Chicago Wedding Photography | Shannon + Josh

A wedding is both a joyful and solemn occasion. Shannon and Josh are both seriously and truly loving people, and their union was a day of intentional commitment and celebration. They were joined by friends and family, as they vowed to love and cherish each other ’til death do us part.

In addition to friends and family, Shannon and Josh were joined by their precious son and daughter to celebrate their marriage. They have all been together for years, but today was different – today was the day they said more than “I love you.” Today was the day they had been planning forever – when they promised forever. It was such a joy to capture these cheerful children as they walked down the aisle to their dad. It is not possible to view these photos without falling completely in love with this family and their sweet and gentle connection.

Shannon has a very tight, supportive group of girlfriends — and these are some amazing women. Tom and I know most of them, so it made photographing them very fun and comfortable. It was inspiring to see the girls gather around Shannon and Josh all day, promising their own support and love. The mood was relaxed and happy, as these dear friends all loved to just be together, and they all cherished such a special day. It’s not easy to be a wedding photographer – except for when it is. And this was one of the easy days.

In addition to being helpful and supportive, these girls (all friends since high school) have a tradition of listening to “Bobbi McGee” and dancing. So, despite the solemn wedding vows, these girls were going to dance! At the end of the ceremony, they all gathered around Shannon and did just that, danced to “Bobbi McGee.” You can almost hear the music in the photos. Just listen.

After the ceremony, everyone went to the bar that had been Shannon’s dad’s old hangout. While he was not with them physically, it was deeply moving be in a place so full of memories and share a drink in memory of him. It was such an honor to be a part of all the love and joy in this family. They not only know how to love one another, they know how to throw a party!

Tom and I are so thankful to have been a part of this beautiful day. Shannon and Tom, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your wedding day, to capture your amazing friends and family, and to chronicle such an important part of your life. You are truly beautiful and such a joy to work with.

Warmly, Gina + Tom, for all of us at Gina Cristine Photography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A special thank you to our amazing vendors!
Reception: Georgio’s Banquets
Church: St. Stephen’s
Florist: Floralia House Designs, Donna Olha
DJ: Josh! (He had everything set up and picked out, and he had a friend run it for him the day of the wedding.)