As a Chicago wedding photographer (based in Kansas City), I have had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, but Janet and Colin’s wedding in Chicago truly stood out as an unforgettable experience. This two-day celebration was filled with love, laughter, and a beautiful blend of cultural traditions. From the intimate Catholic ceremony to a vibrant Korean Tea Ceremony and a glamorous reception at the iconic Galleria Marchetti, every moment was a testament to their love and the merging of two cultures.
The Chicago wedding journey began on October 18th, a day dedicated to close family and friends. I started my day capturing the tender moments with Janet as she prepared for her wedding day at Colin’s parents’ home in Lake Forest, Illinois. From her stunning gown to the precious family heirlooms, Janet got ready at her fiancé’s parent’s home that was full of excitement and laughter.
After a morning of getting ready photos, it was time for the intimate Catholic wedding ceremony at the historic Catholic Church in Lake Forest – the very same church where Colin’s parents had tied the knot years earlier. There was something incredibly special about the significance of the location, and the ceremony was a moving celebration of their love and commitment to each other.
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their closest loved ones headed back to Colin’s parents’ home for a heartfelt Korean Tea Ceremony. This beautiful tradition, honoring their Korean heritage, marked the beginning of their married life together. The ceremony was a blend of meaningful cultural rituals, including offering tea to both sets of parents, symbolizing respect, gratitude, and the merging of two families. This unique and heartfelt addition to the wedding celebration was an intimate moment, and it truly made their day even more memorable.
The evening concluded with a cozy rehearsal dinner at Colin’s parents’ home, filled with delicious food, heartfelt speeches, and more laughter. The intimacy of this event allowed everyone to enjoy the warmth and joy of the day while reflecting on the significance of the union.
The second day, October 19th, brought a whole new level of excitement and celebration. After a beautiful second wedding ceremony, Janet and Colin celebrated with their extended family and friends at Galleria Marchetti, a stunning venue in downtown Chicago that exudes elegance and charm. This gorgeous venue set the stage for a memorable evening filled with dancing, delicious food, and endless fun.
The wedding reception was a vibrant celebration of both cultures, with traditional Korean wedding customs weaving seamlessly into the festivities. The lively dance floor, featuring both traditional and contemporary music, had everyone on their feet. It was evident that Janet and Colin’s day was a perfect blend of their unique backgrounds, and the love and joy shared by all were infectious.
From the first look to the final dance, every moment was captured with love, care, and attention to detail. As a wedding photographer, I have the honor of documenting beautiful and meaningful traditions from different cultures, and I especially cherish the opportunity to witness and photograph multicultural weddings. It was an absolute joy to be part of Janet and Colin’s wedding journey, capturing these significant moments and preserving memories they will cherish forever.
One of the aspects that I love most about my work as a documentary style wedding photographer is the opportunity to travel for weddings. Whether it’s a destination wedding in Chicago, a beachside ceremony in the Caribbean, or a mountain wedding in the Rockies, I am always excited to capture love stories no matter the location. Janet and Colin’s wedding is a perfect example of the kind of weddings I love to shoot – one that blends cultures, traditions, and family bonds into a truly unique celebration.
If you’re planning a destination wedding, I would love to be part of your special day! No matter the location, I will travel anywhere to ensure your wedding memories are beautifully documented in my specialized hybrid documentary style way.
Janet and Colin’s wedding celebrations both at Colin’s family home and the Galleria Marchetti were stunning fusion of cultures, traditions, and love. From the intimate, family-focused first day to the lively and festive second day, it was a perfect reflection of their love story. It was an honor to be part of their special day and capture all the incredible moments that made their wedding truly one-of-a-kind.
As a Chicago wedding photographer (based in Kansas City) who has a documentary flair, if you’re planning a wedding that blends cultural traditions or if you’re dreaming of a destination wedding anywhere in the world, I would love to help you capture the magic of your big day. Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime, no matter where your love story takes you.