Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | 2021 Mini Sessions
2021 Mini Sessions
Each year we look forward to seeing past couples and their growing families, as well as meeting amazing new couples and families for our annual mini sessions! Usually, we are trying to squeeze these sessions in at the last moment since weddings have been our main focus for the last 9 years. 2020 has given us a new perspective and appreciation for family and lifestyle photography. It’s such a privilege to capture your family, whether its a family of two or ten, toddlers or fur babies, and we can’t wait to see you again!
This year we have planned four Mini Session weekends for 2021 available for booking depending on the season you are most interested. These weekends are reserved on a first come, first serve basis and you can reserve your date and time below.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Autumn Wedding - Sarah & Scott
This was our very last wedding of 2020 and I can’t think of a better way to have capped it all off. Sarah & Scott were absolutely amazing navigating all the changes just days before their wedding as the Chicago area began shutting back down again. Many of their plans may have changed, but it didn’t seem to phase them or the joy and celebration that was October 31st, 2020. They decided on changing their reception space to a small intimate gathering with their closest family and friends at a friend’s beautiful home in the suburbs. It truly was such an honor to capture and witness such a sacred day. 2020 has changed how we see weddings and it’s all been because of the most incredible couples this year who decided that their love couldn’t be canceled. We celebrate Sarah & Scott. Their attitudes, their joy, their ability to roll with all the punches 2020 may have brought their way. If every couple can get through the challenges of what 2020 brought and still decide to tie the knot regardless what what or how they envisioned their day to be, then we truly believe they’re going to be able to weather the storm. Because marriage isn’t perfect. It’s full of a few unseen 2020’s. But, it’s about the commitment to saying yes every single day even if the circumstances surrounding you aren’t perfect. …and even though Sarah & Scott’s plans may have changed, we think it turned out even more perfect than the original plan. These two are the real deal and they showed every bit of that during this season. We respect and appreciate them both! Enjoy all the beauty from their perfect day!
This was our very last wedding of 2020 and I can’t think of a better way to have capped it all off. Sarah & Scott were absolutely amazing navigating all the changes just days before their wedding as the Chicago area began shutting back down again. Many of their plans may have changed, but it didn’t seem to phase them or the joy and celebration that was October 31st, 2020. They decided on changing their reception space to a small intimate gathering with their closest family and friends at a friend’s beautiful home in the suburbs. It truly was such an honor to capture and witness such a sacred day. 2020 has changed how we see weddings and it’s all been because of the most incredible couples this year who decided that their love couldn’t be canceled. We celebrate Sarah & Scott. Their attitudes, their joy, their ability to roll with all the punches 2020 may have brought their way. If every couple can get through the challenges of what 2020 brought and still decide to tie the knot regardless what what or how they envisioned their day to be, then we truly believe they’re going to be able to weather the storm. Because marriage isn’t perfect. It’s full of a few unseen 2020’s. But, it’s about the commitment to saying yes every single day even if the circumstances surrounding you aren’t perfect. …and even though Sarah & Scott’s plans may have changed, we think it turned out even more perfect than the original plan. These two are the real deal and they showed every bit of that during this season. We respect and appreciate them both! Enjoy all the beauty from their perfect day!
Vendor Love:
Church - Our Lady of Perpetual Help: Glenview, IL
Videography - Our Wedding Movie
Photography - Jordan Imhoff Photography
Hair & Makeup - Deco Adamo
Gown - Jenny Yoo
Florals - Polly’s Petal’s & Particulars
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wilder Mansion Garden Wedding - Caitlin & Mark
It’s the perfect moment to relive this day as I sit inside on my computer avoiding this -3 day. Mark & Caitlin’s outdoor garden ceremony at the Wilder Mansion was pure joy, warmth, sunshine, and life this summer. …and this is just a taste of what’s to come for their larger celebration in 2021! It truly is a gift to get to have the loveliest couples for two years in a row despite the circumstances that has surrounded this past year. As much as we’re looking forward to this upcoming year, we’re also so thankful for Caitlin & Mark’s intimate wedding ceremony and getting to be there to capture their first look and “I do’s”. Everything about this day is filling us back up and gearing us up for more days like these. Caitlin & Mark, it was such a treat! Cannot wait to capture you both again with more of your loved ones by your side!
It’s the perfect moment to relive this day as I sit inside on my computer avoiding this -3 day. Mark & Caitlin’s outdoor garden ceremony at the Wilder Mansion was pure joy, warmth, sunshine, and life this summer. …and this is just a taste of what’s to come for their larger celebration in 2021! It truly is a gift to get to have the loveliest couples for two years in a row despite the circumstances that has surrounded this past year. As much as we’re looking forward to this upcoming year, we’re also so thankful for Caitlin & Mark’s intimate wedding ceremony and getting to be there to capture their first look and “I do’s”. Everything about this day is filling us back up and gearing us up for more days like these. Caitlin & Mark, it was such a treat! Cannot wait to capture you both again with more of your loved ones by your side!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Baton Rouge, Louisiana Wedding - Heather & Matthew
This a really special one for us. This fall, Jordan’s cousin Heather married her very best friend and Jordan got to capture all the love (Meg attended the ceremony with the kiddos!) We traveled down to Jordan’s home state and spent the week with the entire Imhoff side of the family in Baton Rouge. It was such a joy of a day. Heather is so dear to us. She lives and loves so big. She’s thoughtful, shares our love for Disney World (LOVE when we get to go there with her) and oozes Southern hospitality. And we cannot be more excited in getting to welcome Matt to our family! He is as equally kind, thoughtful, and such a keeper. This day is the antithesis of a gorgeous Southern Wedding at the Governor’s Mansion. Heather handled the accommodations for Covid rules with so much grace. Enjoy all the Southern inspiration & elegance along with cameos of our siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents!
This a really special one for us. This fall, Jordan’s cousin Heather married her very best friend and Jordan got to capture all the love (Meg attended the ceremony with the kiddos!) We traveled down to Jordan’s home state and spent the week with the entire Imhoff side of the family in Baton Rouge. It was such a joy of a day. Heather is so dear to us. She lives and loves so big. She’s thoughtful, shares our love for Disney World (LOVE when we get to go there with her) and oozes Southern hospitality. And we cannot be more excited in getting to welcome Matt to our family! He is as equally kind, thoughtful, and such a keeper. This day is the epitome of a gorgeous Southern Wedding at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Heather handled the accommodations for Covid rules with so much grace. Enjoy all the Southern inspiration & elegance along with cameos of our siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents!
Backyard After Party…
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Autumn Chicago Elopement - Emily & Brandon
Emily and Brandon are two of the most lovely humans we’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. These two had a wedding scheduled for April of 2020. They were the first couple we figured this all out with and I cannot begin to express how thankful we are to still get to work with them this upcoming year as they celebrate with more of their friends and loved ones. To say that they handled this last year in stride and grace is an understatement . We have SO MUCH respect for them. Their kindness and their communication as we just simply took last spring day by day. They decided on an intimate elopement this past fall and they tied the knot in Chicago surrounded by their very closest family members. It was beautiful. Their joy wasn’t squelched by the pandemic, and we’re beyond excited to get to keep them with us this upcoming year. For now, enjoy all the beauty and joy from their first wedding celebration!
Emily and Brandon are two of the most lovely humans we’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. These two had a wedding scheduled for April of 2020. They were the first couple we figured this all out with and I cannot begin to express how thankful we are to still get to work with them this upcoming year as they celebrate with more of their friends and loved ones. To say that they handled this last year in stride and grace is an understatement . We have SO MUCH respect for them. Their kindness and their communication as we just simply took last spring day by day. They decided on an intimate elopement this past fall and they tied the knot in Chicago surrounded by their very closest family members. It was beautiful. Their joy wasn’t squelched by the pandemic, and we’re beyond excited to get to keep them with us this upcoming year. For now, enjoy all the beauty and joy from their first wedding celebration!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Engagement Session - Jake & Kaitlyn
We lucked out with this glorious day downtown. It was such a treat to hang with Jake & Kaitlyn. These two are SO much fun. Truly, a dream couple for us to get to capture and we cannot wait for their wedding day! We met up for these right before everything was on lock down and I’m so thankful to have had the pleasure of capturing them before this long period of social distancing. It’s going to be a glorious day when we can all come together again and celebrate life and love. Until then, cheers to Jake & Kaitlyn!
We lucked out with this glorious day downtown. It was such a treat to hang with Jake & Kaitlyn. These two are SO much fun. Truly, a dream couple for us to get to capture and we cannot wait for their wedding day! We met up for these right before everything was on lock down and I’m so thankful to have had the pleasure of capturing them before this long period of social distancing. It’s going to be a glorious day when we can all come together again and celebrate life and love. Until then, cheers to Jake & Kaitlyn!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | North Avenue Beach Engagement Session
Winter engagement sessions at North Avenue Beach in Chicago have to be some of my most favorite of all time. If you’re willing to brave the wind and the chill from Lake Michigan, it’s so worth it! The winter light, the frost, and the glow are glorious! Leo and Evie worked for these and it was such a joy to capture them!
Winter engagement sessions at North Avenue Beach in Chicago have to be some of my most favorite of all time. If you’re willing to brave the wind and the chill from Lake Michigan, it’s so worth it! The winter light, the frost, and the glow are glorious! Leo and Evie worked for these and it was such a joy to capture them!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Busse Woods Engagement Session - Richard & Molly
If we could encompass all the reasons we love to shoot in the Midwest, it would be encompassed in this Engagement Session. The way that golden hour glow lights up the tall grasses and prairie land is pure magic. Pair it with an incredibly fun loving, kind, and beautifully couple and we’re in heaven. I also love how Busse Woods can be shoot in about a thousand different ways.
If we could encompass all the reasons we love to shoot in the Midwest, it would be encompassed in this Engagement Session. The way that golden hour glow lights up the tall grasses and prairie land is pure magic. Pair it with an incredibly fun loving, kind, and beautifully couple and we’re in heaven. I also love how Busse Woods can be shoot in about a thousand different ways.
Richard and Molly, you are beautifully people inside and out. We cannot even begin to express how excited we are to capture your wedding day next summer.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Country Club Wedding - Joe & Jessica
It's no secret that Jessica has the most beautiful and contagious smile. We quickly found that out after their Lincoln Park engagement session and her joy and laughter was even more contagious on her wedding day.
It's no secret that Jessica has the most beautiful and contagious smile. We quickly found that out after their Lincoln Park engagement session and her joy and laughter was even more contagious on her wedding day. After spending some time with Joe & Jessica, it doesn't take too long to see why they are a match made in heaven. Both are kind, steady, confident, and quick to smile. Joe has the most comfortable, confident quietness that makes it so easy to just be yourself with him. Jessica is bubbly, sweet, full of energy, and one organized bride. They're just one of those couples who are so natural and effortless complimentary to one another. Their day at the Makray Memorial Golf Club goes down, thus far, as the hottest summer day we've had yet. Reaching about 98 degrees and full on humidity. In looking back on their day, you'd never know in a million years! These two are amazing humans and we are beyond honored to have gotten to know them. Many shoutouts go to this fabulous team for pulling together this beautiful celebration!
Hotel - Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel
Venue - Makray Memorial Golf Club
Florals - Flowers By KH
Paper Goods - Quintessence Papers
Cake - Lovin Oven Cakery
DJ - Toast & Jam
Makeup & Hair - Deco Adamo
Uplighting - Atmosphere Events Group
Prelude & Ceremony Music - Belle Music Events
Officient - The Wedding Rev Dave Angle
Gown - Pronovias
Bridesmaids Gowns - BHLDN
Tux - Ike Behar
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Wilder Mansion - Matt & Bailey
Where to begin with Matt & Bailey? Besides the fact that these two are the very definition of #couplegoals, they're also kind and hilarious.
Where to begin with Matt & Bailey? Besides the fact that these two are the very definition of #couplegoals, they're also kind and hilarious. Last year, while we were getting ready for their Lincoln Park engagement session, we asked them if they were still on for it if it was raining. ...to which Bailey replied: "Yeah we're still on! We're not made of sugar. Let's do it!" Dang, we just love her! Every wedding photog's dream bride. And it's a good thing they aren't made of sugar because they would have melted on their 97 degree outdoor wedding day! We also just loved the way they so openly, affectionately, and sweetly love each other. Matt & Bailey’s first look was one for the books. After we captured them having those first moments together, we stepped away to track down Matt’s boutonnière for portraits. ...and when we came back, Matt didn’t think we could see him. Well, we could. And we caught those tears. And our hearts were melting. Ladies, marry a man who believes that you hung the moon just like Bailey.
Many thanks to this incredible team who made this day so lovely:
Venue - Wilder Mansion
Reception - Abbington Banquets
Videography - Robert Cawthorne Wedding Films
Florals - Shamrock Garden Florist
Cake - The Baking Institute
DJ - Admit One Dj's
Hair & Makeup - Tamara Makeup & Hair Artistry
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Country Club Wedding - Pat & Rachel
From the moment we met up with Rachel this weekend, we knew this day was going to be the sweetest.
From the moment we met up with Rachel this weekend, we knew this day was going to be the sweetest. We hadn't had the chance to meet in person with Rachel & Pat, as they had been planning their wedding from out of state, but we felt like friends instantly after we knocked on the door of her childhood home. Their families represent everything we love about down-to-earth Midwestern families and hospitality. Pat & Rachel were a dream. Kind, smart, light hearted, and so sweet with one another. Their wedding day happened to have a high of 97 degrees and even though their portraits happened to line up with the hottest part of the day, they were still all smiles. Their bridal party was a joy to capture and we couldn't have felt luckier. We left with our hearts full after getting to spend the day with these two and their incredible tribe. Thank you Pat & Rachel, for letting us be the ones to capture this incredible day! And many thanks to the amazing staff at Ruth Lake Country Club for being so wonderful and making this celebration so perfect!
Venue: Ruth Lake Country Club
Florals: Bella Foral
Cake: Toni Patisserie and Cafe - Hinsdale, IL
Hair & Makeup; Pin Me Up Chicago
Gown: La Sposa Bridal
Bridesmaid Gowns: Weddington Way
Tux: THE BLACK TUX
DJ: DJ Benny
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Midlothian Country Club Wedding - Ryan & Natalie
FInd someone who looks at you the same way Ryan looked at Natalie on their wedding day. When Ryan saw Natalie walk down that aisle, the tears and smiles were contagious. These two were adorable together. If every married couple had as much fun together as these two do, the world would be a much happier place. Seriously, even when they were being eaten alive by mosquitos during portrait time, they were all smiles. And I have NEVER seen that many mosquitos. Their classic wedding day had a hint of a modern twist with the prettiest combination of metallics, a bit of sparkle, and just the right amount of whites and pastels. And their first dance gives us all the heart eyes. It's a must see! Three cheers to the incredible staff at the Midlothian Country Club for making their big day come together so beautifully! And thank you Natalie & Ryan for being so darn cute and for giving us the honor of capturing such a sweet celebration!
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers - Chicago Illuminating Company - Vas & Krista
As we rolled on up to the city on this June morning, we could only see half a skyline. The fog rolled on through the night before and we couldn't be more excited about it.
As we rolled on up to the city on this June morning, we could only see half a skyline. The fog rolled on through the night before and we couldn't be more excited about it. Foggy, overcast days are our favorites when we shoot portraits in front of our pretty skyline. (And lots of Chicago wedding photogs agree with an Amen!) This was the kind of couple you can't help but want everything to go perfectly for. Vas & Krista are a dream. They had planned and prepared for so long that by this day, they were perfectly relaxed, confident, and able to bask in the beauty of their union with their closet family and friends. (These two are LOVED and it's easy to see why!) Their first look took place on the rooftop terrace of the Ambassador Hotel followed by bridal party photos in front of the skyline at Olive Lee Milton Park. And in perfect "cue the sunshine" request, the sky opened up to give them the most gorgeous and vibrant ceremony at the Chicago Illuminating Company. Just wait until you see the decor, especially the floral draped cross, that Revel Decor filled this already gorgeous venue with! Two families become one as Krista and Vas said "I do" before God and before their loved ones. And Revel Decor took this space to the next level with tables dripping in florals, greens, candlelight, pastel glassware, and gorgeous coordinating two tone tables. (It's insanely gorgeous. Just keep scrolling for all the pretty!) We're thrilled to share some of our favorite highlights of their day below and sing the highest praise of this entire team who came together to make this dream a reality:
Planning - Lk Events LLC
Hotel - Ambassador Chicago
Venue - Chicago Illuminating Company
Florals & Decor - Revel Decor
Hair - Erin Graham
Makeup - Hannah Elisabeth
Gown - Vera Wang
Bridesmaid Gowns - Bella Bridesmaids
Tux - The Black Tux
Officiant - Reverand Tom
Cake - Limelight
Food Truck - Firecakes
Videography - Imagination Designers
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Monte Bello Estate Wedding - Jeremy & Jackie
There are some days that stand out to us for a 1,000 reasons and this day was one of them. I could go on and on about Jackie & Jeremy's wedding day at the Monte Bello Estate. One of the very first things we noticed about Jackie & Jeremy is that they not only love each other, (the romantic lovely dovey love that no wedding is complete without) but, they're genuinely each other's best friend. Their laughs, the inside jokes, the way Jeremy looked at her the entire day, and the way Jackie was so calm, peaceful, and confident from the moment we met up with her; This day was so refreshing and a reminder that love, in its truest form is patient, kind, honoring, protects, and trusts. We started this day off with one of the most beautiful first looks and vow readings that we've ever witnessed. Jeremy waited for Jackie on the pier and his tears had us all tearing up. They promised themselves to one another privately on that dock and we were humbled to have been the witnesses. These two were so at ease. So calm. So ready to be married. I really could go on and on, but I'll let these sun-kissed images speak for themselves. Jackie & Jeremy, it was an honor and a privilege to document this day. We're humbled and we're so thankful! And many thanks go out to their entire team who made this day such a joy:
Venue: The Monte Bello Estate
Videography: Now and Forever Memories
Florals: Flowers by Steen Productions
Band: The Connexion Band
Hair & Makeup: Tamara Makeup and Hair Artistry
Gown: Made with Love Bridal
Bridesmaid Gowns: Show Me Your Mumu
Suits: GQ Formal
Ceremony Musicians- Ken Rothacker, April
Characterartistis: Barton McGee& Hurtado Arts & Design, Inc.
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Fountain Blue Banquets - Dane & Kim
The first time we met with Kim & Dane, it was over FaceTime as they had the challenging task of planning their Downtown Chicago wedding all the way from South Carolina. So, the very first time we met these two in person was on the morning of their wedding day! We had so much in common despite the distance. They both grew up just a few miles from where we live. It was important for them to tie the knot in their childhood stomping grounds surrounded by their closest family and lifelong friends. We fell in love with their siblings after watching them support these two and take care of all the details. Dane and Kim were surrounded by so much love and it it was a treat to witness. Kim's romantic details, soft touches of pastels, and whimsy were a dream to shoot on this foggy grey Chicago day. It was perfect. And we're so excited to share some of our favorite highlights below. Congratulations Dane & Kim! Thank you for giving us the honor of being a part of this day!
Vendor Love goes to:
Hotel - Sheraton Grand Chicago
Florals - Little Shop on the Prairie
Makeup & Hair - Pin Me Up Chicago
Gown - Vera Wang Bride
Cake - Central Continental Bakery
DJ & Photo Booth - An Enchanted Evening
Venue - Fountain Blue Banquets & Conference Center
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Engagement Session - Nick & Lorielle
May, 2018
Grant Park & North Ave. Beach - Chicago, IL
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Ian & Symone - Drake Hotel Wedding
Their story is as sweet as they are! Ian and Symone grew up across the street from one another. It took him some time, but Ian finally asked her out and she said yes! Fast forward to this perfect day: Their classic & elegant Chicago wedding at the historic Drake Hotel. This day was a true fairy tale and the perfect way to celebrate the first day as Mr. & Mrs. Sherwood! The skies opened up once or twice, but it made it all the more lovely. Y'all, Chicago is just beautiful come rain or shine! And these two never worried once about it! When we stepped foot into their reception at The Drake, it took our breath away. Polly's Petals & Particulars completely out did herself! Every inch was dripping with florals and hundreds of candles. The room was just as gorgeous as Symone was in her classic Enzoani gown! What a pleasure getting to work alongside her team: Cora Downing from Bella G Makeup and her hair artist, Caila Gillespie! Also, let's not forget about what a treat it is to capture all the joy alongside their videography team from Leap Weddings! This wedding day has everything. So much joy, happy tears, and the perfect inspiration for the classic bride! Thank you, Symone & Ian, for letting us have the honor of capturing your gorgeous celebration! Special thanks and love go out to this entire team who made this day so perfect:
The Drake Hotel
Leap Weddings (videography)
Polly's Petals & Particualrs
Vanille Patisseries
Cora Downing from Bella G Makeup
Caila Gillespie (Hair Artist)
Toast & Jam
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Westmoreland Country Club Wedding - Dan & Meredith
September, 2017
Westmoreland Country Club - Wilmette, IL
Vendor Love:
Florals - Four Finches
Cake - Gigi's Cupcakes
Band - The Walk-ins
Gown - Robert Bullock
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers | Chicago Wedding - Jin Soo & Chanel
September, 2017
Chez Event Space - Chicago, IL
Vendor Love:
Planning - Events By L
Hotel - The James Chicago
Florals - Kimberose
Hair & Makeup - Ann LaCorte
Videography - Beloved Wedding Videography
DJ - X Fade Entertainment
Strings - Innocenti Strings
Catering - Limelight Catering
Cake - Alliance Bakery
Gluten Free Bakery - Defloured
Donuts - DoRite Donuts
Lighting - Elegant Event Lighting
Lake Geneva Wedding Photographers - Hinsdale, IL - John & Liz
August, 2017
Hinsdale Covenant Church - Hinsdale, IL
Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus - Oak Brook, IL
Vendor Love:
Videography - Something New Media
Florals - The English Garden
Cake - Lezza Spumoni & Desserts
Entertaiment - Push the Limit
Makeup - Angela Goss
Gown - By Matthew Christopher
Suit - Calvin Klein
Photo Booth - Shutterbooth Chicago