Connie and Sayam were so much fun to work with during the engagement session and thier bubbly and playful personalities were even enhanced on the wedding day surrounded by such a loving group of family and friends. The ceremony and reception were held at the centrally located James Hotel. This made is easy to walk over to the river and got in some fantastic images before the events got started. The whole day way a joy to shoot. Tons of warmth, hugs, and dancing.
Rakhi and George's reception was held at Sunda in Chicago. This warm gathering brought in their loved ones to share in laughs, dancing, and delicious food. R & G - I had so much fun working with you!
From the bride and groom:
"The process of planning our wedding led us to truly understand the real meaning of family and love. Initially, we tried to create the perfect destination wedding, but we soon realized that due to family circumstances, it would be hard to achieve. We ultimately decided on having a simple, beautiful wedding at our home, surrounded by the ones we love most. While we had not planned on having such an intimate event, it turned out to be a perfect decision. Coordinating both events really brought us together, not just as a couple, but as a family on the whole. Even though many of our plans were very last minute, we somehow ended up celebrating a wedding and reception that was not only wonderful, but ideal. We truly felt fortunate to experience the joy of our special day with the people we hold most dear."
November in Chicago and you never know what you'll get. In this case, abundant sunshine and mild weather surrounded a day filled with love, joy, and laughter. You may remember Jalene and Matt from their engagement session last year. I loved the opportunity to shoot in SS. Peter and Paul Parish in Naperville - hands down, one of the most beautiful churches I've set foot in. Their reception was not far at Wyndham Lisle. In between venues we used the Naperville Riverwalk for photos right before sunset. The warm afternoon sun highlighted Jalene's wonderful fall color choices perfectly. All their friends and family kept the party going well into the night with lots of dancing. With Toast and Jam providing the vibes and an incredible couple to celebrate, can you blame them? :)
As you might tell, I am woefully behind in blogging. The updates have taken a backseat as I finish up editing fall's weddings and e-sessions. I have a lot of new imagery to share so be sure to check back in the coming weeks. And to receive updates to your news feed, be sure to "like" Michael Rastall Photography on FB.
When Nicole emailed me about her wedding at Medinah Country Club I was instantly reminded I much I enjoyed Natalie and Dave's wedding there last year. The venue is truly spectacular and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique location in the Western 'burbs. Nicole is a tornado of positivity and I was delighted when she selected me to be there on her and Paul's special day. The season's hues were at their peak on this Saturday in October and the weather was absolutely perfect. Their Catholic ceremony was held at St. Marcelline in Schaumburg. We arrived at Medinah just before sunset and used the gorgeous remaining sunshine for photos on the grounds. The room, as you can see, was incredible. And I have to thank Nicole and Paul for letting me steal them away from the party to make the photo in the dome. What a day!!! Be sure to see the ever-talented Delack Media Group's trailer from the wedding too.
