Prospect Park Engagement Session



The couple moved to Brooklyn, and we celebrated with a Prospect Park Engagement Session. Let me tell you, seeing these two in that lush, vibrant setting was pure magic. They brought so much energy—one moment, they’d be laughing and whispering inside jokes, and the next, they’d be wrapped up in a sweet embrace that made me feel like I was the luckiest photographer in the world. Shooting in Prospect Park also gave me a glimpse into their life in New York, a beautiful contrast to their roots in Chicago.

A Morning of Anticipation

Fast forward to July, and I found myself in a sunlit Chicago suite, watching Maya slip into her Monique Lhuillier gown. The delicate floral appliqués perfectly echoed their modern Garden of Eden vibe, and I could almost hear the collective intake of breath when her bridesmaids saw her for the first time. Meanwhile, Matthew was perfecting the fit of his white double-breasted jacket and black trousers, looking every bit the classic groom in his Dior shoes.

This color palette made my photographer’s heart sing. Rust and black for the bridal party, earthy greens for the floral design—everything looked like it had been lifted from the pages of a stylish editorial, yet it still felt intimate and true to them.

Private First Look & Prayer

One of the moments that truly took my breath away was their private first look. Maya and Matthew arranged to see each other in the quiet calm of a hotel suite. They followed it with a quiet prayer, hands clasped, heads bowed, and hearts full of faith and gratitude. It was so moving that I had to remind myself to keep snapping photos—sometimes, the profound beauty of a moment can almost make me forget I’m there to document it!

the South Garden of the Chicago Art Institute



After wiping away those happy tears, we headed to the South Garden of the Chicago Art Institute, a hidden oasis that matched their Garden of Eden theme to perfection. They were so lost in each other—stealing kisses, giggling, and just radiating pure joy. I can’t tell you how many times I found myself smiling behind my lens, grateful that they trusted me to capture these fleeting but powerful moments.



Ceremony and Special Touches at The Gerthery

When we arrived at The Gerthery, the transformation was absolutely stunning. Event Shoppe Chicago and Kehoe Designs had created an indoor garden wonderland. Before the ceremony, guests wandered through a mini art gallery of Maya and Matthew’s memories—engagement photos, keepsakes, and treasured tokens that showcased their rich journey together.

The ceremony itself brought on another wave of emotions. They began with a worship song, which set such a reverent and joyful tone. I couldn’t help but get misty-eyed again (I told you this wedding had me crying real tears!) as they said their vows. The pastor’s words about their faith and journey resonated with every single person in the room. You could feel the love radiating from their families and friends.

A Reception of Earthy Greens and Candlelit

After the ceremony, we floated into cocktail hour, where a cozy speakeasy vibe took over. Eventually, the main reception was revealed—an enchanting scene of hanging lanterns, greenery, and the softest candlelight. I’m a sucker for lush floral decor, and The Gerthery felt like it was transformed into a contemporary Eden.

One detail I absolutely adored was the sweet potato pie that Maya’s father baked in lieu of a traditional wedding cake. When they cut into that homemade pie, the entire room erupted with applause and laughter. It was a beautiful nod to family traditions and made the celebration feel all the more personal.



Let’s Party

By the time DJ Ron Steele started spinning tracks, everyone was on their feet—cheering, hugging, and dancing like there was no tomorrow. Maya and Matthew were at the center of it all, still beaming.

Some weddings just fill your soul, and Maya and Matthew’s nuptials were a perfect example of why I love what I do. Their day was everything—faith-filled, deeply personal, and bursting with genuine emotion.  I feel so honored they trusted me to document this chapter of their story.

Days like these remind me that photography isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about preserving the heartbeat of a moment. Maya and Matthew, thank you for letting me be part of your modern Garden of Eden. May your marriage continue to flourish, just like the love that radiated through every corner of your wedding day.