Heyoo, I'm Rachael (she/her)! I'm a Wedding + Elopement Photographer based in Illinois, helping tell love stories in Chicago, St Louis, and beyond. I hope you'll find some inspiration and helpful resources on this blog, whether or not you choose me to be a part of your big day.
Imagine your wedding – a magical celebration with your loved ones who helped build the day, bit by bit, with accents of lace, colorful florals, and such precious details at the Dank Haus in Chicago. Sasha + Megan’s day was just that.
A day wrapped in so much love for each other and for those who will support them now and for forever as an LGBTQ+ couple. I can’t get over how meaningful this wedding day was in SO MANY ways and can’t wait to share these photos and story with you!
Getting Ready for Their Wedding at the Dank Haus Chicago
Megan and Sasha both got ready at the Dank Haus together and helped each other with their final touches.
Megan even had a hand in both their outfits since she MADE Sasha’s jumpsuit and sleeves and added lace details to the front of her own dress (like WHAT?!).
We were able to jump right into some intimate and artful portraits using various spots within the Dank Haus, capturing some details of their colorful florals and romantic jewelry along the way before their wedding ceremony!
A Heartfelt Rooftop Wedding Ceremony
Their “I do’s” were said on the Dank Haus rooftop overlooking the skyline of Downtown and the North Side of Chicago – which was perfect for this beautiful May day.
The ceremony consisted of three readings: a Buddhist reading, “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver, and a selected excerpt from the majority decision on Obergefell v. Hodges (the US Supreme Court ruling that same-sex marriage protected under the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses).
An Unforgettable Wedding Reception in the Dank Haus Chicago
It was finally time to celebrate with their nearest and dearest at the reception. This was so special because they had friends and family help set up their lacey, picnic inspired party in the magical skyline lounge at Dank Haus.
These details were executed with so much intention and purpose since the table center pieces were vintage embroidery pieces on loan from various family members, and the audiobook was custom made by Sasha’s best friend.
There were no dry eyes present during the speeches, but everyone soon jumped right into scream-singing “Pink Pony Club” and dancing their hearts out to finish celebrating this magical day!
The best kind of wedding is one that feels authentic and like YOU as a couple – and that’s exactly what Megan and Sasha manifested at the Dank Haus in Chicago. I was so excited to help capture their day and will continue to hold onto the beautiful moments of this wedding. If you want to see more weddings like this, check out this section on my blog page or if you just need some planning tips, I’ve got you covered. And if you have more questions and would like to have me shoot your wedding or elopement, fill out an inquiry form!
Heyoo, I'm Rachael (she/her)! I'm a Wedding + Elopement Photographer based in Illinois, helping tell love stories in Chicago, St Louis, and beyond. I hope you'll find some inspiration and helpful resources on this blog, whether or not you choose me to be a part of your big day.
What kind of inspo do you need today?
All love is affirmed & celebrated here.
Rachael Marie Photography values inclusivity and will never discriminate against your gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, body type, or abilities. You are wonderful, beautiful, and loved here.
For the people who would rather be living the moment than posing for it.
I'm Rachael (she/her) by the way.
I'll give you direction when you need it and space when you don't. I believe the best photos aren't always the ones where everyone is looking at the camera.
Sometimes they're the ones where your best friend is crying. Your grandma is laughing. Your partner is looking at you when you aren't paying attention. And someone is absolutely losing their mind on the dance floor.
Those are the photos I want to make.
Whether you have 10 or 100 folks witnessing your vows, are planning the big shebang or a small backyard party, or just want to celebrate getting through life with your best friend—I'd be thrilled to document it for you.