The Love Story
This love story begins back when Chio and Jake were in high school. That’s actually where they first met! After a few years, they reconnected at college while Chio was studying for her undergrad and Jake in law school. After falling in love, they graduated from university and moved to Chicago and the rest is history!
Getting Ready
We started off with both Chio and Jake getting ready. This is also the point where I like to get some detail shots as well, so I always encourage my couples to bring along items that mean things to them. Special notes, jewelry, flowers or anything that can help tell your love story is some of the best items for detail shots. After spending some time getting ready and putting the final touches on their look, we made our way to the ceremony! Also, can we take a moment to appreciate how STUNNING Chio’s dress was? She got the dress at David’s Bridal and not only did it fit her like a glove, but it flowed off of her so elegantly.
Summer Chicago Wedding Ceremony
C+J chose to have a traditional church ceremony at the Assumption Church here in Chicago! Although there are many reasons as to why they chose to have their ceremony there, one of the reasons was the churches architectural elements. Actually, let’s talk about it because I can’t get over how dang beautiful everything was. From the gorgeous murals with golden trim that draped across the ceiling to the breathtaking stained glass windows and just the overall build of this church was unlike any other. It really felt like I was in a church in Italy with how much detail and beauty was built into this structure. As much as I love the architecture of this church, of course the main focus here was Chio and Jake. Since they both opted out of a first look, Jake’s first time seeing Chio was when she walked down the aisle. These moments always get to me as soon as I see everyone’s reactions… well, here comes the waterworks! They also incorporated a wedding lasso in their ceremony which symbolizes love and unity. I always encourage my couples to incorporate traditions that truly speak to them and what they value.
Summer Chicago Wedding at Stan Mansion
After the ceremony, it was then time for the reception which OBVIOUSLY did not disappoint. The reception was held at Stan Mansion, which is also where Chio and Jake got ready that morning! Stan Mansion is apart of the 2 1/2 mile long Logan Square Historic District. While the area has remained virtually unchanged in the past century, over the years this mansion has been renovated to restore it back to its former beauty. What once was a masonic lodge has now turned into one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Chicago. Since C+J both appreciate history and architecture, it was only fitting that they chose to have their reception here. Not only was the food delicious, but these wedding guests knew how to party! C+J even had a mariachi band which made everyone hop onto the dance floor and dance until sunrise! Okay, maybe not sunrise but it might as well been by how glued everyone was to the dance floor.
Wedding Portraits
With all of this beautiful architecture and decor within this space, we of course had to utilize it for their wedding portraits. We made sure to capture all of the beauty that was Stan Mansion, inside and out! There’s one photo in particular where the sun was essentially our own personal spotlight. This magical moment turned out to be one of my favorite photos that I took. All in all, the day was a major success! While planning a wedding during the pandemic can be tricky and at times overwhelming, the end result is so worth it. Things always seem to fall into place and at the end of the day, just know that what matters is you are surrounded by those who love and care about you. And heck, you’re getting married! Congratulations C+J and thank you so much for giving me the honor to capture such a special moment for you both! Cheers!!
Oh and if you loved this Summer Chicago Wedding at Stan Mansion, then you’re going to love this Summer Garden Wedding in Chicago w/ Bella + Kyle!
Looking for vendors? Scroll to the bottom of this blog!
Your Narrative blog will appear here, click preview to see it live.Vendors:
Photography: Iron + Honey Photography
Bridal Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
Ceremony Site: Stan Mansion
Tuxedo/Suits: Adrian Park Custom
Catering: Ovy Signature Catering
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