Chicago Illuminating Company — Bridget and James

Deepwell Photography

I don’t talk a TON about my personal life here on the site, but I think many people know that I’m a mom of four.  My first, Allegra, was a C-Section but for each of my subsequent deliveries I worked with a midwives group to have an unmedicated birth. The incredible midwife who delivered my second daughter, Cora, (for those “in the know” a VBAC is not always an easy feat) always held a very special place in my heart. I have a vivid memory of having my fresh new baby in my arms, listening to Sam Smith’s Stay With Me, filled with euphoria while Bridget congratulated me on my successful delivery!  I worked with a different midwife from the same group for our next daughter, Aubrey.  Then, in the fall of 2019, I was excited that Bridget was the assigned midwife who would be overseeing all my prenatal care for our fourth-and-final kiddo who would become Stanley, born in a hurry 10 minutes after arriving to the hospital in May 2020, and caught by a 3rd midwife.

You can imagine my excitement when I got an unexpected inquiry from Bridget to help coordinate her wedding in August of 2021.  I couldn’t imagine anything more full-circle.  Despite a full schedule, of course I said YES!

The day began with hair and makeup by Pin Me Up Chicago at Bridget and James’s high rise apartment with fabulous floor-to-ceiling views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan.  The group was intimate: just Bridget and James’s immediate family members and a couple close friends who stopped by to get a sneak peek of Bridget before her walk down the aisle.

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

Meanwhile, James was hanging out at the Saddle and Cycle Club until it was time for the first look.  He looked pretty dapper in his SuitShop suit.

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

After the first look, Bridget and James took some candid portraits throughout Grant Park.  Deepwell Photo did a tremendous job capturing the look and feel of the day. Out of the Blue Weddings was there to capture everything on video as well.  Bridget and James moved seamlessly throughout their photos and were soon scooped up by an O’Hare-Midway Limousine bus filled with their families to head to Chicago Illuminating Company  for the ceremony.

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

Chicago Illuminating Company was set up for the big celebration with help from Anna Held Florist  who provided all of the fabulous florals and stunning decor for the day. Good Vibrations was in place and started the all-Beatles ceremony music.   The ceremony, officiated by Bridget’s former colleague, Molly, was beautiful with some of the most thoughtful vows we’ve heard this year; there was not a dry eye in the house (yes, even our team shed a few tears).  Shortly after vows, the MVP (most valuable pup!), Larry, delivered the rings to Bridget and James.

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

Guests headed inside for cocktail hour while BOKA and Anna Held Florist  worked their magic to transform the ceremony area into the magical reception setup.  Wow, they did not disappoint!

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

During dinner there were some beautiful toasts to the bride and groom followed by an extremely romantic first dance.  FIG Weddings  then moved the party inside for an unforgettable dance party.

Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo
Deepwell Photo

One of my favorite moments was the opportunity I got to take a photo with the three midwives who delivered my kids.  Such an amazing memory!

Personal Photo

Bridget and James, it was such an honor to work with you both on your big day.  Thank you for the opportunity and I wish you all the best as you grow in your marriage together!

Deepwell Photo
Share it: