Summer in Chicago: Celebrate in Gold Grid Style

Summer in Chicago: Celebrate in Gold Grid Style

When you’re getting ready to move to Chicago, you tend to hear two things about the weather. The winter is terrible, and the summers are so amazing that it makes the winters worth it! We can’t really disagree with either sentiment (though winter certainly has its perks). Summer in Chicago is an absolute dream. In addition to being prime time for weddings, engagement session, and fun outdoor shoots — THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO! The city is alive with vibrant events, and we’d like to put in a good word for at least a few of them. On any given summer day in Chicago, you can stay in, go out, make friends or fly solo on any budget!

Take a look at some of these August highlights, and plan your next day off! Or hang onto this list for a cold December night, when you need to remember that another fabulous city summer is just around the corner!

THROW A PARTY FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS

Who doesn’t adore a sweet treat? Tis the season for fro-yo, ice cream, margaritas, and white wine. If it’s chilled, it’s a yes! There is no shortage of local shops in Chicago when it comes to quieting your sweet tooth. Everyone in the Windy City has a favorite parlor. What’s yours?

 

 

TAKE A WALK

Chicago is a pedestrian’s city, and summer is ideal for a sunlit stroll. Explore your neighborhood, pick a CTA stop to discover, or try one of these hot spots! It’s a good excuse to get a little exercise, and to remind yourself that fun can be found anywhere in this gorgeous city.

 

 

HAVE A BEACH DAY

From Promontory Point to Montrose Beach, find a little slice of sand to call your own. It’s easy to forget how close Lake Michigan is to us. Take advantage of the tranquility and relaxation a little trip to to the lake can provide. And oh the sunsets!

 

 

RETAIL THERAPY WITH YOUR BRIDAL PARTY

Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day…these are just three excuses for HUGE sales! Whether or not you’re in planning mode, a trip to Michigan Avenue with you best pals can be very therapeutic. Window shop, find some inspiration, and treat yourself!

 

 

SEE MOVIES WITH ACTUAL STARS

Oh, how we adore Chicago’s Movies in the Park. The release of each year’s schedule is a highlight of the spring, and the addition of neighborhood screens means you don’t have to venture downtown. You can just take your blanket and cooler to the nearest park, and have an enchanted evening! With sunset happening so late, a dusk date with your favorite movie is perfectly paired with a walk about town!

 

 

Feeling the summer vibes? Take a look at our most recent sunset session!

 

 

 

Goose Island Wedding: Jordan & Joel

Goose Island Wedding: Jordan & Joel

Jordan & Joel taught us an important lesson — when you’ve got an abundance of love, you might as well share it as much as you can!  After a holiday engagement session and an intimate San Francisco ceremony, it’s time for a Goose Island celebration in Chicago! It was an honor to capture this chapter in Jordan & Joel’s love story, and now we get to share it with you!

The day began at the James Hotel, a chic spot with so much natural light! As if the windows weren’t enough, can you please take a moment to appreciate this open staircase where Jordan & Joel did their first look? Absolute perfection! After some outdoor photos (yes, sunlight!) with the bridal party, we headed to Gallery 1028 on Goose Island.  Jordan fell in love with this gallery because of its exposed brick and industrial vibe. They contrasted that with warm lights and candles, creating a cozy atmosphere.

A big congrats to Jordan & Joel! From San Fran to Chicago, from the Mission District to Goose Island, it’s been such a joy to be on this journey with you. Cheers to you, lovebirds!

 

Meet the Team:

Ceremony/Reception Venue: Gallery 1028  |  Bridal Prep/First Look Venue: The James Hotel  

 

San Francisco Wedding: Jordan & Joel

San Francisco Wedding: Jordan & Joel

Alright, midwestern friends! Get ready to have some major California sunshine envy! Before coming to Chicago for a big wedding bash, Jordan & Joel celebrated with a small San Francisco ceremony. It was just the two of them, a few close relatives, and their oh-so-cuddly fur babies! Set against the rustic interior of the San Francsico Swedenborgian Church, this was all about golden light and West Coast romance. And let us not forget the pop of that pink champagne, the perfect complement to Jordan’s sweet, soft dress.

We always say that the most important two people on your wedding day are you…and the person you’re about to marry. While we certainly adore a big wedding, there is something to be said for intimacy. Jordan & Joel will have a bigger bash in Chicago (and we’ll OF COURSE bring you all the details), but for today…Here’s to those who keep it simple, sweet, and focused on the most important duo of the day. Congrats, Jordan & Joel!


 

Venue: http://www.sfswedenborgian.org/

Take a look at more Jordan & Joel, and hear more about their engagement story!

What to Wear: Engagement Session Edition

What to Wear: Engagement Session Edition

When it comes to engagement sessions, the number one question is always “What to wear?” We know it can be difficult enough to find the perfect outfit just for you, so the challenge is doubled for an engagement session.   As hard as it might feel, and as much as you may just want to toss on your favorite fitted tee and call it done, I promise it’s worth going the extra step to coordinate and look like you’re having a wonderful, snazzy time!

Some general lessons that we have learned:

  • Avoid being too matchy-matchy, but look like you’re in the same catalog
  • Prioritize comfort and confidence. Wear something you know makes you feel fabulous!
  • Think about the head-to-toe look, from the hair to the shoes

Should we change outfits?

Sure! Bringing options to your session is a great way to get different looks. We can coordinate the changes into our plan for the session, to make sure everything runs smoothly. And keep in mind that minor changes (scarves, layers, accessories) are great, too! Lana & Mike decided on a few different looks that reflected their personality. Do you have a favorite?

Can casual work? 

Yes! Your engagement session doesn’t need to be a black-tie affair. You do want to look comfortable, relaxed, and at home in your surroundings. From the pop of pink in her dress to the close-up character in their choice of shoes, Amy & Jon look totally natural at the Chicago Botanical Gardens. For Mike & Phil, a walk around their neighborhood was the ideal session, and their outfits reflected how close they were to home.

Should there be a theme?

Sure! If it suits your personality (or the personality of your wedding), a theme can be a great way to get creative and show friends & family who you are! Erin & Alex are both artists, and their speakeasy-inspired session was an absolute blast! They even brought clown noses, which were the perfect touch to an already laughter-filled session!

Do multiple locations mean multiple outfits?

Not necessarily! One of the great things about Chicago is the endless amount of photo locations. Choosing different backdrops does not mean you have to keep changing outfits. Allison & Benjamin look smart and snazzy, whether they’re in front of architecture or the changing autumn leaves. The rich tones of Allison’s dress and the sleek color of Ben’s shirt and slacks go with everything!

Check out more engagement favorites in the Gold Grid Studios portfolio now!

The First Look: A Gold Grid Moment

The First Look: A Gold Grid Moment

Of all the important moments that create a wedding day, the first look is perhaps the most emotional. All of the planning and decision-making fall away for a bit. You’re able to focus on one thing: the person you’re about to marry. Well, maybe two things: the person, and how unbelievably perfect they look!

The first look is an exciting part of the day for your photographer, too.  It gives us an opportunity to help choreograph one of the most beautiful dances of the day.  We are able to scout the perfect location for you, and coordinate with the team to find the ideal time. Your venue may be a good option, or we can explore the surrounding area. We can make sure that this first look moment will be just for the two of you. No one else will be around, so you’re able to feel all of the feels!

Whether indoor…

 

Or outdoors…

 

Whether he gasps…

 

Or in case she cries…

 

You will want to see this moment from both sides…

 

And from every possible angle…

 

Because your first look is just for the two of you…and it’s just too good to miss!

The Rookery Building Chicago Wedding - Gold Grid Studios

 

Take a look at other parts of the wedding day on the Gold Grid blog now!