Sparks and I originally planned to do our formal group shots at a few different locations in downtown Chicago. However, that plan quickly changed after our photographers estimated it would take about two hours to get everyone on the bus and downtown, snap some pics, and get everyone back to the venue for dinner. And that was if we just visited one of our chosen destinations.
I wasn’t comfortable leaving our guests for that long, so we decided to change our plan and take pictures on the back courtyard of our venue. Sure, we wouldn’t get any dramatic shots with the Chicago skyline in the background…but we didn’t care. At that point, all we cared about was getting to spend as much time with our friends and family as possible. I didn’t want to battle traffic and tourists, and I definitely didn’t want to compete with a bunch of other brides for prime photo spots (our date was just a little popular). So to the courtyard we went! And it turned out to be a great time.
Everyone was so excited, and the pictures turned out amazing. We asked our photographers to shoot mostly candid photos, and I love how you can just feel the happiness in each shot.
Sparkler sisters. Beautiful!
Lookin’ good, guys!
Like I said, everyone was so excited. And things started to get a little silly.
Sparks lives for silliness.
After we wrapped up with our wedding party, we sent them inside to get lined up for our grand entrance, and Sparks and I got a few couple shots.
Did anyone else deviate from the traditional posed shots that you see in most wedding albums? Were you happy with your decision like we were?
Coming up: Reception Details
Get Caught Up!
A Very Different Ceremony Part II
A Very Different Ceremony Part I
All photos by Avery House
These photos are fantastic, Mrs. S! Everyone looks so relaxed and natural, I love it! There’s nothing posed about these shots, but everyone still looks so good!
I completely agree with Mrs. Parasol: they look incredible and I love the candidness of them! 
Your couple shots are gorgeous. The group shots are so fun and relaxed. Everyone is so super happy – and rightfully so!
@Nicole: Me too! Although, I gotta ask cause I’m still getting used to this photojournalism thing, did the photographer wait for the train to go by or did it just happen that way?
my faves are the ones where each of you are with the other’s party. i think i’m going to have to do that!
Yes! We just got married this past weekend and the picture schedule did not go as planned – in fact, Hubby and I are planning on doing more shots in October now.
Oh man, these photos are so beautiful and FUN! I am loving all the candid shots.
Those are some great candid shots! Love that last black and white one of the boys. I wish we’d have done more candid and goofy shots.
Mrs. Sparkler, Chicago Age and Occupation: 27, Writer Fiance's Age and Occupation: 26, Publisher Engagement Date: July 21, 2010 Wedding Date: September 2011 Venue: Chicago Illuminating Company About Me: I’m a Southern lady living in the big city of Chicago. Well, lady may be a stretch, but I’m working hard to keep some Virginia charm in our sleek, urban, wedding-palooza! I’m addicted to marathons, not-so-famous bands, Chicago restaurants, and Mark Twain. I cry during SPCA commercials, and I think LOST was the best show to ever hit television. Mr. S and I met at a classy college mixer and, 7 years later, he’s still by my side. He’s the only child, laid back, free spirit... I’m the oldest of five kids, type-A, organizer. It doesn’t work on paper, but we’ve never paid attention to that stuff anyway. Somehow it works. And like they say, sometimes when you know…you just know.
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