To luck, fate, or a bit of both
Creating connection is one aspect of being a wedding photographer that I have come to admire. Megan’s sister Blair is a photographer who couldn’t make a family session due to conflicting schedules. She asked a group of Chicago photographers if anyone could help, and I was selected out of the bunch. The shoot went very well, at least that’s what I have to assume when Blair asked me to shoot her sister’s wedding a few weeks later! After a Zoom chat with Blair and Megan, I knew I was the perfect one for the job. After all, I wanted Blair to enjoy her sister’s wedding instead of having to capture it.
Midwest Barn Wedding at CLO
Megan and Chris had a barn wedding (of sorts) in an orchard with apple cider donuts as snacks and pie cutting instead of cake. I was given full creative reign and the stage was set perfectly for a magical night to remember. Starting at the hotel, I arrived at the tail end of hair and makeup as planned. After that, we were quickly off to County Line Orchard (CLO). At the orchard, Megan had a room where she where she would be putting on the dress and relaxing before the first look. Chris and the groomsmen claimed the opposite end where they would finish getting ready. After running around taking pictures of everything I could, it was time for the first look.
I get very emotional during first looks, but this isn’t about me! Megan and Chris shared a special moment where they got to see each other for the first time. They also got to enjoy a nice quiet moment before the day was really set in motion. This also made for some great photos to help tell the story of their love. We then got portraits, family photos and pictures of the wedding party to ensure there was enough daylight to spare. The ceremony happened in the blink of an eye as they usually do, and the dancing took over for the rest of the night. I was treated like on of their own, welcomed by every guest in attendance. By the time I left, I truly felt like I had friends to say goodbye to – something I will never take for granted.
The Morning
Bridal prep














County Line Orchard (CLO)
Groom prep and staging




















































Pre-ceremony
First look & wedding party portraits













































The Evening
Ceremony and reception










































































































