How to begin this story about a Rockwell on the River wedding, if not with just one word — an unforgettable journey.
THEIR STORY BEGINS ALL THE WAY BACK IN HIGH SCHOOL
Shannon and Kevin came to us through a recommendation from a friend. Communication flowed easily—we talked about everything, especially their wedding plans. We first met in person at their engagement session. They were absolutely amazing. We didn’t have to give them any directions on how to pose or position themselves—they were so natural. That’s when we learned that their story goes way back to high school. They’ve been through everything together, and their love has only grown stronger over the years. After so much time spent side by side, they finally decided to celebrate and honor their journey with a wedding. Shannon already had a clear vision in her mind, and it was obvious they had been planning this day for a long time. They’ve been engaged for two years. Because of the pandemic, they had to postpone the wedding several times.
GETTING READY AT THE LINCOLN HOTEL AND FIRST LOOK AT THE OPERA HOUSE
Kevin didn’t want his getting ready photographed, so we started with Shannon’s preparations. The rooms at the Lincoln Hotel are small, and Shannon had a huge bridal party—ten bridesmaids! We were all packed into that little suite. It was pretty intense because we didn’t have much time, and it was a good thing both photographers were there. The day was cloudy, and then the rain started. Her mother and sister helped her get dressed. Shannon is very close to her family and had a first look with her father at the hotel. The whole family was deeply emotional. We changed our photo location plans several times, but the rain forced us to go with the Lyric Opera because it had a covered area—and because they had a huge wedding party, over twenty people. You really have to think about where you can work with a group that large. The first look with Kevin was at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. There, we captured their portraits and photos with the huge wedding party. The guys were already there and in great spirits.Since the rain changed our plans, we decided to head to the venue earlier and take some additional portraits and group photos indoors before the ceremony.
CEREMONY AND RECEPTION AT ROCKWELL ON THE RIVER
We were lucky that the rain stopped, so we had time to take a few more photos outside at the venue, right by the river. The venue is actually named after the Chicago River. It’s huge, and you can host large events with plenty of guests here. The sun came out, and we were able to take some incredible portraits of Shannon, who is truly photogenic. The dress she chose was perfect for her. The guests were arriving, and their officiant was a close friend of theirs. The flower girl won everyone’s hearts. The couple read their vows, the ceremony was over, and everything was set for the big celebration. The cocktail hour continued while the team from Rockwell on the River prepared the reception space for the guests’ arrival. We took a few more photos inside with the couple, as well as some outside. We asked them to step out during the blue hour, and we captured the stunning blue sky.The newlyweds had their first dance, accompanied by a live band. Bluewater Kings Band is excellent, and we’ve worked with them several times before. They also shared a mother-son dance and a father-daughter dance. This wedding at Rockwell on the River will always be remembered as one of the most beautiful weddings. In addition to photography, WS Photography also handled the videography, which we’ve shared as well. Their beautiful story was also featured in Brides & Weddings magazine.
If you would like to see the entire wedding and more similar ones, feel free to contact us.
Vendor Team
Venue: Rockwell on the River Planer :Anna Rea Events Photographer: WS Photography Music : Bluewater Kings Band Makeup : Make up by Mirella Florist : Flowers for Dreams
