A chic yet fun Salvage One Chicago wedding? Sign me up, please! Jen and Jim were one of those unlucky couples whose wedding plans were heavily impacted by COVID reschedules. But despite the setbacks, they managed to turn their journey into something extraordinary with not one but two extraordinary wedding days!

Here we are years later, and it’s still one of the most memorable weddings I’ve had the honor of photographing. Not to mention, I love how they maximized their day with fun locations and tons of character and photo ops. Keep reading to see their wedding day journey and the best Chicago wedding portrait locations.

We may be well past the pandemic days now, but this unforgettable wedding journey with Jen and Jim shows that love always finds a way to shine, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.

Where It All Started

Our photo adventure began back in 2019 in Houston for their engagement session. First, they had their micro wedding in 2020, and we wrapped up their celebrations with a breathtaking ceremony at Salvage One in Chicago in 2021. What a journey, right? I was fortunate enough to be there from start to finish, and I am so thankful I got to spend so much time with this wonderful group of people. ❤️

Best Spots in Chicago for Wedding Portraits

The reception venue wasn’t the only star location. Don’t forget to consider all the in-between locations leading up to the ceremony, reception, and send-off.

Hotel Monaco

Our adventure began bright and early at the stunning Hotel Monaco, a gem nestled in the heart of the city. The hotel’s vibrant and eclectic décor provided the perfect backdrop for our initial prep shots, capturing the excitement and anticipation that buzzed in the air. From the elegantly designed rooms to the breathtaking views of the cityscape, every corner of Hotel Monaco offered a unique photo opportunity.

Once we had captured the essence of the morning preparations, we ventured out into the city to visit some of my all-time favorite photo spots, each with distinctive charm and significance.

 

The Art Institute Gardens

First, we stopped at the blossoming Art Institute gardens. The lush greenery and artfully curated landscape created a tranquil oasis amidst the urban hustle. The interplay of light and shadow through the foliage provided a natural, ethereal quality. The garden’s rich textures and vibrant colors were a photographer’s dream, allowing us to capture intimate and timeless moments.

 

The Wrigley Building

Then, we made our way to the iconic Wrigley Building. This architectural marvel, with its gleaming white terra cotta façade and breathtaking clock tower, is a testament to the city’s rich history and grandeur. The elegant archways and intricate structural details served as a majestic backdrop, adding a touch of classic sophistication to the photos. The Wrigley Building’s charm lies in its beauty and ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and awe.

 

The Financial District Building

Our final stop before Salvage One was the impressive Financial District building. Its sleek, modern lines contrasted beautifully with the historical landmarks we had visited earlier. The towering structure and reflective glass surfaces provided a contemporary edge to the photos, symbolizing progress and ambition. Even better, the Financial District building’s dynamic angles and bold architecture allowed us to experiment with perspective and composition, resulting in unique images.

 

Capturing Intimate & Epic Moments from Beginning to End

Each location we visited brought a unique vibe and story, enriching the day’s narrative. From the delicate elegance of the Art Institute gardens to the timeless sophistication of the Wrigley Building and the modern grandeur of the Financial District, these landmarks collectively framed a beautiful journey through the city.

As the day unfolded, we created stunning visuals and lasting memories. The blend of historic charm and contemporary allure in these locations perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the city for a personalized wedding day.

A Chic Vintage Ceremony at Salvage One

After their portraits, we headed to Salvage One—one of my all-time favorite Chicago venues! We captured artsy photos around the property before their adorable, heartfelt ceremony in the al fresco courtyard.

The industrial-chic ambiance was the perfect backdrop for the couple’s unique style, blending effortlessly with the venue’s vintage decor and eclectic charm. The ceremony was a tear-jerker, with personal vows that had everyone feeling every sweet emotion under the sun.

Afterward, guests mingled amid Salvage One’s antique furniture and quirky artifacts, enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvres that reflected the couple’s distinct tastes. As the sun began to set, the space transformed into a magical wonderland of twinkling lights and candles, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of celebration.

Elegant Wedding Decor with a Nostalgic Literary Touch

Jen and Jim are avid readers, like me, so I fell in love with the elegant, nostalgic library theme. Plus, the florals from Flowers for Dreams were an absolute dream to shoot!

And then it was party time! After some hilarious speeches, we moved on to the dance floor. We ended the night with dramatic nighttime portraits in front of Salvage One’s iconic Chicago sign.

After spending three years together, from engagement to wedding day, it was a bittersweet moment to say goodbye. But I couldn’t be happier that they achieved their dream wedding, and I’m forever grateful that I was the one to capture it.

 

Want to see more weddings? Head this way ➡️!