Katie and Michael’s classic and elegant Chicago winter wedding took place amidst the twinkling lights and festive ambiance of the holiday season. The wedding weekend kicked off with a rehearsal dinner and welcome party at The Drake Hotel the night before the main event. Against the backdrop of the hotel adorned in holiday finery, friends and family gathered to toast to the upcoming nuptials of Katie and Michael. As I captured these precious moments, the warmth and love surrounding the couple was evident.
I love when I have the opportunity to capture not just the wedding, but the entire wedding weekend experience. Getting to know the couple and their family and friends on a deeper level means so much to me. In fact, through our conversations I discovered that Katie and Michael’s dad, as well as Michael himself, have the name Michael Anthony, which became a running joke throughout their wedding. Making these connections and relationships with my clients is truly priceless.
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0979.jpg)
![holiday decorations at The Drake Hotel in Chicago](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0980.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0981.jpg)
![bride-to-be at Chicago wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0982.jpg)
![heartfelt photos from rehersal dinner](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0983.jpg)
![candid portraits from wedding weekend](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0984.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0985.jpg)
![wedding weekend at The Drake](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0986.jpg)
![candid photos from Chicago wedding weekend at the Drake](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0987.jpg)
![bride and groom portraits from rehearsal; dinner](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0988.jpg)
Getting Wedding Ready
Anticipation and excitement filled the air as Katie and her bridesmaids prepared for the day’s events in The Drake Hotel’s luxurious Princess Diana Suite. Katie was a positively beautiful bride in her Mark Ingram gown, with its timeless silhouette and exquisite texture. Her classic style was complemented by her clean, white long-stemmed rose bouquet.
![elegant and clean invitation suite](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0989.jpg)
![bride and bridesmaids](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0990.jpg)
![bride getting into wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0991.jpg)
![classic bridal portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0992.jpg)
![bridal portraits from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0993.jpg)
![classic white rose wedding bouquet](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0994.jpg)
![candid photos from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0995.jpg)
![elegant bridal portraits of bride holding white rose bouquet](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0996.jpg)
![bride with parents](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0997.jpg)
![groom details from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0998.jpg)
![white flower boutonniere](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_0999.jpg)
![candid getting ready portraits of groom](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1000.jpg)
Katie and Michael shared the sweetest first look outside the hotel, which was a must for a winter wedding. With the sun setting earlier, we got as many outdoor portraits as we could during this time. First looks are great because it naturally allows for more photo time of the bride and groom. It is also a great point of connection for the couple in the midst of a busy day.
![groom portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1001.jpg)
![candid first look moment](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1002.jpg)
![candid wedding photo](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1003.jpg)
![groom's reaction during first look](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1004.jpg)
![wedding portraits from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1005.jpg)
![timeless wedding portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1006.jpg)
![heartfelt and joyful wedding images from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1007.jpg)
![candid wedding portraits of couple outside The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1008.jpg)
![bridesmaids surround bride](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1009.jpg)
![wedding party portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1010.jpg)
![bridesmaids in champagne dresses surround the bride](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1011.jpg)
![classic groom and groomsmen portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1012.jpg)
![long-stemmed white rose bouquets](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1013.jpg)
The couple’s wedding ceremony took place at the breathtaking Holy Name Cathedral, a place with deep familial ties and special significance for both Katie and Michael as Katie’s parents exchanged vows there and Michael’s parents are members of the church. It is a stunning church with beautiful details and architecture.
![bridesmaid helping bride carry wedding dress](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1014.jpg)
![guests entering church for wedding ceremony](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1015.jpg)
![elegant wedding ceremony at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1016.jpg)
![bride walking down the aisle with father](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1017.jpg)
![bride and groom during wedding ceremony](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1018.jpg)
![guest sits in pew during church wedding ceremony](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1019.jpg)
![Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1020.jpg)
![](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1021.jpg)
![candid wedding ceremony portraits](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1022.jpg)
![bride and groom are pronounced husband and wife](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1023.jpg)
![newlyweds exit Chicago church](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1024.jpg)
![couple outside of church in Chicago](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1025.jpg)
Wedding Reception at The Drake
Following the ceremony, guests gathered at The Drake for a cocktail hour filled with laughter and joy. As I mingled among the crowd, capturing candid and heartfelt moments, it was clear that Katie and Michael’s love had touched the hearts of everyone in attendance. The entire wedding was VERY Katie and Michael – classic, elegant, and timeless in every way.
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1026.jpg)
![white flower centerpieces and candles at Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1027.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1028.jpg)
![white roses and greenery](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1029.jpg)
![timeless wedding portraits from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1030.jpg)
The Drake Hotel exudes timeless elegance and sophistication, making it the perfect venue for couples like Katie and Michael who envision an elegant and timeless wedding experience. The historic grandeur of the venue provides an undeniable charm. From the ballrooms to its opulent decor and architectural details, The Drake is a truly distinctive Chicago wedding venue. Katie and Michael’s wedding reception took place in the Gold Coast Room, which overlooks Lake Michigan. This is the largest ballroom at The Drake Hotel, which was decorated to perfection with timeless and elegant details. Low-sitting, white flower arrangements were placed at the center of tables intermixed with flickering candles creating a romantic atmosphere.
![champagne at Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding reception at The Drake](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1031.jpg)
![bride and groom enter reception](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1032.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1033.jpg)
![newlyweds toast at wedding reception](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1034.jpg)
![candid reactions during wedding toast at Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1035.jpg)
Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding
The holiday decor added an extra layer of warmth and festivity to the celebration. Winter weddings have a unique charm that sets them apart from weddings held during other seasons. As colder weather typically encourages people to gather indoors, it brings with it a feeling of warmth, togetherness, and intimacy, which is exactly the atmosphere of Katie and Michael’s wedding. They embraced the holiday decor which was beautifully placed throughout the Hotel, from the cozy textures, twinkling Christmas lights, and the elegant candlelight decorating the reception.
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1036.jpg)
![candid portraits from wedding reception](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1037.jpg)
![tablescape at wedding reception](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1038.jpg)
![newlyweds visit with guests](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1039.jpg)
![newlyweds first dance as husband and wife](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1040.jpg)
![guests taking photos of bride and groom first dance](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1041.jpg)
![candid wedding portraits of couple on dance floor](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1042.jpg)
![wedding guests dance](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1043.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1044.jpg)
![guests on dance floor at Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1045.jpg)
As the evening drew to a close, Katie opted for a quick dress change – a gorgeous, shimmery dress, with fun fur accents at the bottom, that paired wonderfully with her fur shaw. After changing, the newlyweds snuck away for a private moment atop the rooftop of The Drake. Against the backdrop of the glittering city lights, they embraced each other as I captured a few more wedding portraits to cap off the day.
Katie and Michael’s winter wedding was a beautiful celebration of love and togetherness. The timeless and elegant details paired with the pure love shared between the newlyweds and all their guests made for an unforgettable wedding. Katie and Michael, thank you for choosing me to capture your winter wedding day. I wish you both all the happiness as you embark on this new chapter in your lives together!
![](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1046.jpg)
![bride changes into second outfit for Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1047.jpg)
![newlyweds at The Drake hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1048.jpg)
![romantic rooftop wedding portraits from Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1049.jpg)
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding portraits at The Drake Hotel](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicago-Wedding-Photographer-Alex-Ferreri-Photography_1050.jpg)
Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Alex Ferreri
Planning: Soiree Smith
Wedding Ceremony: Holy Name Cathedral
Reception Venue: The Drake Hotel
Floral Design: Flowers by Stem
Stationery: Lizzy Croghan
Cake: Cake Chicago
Entertainment: The Union Band
Beauty Team: Bianca Sansosti Artistry
Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Halls Rental
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALEX FERRERI AND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES, INQUIRE HERE.
View more resources, timeless wedding day moments, and romantic engagements on the blog:
Chicago Fall Engagement Session With Dogs | Tips For Including Dogs In Photos
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago Wedding
How To Choose The Right Wedding Photographer
![Elegant Chicago Winter Wedding](https://alexferreri.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Alex-F.-Photography-Pins-1.png)