Jordan and Corbin’s wedding at Rockwell on the River overflowed with personal touches, elegance, and incredible energy. As a Chicago fine art wedding photographer, I focus on capturing true-to-life moments, and this celebration had plenty to offer. From thoughtful details designed by the bride herself to lively dance floor moments, this wedding embodied timeless sophistication.
The Perfect Venue: Rockwell on the River
Rockwell on the River is one of Chicago’s most captivating wedding venues (one of my absolute favorites!), and it perfectly set the stage for Jordan and Corbin’s day. Industrial yet refined, the venue combines exposed brick walls and sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows. Not to mention the riverfront setting that draws so many couples to the unique venue. Natural light floods the space, lending itself effortlessly to fine art film photography’s soft, classic look. It was a picture-perfect choice for this elegant celebration and unforgettable experience.
Personal Touches by the Bride
Jordan brought her incredible artistic talent and organizational skills to create a wedding day that reflected their personalities. She personally designed and crafted every invitation, sign, and decorative element, from welcome boards to table cards. Each detail blended seamlessly, creating a cohesive aesthetic that was both sophisticated and artful. As a photographer, I appreciate thoughtful touches like these—they tell a couple’s unique story and highlight their talents and style.
Getting-Ready Moments
The day began at two separate yet equally stylish locations. Corbin gathered with close family and friends at the Emily Hotel, enjoying a relaxed morning of laughs, drinks, and anticipation. Meanwhile, Jordan prepared for the big day with her inner circle at Rockwell on the River. This spacious, chic wedding venue provided the perfect backdrop for her calm yet upbeat morning. Natural light from a window-enclosed corridor flooded the bridal suite, which was great for capturing some sweet moments with her mom.
An Intimate First Look
Jordan and Corbin chose a first look, a quiet moment shared privately before the ceremony. Without the distraction of a big audience, they could be fully present and savor the joy of seeing each other for the first time. The emotion and genuine reactions captured here remain some of my favorites. A first look also gave us ample time for relaxed couple portraits and family photographs. It allowed the couple to soak in the moment together and ease any wedding day nerves.
Timeless Portraits on Film
If you know me, you know I’m in love with film photography, and this wedding was the ideal match for the medium. Film captures color tones with unmatched elegance. It adds a soft, organic feel and a beautiful grain texture. Jordan and Corbin’s portraits possess that timeless quality. It’s easy to appreciate the subtle nuances for decades to come.
An Intimate Wedding Ceremony at Rockwell on the River
Jordan and Corbin opted for a cozy, intimate ceremony that made everyone feel like they had a front-row seat during the vows. It was such a special way to wrap their guests into the experience and make them feel included as an important part of their love story.
Afterward, they decided to skip the usual bridal party photos, keeping the spotlight on what mattered most—special moments with family, close friends, and each other. The celebration centered around their relationship, shared with the people who mean the world to them.
Reception Fun: Celebrating in Style
Let me tell you—Jordan and Corbin’s reception? Electric. This wasn’t one of those “watch from the sidelines” kind of nights. From toddlers to grandmothers, everyone hit the dance floor like it was their moment. (Because it was.)
The energy? Unreal. The moments? Pure gold. As for me, I was right in the middle of it, camera in hand, catching the raw, the real, the unforgettable. I live to capture this kind of magic—the wild, unfiltered, can’t-stop-smiling kind of memories you’ll never forget.
An Outfit Change Worth the Hype
One highlight of the evening was Jordan’s perfectly executed outfit change. After the ceremony, she swapped her elegant gown for a chic, ruffled cocktail dress paired with stylish tennis shoes. This playful touch allowed her to enjoy the celebration while feeling comfortable and stylish. She effortlessly pulled off this fun switch, bringing her personality into the evening’s festivities.
Considering an Outfit Change for Your Reception?
If you’re still contemplating a reception outfit change, here are several reasons to go for it:
Comfort is Key: Wedding gowns are beautiful, but not always comfortable for hours of dancing. Changing into something lighter allows you to move freely and enjoy the party.
Express Your Style: Some brides choose a more traditional gown for the ceremony and something trendy or modern for the reception. It’s the best of both worlds, showcasing different sides of your personal style.
Photo Variety: An outfit change provides additional visual interest to your wedding album, adding variety and personality to your images.
Practicality: Worried about your gown getting dirty or damaged on the dance floor? Switch to something more durable and stress-free for your reception.
Surprise Factor: Guests love unexpected moments; your outfit change can be one of them. It keeps the energy high and excitement going all night.
A Timeless Celebration to Remember
Jordan and Corbin’s wedding encapsulated everything a fine art photographer dreams of: beautiful details, authentic connections, and genuine emotion. Their day was sophisticated, yet full of warmth, laughter, and joy. Capturing every precious moment at Rockwell on the River made me deeply appreciate what I do. Weddings like these remind me exactly why I pursue fine art photography.
Do you have a wedding coming up? I’d love to help you create art through photography to celebrate and honor your big day.
Chicago Wedding Vendor Team
Venue: Rockwell on the River
Planner: Sweetchic Events, Inc.
Photographer: Danielle Heinson Photography
Florals: Art of Imagination
Dress: Brides by Young
Hair & Makeup: Lueur Beauti
Suit: Suit Supply
Catering: True Cuisine
Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s
Stationery: DIY by the Bride
Officiant: Brad Hughes at Love Story Weddings
DJ: DJ One Chance
Photo Booth: Shutterbooth
