Timeless Chicago History Museum Wedding | Kendall & Mike

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I witness a lot of beautiful days, but Kendall and Mike’s Chicago History Museum wedding truly stood out. From the moment I arrived, the energy was joyful, playful, and unmistakably them. These two are pure magic together, funny, present, and glowing with that “we’re marrying our best friend today” feeling. Their July wedding delivered perfect summer weather, heartfelt moments, and nonstop laughter. Every detail felt intentional, from their rooftop first look to a dance floor that never slowed down. Keep reading to see more of their Chicago History Museum wedding.

Kendall & Mike’s Story

Kendall and Mike met while working together, a real life meet-cute. What started as a strong friendship naturally turned into something deeper, and over time that bond grew into a shared life together. When it came time to plan their wedding, choosing Chicago made perfect sense. It is the city they now call home and the backdrop to so many chapters of their story. Their connection is easy, joyful, and rooted in genuine friendship.

The wedding day began with some of my favorite kinds of getting-ready moments. Kendall and her bridesmaids sat on the bed together, laughing and doing old handshake songs before slipping into dresses. It was one of those fleeting moments that perfectly captured the closeness of the friendships surrounding her. Kendall also shared an emotional first look with her dad – cue the tears! 

Meanwhile, Mike and his groomsmen were looking incredibly dapper during portraits at the Waldorf Astoria. Classic black tuxes, great energy, and a group that clearly knew how to have fun.

Kendall and Mike then shared a rooftop first look, which was absolute perfection. With the city surrounding them and the breeze just right, it felt calm and intimate. Then, they took a quiet moment to read private vows before joining their friends and family and officially beginning the festivities.

Their Chicago History Museum Wedding Ceremony

Their ceremony took place on the lawn of the Chicago History Museum, with gorgeous light and calm energy setting the tone. Kendall’s walk down the CHM’s steps was nothing short of breathtaking – Mike’s reaction says it all. The ceremony felt relaxed and heartfelt, allowing the focus to stay exactly where it belonged: on the two of them and the commitment they were making.

In a moment no one could have planned, a real butterfly landed on Kendall’s veil. Truly. It added a bit of magic to an already meaningful ceremony.

Their Chicago History Museum Wedding Reception

Following the ceremony, guests moved indoors for the cocktail hour and reception. One of my favorite touches of the day was the band moving throughout the cocktail hour space while guests mingled. It was such a fun, dynamic way to keep the energy high right from the start.

The design stayed beautifully cohesive with a black-and-white theme. A black-and-white checkered dance floor set the stage for an unforgettable party. The florals were soft and textured, featuring white and light pink blooms like roses and hydrangeas mixed with lush greenery. Tables had varied-height arrangements, and Kendall and Mike shared their own sweetheart table, which was a perfect little oasis to take it all in together.

The band brought incredible energy into the room and kept the dance floor packed all night. Every guest was beaming, fully present and so incredibly excited to celebrate Kendall and Mike.

Client Testimonial

Read what Kendall and Mike had to say about working with me as their Chicago wedding photographer! 

“From the very beginning, it was clear how important it was for us to find a photographer who could capture not just our wedding, but who we are as a couple. After meeting Zachera through a trusted friend, we immediately felt at ease. She was warm, thoughtful, and someone we knew we could trust to be closely involved throughout the entire day.

That feeling only deepened during our engagement shoot. We hadn’t spent much time in front of a camera together and were a little nervous going in, but Zachera instantly put us at ease. She allowed us to be ourselves, made the experience genuinely fun, and captured beautiful, natural photos that truly felt like us. Those photos became something we cherish and set the tone for an easy, collaborative partnership leading up to the wedding.

On the wedding day itself, Zachera is exactly who you want by your side. A photographer is with you more than almost any other vendor – and because of that, they play a huge role in setting the tone and energy of the day. Zachera brought a calming presence while still capturing exciting, emotional moments, from getting ready through the reception. Her attention to detail, ability to work seamlessly with our videographer, and care for our families and friends showed in every frame.

The final photos are elegant, personal, and a perfect reflection of us. Zachera was also incredibly professional, responsive, and quick with delivery. We couldn’t recommend her more highly. She’s someone we’d absolutely work with again for future milestones and is someone we’re proud to recommend to friends. Thank you, Zachera. We loved working with you!”

Planning a Chicago History Museum Wedding?

Kendall and Mike’s Chicago History Museum wedding was the perfect blend of elegance, fun, and heartfelt moments. I love that this venue offers beautiful outdoor ceremony space, flexible indoor reception options, and a timeless Chicago feel that photographs like a dream. Pair that with a couple who was fully present, wildly in love, and surrounded by people who adore them, and it was one for the record books.

If you’re planning a Chicago History Museum wedding or still choosing the perfect venue, I’d be honored to document your day. You can reach out to book me as your photographer or explore more love stories on my portfolio page. I can’t wait to hear all about your love story!

Their Chicago History Museum Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Zachera Photo
Venue: Chicago History Museum
Floral: Duet Floral
Caterer: Blue Plate Catering
Men’s Getting Ready Location: Waldorf Astoria
Invitations: Write Impressions
Band: Yazz Events 
Video: Create Paige Films
Cake: Bittersweet Pastry Shop
Dress: Vera Wang
Hair & Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago