A Summer Wedding at Mae District in Chicago

Kate and Alex have a quiet kind of devotion. The kind you notice not through big gestures, but in the way they naturally stay close, the way they find each other without thinking.

Their summer wedding day in Chicago reflected that from the very beginning.

The morning at the Marriott Marquis Chicago felt calm, excited, and full of anticipation. Nothing felt rushed or overly orchestrated. Just a really good energy in the room as the day slowly came together.

Before the ceremony, they met in a quiet corner of the hotel lobby for their first look. It was simple and private, which made it feel even more meaningful. Just the two of them, taking a moment together before everything began.

From there, we headed to the Art Institute of Chicago Gardens for portraits. The light was soft and overcast, and they fell into each other so naturally. They embraced, laughed, and even danced a little. Nothing felt forced. Just really genuine moments unfolding on their own.

After portraits, we made our way to Mae District for family photos before the ceremony began. From that point on, the rest of the evening flowed seamlessly, with the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception moving right into one another.

The bride’s father officiated the ceremony at Mae District, which made it especially memorable. He had everyone laughing one moment and tearing up the next. It felt sweet, personal, and completely true to them. There were happy tears, but even more smiles.

Back at Mae District, the celebration matched their vision. Classic and timeless with a modern edge, but never stuffy or overdone. Everything felt elevated, but still comfortable and full of life.

The speeches struck the perfect balance of funny and emotional, and once the dance floor opened, it stayed packed. Their first dance, especially, reflected the entire day. SO many smiles, so much laughter. You could tell they were fully enjoying every second of it.

What I loved most about this wedding was the trust they had in the process. Outside of portraits, they didn’t think about the camera at all. They focused on each other, their people, and just being present.

Because of that, so much real joy lives in these photos. The kind you can’t force. The kind that lasts.

Vendor Team:

Photography: Artistrie Co.
Catering: Food for Thought
Florals: Juliet Tan Floral Design
Ceremony Music: Parkwest Strings
DJ: Toast and Jam
Cake: Alliance Bakery
Hair: Jeanette Kemble
Makeup: Rare Bird Beauties
Lighting: MDM Entertainment
Photo Booth: Fotio

Bride’s Attire: Justin Alexander from Weddings 826
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux
Shoes: Something Bleu
Jewelry: Dorsey Jewelry
Stationery: Designed by Bride, Printed at Smartpress