Chicago Rooftop Wedding
I have been looking forward to Jake and Julia’s Chicago rooftop wedding since before they even reached out to me. I had recently photographed this Chicago front porch elopement and the bride told me about her super cute and fun friend who also happened to be getting married. As she described that friend (Julia) I was crossing my fingies so hard that they would want me to be their wedding photographer. That excitement was compounded during their Lincoln Park engagement session when she and Jake told me that they would be incorporating both Julia’s Filipino culture and Jake’s Jewish traditions into the rooftop ceremony at Loft Lucia.
The wedding day began at the Viceroy Hotel, Chicago. As soon as I walked into the stunning suite, I knew that the pictures were going to be amazing. It was a gorgeous naturally lit space and Julia had gathered so many lovely details for me to photograph. Christine Janda Designs and Events also provided extra flower stems for me to incorporate into the flatlays. Truly, a wedding photography dream. But I swear the best part was walking in and seeing sweet Julia. Her joy and emotion are contagious.
While I was photographing Julia, my second shooter (also named Rachel… which wasn’t at all confusing at a half Jewish wedding with 100 other Rachels 😂), was hanging out with Jake and his side of the wedding party. You know I love color, and their boutonnières made me swoon!
The wedding ceremony and reception were at Loft Lucia in the Chicago West Loop. Featuring a chuppah and stunning rooftop views, Jake and Julia melded their cultures with a ceremony officiated by both a rabbi and priest. I loved seeing the Filipino wedding traditions of the veil and cord as well as the Jewish tradition of breaking the glass.
After the ceremony, we had 45 minutes to take ALL of the family pictures and wedding party pictures. It was fast and chaotic, but we made it work, and I’m so proud of us. The rooftop was getting some harsh light, so after the family pictures, we moved to the Chicago street level and took advantage of the shade next to the venue. I’m a big fan of variety and I loved the way the brick provided a unique backdrop.
My absolute favorite part of the wedding day was the reception on the third floor of Loft Lucia. It. Was. Stunning. But more than that, it was so full of joy. From the bright jewel-toned florals, to the brunch menu featuring candied bacon, the personality of the couple shined in every detail. It was also the biggest Horah in the tiniest space 🤣🤣🤣 I may or may not have been crying during the father-daughter dance and then laughing my booty off during the mother-son.
Jake and Julia, you are so well loved. I can see why.
Chicago Rooftop Wedding Vendors:
Designer/Coordinator: Christine Janda Design & Events
Venue: Loft Lucia
Dress: Sarah Seven
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Catering: Cocina Fusion
MUA: Angela Rose
Hair Stylist: Tania Gilbert
Cake: ECBG Cake Studio
Stationary: Polina Perri