Documenting Eli + Olivia’s chic The Carter Chicago wedding was truly such an honor. Nestled in the heart of Fulton Market, The Carter Chicago’s chic and urban vibe was perfect for Olivia + Eli’s style. From the heartfelt, tear-filled ceremony to the fun, high-energy reception, E + O’s September wedding was full of amazing memories. It’s so special to be trusted to freeze each genuine moment for them. I appreciate that so much.
Like most modern love stories, Eli and Olivia met online almost 8 years ago while both living in Chicago. They hit it off immediately, but the timing was not quite right. They stayed friends on and off over the next few years. Truthfully, they both knew they always wanted to try one more time and see if their feelings for one another were true. In September 2022, they tried reconnecting and dating one more time, but this time, everything worked out.
In October of 2023, after spending the morning going to some of their favorite places in the city, Eli proposed to Olivia at The Hoxton Hotel. After the excitement of Saturday, E + O spent Sunday doing one of their favorite pastimes – laying on the couch and watching football all day.
E + O’s neutral color palette and chic theme were perfect for their The Carter Chicago wedding. The Carter’s exposed brick walls and large, open floorplan with Olivia + Eli’s touches created a clean but cozy vibe for their wedding. I loved how Olivia and her bridesmaids carried all-rose bouquets of varying heights. It was chic and classic, yet modern. I think Eli’s highlight of the day (besides marrying
Olivia, of course) was receiving his gift from his new wife – a Rolex! His boys were sure to hype him up.
Both E + O started their wedding days by getting ready with their sides of the wedding party. All of the nervous and excited energy led up to amazing first looks. First, between Olivia and her dad, then, Eli and Olivia, and finally, Eli, Olivia, and their wedding party. After finishing the couple, family, and wedding party photos, we all got to witness Olivia + Eli’s sweet ceremony. They each said personal vows, evoking tears from us all.
After the ceremony and cocktail hour, Olivia’s dad and sister, and Eli’s brother gave heartwarming toasts. Olivia shared a dance with her dad and Eli a dance with his mom, followed by a sweet first dance. After dinner, it was time to party! Let me tell you, their people know how to get down on the dance floor. It was packed all night. It was such a fun reception!
“Tawny was pure joy to work with. We found Tawny on Instagram, and reached out to learn more. It was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding, including everything that led up to it as well.
We did our engagement photo shoot with Tawny, and were blown away! We were also blown away with her wedding day photos. From getting ready to capturing the ceremony, dinner and dancing – we can’t thank Tawny enough. She was professional, organized, and able to get everyone corraled for the shots we wanted! Also, Tawny sends reminder emails, as well as tips and tricks that really helped us stay organized as we thought through what we envisioned our day to be like.
I wasn’t sure I wanted many photos of the dancing portion of the night because I did not know what I would do with them. I am so glad Tawny encouraged me to utilize the full time and capture all the reception photos. I truly feel like through her photos, I can relive our day and remember all the good times, including the dance floor!
Tawny also went above and beyond with delivering more than your typical sneak peek photos to us. We had an opportunity to have photos featured in a publication, and she provided us with so many more photos to choose from with a quick turnaround. Another way Tawny went above and beyond was with a Photoshop ask for a family picture to ensure everyone was looking at the camera. It was such a quick turnaround again.
Thank you Tawny, it was a joy to work with you throughout this past year!”
Thank you, Olivia + Eli, for allowing me to document such an amazing day!
Venue: The Carter Chicago / Planning: Heirloom Event Company / DJ: DJ Vestus / Videography: Dropout Productions / Florals: 1209 Creative / Hair: Magnificant Brides / Makeup: Beauty by Nancy / Catering: D’Absolute Events / Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s / Dress: Weddings 826 / Tux: Todd Snyder / Bride’s Ring and Groom’s Watch: Rummeles / Groom’s Ring and Bride’s Bracelets: LMJ Jewelers / Bride’s Shoes: Loeffler Randall / Invitation Art Work: Coco Schramel / Invitation Design: Leah Rogneby / Transportation: The 312 Limo
Do you need a photographer for your wedding at The Carter Chicago? Get in touch. The Carter is truly one of my favorite venues I’ve worked at and I’d love to document your wedding day!