Leslie and Oliver’s fall wedding at Holy Name Cathedral was as beautiful as it was elegant. The 1875 Gothic revival cathedral is one of the largest in the United States and a striking place for a ceremony. You can’t help but look up while you’re inside.
My morning started with Leslie and her ladies at The Westin Michigan Avenue. The corner suite offered lots of light and plenty of room for the morning preparations and a great view looking out on Chicago’s busiest street. I knew when Leslie’s mom was pouring champagne as I walked in that it was going to be a great day!
Justin spent the morning with Oliver and the rest of the guys at Virgin Hotel. I loved the quiet moment of Oliver reading his personal vows from Leslie before they left.
The moment of Oliver shaking hands with Leslie’s dad at the front of the aisle was also one of my favorites. The ceremony was perfect, even if it did require an emergency set of backup rings. Immediately following the ceremony the couple exited to cheering friends and family at the main entrance stairs. We knocked out family group photos in the courtyard then headed downtown to LaSalle Street Bridge for portraits with the couple and wedding party.
We knew the rain was coming thanks to the Dark Sky app so we hustled to get as much done in our short time as possible. We were ready with umbrellas when the rain hit and we moved to our rain backup location at Union Station. We got lucky with the timing and Union Station’s glass ceiling was perfectly lit blue as dusk hit.
From there we headed over to Pazzo’s at Three-Eleven for the reception. Leslie and Oliver made their grand entrance down the main staircase to kick things off. The toasts were a highlight, especially Leslie’s dad telling some hilarious stories. Once dinner was over, Leslie and Oliver opened the dance floor with their choreographed first dance that included some impressive moves.
The Walk-Ins provided the music for the evening. I’ve seen them a few times and I love the energy that Joe Matise, the lead singer, brings. He spends a lot of time on the actual dance floor interacting with the guests and they love it!
Thanks again to Leslie and Oliver for an awesome day and trusting us to document your wedding. We loved hanging out with you and your families!
