for the remaining balance with the final payment due 60 days before your wedding.
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How do we secure our date?
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What if we don't know how many hours of coverage we need?
I'm more than happy to help create a sample timeline based on your ceremony and reception times to determine your needs. Weddings with the ceremony and reception taking place at the same location are usually good with 8 hours. Weddings with multiple locations typically book 10+ hours. Coverage hours can always be added later if needed.
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What if we didn't budget enough time with you on the wedding day? Can we add more hours?
Yes! I do my best to help create a timeline to ensure we're there to capture everything However, sometimes things just don't go as planned and stuff runs late. (Totally normal!) If you need me to stay later, that's not a problem at all. I'll send an invoice after the wedding for the additional services.
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When do we get to see our photos?
Sneak peeks are delivered and posted on social media within two weeks depending on the time of the season and my workload. Final edited images from couples sessions are delivered within 6 weeks and wedding images are delivered within 10 weeks. If you'd like your gallery delivered faster, consider upgrading to the Rush Delivery Add-on!
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Do we need additional photographers?
Additional photographers are perfect for capturing different moments and perspectives to completely document the story of your day. If you and your partner are getting ready in separate locations, we can split up and photograph in different places. We'll be able to capture each of your reactions during your First Look, and while I'm photographing the couple, they're able to capture other details and candid moments. Larger weddings at multiple locations may consider adding a third photographer.
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What can we create with a print credit?
Your images are delivered to you in an online gallery with a print store. You can purchase professional quality prints, heirloom photo albums, USB drives, and other products through the gallery. Your gallery is available online for one year, so you can purchase products during that time.
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How many image will I receive?
Most clients can expect an average of 50-75 images per hour of coverage. I don't guarantee a specific number of images because that final number is affected by many factors including but not limited to travel time, traditions, weather, the number of guests, number in the bridal party, amount of details, late clients or guests, events running behind schedule, if you have multiple photographers, etc.
Every wedding is different but I strive to document it to its fullest potential.
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What's the different between an elopement and intimate wedding?
Intimate weddings (aka micro weddings) are scheduled like a "traditional" wedding day, but with a smaller guest list (less than 40 people). An elopement is just the couple and the officiant and is only a ceremony and portrait session.
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We'll be exchanging our vows outside Chicago. Do you travel?
YES! I love traveling. My passport and I are ready to come along wherever your love takes you. Tell me where and I'll provide a quote for travel.
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What happens if you get sick or hurt on our wedding day and are inaable to photograph?
This has never happened before. *knocks on wood* But never say never. I have a plan in place so you don't have to worry. I have professional and trustworthy photographers in my network to step in a take my place. I'll supply them with all the information so they're prepared and put you in contact with them. After your wedding, I'll still edit and deliver the photos.
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Do you have backups in place so our photos don't get lost?
Yes! So many backups. My cameras have dual card slots so as I'm shooting there is already a duplicate of the files. When I get home or back to the hotel, I copy the files to my hard drive. I also backup files to a cloud server so they're safe in a separate location. Finally, images aren't deleted from the memory cards until your gallery is delivered.
I truly do not know where to begin, other than investing in Melissa was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding day. Most decisions we made had Melissa's talent in mind and it truly paid off. From first consulting, to our engagement shoot, to the wedding day, we found all the rumors are true—Melissa is the coolest, she's easy going, professional, super friendly, and really goes with the flow in the best way, while still maintaining timeline boundaries and keeping us on track. Seeing myself and my pure joy through her lens has made me feel so, unequivocally beautiful.
Haylee + Kenny
Melissa's documentary style captured the essence of our special day perfectly. She has a remarkable ability to blend into the background, capturing those fleeting moments that we may have missed otherwise. Her keen eye for detail ensured that every aspect of our day was documented with care and precision. Beyond her incredible talent behind the lens, Melissa's demeanor made the entire process seamless and enjoyable. Thank you, Melissa, for capturing the details and happiness of our wedding day so beautifully. You truly are a gem, and we are forever grateful for the memories you've preserved for us.
Christa + Colin
Melissa was super accommodating from the start, outgoing, easy to talk about ideas with and very open to collaboration. We had a tragic event occur during the planning stages and she was beyond thoughtful on allowing space while keeping everything on track. When we received the photos it was like reliving the day all over again. She captured the energy, emotion and excitement from all angles! We would ABSOLUTELY recommend Melissa for any event that you need a kind, passionate, professional and caring photographer for.
Stephanie + Kevin
