Tess and Charles were married at The Drake Hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. The Drake Hotel is a classic and historic Chicago Hotel on Michigan Avenue and one the city’s best venues!
I started with Tess and the ladies getting ready at the Hotel. Even Tess’ larger bridal party of 11 bridesmaids had plenty of room inside the beautiful Princess Diana Suite – it’s always nice to have that much room! Meanwhile, Allison was few floors away with Charles and the Groomsmen.
One of the best things about having a big suite is having room to put on the dress and jewelry away from all the chaos left from the rest of the morning. It really helps that part of the day feel less stressful! Tess’ mom helped her get ready then she had a first look with her father. I turned around to see maid of honor Sabrina leaning onto Tess’ mom shoulder during the emotional moment.
We did first look in one of my favorite little spots right around the corner from the hotel and then went across the street into the park for group photos with the wedding party. Tess and Charles also secured rooftop access before the ceremony and the timing couldn’t have worked out more perfectly. We got an awesome purple twilight sky as the building lights were coming on. The rooftop with the iconic purple Drake sign has to be on your list if you’re getting married here!
Patrick, a friend of the couple did a great job officiate the ceremony. I also loved the classical guitar performance by Tess’ father. After the ceremony, we did family group photos in the room next to the Ballroom before the reception.
The reception kicked off with Tess and Charles first dance – I could tell they’ve had some practice! Tess’ father started the evening’s toasts off with a full on slide deck presentation. It was one of best things I’ve ever seen at a wedding. I couldn’t help but notice the similarity between Tess and Sabrina’s embrace during the toast with the moment from the getting ready suite earlier. A few more toasts rounded out the evening then the dance floor opened up with Tess and her dad, joined shortly by the rest of her family.
Thank you so much to Tess and Charles for being incredible clients and trusting me every step of the way. It was a perfect way to finish up what was the busiest and craziest year to date for Wasabi Photography!
