Katie and Chris are the type of people who when you first meet them, you instantly like them. Before I had even met Katie (and Chris for that matter), I had a feeling that they were going to be one of those couples I just adored. And I was right. They are sweet, considerate and so appreciative … not only in working with me, but towards their friends and family. They radiate with love – to each other and those closest to them. And on their wedding day, it was only amplified.

Despite Katie having a blocked tear duct (which made for some great emotional photos), the day was absolutely perfect. Exactly when I expected as I got to know Katie during the months of her planning this gorgeous day. She had thought of every little detail from signature cocktails in honor of each of Katie and Chris’ kids to a custom tree log cake stand to perfectly designed program fans. My type A, check-list making, timeline loving-self … well I was thrilled to have a bride like Katie and a groom as easy-going and beyond excited to marry his soul mate like Chris.

They promised forever to each other overlooking the stunning Morton Arboretum grounds surrounded by the people that have stuck by their side as they each went through the ups and downs of life. As they tightly held hands, Katie and Chris stood there beaming with joy as they officially became husband and wife and their two families became one.

Katie and Chris – I am so thankful I met you both and that I could to photograph a day 15 years in the making. You are both have hearts of gold, so much love and such a beautiful family. I wish you nothing short of a lifetime of growing old at each other’s side and so many happy moments along the way. Congrats! Much love and xo – Brittany

Katie and Chris opted for a first look, and I couldn’t have been happier. Their reaction to seeing each other, well, it was perfect.

Katie, you are just STUNNING!

After Katie and Chris’ first look, we wandered the Fragrance Garden …. and I must say, Morton Arboretum is a photographer’s dream…..just gorgeous.

Just as the ceremony started, the heat subsided …. and everyone enjoyed the gorgeous Morton Arboretum views.

There was so much passion in their first kiss. I just loved it.

A very, very special thanks to Ryan for all his hard work executing Katie’s vision. All of the details – from the little place card trees and to the hand drawn chalkboard signs, Ryan was like the superman of details all day long. Everything was perfect and so beautiful!

During the reception, if you wanted the newlyweds to kiss, instead of just clanking your glass, you had to demonstrate how you wanted them to kiss. Chris was challenged to pick up Katie and spin her around while kissing her. He succeeded and it made for some great photos.

Rather than the typical DJ or band, Katie and Chris had Felix and Fingers, amazing dueling pianos, as the reception entertainment … and well, they rocked!

And I’ll leave you with this last one. A re-creation of a photo taken 15 years ago when Katie and Chris first met at Katie’s cousins wedding. They were both in the wedding party and they were paired up. This is a photo of them entering the reception on that day. It is amazing how things turn out. :)

A very special thank you to the creative team members who made this day so special for two wonderful people.

VENUE : morton arboretum : thornhill education center //  FLOWERS  :  laura latragna // ENTERTAINMENT : felix and fingers // INVITATIONS, PROGRAMS + EVENT DESIGN // ryan lalonde // HARPIST : beth bartlett // BRIDE’S DRESS : demetrios // BRIDE’S SHOES : nina // BRIDE’S JEWELRY : nordstrom // BRIDE’S HAIR + MAKEUP : mario tricoci // GROOM’S TUX : men’s warehouse // PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: rachael osborn // PHOTOGRAPHY : brittany bekas photography