Capturing Love at Sarabande:
Aidden and Stephanie’s Chicago Wedding
The Sarabande wedding venue in Chicago, part of the renowned Ovation group, is quickly becoming one of the city’s most sought-after locations for couples tying the knot. It was the perfect setting for Aidden and Stephanie’s stunning wedding. Their celebration was a mix of timeless elegance and modern flair, and we were honored to be part of their special day.
A Journey to the Altar
I first met Aidden several years ago while photographing his sister’s quinceañera events in Chicago. Little did I know that connection would lead me to capture his wedding to Stephanie years later. When I met the couple to discuss their wedding plans, it was clear how much thought and care they had poured into every detail. Sarabande, as one of Chicago’s newest and most versatile venues, was the perfect canvas for their vision.
Getting Ready at Sarabande
The day began in Sarabande’s elegant bridal suite, where Stephanie and her bridal party prepared for the big day. Arriving there, I was greeted by an atmosphere of joy and anticipation. The bridal suite was beautifully adorned, and their florist had provided extra floral arrangements, adding an extra touch of romance to the getting-ready photos.
Aidden arrived later, at 11 a.m., to prepare with his groomsmen at the same venue. This allowed us to capture both sides of their preparations seamlessly. One of the day’s highlights was the couple’s first look—an emotional and heartfelt moment that set the tone for the rest of the day. Another touching scene was Stephanie’s first look with Aiden, a moment filled with happy tears and warm embraces.
Portraits at Iconic Chicago Landmarks
Before the ceremony, we headed to two iconic Chicago locations for wedding portraits: The Rookery and the Chicago Board of Trade. These architectural gems provided the perfect backdrop for capturing timeless images of the couple. Stephanie’s flowing gown and Aidden’s sharp suit stood out beautifully against the historic surroundings, creating a gallery of photos that will be cherished forever.
The soft natural light streaming through the large windows beautifully highlights the couple’s love and the elegant details of the bride’s gown.The sweeping curves of the staircase and the couple’s poised stance make this a stunning representation of classic elegance and love.
The Ceremony: A Celebration of Love and Faith
The ceremony began at 4:00 p.m. in Sarabande’s beautifully designed event space. The couple’s faith was a central theme, and one of the most moving moments was when they invited their guests to join them in taking communion. The prayer over the bride and groom was equally powerful, filling the room with love and blessings. These moments were a true testament to the couple’s deep connection and shared values.
Cocktail Hour and Reception Highlights
Back at Sarabande, the cocktail hour was in full swing, featuring the soulful sounds of Luciano Antonio , an incredibly talented guitarist whose music set the perfect ambiance. Guests enjoyed a mix of Spanish and American tunes, blending the couple’s cultural backgrounds and musical tastes.
The reception was a lively celebration filled with laughter, dancing, and heartfelt toasts. Sarabande’s modern aesthetic and warm lighting created an intimate yet energetic atmosphere, perfect for such a joyous occasion.
Why Sarabande Is Perfect for Wedding Photos
As one of Chicago’s newest wedding venues, Sarabande offers endless opportunities for stunning photography. From its chic bridal suite to its spacious ceremony and reception areas, every corner of the venue is designed with elegance in mind. The neutral tones and contemporary design provide a versatile backdrop, making it easy to capture timeless images tailored to each couple’s style.
Aidden and Stephanie’s wedding day was brought to life with the help of an incredible team of vendors, including Day of Coordinator Xuyen, Venue Liaisons Callie Mauzy, Cydnei, and Becca, Officiant Pastor Jovan, Florist Emily, Photographer Doru – H Photography, Videographer Tony, Desserts provided by the family, Caterers Manny and Blanca, Hair & Makeup by Christine, DJ Julio Calderon, Pianist ISA, and Guitarist Luciano Antonio. Their combined efforts ensured every moment was seamless and unforgettable!