“I always make the effort to get to know all my couples in the time leading up to their wedding – it is so important to have that personal connection with them. But in some instances, like Katie and Chris, there is already an established relationship. Katie worked with my wife sometime back and they were actually guests at OUR wedding! So of course I was excited when they contacted me about shooting their own. The ceremony was at the beautiful Assumption Catholic Church in downtown Chicago with the reception taking place at the inspiring Bridgeport Arts Center – which is a newer venue to the Chicago scene, and a spectacular one as well! After the ceremony, we drove around downtown Chicago a bit to take some pictures and the wedding gods were definitely on our side. There wasn’t much chance of rain that day, yet all of the sudden we were caught in a downpour (of which we all know is good luck on your wedding day!) – the location we were at had cover and we were able to keep shooting and stay dry! A big congrats to Katie and Chris!” – Ben Elsass Photography

“It would have to be walking into our reception – to see all of our friends and family clapping and smiling was an amazing experience. We had so many special people supporting us that day which made it unforgettable…

..I have 2 amazing sisters who helped me do a few different DIY projects for our wedding. They took a vintage window and added our parents and grandparents wedding photos into each panel. It was a unique and meaningful piece that we now have hanging in our home. They also printed all of our table numbers onto vintage paper and framed them, and designed an antique suitcase to gather our cards. Our wedding was not only beautiful but was also one of a kind, which was exactly what we wanted…

..My something old was my grandmother’s satin from her wedding gown which was wrapped around my bouquet. Something new was my wedding dress and something borrowed was my mother’s wedding shoes, which I was able to wear on my wedding day as well. Something blue was my grandmother’s beautiful broach which was pinned on the front of my bouquet..

..Enjoy every single minute and remember that it will all come together and look beautiful on your big day!” -Katie, the bride

photography: Ben Elsass Photography // ceremony location: Assumption Catholic Church // reception location: Bridgeport Art Center // dress: I Do, I Do Bridal Consignment // men’s attire: Joseph A. Bank // florist: The Revel Group // cupcakes: Molly’s Cupcakes // caterer: Paramount Events // event designer: Revel Decor Inc // hair: Kylie Croon of Salon Buzz