Remember AJ and Justin’s heart-tugging engagement session at Morton Arboretum this summer? Well, their big day finally arrived, and it was all I envisioned and more for this contagiously happy couple. AJ and Justin had the most beautiful, intimate ceremony at Publishing House Bed & Breakfast, followed by a divine four-course meal with 35 of their closest family and friends at Sepia Chicago.

Publishing House is one of my absolute favorite spots in Chicago to photograph couples because of its eye-catching transitional interior design and plenty of natural light. The balance of colors, patterns, and textures gives the loft a studio feel with tons of interesting backdrop options. AJ and Justin created some gorgeous editorial couple’s portraits with me without straying far from their friends and family. I’m in love with not only the look but the overall experience The Publishing House B&B offered for AJ and Justin’s intimate wedding week (and yes, I mean week.) 

Publishing House B&B Chicago Wedding

Guests trickled into Publishing House throughout the week, and the celebration started well before Saturday. It all felt more like a long-awaited reunion, not to be rushed. The wedding day itself was slow and relaxed, comfortable and homey—just as the happy couple wanted. The gals got ready with champagne and giggles. College football and whiskey flowed while the gents put their jackets on. This was truly a stress-free wedding day. Everyone mixed and mingled like family with huge smiles on their faces for the occasion. AJ and Justin were covered in love as they went into marriage, as it should be! You might think an intimate wedding would have fewer photos. Not so with this incredible crew! Every heartfelt moment deserved a place in their photographic story.

After a touching ceremony with some of the most thoughtful vows I’ve ever heard, guests were shuttled to Sepia for drinks and a unique fine dining experience. Dinner was delightfully curated—food styling at its finest—and everyone enjoyed every bite and every minute celebrating such a wonderful couple. ⁠

Celebrating Intimate Weddings in Chicago

Intimate weddings are my absolute favorite. As the photographer, an intimate wedding gives me the chance to really get to know the most important people in your lives. I might get a moment to chat cameras with the dads and the opportunity to witness grandmas become literal besties in just a few hours—and photograph the beauty of it as it unfolds. ⁠These connections allow me to infuse more emotion and personality into photos throughout the day for a deeply personal touch. I love photographing human connection in all weddings, big and small, and it’s a joy to have unique opportunities with each. No two weddings are ever the same!

I couldn’t be happier for the sweetest couple after eleven years in love. I have no doubt it’ll lead to many more of marriage! Cheers to AJ and Justin! 🥂⁠

A Note from the Newlyweds

“We wanted to wait to get married until we were at a point in life where we could celebrate with our friends and family in a way that does justice not just to our relationship but also to their contributions to our life.

Spending quality time with our family was definitely the most important part of our day. We tried to plan the event in such a way that everyone felt comfortable, relaxed, well taken care of, and in the mood to celebrate! 

We also wanted to ensure we had plenty of time to celebrate with our closest friends. Most of our friends had to travel to Chicago for the wedding, so we wanted to make sure that they were well fed, well boozed, and ready to have a party ten years in the making!

Meg, [we love your] beautiful photos of ceremonies in The Publishing House—you know how to capture the space and make the couples look good! Your photos capture spontaneous moments of joy—your clients look like they are actually having the best day of their lives.”

Ready for the Best Day of Your Life?!

More than your wedding photographer, I’m there to help things go off without a hitch. I’m your biggest fan, ready to troubleshoot, hype, and organize at a moment’s notice so you can relax and enjoy your big day stress-free. Think we might be a fit? Get in touch for more info. I can’t wait to meet you!

Chicago Wedding Vendors

Photographer: @megadamikcreative
Planner: @weddingsbyjenniferfox
Hair & Makeup: @solosalon
Floral: @romeewillowflorals
Stationary: @citruspressco
Dress: @parkandfifthco
Shoes: @stuartweitzman | @tedbaker
Ceremony: @publishinghousebnb
Catering & Cake: @sepiachicago
DJ: @revrb_sound