When Friendship Becomes Family: A Love Story in the Heart of Chicago
Sometimes, the most meaningful weddings aren’t just about the couple-they’re about the decades of friendship, the shared history, and the unexpected reunions that bring us back together. Claudia and I go way back-grade school, childhood laughter, and the kind of bond that only grows stronger with time. When her family moved to Chicago, it felt like the end of an era. But as life would have it, our story was only just beginning.
Years later, Facebook reconnected us. Claudia’s message was simple: she’d met someone special. Diego, she said, was different-gentle, genuine, and the kind of man who could “wash her soul from the burdens that stained it.” As her friend, I couldn’t have wished for more. When she got engaged, she called me before I could even reach out. “Will you be my wedding photographer?” she asked. The answer, of course, was yes.
Why Chicago Is the Ultimate City for Weddings
As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand why couples from all over the world choose this city for their “I do’s.” Chicago is a city of contrasts-historic architecture meets modern skyline, lush lakefront parks meet bustling urban streets, and every neighborhood tells a different story.
Why couples love Chicago for their wedding:
Iconic Venues: From the Art Institute of Chicago to the historic Palmer House, the city offers endless options for every style.
Stunning Backdrops: Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, and skyline views that are second to none.
Cultural Diversity: Chicago is a melting pot, and weddings here often blend traditions, cuisines, and music from around the world.
Seasonal Beauty: Whether you dream of a summer rooftop celebration or a cozy winter wedding, Chicago delivers.
The Wedding Day: Decades in the Making
Getting Ready: Nostalgia and New Beginnings
The morning was filled with laughter, tears, and the kind of inside jokes that only old friends share. Claudia’s family welcomed me like one of their own. The air buzzed with anticipation, not just for the wedding, but for the reunion of lives that had once been separated by distance and time.
The Ceremony: A Heartfelt Promise
Set in one of Chicago’s beautiful historic churches, the ceremony was both intimate and grand. Diego’s love for Claudia was unmistakable-his eyes never left her, and every vow was spoken with sincerity. As a CHI wedding photographer, moments like these are why I do what I do: capturing not just the event, but the emotion, the history, and the hope for the future.
The Reception: Laughter, Tears, and Timeless Chicago Style
The celebration moved to a classic Chicago venue, where exposed brick, twinkling lights, and the city skyline set the scene. The night was filled with heartfelt toasts, joyous dancing, and more than a few happy tears. Claudia and Diego’s love story was woven into every detail-from the music to the menu, every choice reflected their personalities and their journey.
Chicago Wedding Venues: Where History Meets Modern Romance
Chicago’s Top Wedding Venues:
The Art Institute of Chicago (111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603) | @artinstitutechi
The Palmer House Hilton (17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603) | @palmerhouse
The Rookery Building (209 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604) | @therookerybuilding
Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo (2021 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614) | @cafebrauer
Chicago Cultural Center (78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602) | @chicagoculturalcenter
Pro Tip: Each venue offers its own unique vibe-choose the one that speaks to your story and style.
Chicago’s Best Planners & Florists: Your Dream Team
A flawless wedding day in Chicago starts with the right creative partners. Here are some of the city’s top planners and florists, each known for their artistry, professionalism, and ability to bring your vision to life:
Wedding Planners
Shannon Gail Weddings & Events | @shannongailweddingsLK Events | @lkeventschicagoWrap It Up Parties | @wrapituppartiesA Perfect Event | @aperfecteventAnticipation Events | @anticipationevents
Florists
Flowers for Dreams | @flowersfordreams
Pollen Floral Design | @pollenfloral
A Stem Above | @astemabovechicago
Chicago Engagement Sessions: The City Is Your Playground
Before the wedding, we explored some of Chicago’s most iconic spots for their engagement session. As a Chicago engagement photographer, I love using the city’s diverse locations to tell each couple’s unique story.
Favorite Engagement Locations:
Millennium Park & The Bean
The Chicago RiverwalkNorth Avenue Beach (skyline views!)
Wicker Park murals and coffee shops
Lincoln Park Conservatory
The Art Deco lobbies of the Loop
Editorial, Emotional, and Timeless: My Approach to Chicago Wedding Photography
What sets me apart as a Chicago Illinois Wedding Photographer is my commitment to storytelling. Your wedding isn’t just a series of events-it’s a tapestry of relationships, history, and hope. I blend editorial style with documentary honesty, ensuring your photos are both beautiful and deeply meaningful.
Editorial portraits: Magazine-worthy images that capture your style
Candid moments: Real laughter, real tears, real love
Cityscapes: Chicago’s architecture and skyline as your backdrop
Family & friends: The people who matter most, captured with heart
Planning Your Chicago Wedding: Pro Tips
Book Early: Chicago’s top venues and vendors book up fast, especially for summer and fall dates.
Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall offer the best weather, but winter weddings in Chicago are magical (think twinkling lights and cozy venues).
Plan for Travel: Chicago traffic is legendary-build extra time into your timeline for getting between locations.
Golden Hour: Schedule sunset portraits for the best light (and the most iconic skyline shots).
Trust Your Team: Invest in planners and florists who know the city and can navigate any challenge.
Why Choose Stills by Hernan for Your Chicago Wedding?
As a Chicago wedding photographer, I bring:
Years of experience with Chicago’s top venues and vendors
Editorial, cinematic style that stands out in a crowded market
A boutique, personalized approach from inquiry to album delivery
A storyteller’s heart-your history, your people, your love
Your wedding deserves more than just pretty pictures. It deserves a photographer who understands the depth of your story.
More Chicago & Destination Wedding Inspiration
Editorial Weddings in Naples & Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best time of year for a Chicago wedding?
A: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather, but winter weddings have a special magic with the city lights and snow.
Q: Do you travel for weddings and engagement sessions?
A: Absolutely! I’m based in Florida but travel regularly to Chicago and beyond for weddings and editorial shoots.
Q: How do you handle unpredictable Chicago weather?
A: Flexibility and a good plan B are key. I scout indoor and covered locations in advance and always keep an eye on the forecast.
Q: Can you help us choose the best Chicago locations for photos?
A: Yes! I’ll help you plan a route that fits your style, timeline, and vision.
Ready to Begin Your Chicago Wedding Adventure?
If you’re searching for a Chicago wedding photographer, CHI wedding photographer, or Chicago engagement photographer who will tell your story with artistry and heart, contact Stills by Hernan | Stills the Studio today.
I love the warm documentary vibe you’ve captured here of this special day. Chicago is such an iconic city, and the photos with the theatre in the background are epic!