Rachel and Nish’s wedding at South Shore Cultural Center was the first time this season that I’ve shot on Chicago’s South Side. While they live in Milwaukee now they welcomed friends and family from all over the world so it was truly a Chicago destination wedding. I’ve been looking forward to Rachel and Nish’s South Shore Cultural Center Wedding photos since their Millennium Park Engagement Session last fall.
Justin flew in from Denver again to help me document the day. He started with Nish and the groomsmen (mostly playing NBA 2K) while I was with Rachel and the ladies in their suite at the Sheraton Grand Hotel. I’ve shot both grooms and brides getting ready at the Sheraton Grand Hotel and it’s always a pleasure. The rooms are nice and large and filled with beautiful window light.
As soon as Rachel was in the dress we headed down to meet Nish for a first look with the Chicago Skyline in the background. From there we headed down the Riverwalk toward Michigan Avenue for portraits. We stopped several places along the way including the Wrigley Building and the plaza just to the west. After making some epic lit portraits it was time to head to the South Shore Cultural Center for the ceremony.
The ceremony was in the Solarium with huge windows overlooking Lake Michigan – it’s a stunning view. Rachel and Nish’s friend John officiated and did a great job. The ceremony went quick, but Justin and I still found some great moments.
The reception kicked off with Rachel’s father’s welcome and few more toasts including the maid of honor and best man. During dinner we able to sneak outside for a few dusk/night portraits with the blue sky and Chicago skyline lit up. We came back in to cut the cake. I especially loved Rachel & Nish’s dinosaur cake toppers that had a little moment of their own after the cutting. Then it was time for first dances. Rachel & Nish shared their first dance then each danced with their parents. From there, the dance party was on!
Justin and I had a great time making South Shore Cultural Center wedding photos with Rachel & Nish and their friends and family. Thanks for trusting us to tell your wedding story!