Lush & Glamorous Rooftop Chicago Wedding

Lauren and Mike had the lushest rooftop wedding I've seen. I was floored when I walked outside and saw the stylish table decor with the Chicago skyline in the background— framed by warm market lights and hanging greenery. It was inviting and cozy, but still glamorous and sophisticated. I have no idea how it all came together so well, but it had the feel of a perfect urban vineyard! Lauren said "My bridesmaid dresses and the colors of my wedding were inspired by my new last name, Winegardner. We created a wine garden with Jenny Yoo, BHLDN and Reformation in shades of merlot, rosé, chardonnay and ditsy florals."

This wedding was extra special for me because I've photographed not one, but two of her bridesmaid's weddings. It was so incredible to already know so many folks there! A few of my favorite moments from the day include the high five Lauren and Mike exchanged after their vows, the surprise drag performance at the reception, and when Lauren randomly threw her veil over Mike's head during their first look. I also loved how much their friends contributed to the day! Lauren's bridesman did the calligraphy for the seating chart and table numbers, members of Mike's band provided live music for their first dance, and another one of their friend's bands played at the rehearsal dinner!

Photography: Sarah Katherine Davis Photography // Venue: Morgan's on Fulton // Planning and Floral: Christine Janda // Dress: Lazaro // Veil: Toni Federici // Shoes: Jimmy Choo // Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo, BHLDN, Reformation // Suit: Indochino // Music: Lake Soda, V.V. Lightbody and Music by Design // Drag: Michael Boettner // Robes: Flora Nikooz // Duster: Spell and the Gypsy // Slippers: Birdies // Catering: Big Star // Cake: Alliance Bakery // Calligraphy: Travis Jones // MUA: Caps Lock Brows

If you're looking for more garden-vibe goodness, then Felicia & Brennan's Oldham Gardens greenhouse wedding is for you! If you're looking for additional Chicago wedding inspiration, then Lucy & Daniel's modern and industrial wedding is for you (plus you might see some familiar faces!)

Intimate Rooftop Wedding at 21c Art Museum

I've been wanting to photograph a wedding at Louisville's 21c Museum Hotel for literally the last decade, so when Jessica & Arnaud shared their plans for an intimate rooftop ceremony followed by dinner in the art galleries I freaked out just a little bit. Jessica's BHLDN gown was minimal and gorgeous (and it had pockets!) and Merci Bouquet did a stunning job with the florals! I love how they incorporated an elegant, subtle nod to fall. 

Jessica & Arno met last year in Spain at a friend's wedding— Jessica is from Louisville and Arno is from Luxembourg, so they got to know each other through hundreds of text messages, video chats, and meetups in New York. They paid homage to their initial meeting by using sand from San Sebastian during their ceremony. The ceremony itself was romantic, heartfelt, and bilingual! I loved getting to practice my French listening for words I knew. One of my favorite things throughout the day was the way Arno lightly touched Jessica's back or arm as they chatted with friends and family— it was such a small simple gesture that spoke volumes.

My dear friend and calligraphy artist Michelle first connected Jessica & myself. She also did the gorgeous welcome sign, guestbook sign, and the name cards for the tables. She is talented and sweet and wonderful - you can find her on Instagram as Michelle Marie Calligraphy.

If you are looking for more intimate wedding inspiration, Jess & Brian's treehouse elopement was incredibly sweet. If you are after more art museum vibes then Jessica & Ethan's modern Speed Art Museum wedding would fit the bill. Also, it has now come to my attention that people named Jessica have amazing weddings. Now you know! You can also learn more about 21c and other unique wedding venues on my comprehensive list of the best wedding venues in Louisville here.

Venue: 21c Museum Hotel Louisville // Florist: Merci Bouquet // Cake: Sweets by Millie, Catering: Proof on Main // Photography: Sarah Katherine Davis Photography // Calligraphy: Michelle Marie Calligraphy // Gown: BHLDN

Mary & Jake // Frazier History Museum Wedding // Louisville Kentucky Photographer

Mary & Jake // Frazier History Museum // Louisville, KY // July 2016