At this point I’ve photographed weddings at most of the most popular venues in Chicago, but The Rookery wedding photos have been on my list for a while. So I was thrilled when Nicole & John asked me to document their wedding at The Rookery Building. My friend and Denver Wedding photographer, Justin Edmonds, was in town again to help me with the coverage.
I started with Nicole and the ladies and Justin was with John and the guys at Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel. Renaissance might be the best hotel in Chicago for brides and grooms getting ready for their wedding. The suites have great window light and plenty of room for large wedding parties and it is perfectly located along the Chicago Riverwalk. The riverwalk was where Nicole and John met for their first look.
The rain held off just long enough for them to see each other and get a few quick portraits on the State Street bridge. Just as the wedding party got across the street the skies opened up so we took shelter under the bridge for a few minutes to let the rain pass.
After a quick trip down LaSalle Street we arrived at The Rookery Building with enough time to shoot a few more portraits in front of the Board of Trade building. And, of course, we got to shoot some wedding photos on the most iconic staircase in Chicago.
The ceremony included a couple of adorable ring bearers and super sweet readings of wedding advice written by students that Nicole works with. The second story balcony and staircase allowed for some great wide angle shots of the venue.
The reception kicked off with some great toasts before the first dances. Nicole and her father actually sang a duet of Unforgettable for the father-daughter dance as a surprise then invited the rest of the guests to the dance floor. Entourage kept the party rocking all night – gotta love the energy of a live band!
Thank you Nicole & John – Justin and I had a great time working with you and your families. Thanks for letting us add The Rookery wedding photos to our portfolio!