If you’re planning a wedding in Chicago, here’s a sample wedding timeline you can use to help! A Chicago wedding always has its own pace, and each timeline I’ve assisted with is unique.
I had photographed their engagement session before this day, so I already knew a little bit about their energy. They’re both adventurous people who enjoy exploring somewhere new, and they’re naturally extroverted in a way that makes everyone around them feel comfortable. The kind of couple who are just easy to be around.
The morning started at The Gwen Chicago while Anomalie Beauty Agency worked through hair and makeup with the gals. I love getting ready photos because everything feels exciting in that pre-wedding anticipation. There was a lot of laughter, a lot of movement, and good energy in the room.
A Moment Hannah Made Space For
Something I didn’t actually know until after the wedding was that Hannah and Andrew had already had a legal ceremony in California earlier in the year.
Her dad had been sick, and it meant everything to her that he could walk her down the aisle and share a father-daughter dance. For this Chicago wedding celebration, he wasn’t able to travel. But, Hannah found really beautiful ways to still include him throughout the day.
Before the ceremony, she had a Zoom first look with him. It was simple, quiet, and really moving to witness. She also wore a small pin in her hair as a tribute to him. Later during the reception, a recorded speech from him played for everyone at the Skyline Loft at Bridgeport Art Center.
Chicago Traffic and a Very Small Limo
The transportation company accidentally sent a vehicle that was smaller than the one that had been booked. Instead of a big wedding party limo, it was more like a “everyone squeeze in and hope for the best” situation. I ended up seated on the ice compartment for the champagne. Somehow we all made it work with good attitudes!
Chicago traffic had its own plans for the timeline, but we made our way to the Chicago Board of Trade for wedding party portraits. That spot always gives such a strong city backdrop. The architecture feels bold and dramatic. It’s one of those spots where the photos just automatically feel like a Chicago wedding. Iconic all in all. We timed our shots between cars passing by. With that kind of pressure on the photos at this location, I just hoped I got one with everyone looking at the camera (spoiler: I DID).
All the photos were edited true-to-color so the colors were how they looked in real life. My main priority is skin tones. From there, I make color adjustments from the stone buildings to the florals by Studio Poppy.
Skyline Loft at Bridgeport Art Center Knows How to Celebrate
Once we arrived at the Skyline Loft at Bridgeport Art Center, the day shifted into full celebration mode.
Leigh and Co Events kept the entire timeline flowing smoothly, Venue Logic handled the space beautifully, and Beyond Catering served dinner while guests settled into the evening. Jeremy from I Do Video by Leo was documenting everything alongside me, which always makes the storytelling feel even fuller.
When the dance floor opened, Midwest Best DJ had people moving almost immediately. Hannah changed into a reception dress from Viero Bridal, and from there it was just one big party. The Skyline Loft at Bridgeport Art Center is such a fun venue for a Chicago wedding because the big windows frame the skyline perfectly, and once the music starts the room just fills with energy.
The Part That Stays With Me
Looking back on this Chicago wedding, what sticks with me the most isn’t the limo mishap or even the dancing, although those were definitely memorable.
It’s the way Hannah carried her dad with her throughout the day. The way Andrew looks at her, like she’s the easiest decision he’s ever made. It’s the way everyone in that room held space for love that was both joyful and a little bittersweet.
That’s the part I want my images to preserve.
True-to-color editing keeps the day honest, the tones exactly how they were, and the feeling of the moment intact. And the Skyline Loft at Bridgeport Art Center will always be the place where Hannah and Andrew’s Chicago wedding story unfolded.
Hour-By-Hour Wedding Day Timeline Sample for 10 Hours of Coverage
11:30 AM – coverage begins starting with details
12:40 PM – “getting ready” groups with gals
1:10 PM – prep for first look w Andrew
1:30 PM – Hannah & Andrew’s first look near the river walk
1:45 PM – begin family formals by riverside
2:15 PM – couple wedding party formals near river
2:45 PM – full wedding party photos @ Chicago Board of Trade — transportation pick up at hotel
3:00 PM – begin wedding party photos @ Chicago Board of Trade
3:45 PM – DONE and head back to venue
4:00 PM – Hannah & Andrew portraits at Skyline Loft
4:20 PM – DONE with all photos, prep for ceremony
5:00 PM – ceremony start
5:30 PM – latest ceremony ends
5:30 PM – SECOND cover cocktail hour
5:40 PM – begin extended family photos
6:00 PM – couple join cocktail hour
6:00 PM – reception details + set up lighting
6:30 PM – grand entrance into hora
7:00 PM – dinner is served
7:30 PM – 2nd photographer dismissed
8:00 PM – open dance floor
8:30 PM – Hannah’s 2nd dress
9:30 PM – coverage ends
