These two never stop smiling and laughing. Eliza and Tayler are the sweetest couple, only to be outshined by Eliza’s son, Dominic, who was simply the most smiley, cheerful little man who looked DASHING in his suit (you really can’t get much cuter than a little guy in a suit!). The way this family loves each other is inspiring. Eliza and Tayler got married at the Wheaton Court House the day before, and they were excited to celebrate with their closest friends and family with a small reception at Alter Brewery in Downers Grove.

Eliza and Tayler’s official wedding day was not the beginning for them. Their story started the day they met. And their elopement was a celebration of their love and commitment to each other through thick and thin, and it was truly an honor to photograph this milestone and celebrate alongside them. This beautiful family certainly deserves it, and it’s easy to see Eliza and Tayler’s friends and family were ready to show their support and love for the newlyweds as they danced, laughed, and toasted to the happy couple.

From the Couple

“We love to have a good time and enjoy spending time with our five-year-old son/stepson, Dominic, and our dog, Farley. We both don’t love attention or taking pictures, and although we have been together for almost two years, we only have a handful of photos together!”

Eliza, Bride

Well, it was time we changed that! And what better occasion than their Chicago elopement? Since Eliza and Tayler love spending time together and sharing good times with friends and family, it made sense to photograph their celebratory reception and make some time for family portraits, too.

Chicago Elopements | Alternative Wedding Venues

If you’re looking for alternative venues in Chicago, Alter Brewery. might be just what you’re looking for. I love photographing at this fun venue and event space, and I’ve even done an engagement session here.

(Check out Mary and Andy’s brew-loving session here. Their session also shows a few more angles around the venue if you’re considering a session or event there.)

Alter Brewing Co. Downers Grove Wedding Reception 

Alter Brewing Co. in Downers Grove is a fantastic off-beat venue for micro weddings, intimate weddings, elopements, and day-after receptions like Eliza and Tayler’s. This hidden gem of a venue features a versatile space with local brewery charm and ambiance. From a handful of family members to 175 cocktail guests (standing), The Barrel Room and the Loft can accommodate your style and vision. The stainless-steel pipes, wooden barrels, concrete floors, and white-tiled walls give off a polished industrial vibe without being “too much.” It still feels warm, welcoming, and festive—perfect for any intimate and happy occasion.

Even in this shorter wedding session at Alter Brewery, we were able to get a variety of photo styles. I stole them away to the brewing room with a maze of pipes and metal staircases for more artistic compositions. Then, we went outside and used the dark wood-paneled wall for their sweet family portraits. It was the perfect semi-neutral backdrop to showcase their chemistry and connection with one another—nothing to detract from Dominic’s precious expressions! I especially love the dark background against Eliza’s white dress—just lovely!

Inside, we used the stacked barrels and hanging string lights as a backdrop for family portraits. Then, everyone mixed and mingled in the Barrel Room for brews, heartfelt toasts, and cake cutting. They topped the night off with everyone out on the dancefloor, littles included. Their simplified wedding celebration was nothing short of amazing, and it fit their personality perfectly. Cheers to the happy couple and their fantastic crew, too!

Say, “I do!” Your Way

My greatest joy as a Chicago wedding photographer is capturing couples in their element, loving and living in their most authentic form. So, whether you’re looking for in-home family photos or a fun and funky wedding at a unique Chicago venue, I’m all for it! Want to stroll through the park or catch a sunset over the lake? Let’s do it! Let me know what you have in mind. Get in touch with me here to reserve your date and start planning.

I look forward to photographing memories with you!

Looking for more photo inspiration? Check out my Blog and follow me on Instagram @megadamikcreative to see recent sessions.