Milad and Sarra’s Classic and Romantic Chicago May Wedding!

May weddings capture the essence of renewal and romance, offering couples an idyllic time to celebrate their love. Early summer brings with it a delightful balance of mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, creating picture-perfect settings for every type of wedding. The days are longer, bathing events in golden natural light, which is ideal for photographers to capture every beautiful detail. With nature at its most vibrant, May provides a stunning backdrop of lush greenery, colorful blossoms, and clear skies that effortlessly enhance any wedding theme.

This season offers an exceptional level of versatility for both indoor and outdoor celebrations. A garden ceremony surrounded by fragrant blooms feels magical, while a chic indoor reception comes to life with seasonally inspired floral arrangements and airy decor. Couples looking to plan outdoor festivities benefit from the reliability of mild weather, whether it’s a lakeside soirée, a rooftop affair, or an intimate backyard gathering.

May’s position at the start of summer also offers wonderful options for seasonal menus, with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs adding bright and delicious touches to dishes and signature cocktails. Additionally, the season inspires airy fabrics and romantic designs for bridal attire, allowing couples and their guests to feel comfortable and stylish all day.

Whether you dream of a grand city celebration or an intimate countryside event, the beauty of early summer ensures each detail comes together effortlessly. May weddings are a celebration of love and nature, making them truly unforgettable for couples and their cherished guests alike.

When we first met Milad and Sarra, it was clear their love was something special. From the way they shared glances to how their laughter filled the room, we knew their story deserved to be captured beautifully. Choosing May 2025 for their wedding in Chicago was no coincidence. They wanted a season full of blooming beauty, warm sunlight, and Chicago's vibrant energy. The city held a special place in their hearts, offering a canvas of iconic landscapes and modern romance.

From the heartfelt ceremony at St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church to their elegant celebration at The Empress Banquets, every moment reflected their deep connection. Through our lenses, we caught the glow of Sarra’s joy, the pride in Milad’s smile, and the tender moments shared with family and friends. Every photograph became a timeless piece of their story, preserving not just how their love looked, but how it felt.

Milad and Sarra’s wedding day unfolded in two truly captivating venues that perfectly balanced tradition and elegance. For their ceremony, they chose St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church in Burr Ridge, a sanctuary of timeless beauty and profound serenity. The church’s soaring ceilings and intricate iconography created a sacred and awe-inspiring atmosphere, offering a stunning backdrop as the couple exchanged their vows. This beloved church’s intimate yet grand ambiance added a layer of spiritual depth to their celebration.

For their reception, The Empress Banquets provided an ideal setting for a night of joy and festivity. Nestled in Addison, this elegant venue effortlessly accommodated their 200 guests, offering a space that was both spacious and inviting. The crystal chandeliers sparkled gracefully under the evening lights, casting a romantic glow across the polished dance floor. With its exceptional service and refined decor, The Empress Banquets amplified the celebration, blending sophistication with comfort.  Together, these two venues made Milad and Sarra’s day an unforgettable masterpiece of love and elegance.

Milad and Sarra’s choice of venues not only showcased timeless beauty but also offered unbeatable access to Chicago’s stunning wedding photo locations. St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church in Burr Ridge is within reach of serene suburban landscapes, while its proximity to the city offers the chance to incorporate Chicago’s iconic skyline and landmarks into the day’s memories. The Empress Banquets, with its central location, provides easy access to celebrated photo spots like Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, and the Chicago Riverwalk. Together, these venues create seamless opportunities for breathtaking backdrops, adding a layer of magic to an already unforgettable celebration.

Chicago offers an incredible array of wedding photo locations that cater to every style, mood, and aesthetic. Whether you’re drawn to iconic city landmarks, stunning natural backdrops, or chic urban vibes, the city has something to offer for every couple. These picturesque spots not only celebrate Chicago's diversity but also create unforgettable memories captured in stunning photographs.

One of the most sought-after locations for wedding photography in Chicago is Millennium Park. The park’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture, known widely as "The Bean," is an architectural gem that offers a sleek, reflective background, perfect for creative and modern wedding shots. Nearby, the lush Lurie Garden provides a more natural setting with its colorful flowers, towering grasses, and unique landscaping that changes with the seasons.

Just steps away from Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago boasts a stately exterior that exudes timeless elegance. Couples often pose on the building's front steps, surrounded by classic columns and famous lion statues, creating dramatic and sophisticated portraits. If you venture behind the museum, you’ll find the South Garden, a secluded area with a serene fountain and tree-lined paths for an intimate photo session.

A short walk leads you to Grant Park, often called "Chicago's front yard." Sprawling green spaces, flowerbeds, and impressive features like Buckingham Fountain give couples plenty of photo opportunities. The fountain, particularly when it’s lit up in the evenings, creates a magical, romantic backdrop. Grant Park’s wide-open spaces also offer breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline, blending urban energy with natural beauty.

Speaking of skyline views, Adler Planetarium is home to some of the most stunning ones in all of Chicago. The museum's lakeside location provides sweeping, uninterrupted views of the skyline, making it a favorite spot for panoramic wedding photos. Couples can pose along the waterfront or incorporate the planetarium itself as a unique architectural feature in their images.

North Avenue Beach takes full advantage of Lake Michigan's beauty while giving you another perspective of the city skyline. The combination of sandy shores, peaceful waters, and urban skyscrapers creates a striking contrast that’s perfect for couples looking for naturally beautiful yet distinctly Chicago photos. The nearby waterfront paths and boat docks add even more variety to the scene.

For couples who appreciate classic architecture, the Wrigley Building along Michigan Avenue is an outstanding choice. Its gleaming white façade and charming details, such as window arches and elegant clock towers, offer a sophisticated urban aesthetic. Just across the river, the Chicago Riverwalk offers a blend of modern design and natural beauty, with the glittering river and bridges serving as popular backdrops.

Lincoln Park is another versatile location, offering a mix of natural and urban environments. Within the park, the Nature Boardwalk features a modern honeycomb structure that frames photos beautifully, while the surrounding greenery and pond create a tranquil, picturesque vibe. Nearby, the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is a hidden gem. This serene oasis, designed in a Prairie School style, includes limestone walkways, a small waterfall, and lush plant life that feels far removed from the bustle of the city.

For couples in search of bold, dramatic settings, the Chicago Theater’s iconic marquee sign is an unmistakable statement. A photo beneath the bright lights of the marquee, especially at night, is a great way to showcase the energy and excitement of the city. Similarly, the Union Station Great Hall offers an entirely different kind of grandeur. Its soaring ceilings, marble staircases, and classic architecture provide an elegant, timeless backdrop for dramatic, cinematic photos.

Elsewhere in Chicago, Garfield Park Conservatory is a tropical escape that guarantees stunning wedding photos year-round. Filled with vibrant flowers, towering palm trees, and lush greenery, the conservatory transports you to an exotic paradise. The variety of flora and thoughtfully designed spaces provide endless opportunities for romantic, intimate shots.

Promontory Point, located along Lake Michigan’s shores, offers idyllic waterfront views with a quieter, more secluded feel. It’s perfect for couples who want a mix of natural beauty and skyline backdrops without the crowds. You can pose along the rocky shoreline or under the shade of trees in this peaceful public park.

For a rustic, scenic option, the Chicago Botanic Garden is an unbeatable choice. Spread over 385 acres, this location offers waterfalls, flower beds in full bloom, Japanese gardens, and tranquil bridges that elevate any wedding shoot. Each section of the garden provides a distinct backdrop, allowing for endless photo opportunities in one location.

If you’re drawn to Chicago’s history and charm, head to the Rookery Building. This architectural masterpiece, with its grand staircase, intricate designs, and flood of natural light, offers a classic yet sophisticated setting for wedding portraits. Similarly, the ivy-covered walls of the University of Chicago campus provide a romantic and timeless atmosphere with Gothic-inspired architecture.

Another lakefront treasure is Olive Park, located near Navy Pier. With its modern walking paths, tree-lined walkways, and jaw-dropping views of the skyline and lake, Olive Park is a favorite for those who want dramatic yet serene photos. Navy Pier itself is another option with its iconic Ferris wheel, festive atmosphere, and sweeping water views.

Chicago’s diversity in scenery ensures every couple can find a setting that resonates with their unique style. From the modern splendor of Cloud Gate to the natural tranquility of Lincoln Park or the majestic architecture of Union Station, these locations showcase the city’s beauty in all its forms. No matter your choice, Chicago guarantees photos that are as memorable as the love they capture.

The wedding day of Milad and Sarra in Chicago unfolded like a dream, a beautiful tapestry of love and elegance. The morning began with Sarra immersed in the ritual of becoming a bride. She started her preparations in a soft white bridal robe, her excitement palpable as she transformed into the radiant bride she had envisioned. Her stunning white wedding gown featured a plunging draped neckline and intricate beaded details, a perfect blend of modern elegance and romantic charm. With her hair neatly side-parted and styled open, she adorned herself with a veil that added a layer of timeless beauty. Her white and pink bridal bouquet tied her look together with a delicate pop of color.

Meanwhile, Milad prepared for his most cherished day, donning a classic three-piece suit. His crisp white shirt, black pants, and black satin bow tie exuded sophistication. A white pocket square paired with a boutonniere completed his sharp ensemble, setting the tone for the elegance that would define the day.  

Wedding detail shots captured every thoughtful touch—from Sarra’s gown and pastel bouquet to the white bridal shoes, fragrances, and the shimmering wedding bands. Each element spoke of the couple’s love for detail and their commitment to making every moment special.  

The bridesmaids, dressed in pale pink gowns of varying silhouettes, were a vision of elegance and added a mismatched charm to the bridal party. Opposite them, the groomsmen complemented the aesthetic in gray formal suits paired with white shirts and pink neckties.

Before the ceremony, Milad and Sarra shared a magical first look. Their chosen venue’s grand staircase provided the perfect backdrop, turning these moments into artful portraits that captured their emotions and love. This intimate session offered a serene pause before the day’s celebrations.

The ceremony took place in an exquisite indoor church setting, adorned with white drapery and lush floral arrangements. Against this elegant backdrop, the couple exchanged vows, promising each other a lifetime of love and togetherness. 

Following the ceremony, Milad and Sarra posed for heartwarming group portraits and more intimate couple shots, each frame narrating their love story. The reception carried their vision of romance and charm forward. With white drapery, floral arrangements in pink and white, and a smoky dance floor, the ambiance was pure magic. Pale pink table settings and glowing candles evoked warmth and intimacy.

The evening was marked by unforgettable moments. Their first dance as husband and wife, heartfelt toasts, and the cutting of their beautiful three-tier cake adorned with cascading florals mirrored the day’s elegance. Every detail reflected their love and thoughtfulness. Milad and Sarra’s wedding was nothing short of enchanting. Every moment, every detail was a tribute to their love and individuality, making this day uniquely theirs and forever unforgettable.