Chicago Locations
The board of trade
The Board of Trade building on LaSalle Street is the ultimate backdrop for wedding photos that feel bold, timeless, and a little cinematic. With its soaring Art Deco architecture and iconic clock tower, it’s like stepping onto the set of a classic film. The symmetry of the street, flanked by towering columns and Chicago’s unmistakable energy, gives every photo an editorial edge. It’s perfect for couples who want a mix of urban drama and sophistication—those wide shots that make you look like absolute powerhouses and the close-ups where the city’s texture frames the intimacy. There’s just something about this spot that feels effortlessly cool and iconic, every single time.
Considerations:
Requirements: No permit required
Hours: Tucked in the financial district, this area bustles during the week but is less busy on weekends. Lighting is best towards the middle of the day, at least 2 hours before sunset.
The art institute gardens
The gardens at the Art Institute of Chicago are the kind of setting that feels straight out of a dream—a mix of urban edge and serene elegance that’s made for timeless wedding photos. The South Garden, with its honey locust tree canopy and vintage granite fountainhead, is pure romance. It’s a vibe that feels effortlessly chic—perfect for capturing those quiet, stolen moments between you two. And the North Garden? Its crisp symmetry and manicured hedges bring a sophisticated, editorial feel to any shot. Whether it’s a first look, a quiet stroll, or a dance under the trees, these gardens turn every frame into something iconic.
Considerations
Requirements: No permit required
Hours: The hours are inconsistent and can be finicky, especially if any large events are coming into Chicago. They typically close 1-2 hours before sunset.
wrigley building
The Foreman Pavilion, affectionately known as the "Honeycomb," stands as a modern architectural gem within Lincoln Park. Designed with a nod to innovation, this distinctive pavilion features a unique honeycomb-inspired structure that effortlessly merges with the park's natural surroundings. It is an ideal location for intimate wedding ceremonies or capturing timeless portraits.
Its contemporary design, characterized by a rhythmic play of geometric shapes, adds a touch of sophistication to the park's landscape, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and nature's tranquility.
lincoln park
Lincoln Park is an oasis in the heart of Chicago, boasting enchanting gardens and a myriad of activities. There are an assortment of hidden gems, an array of blooming flowers, and literary charm. Nearby, the Nature Boardwalk provides a serene retreat, allowing visitors to stroll along the waterside path or observe the diverse birdlife. The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool enchants with its peaceful setting, while the South Pond offers paddleboat adventures.
Don't miss the magical escape of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a haven of tropical flora. From spontaneous picnics to Zoo adventures and impromptu concerts at the amphitheater, Lincoln Park is the perfect go-to sanctuary—where the city meets the serenity of nature in the most authentic and delightful ways.
Nature Boardwalk
Cafe Brauer Neon Sign
Honeycomb
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Bridge Over South Pond
Outside Cafe Brauer
Outside LP Conservatory
Alfred Caldwell Lily Pond
North Ave Pier