The Adri Photo Co.

Tag: Downtown Chicago Wedding

  • Intimate Chicago Courthouse Wedding | Abi & Hamish

    Intimate Chicago Courthouse Wedding | Abi & Hamish

    For this Intimate Chicago courthouse wedding I was so happy to capture this moment for Abi and Hamish. I arrived at the courthouse on a cloudy day, and I immediately felt their warm presence and the love between them. Abi’s laugh is so contagious. I’m so glad we were able to incorporate their little daughter in the images as well.

    Courthouse weddings are quick and snappy, and honestly, the judge presiding over them is hilarious. They’ve seen it all and they know how to make a couple laugh right before the vows. Abi and Hamish stood outside the ceremony room first, him in a Black Watch tartan kilt and bow tie, her in a soft cream silk dress with a bouquet of blush roses and lavender stock. They couldn’t stop laughing at each other.

    Sign for Clark/Lake station with information about farecards and entrance location, with surrounding buildings and a cloudy sky.
    A man in a kilt and a woman in a cream dress sit together on a bench, smiling at each other. The woman holds a bouquet of flowers, and they both exude joy in a warmly decorated interior.

    Although the ceremony itself is quick, it’s so meaningful. There’s no long processional, no seating chart, no schedule to manage. Just two people saying yes in front of the people who matter most. That’s what makes an intimate Chicago courthouse wedding so special. It strips everything down to what actually counts.

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    A man in a kilt sits next to two other individuals on a wooden bench. One person is dressed in a pink shirt and the other is wearing a cream-colored outfit and holding a bouquet of flowers, all smiling and engaged in conversation. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding

    What an Intimate Chicago Courthouse Wedding Looks Like

    After the vows and a few quick photos with their oldest son, we walked over to the river to incorporate the beautiful city that’s seeing them untie their lives together. Chicago has the best skyline, obviously, and I love to include a bit of the city whenever possible. The Riverwalk, the ‘L’ tracks in the Loop, a rooftop with that view stretching out behind them. It all becomes part of the story. Being a intimate Chicago courthouse wedding photographer means capturing little moments that matter.

    It’s not every day I get to photograph a wedding day that folds in a family this way, and this one did it beautifully. If you’re planning your own courthouse elopement in Chicago, I’d love to hear about. For current marriage license requirements and City Hall appointment info, the Cook County Clerk’s office has the details.it.

    A groom in a kilt and a bride holding a bouquet sit on a wooden bench in a softly lit room, waiting together with a serene expression. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A woman smiling at a man, holding a bouquet of flowers, in a well-lit indoor setting. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A bride in a light dress holding a bouquet stands smiling alongside a man in a kilt and blazer in a small indoor setting. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A woman in a cream-colored dress smiles warmly while holding a bouquet of flowers, talking to a man in a dark suit. They are in a well-lit indoor setting with wooden doors in the background. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A man in formal attire with glasses and a bow tie smiles at a woman holding a bouquet of flowers, both appearing joyful in a well-lit indoor setting. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A couple sharing a kiss in a softly lit room, embracing each other affectionately, dressed in formal attire. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A couple joyfully embraces in front of a city hall sign, with the woman holding a bouquet of flowers. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A bride in a white dress and a man in a kilt walk hand in hand across a city street, with a bouquet of flowers held by the bride.
    A bride in a sleek white gown walks hand in hand with a man in a kilt and suit in a city street, smiling and holding a bouquet of flowers. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A happy couple walking hand in hand on a city street. The woman, wearing a white wedding dress and holding a bouquet, smiles at the man, who is dressed in a gray suit and a traditional kilt. Urban structures and traffic fill the background. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A bride and groom smiling at each other in an urban setting, with blue bike-sharing bicycles in the foreground. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A smiling woman in a cream dress holds a bouquet of flowers while standing on a bridge with a city skyline in the background.
    Close-up of a couple's hands, one resting on the other's arm, showcasing a wedding ring and a bouquet in the background.
    A man in formal attire wearing a kilt stands on a bridge by a river, with a city skyline in the background. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A smiling couple shares a tender moment on a bridge with modern skyscrapers in the background. The woman, wearing a flowing cream-colored dress, holds a bouquet of flowers, while the man, dressed in a kilt, leans in to kiss her cheek.
    A joyful bride holding a bouquet of flowers smiles while a man, dressed in a traditional Scottish outfit, hugs her from behind on a bridge with a city skyline in the background. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A couple stands on a bridge in Chicago, with the skyline in the background. The man is wearing a traditional kilt and jacket, while the woman is dressed in a white gown holding a bouquet. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A couple embracing with smiles, standing outdoors with a scenic background. The woman has a necklace and is wearing a white blouse, while the man is dressed in a dark coat. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding
    A couple embraces on a rooftop balcony with a city skyline in the background. The man is wearing a kilt and a formal jacket, while the woman is dressed in a flowing cream-colored gown. They are smiling at each other, radiating joy.
    A family portrait featuring a couple lovingly holding their sleeping baby, with a city skyline in the background. The mother is smiling at the baby, while the father gazes affectionately at them both. intimate Chicago courthouse wedding

  • A Chicago City Hall Wedding Preview: Brianna & Francisco

    A Chicago City Hall Wedding Preview: Brianna & Francisco

    As a documentary & lifestyle wedding photographer, I get a front-row seat to some of the most honest, unscripted moments a Chicago City Hall wedding can offer. There’s no grand entrance, no reception timeline.Just two lovers, a marriage license, and the Marriage and Civil Union Court at 118 N. Clark. This session is one of my favorite examples of why I love this kind of day. This sweet couple wanted a chance at keeping their same anniversary. Therefore a lovely weekday morning was the day to get married.

    Getting Ready for a Chicago City Hall Wedding

    The quiet moments before a courthouse wedding are some of the most tender, the lobby waiting for your named to be called. Excitedly waiting with your best friends. The speed in which they do these ceremonies is so funny, the judge was so hilarious, he definitely added so much joy to the already exciting marriage ceremony.

    Groom adjusting his own white boutonniere before a Chicago city hall courthouse wedding
    Black and white photo of bride pinning boutonniere on groom near a City Hall window
    bride walking into the Chicago courthouse
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    Chicago City Hall Wedding Ceremony

    Cook County’s courthouse ceremonies move fast, but they don’t skip the emotion. I caught the ring exchange, the paperwork on the clerk’s desk, the judge in the background, and the moment their hands found each other mid-vows. There’s no re-doing a vow, so I have to work quietly and quickly in this room.

    Portraits Around Downtown Chicago

    Afterward, we walked. The “City Hall” sign made for an obvious first stop, but the best portraits came a few blocks later, crossing LaSalle Street, laughing in the wind by Grant Park, and a slower moment in the rose garden as the light softened. A Chicago City Hall wedding doesn’t need a formal venue when the whole downtown is the backdrop. But this couple did decide a formal celebration. More to come from that day later!

    Chicago City Hall wedding
    Bride and groom smiling together in the marriage court office with an American flag in the background
    Close-up of bride and groom holding hands during their vows at a Chicago City Hall wedding
    Bride laughing while exchanging rings with groom before their ceremony
    first kiss Chicago City Hall wedding
    hug after becoming bride and groom at Chicago City Hall wedding
    Chicago City Hall wedding
    friends congratulating bride and groom
    Bride and groom holding hands under the City Hall sign in downtown Chicago
    Chicago City Hall wedding
    Bride and groom crossing a downtown Chicago street holding hands after their Chicago City Hall wedding
    Bride looking over her shoulder holding a white bouquet on a downtown Chicago street
    Chicago City Hall wedding
    Bride holding a white and blue bouquet with the Chicago skyline in the background
    Black and white photo of bride and groom walking and laughing through a garden path
    Bride and groom holding hands with the Chicago skyline behind them
    Black and white close-up of bride and groom with foreheads touching after their City Hall wedding
    Bride and groom embracing under trees in warm afternoon light

    Why Document Your Chicago City Hall Wedding

    Courthouse weddings move fast and leave little room for posed portraits, which is exactly why documentary coverage matters here. My approach- honesty over poses — means I’m photographing what’s actually happening: the nerves, the laughter with friends outside, the walk to the next photo spot. If you’re planning a wedding like this, Cook County’s marriage license requirements are worth reading first, since the license has to be obtained before your ceremony date.

    If you’re picturing something similar for your own day, I’d love to talk through what a downtown courthouse wedding could look like for you.

  • Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer | Ashley & Jake

    Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer | Ashley & Jake

    Documenting Love as an Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer

    I truly love Love. Being in love is a very brave thing. As an intimate Chicago wedding photographer, I get to see this up close. In fact, capturing this connection is very special to me. Recently, Jake and Ashley decided it was finally time to wed. So, they gathered their closest friends for a city celebration. It was a beautiful time in the city, I hope that you enjoy these beautiful images. Being a photographer makes me so happy. Seeing my couples emotions rise to the surface. Seeing them so in love is such a treasure. I love love.

    bride getting ready Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.

    A Personalized City Hall Elopement

    Their day was built around their own style. First, we started on their rooftop in Chicago. Then, we headed to City Hall for the ceremony. Afterward, we went to City Social for a drink. Consequently, the energy was high when we hopped on the trolley. Moreover, everyone was so excited to celebrate.

    Furthermore, being an intimate Chicago wedding photographer means I follow the story anywhere. Next, we went to the Art Institute garden for portraits. Finally, we finished the day with dinner in West Town. Because I love unique things, this lovely wedding was a dream to document.

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    beautiful flowers in vase on top of record player Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.

    shoes and flowers on record player Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.
    dress hanging off guitars and poster Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.

    Planning Your Small Wedding

    If you are planning a small wedding, Chicago has many great spots. For example, using a trolley is a fun way to keep your group together while seeing the city. Additionally, picking a restaurant like Funkenhausen allows for a relaxed dinner.

    As an intimate wedding photographer, I find that these weddings allow for more real connection. In conclusion, whether you choose City Hall or a backyard, your day should reflect you. Therefore, focus on what matters most to your story.

    pair of earrings
    wedding florals Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.
    bride's shoes Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer capturing City Hall elopement.
    something blue for wedding elopement Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    floral arrangement Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    little wedding details Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    bride putting on earrings Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    bride putting on shoes Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    portrait of a bride in black and white Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    bride looking in the mirror Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    Close-up of a gentleman's suit with a light pink jacket, featuring a vibrant boutonniere of orange and red flowers and greenery, complemented by a dark blue pocket square with white polka dots.
    groom fixing himself Chicago trolley wedding session by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    A person in a pink suit stands on a wooden deck, looking out at a cloudy skyline, with their hands clasped behind their back.
    A woman in a wedding dress stands on a wooden deck between two buildings, holding a bouquet of flowers, with a cloudy sky in the background.
    A man wearing a pink suit with a floral tie and white sneakers, standing on a wooden deck against a light-colored wall.
    A woman in a white halter-style wedding dress walking outdoors, holding a bouquet of flowers and a portion of her dress, with a wooden deck and cloudy sky in the background.
    A man wearing a light suit and a floral tie stands outdoors, looking at a woman with medium-length hair. The scene is set against a cloudy sky and an urban skyline.
    A woman in a white dress holds a bouquet and wipes her face with a tissue, while a man in a suit gestures towards her, set against a cloudy sky.
    A couple embracing under a cloudy sky, with the woman in a wedding dress and the man in a light suit holding a bouquet.
    A couple shares an intimate moment on a balcony, with the woman wearing a white wedding dress and holding a vibrant bouquet, while the man in a light pink suit leans in close, set against a cloudy sky and urban backdrop.
    A close-up of a woman wearing a white halter dress and earrings, interacting intimately with a man whose face is partially obscured.
    A couple sharing a romantic moment on stairs, with the bride in a white dress and the groom in a light pink suit, surrounded by a partially cloudy sky.
    A black and white image of a couple kissing, framed against a dramatic sky with clouds. The woman holds a bouquet, and they appear deeply connected and intimate.
    A newlywed couple stands smiling at each other in front of a City Hall sign, holding a bouquet of flowers.
    A woman in a flowing white dress walks along a city sidewalk, looking back at a man in a light-colored suit.
    A woman wearing a backless, elegant dress descends an escalator in an indoor space.
    A couple poses playfully in front of a 'Marriage Court' sign, with the woman in a silk wedding dress and the man in a light gray suit, both wearing masks. The background features escalators and modern architecture.
    A woman in a wedding dress wearing a mask holds a bouquet while walking in a hallway, with another woman and a lamp in the background.
    A groom in a light-colored suit and a bride in a white dress are joyfully crossing the street while holding hands. In the background, other guests are walking, and vehicles are passing by in a city setting.
    A couple walks hand-in-hand down a city street, with tall buildings on either side. The woman wears a flowing white dress and the man is dressed in a light suit.
    A group of people celebrating outside a building, with some cheering and taking photos. The scene includes individuals in formal and stylish attire, holding drinks and flowers.
    A joyful couple embraces in front of a group of cheering guests at a wedding celebration, with the couple dressed elegantly and surrounded by friends and family in a city setting.
    Bride and groom standing on a city street, with the bride gesturing while speaking, surrounded by people in formal attire.
    A happy couple embracing on a city street, with the man wearing a light pink suit and the woman in a flowing white dress, both holding a vibrant bouquet of flowers.
    A couple toasting with drinks at a celebration in a lively venue. The woman is wearing a sleeveless dress and the man is in a light-colored suit. Friends and guests are gathered around, enjoying the moment.
    A joyful moment of a man embracing a woman wearing a wedding dress, with the woman holding a bouquet of vibrant flowers.
    Interior of a decorated trolley bus filled with diverse guests dressed for an event, some sitting while others are standing and interacting.
    Interior of a decorated trolley with people celebrating, some dancing, and others enjoying drinks, in a lively and joyful atmosphere.
    A group of people enjoying a festive gathering inside a bus; two individuals sit closely, smiling and sharing a moment together.
    Portraits at the Art Institute by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    Portraits at the Art Institute by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    Portraits at the Art Institute by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    Portraits at the Art Institute by an intimate Chicago wedding photographer.
    A bride in a white dress holding a vibrant bouquet smiles at the camera while a groom in a light pink suit embraces her from behind, set against an urban backdrop with greenery and a historical building.
    A beautifully set dining table with a gray plate, a folded napkin, and a name card for 'Ashley.' A menu is partially visible, featuring beverages and a green leaf decoration.
    A lively dining scene featuring several people seated at a long table in a modern restaurant, with greenery and stylish decor in the background.
    A man and woman toast with glasses in a restaurant setting, showcasing joy and celebration.
    Two women embracing in a warm hug, one holding a champagne glass, in a busy restaurant kitchen setting.
    A joyful group of four people smiling and laughing during a celebration at a restaurant, with a stylish kitchen in the background.
    A joyful couple sharing a moment in a restaurant, surrounded by guests and a cozy atmosphere. The woman, in a white dress, smiles and leans toward the man in a light suit, while another woman nearby holds a drink.