Lily and Steve were married at St Luke Roman Catholic Church in River Forest with a Cheney Mansion wedding reception in Oak Park.
Chicago has thrown more rainy wedding days at us this year than I think I’ve had in the past five years. Lily and Steve’s Cheney Mansion wedding was no exception. Other than a 10 minute break during cocktail hour (which we maximized), I think it literally rained all day. Luckily. Cheney Mansion and it’s gorgeous staircase also provided some great indoor portrait opportunities.
Justin started with Steve at Carleton Hotel in downtown Oak Park while I was with Lily at her parent’s home just down the street in River Forest.
Lily and Steve opted for a first look, which we did at Lily’s home. It was actually quite cozy.
From there, we headed over to St. Luke Roman Catholic Church in River Forest. Justin and I scouted the church the day before during the rehearsal and had a plan to set up a few lights for a dramatic photo while Lily walked down the aisle with her father. We try to push ourselves to make new, interesting pictures whenever we have the opportunity. The ceremony was in a beautiful space and the balcony provided a great vantage. After the ceremony (and family photos) we headed over to Cheney Mansion for the wedding reception.
When we got to the mansion, we stole Lily and Steve for a few portraits around the property. We started indoors on the staircase, and when we saw the rain breaking we headed outside for the last few moments of daylight. After cocktail hour, we heard toasts from the wedding party before we headed to the dance floor. Lily danced with her father first, then Steve and Lily danced with each other before Steve danced with his mother. Then the dance floor opened to everyone.
Justin and I had a great time shooting our first Cheney Mansion wedding. It was a joy to work with Lily and Steve and their families. Thanks again for letting us document your day!
