Leslie and Sean

It’s always a little nerve-wracking shooting weddings for family, but my cousin Leslie and her husband Sean made the experience one I know I’ll treasure for a long time. They’re such an easygoing couple and their beautiful October wedding was one of the highlights of my year. We started the day in the bridal suite at the Blackstone Hotel on Magnificent Mile. We were able to take advantage of some amazing light from the suite’s big skylights. We used Spirit of Music Garden across the street for the first look and had the bridal party join us for some fun group pictures. They were married in St. Alphonsus, a beautifully ornate church in Lincoln Park. They’re photogenic golden retriever, Griffey, joined them for photos after the ceremony and the results did not disappoint. I always love the opportunity to shoot a couple with their pet. We packed into the bus and headed over to Adler Planetarium for some more group shots by the lake. Cocktails back at the Blackstone led into some heartfelt speeches from their siblings. The night concluded with a rousing rendition of “Who let the dogs out” performed by all of the groomsmen. The Baha Men would have been proud.