Oh, where do I even begin with Elise and Dan’s backyard wedding? Nestled in the quaint charm of St. Charles, their backyard wedding was not just an event; it was a celebration of moments, memories, and the most heartfelt touches that only their closest friends could bring to life. As their photographer, and now a dear friend, I had the honor of capturing the pure joy and family feel that they infused into their special day!
Elise and Dan’s story is etched in the cityscape of Chicago, with its vibrant energy mirrored in their dynamic lives. They spent years living in the heart of the city, their evenings marked by their sailboat trips at Montrose Harbor, music playing, surrounded by friends. Though they’ve traded their city sails for serene lakeside living, their love for the water and the significance it holds in their relationship couldn’t be overlooked. Naturally, a sailcloth tent was the only fitting choice for their reception, standing proudly in their backyard, a nod to the sails that had witnessed the growth of their love!
The beauty of their wedding lay in the details, each crafted with intention and love. The bar and planters were not mere structures but symbols of their friendships, hand-built by their groomsmen. Their dog, Stromer, was woven into the fabric of the day, his presence as heartwarming as any family member’s.
Elise’s vision for their wedding was a tapestry that brought together threads from their past, present, and future. As if plucked from a dream, their day unfolded with personal touches that were nothing short of magical. The cloth napkins at dinner were from her grandmother’s collection, lovingly repurposed and embroidered with the couple’s initials – a keepsake that guests would cherish!
From pajama pictures with the girls to their heartwarming ceremony at St. John Newman, every moment was orchestrated to perfection. And let’s not forget the golden hour – that irreplaceable window where the light kisses everything just right, and love shines the brightest!
As the day turned to dusk and the sails of the tent began to glow, Elise and Dan, now Mr. and Mrs. Morawski, danced beneath the stars. Each step on the dance floor was a celebration, not just of their union, but of the journey that led them here.
As I packed my camera away, I couldn’t help but wish for a world where every wedding felt this intimate, this joyous, this personal! I found myself hoping that all their friends would walk down the aisle too, just so I could relive this magic over and over.
Elise and Dan, you’re not just clients; you’re the benchmark for love that every couple should aspire to, and the type of people every photographer dreams of working with. Here’s to your new chapter, may it be as adventurous and love-filled as your journey thus far!
If you’re looking for your dream wedding photographer to document such a momentous occasion, hi! I’m Katy, a destination wedding & elopement photographer based in Chicago, IL. I’m all about intentionally telling stories of couples in love, no matter where in the world you are. To get in touch with me about photographing your day, you can fill out my contact form and I’ll get back to you so soon!!
Vendor Dream Team:
Wild Clover Florist
Here Comes the Bride
Blue Peak Tent
Elegant Presentations
Wild Asparagus
Catering/Bartenders/Servers, etc.
BBJ linens
House of Thrones
Restroom Rentals
St. John Neumann
Midwest Coach Limo
Binny’s
Katy Carl Photography is based out of Chicago IL and traveling worldwide capturing luxury authentic destination weddings and elopements