Let me tell you about Nikki and Matt—these two travel nurses first met while on assignment in Chicago and then relocated to Arizona for their next adventure. But when it came to tying the knot, they knew they had to return to where it all started: the Windy City! Their stunning wedding took place on the rooftop of Morgan’s on Fulton, and it was one for the books. With a beautiful glass roof covering the space, we had the perfect view of the Chicago skyline, it was magical.

The day started at their former condo building, where they got ready with their wedding party. From the start, this group was all about having a blast. Adding to the joy, Nikki and Matt were able to have their beloved dogs with them at the condo as they were getting ready, which brought extra smiles and comfort. Nikki wore the cutest socks that said “Bride” before the wedding, and then switched to “Wife” socks during the reception—how fun is that?! Meanwhile, Matt kept it real with his Busch Light socks (yes, you read that right!). And speaking of Busch Light, it became an underlying theme throughout the day. I couldn’t help but notice it was the preferred drink of the wedding party, prominently featured in coolers and on reception tables.

The ceremony was gorgeous—simple yet elegant. The venue itself doesn’t need much dressing up, thanks to the stunning skyline views. For the reception, the tables were adorned with simple greenery and candles, creating an intimate ambiance. The real showstopper, though, was when we snuck away for some downtown sunset photos. The skyline views were absolutely breathtaking, and Nikki and Matt looked so at home in their city.

Now, here’s a little backstory that made this wedding extra special for me. I’ve actually photographed Matt’s sister’s wedding, and he’s been a groomsman in two other weddings I shot. So, when Nikki reached out and mentioned she wanted me to photograph her wedding but was a little nervous about wrangling their large wedding party, I reassured her: “No worries, I’ve handled this rowdy bunch before, I got this!” And let me tell you, we managed those big group shots like pros!

One of my favorite moments of the day was watching how Matt and Nikki’s families came together. I adore Matt’s parents and sister—they’re just the sweetest! Being able to photograph their family again felt like reconnecting with old friends.

Nikki & Matt’s Review: “Danielle absolutely made my wedding photo vision come true for my fall Chicago wedding! I found Danielle through my sister-in-law, who hired her as the photographer for her wedding. I trusted that Danielle could handle the rowdy group of boys in our wedding party—as she had photographed them before (and she absolutely did). From the minute I met Danielle during our engagement photos (which she also crushed) I felt so comfortable around her. She has a calming presence but is also so freaking funny! I told Danielle we wouldn’t have a lot of time for photos due to my husband not wanting to do a first look, and she was so flexible helping me come up with a timeline for family photos beforehand—allowing me to get a lot more photos than I thought. She served as much more than a photographer, helping with an emergency dress situation too! Her sneak peeks were emailed a few days after the wedding and my jaw was on the floor—they were FLAWLESS. I cannot thank or recommend her enough. If you’re looking for a calm, highly skilled photographer for a Chicago wedding, GO BOOK HER NOW!”

My heart = full 🥹

It was such a joy to capture this beautiful day for Nikki and Matt—two kind souls who are not only adventurous, but totally in love with each other. From their champagne tower to their epic sunset photos, this wedding was a perfect celebration of their journey together. Cheers to a lifetime of adventures, Nikki and Matt! 🥂✨