As a long-time wedding photographer, I find myself drawn to the smaller gatherings. I love the intimacy, being fully immersed as a documentarian but also as a friend or honorary member of the wedding party. Spending time with Erica and Stef was incredible, there is a such a spark and palpable tenderness between them and I can only hope my cameras did justice to their awesome day.
Erica and Stef’s wedding at Lytle House in Chicago was perfect in all the right ways. It was filled to the brim with special personal touches, like Erica and Stef walking down the aisle together, creating their own playlists with meaningful songs, and hiding little Lego Koroks (from the Legend of Zelda, a shared love of theirs) around the venue for guests to find.
The ceremony was equal parts happy tears and enthusiastic applause, hats off to their wonderful officiant Brit (United Methodist church of Evanston). Readings from the poet Roy Croft were an excellent choice (look him up up if you’re looking for some terrific ceremony inspo).
When I asked them their priorities behind planning their wedding, they had this to say:
We had a simple thesis in planning our wedding: we wanted to feel like ourselves. We wanted to be sure that each part of the day was reflective of who we are as individuals and as a couple. We prioritized our favorite stuff and people, and reminded each other to not sweat the rest of it. By doing that, we went through the day feeling at ease and ready to receive all of the love and joy around us.
Erica and Stef went on to share the best wedding advice, and I am going to drop it here for you all:
Plan the wedding that you actually want to have, not the one that you’re told you “should” have. Fill it with your favorite things, food, drinks, music, and people. Wear the thing that makes you feel great! Throw out traditions that don’t feel right! It’s literally your party.
Oh! And don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Erica and Stef, I love your hearts, your thoughtfulness, and your incredible wedding day.
Big thanks to the vendors who helped with the day:
Venue: The Lytle House
Hair & Makeup: Carrie Novak from Appease Inc.
Florist: DIY using Sola Wood Flowers
Officiant: Britt Cox
Caterer: The Tamale Spaceship
Bakery: The First Slice
Dresses: BHLDN & BlushFashion