Theater on the Lake Wedding | Chicago Wedding Photographer

Louis and Maggie’s elegant Theater on the Lake wedding was one for the books! Even though it rained the majority of the day, it didn’t stop them from having the best day possible. Their summer wedding day was the same weekend as the NASCAR Chicago race. Needless to say, it was busy around the downtown area and added an extra layer of excitement to the day.

To start the day, Maggie readied in her childhood home, which made it all the more special. She knew she would feel more comfortable there and be able to share more memories with family in an already special place. For something borrowed and old, Maggie wore her mom’s pearl earrings that were once a gift to her mom from her dad. Maggie’s fitted satin dress was very chic and classy. Her cathedral-length veil and white, long-stemmed rose bouquet completed her elegant look. Complementing Maggie’s chic and timeless wedding day vision was her beautiful bridesmaids, who wore floor-length, champagne satin dresses.

house where bride gets ready before Theater on the Lake Wedding

Father-Daughter First Look

Once ready, Maggie shared a first look with her dad. Let me tell you… it was one of the sweetest ones I’ve witnessed in a while! Maggie’s mom and two sisters watched the moment unfold, which was so touching. Seeing his face light up when he saw Maggie – we were all a bit misty-eyed. First looks are always the most special when the bride has a close, special relationship with their dad.

first look between father and bride before Theater on the Lake Wedding

Louis had custom cufflinks with their wedding date and “You are my forever” engraved on one and Maggie’s name on the other. The groom and his groomsmen got ready at Claridge House, a luxurious boutique hotel in Chicago’s Gold Coast. The morning was like most grooms getting ready – filled with laughs, sports, and cold drinks. After sharing a celebratory drink, the group of guys headed to the St. Giles Catholic Church, Maggie’s family church, for the wedding ceremony.

Claridge House, luxurious boutique hotel in Chicago

groom details from Theater on the Lake Wedding

Elegant Theater on the Lake Wedding

Louis and Maggie chose not to do a first look, as they wanted their first time seeing each other to be when Maggie walked down the aisle. It was such a moment of excitement and anticipation. Seeing Maggie and Louis beaming during the ceremony was well worth it! However, their smiles were the biggest when they exited the church together as husband and wife.

Their Theater on the Lake wedding reception was an absolute dream! This is a unique wedding venue in Chicago and one of the city’s only lakefront venues! While it was rainy, the views of the lake and the natural light pouring in from the large windows were beautiful. The couple worked with the amazing wedding planner Paris Events. They were SO lovely to work with – they handled all the little details and ensured everything came together beautifully. Keeping in theme with the timeless, classic vibe, low vases of white roses acted as centerpieces and lit white candles in tall clear holders, adding a bit of romantic ambiance to the tablescapes.

As the evening went on, the newlyweds and all their family and friends enjoyed the open dance floor and the tunes of Paul Windsor Orchestra. Standing back and seeing the dance floor full of their loved ones laughing and having the best time was such a treat.

Maggie and Louis, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your elegant wedding day and capture each precious memory. Cheers to you both!