Hayley and Dan’s elopement in downtown Chicago was an intimate, city-centered celebration set among some of the most iconic architecture in the Chicago Loop. Their day focused on being present together and experiencing the city they chose to get married in, moving through meaningful locations that felt personal and timeless.
Following their private courthouse ceremony, we met outside City Hall and spent the afternoon wandering through the Chicago Loop. Surrounded by historic buildings, clean lines, and the steady rhythm of the city, their portraits leaned into Chicago’s unmistakable character — classic, architectural, and full of energy.
As we continued through downtown, we made our way to the Chicago Riverwalk. The river, layered cityscape, and changing light offered a different perspective of the city while still feeling distinctly urban. We moved at an easy pace, letting moments unfold naturally as Hayley and Dan took it all in together.
We ended near the Wrigley Building, one of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks. Finishing their elopement session there felt like the perfect close — iconic, elegant, and deeply connected to the city that framed their day.
Hayley and Dan’s Chicago elopement is a beautiful example of how meaningful a city wedding can be without a traditional timeline or large guest list. For couples considering a Chicago elopement or planning portraits throughout the Chicago Loop and Riverwalk, their day shows how powerful it can be to combine an intimate experience with iconic locations.
I lived in Chicago for two years and know the city well, which made planning this elopement especially meaningful. I mapped out each stop along the way to create a smooth, intentional flow through the Loop and Riverwalk. Chicago will always hold a special place for me — it’s an incredible city, and getting to document love stories here is something I truly enjoy.
