Looking for some summer wedding inspiration? Amber & Vince’s Ovation Chicago wedding will have you grinning from ear to ear! And if you’re considering hiring a wedding planner for your big day, I’ll lay out a few perks you may not have thought about yet (it’s not just about looks!).
One for the Books at Ovation, A Chicago Wedding Venue
Dancing in the Studio to Walking Down the Aisle
I first met this adorable duo on a chilly December day for their engagement session at my studio. We had a blast, with them dancing to Harry Styles and me laughing at all their jokes (they are hysterical!). Fast forward to their wedding day—a gorgeous, sunny summer day—a rare treat given how rainy early June was that year!
A Priceless Gift from the Groom
We kicked things off at a West Loop hotel for their getting-ready shots. Amber had the cutest details (I’m still obsessing over her shoes!), and we captured some sweet prep moments before their first look. One highlight? Amber opened Vince’s gift—a collection of letters he’d written her every day for a month leading up to the wedding. Cue the tears!
Vintage Cars & Ivy Walls
Amber’s first look with her dad was beyond sweet, and when she and Vince finally saw each other, they were more than ready to start the day. We headed to a stunning ivy-covered wall near the venue, where a vintage car was waiting for some epic photos. Though we were short on time, we managed to get some of my all-time favorite shots of the wedding party and the car—perfection.
A Standing Ovation for Ovation—And Amanda Paige Events
Finally, we arrived at Ovation, one of my favorite Chicago wedding venues. The lighting in this place is always dreamy, and the team at Amanda Paige Events outdid themselves with the decor. Amber & Vince’s “I do’s” brought tears to everyone’s eyes, and then it was party time!
After the traditional first dances, they kicked off the open dance floor with an epic lip-sync performance of “This is What Dreams are Made of” from the Lizzie McGuire movie. It was the perfect way to start the celebration.
So, to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Amber & Vince’s wedding, click that link, listen to the song, and enjoy the photos of this amazing Ovation Chicago wedding!
10 Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner for Your Big Day
Are you on the fence about hiring a wedding planner? As a wedding photographer, I say do it if possible (you may even save money due to their connections and budget management!).
This wedding was flawless and stress-free from planning to newlywed send-off, thanks to the incredibly talented and creative team at Amanda Paige Events. If this wedding didn’t sell you, here are a few more perks of hiring a wedding planner:
Less Stress, More Fun: Let’s face it, planning a wedding can be overwhelming. A wedding planner takes the weight off your shoulders so you can actually enjoy the process and have fun!
Budget Management: Worried about costs spiraling out of control? A wedding planner helps you stick to your budget and can even save you money with their insider connections.
Creative Vision: Do you have a theme in mind but not sure how to bring it to life? Wedding planners are pros at turning your wildest dreams into a reality, making your special day uniquely yours.
Vendor Connections: Planners have a network of trusted vendors, from florists to photographers, to ensure you get the best quality and service for your big day.
Day-of Coordination: On the day of your wedding, the last thing you want is to be swamped with logistics. A wedding planner ensures everything runs smoothly so you can focus on celebrating your love.
Problem Solvers: Unexpected hiccups? No problem! Wedding planners are experts at troubleshooting and keeping everything on track, no matter what.
Personalized Touch: Each couple is unique, and a wedding planner ensures your personality shines through every detail. They tailor everything from the color scheme to the smallest décor accents to reflect your love story.
Time Management: Juggling work, life, and wedding planning can be daunting. Planners streamline the process and handle the time-consuming tasks, allowing you to focus on what’s most important.
Expert Advice: Whether you’re unsure about traditional customs or need guidance on the latest trends, wedding planners offer expert advice and insights to help you make informed decisions.
Peace of Mind: Perhaps the most valuable perk of all—knowing that a professional is handling the complexities of your wedding provides unparalleled peace of mind. You can relax, savor every moment, and create lasting memories, confident that every detail is in expert hands.
Let’s Do This Thing!
Hiring a wedding planner is not just a luxury but an invaluable partner in creating the wedding of your dreams and, most importantly, making things stress-free so you can enjoy your day to the fullest. If you’re about to walk down the aisle, consider investing in a planner to ensure your day is as magical and stress-free as possible.
As a wedding photographer, I love when couples hire a wedding planner because it lets me focus entirely on capturing those precious moments without worrying about the logistics. A well-coordinated event means I can be at the right place at the right time, ensuring that every smile, tear, and laugh is immortalized with precision. The seamless execution orchestrated by a wedding planner creates an atmosphere where everyone, from the guests to the vendors, can simply enjoy and be present in the moment. This results in more genuine and heartfelt photographs, where the joy and love of the day are clearly reflected. So, if you want your wedding photos to sparkle with the essence of your celebration, having a wedding planner is a decision you won’t regret.
