THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Intimate Lady Chapel Wedding – Edna & Michael – Chicago Wedding Photographer

Edna and Michael tied the knot on a gorgeous (and very sunny) July afternoon. Their paths crossed back in 2021 and it wasn’t long before they knew they had something special. They were on the same page from day one. Michael loves how compassionate and supportive Edna is while Edna loves that Michael is a calming force in her life. They were completely comfortable with one another and agreed on all the big decisions of life. Michael asked Edna to marry him while they were enjoying a beautiful evening talking by the Christmas tree. This is Edna and Michael’s wedding day story. ❤️

Grace and I arrived at the hotel just as Edna was getting her hair done. I found a spot on the floor where I could photograph the details and chat with gals. Edna and Michael had so many personalized pieces to their invitation suite; it was a dream to style. I organized it the night before and then added their personal items to really bring it to life. It is my favorite flat-lay to date. 😍

These adorable dogs were the perfect place to show off Michael’s ring and it’s engraving. As a dog owner myself, I really loved this personal touch. 🐶 🐶

The rings looked like a million dollars as I laid them on the coins (Arras) for the ceremony. 💍

As hair and makeup continuted for the gals, I walked down the hallway to check on the guys. Michael’s groomsmen were eager to help him look his best for his big day. Can you spot the Crocs? 🤣

Michael’s mom, Kellie, pinned his boutonniere and then we did a few family photos.

Sorry ladies, this one’s taken. 🥰😎

Back up in the bridal suite, Edna was getting her final makeup touches. 💄

PJ cuddles before getting dressed. 😊

Edna’s mom, Elisa, zipped Edna into her dress as happy tears began to fall. 🥹

Edna’s bridesmaids helped with the rest. 😊

Edna was a beautiful vision in white. 🥰❤️😍

Edna did a quick first look with her dad and then off they went to the ceremony.

Ceremony time.

That moment when you see each other for the first time. ❤️🥹

After opening prayer, the ceremony continued with several readings, the reading of the Gospel and a personalized homily.

Edna and Michael then exchanged vows and rings. 💍

They’re officially married in the eyes of the church. ❤️

Edna and Michael then exchanged the Arras (coins) and received a blessing while the Lazo was placed on their shoulders.

Edna and Michael offered a flower to Mary and said a private prayer at the alter.

The final nuptial blessing. 🙏

Mr and Mrs Ellis! 🥳

After the ceremony, we walked to the front of the Basilica and took family photos.

Our wonderful wedding party. 😊

The newlyweds! ❤️

As Edna and Michael exited the church, all their guests were waiting for them on the steps for a fun photo. 🙂

Now it was time for some wedding party shenanigans! 🤣

With all the other photos done, it was now time for Edna and Michael’s portraits as husband and wife. Because Michael proposed in front of a pine tree, and we did some engagement photos in front of one too, it was only fitting that we complete the circle and do some on their wedding day. 🌲

They were both beaming from ear to ear. 🥹😍

Since the dome was clearly out of commission, there was nothing to do but embrace the ridiculousness and take a photo in front of it.

Edna and Michael then walked down to the grotto and lit a candle together. 🕯️

These two take the cutest walking photos. 😍😍😍

It was over 90 degrees that day but Edna and Michael still snuggled for the pictures. I know they were so hot but the photos came out so good. ☀️

Their giggles were contagious. 🥰

Our last stop for photos was under the Fitzpatrick arch. Love that light! 😍

Love! 💕

It was finally time to hop in the Studebaker and head to the reception. 😊

We walked into the Gillespie ballroom to find it decorated beautifully in light blue and eucalyptus. 😍

Our incredible newlyweds entered the reception to cheers from their guests and then everyone sat down to dinner.

After dinner, Edna and Micheal took a photo with each table. 🙂

Time for speeches! Matthew, Clara and Georgina toasted the happy couple and several tears were shed.

Then Edna’s dad, Jorge, congratulated the happy couple and gave them some beautiful marriage advice.

Time for cake! 🎂

Edna joined her dad on the dance floor for their father-daughter dance. 🥰

Then Kellie hopped on the dance floor for her dance with Michael.

Edna and Michael then shared their first dance as husband and wife. ❤️

Party time! 🥳

As the evening was coming to an end, I wanted to give Edna and Michael a unique evening portrait. I loved the mirror installation in the foyer and thought it would be really cool if we could add a fun color to it. Grace and I tried a couple different things but finally were able to illuminate the mirrors with a blue gel and then placed Edna and Michael in front of it. The deep blue color adds visual interest while also creating a very intimate moment. Congratulations Mr and Mrs Ellis! ❤️

To Edna and Michael – Thank you for bringing Grace and I along on this journey with you! From snow balls to sunny skies, we’ve had a blast working with you and getting to know you both more and more. I know the Lord has some amazing blessings for you in this new chapter together. Give those pups a kiss for me and I’ll see you at your album reveal. All my love – S

To see their full day, click here.

VENDORS:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn South Bend

Venue and catering: Gillespie Conference and Special Events Center

Church: Basilica of the Sacred Heart

DJ: EA Pro Music

Hair: Blushing Beauty & Co.

Makeup: Thee Makeup Team

Cake: C’est La Vie Cakes

Video: R&S Entertainment

Car: Studebaker National Museum

Floral: Costco

Dress: Simply Yours Bridal

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