Avante Banquets Wedding: Sierra + Michael

Sierra and Mike met in 2016 at a happy hour at the Reverie in Chicago. Mike watched in awe as Sierra had an impromptu dance session with her girls to the a newly released Beyonce song. Later that evening, with the assistance of their mutual friend, Mike walked over and introduced himself to Sierra. At which point Sierra, reached up and gently touched the side of his face and smiled. It was “forever from that point on”, as Sierra puts it.

This couple hasn’t stopped dancing since! Their epic dance-party-of-a-wedding was held at Avante Banquets in Fox River Grove, IL, surrounded by their family members, friends, and their very pregnant wedding photographer. Lol. Though swollen and sweaty, and only a few weeks away from delivering my sweet Monroe (who Sierra affectionately called “Tiny Tina”) I was so honored to be able to witness and document their fierce and fiery love.

“We took a trip to Europe, and when we arrived in Florence, Italy, I remember Sierra was tired and wanted to take a nap. I went out for a walk to check out some scenery, and I got to a small bridge, and the view was one of the most beautiful things I’d ever seen. I stopped myself from going any further, because I thought it was too beautiful to see without her. So I went back to the hotel, woke her from her nap, and asked her to go with me. She was glad I did, and Florence became the best part of our trip. The thing about that moment is it made me realize in that Sierra was so important to me that I never wanted to experience something beautiful in life without her.” ~Michael

“I find new reasons to stay in love with Sierra every day. It’s not always the big things, it could be as simple as her being considerate enough to make my coffee in the morning. Other times it could the way she encourages me to pursue something I’m passionate about. It all depends on the day!” ~Michael

“Sierra’s happiest when she plans something and it’s executed flawlessly. As crazy as it sounds, my baby loves a good project, and nothing makes her happier than building a plan and having it executed.” ~Michael

“I fell in love with Sierra because of how genuine she was to me. When we were dating she took time to show interest in my likes and hobbies. She would just go the extra mile – go to comic-con, dress in a superhero shirt for a movie premier, plan a birthday party for me at an arcade. I have never experienced anyone else like her. That’s why I fell in love, that’s why I put a ring on it.” ~Michael

“His kindness. He sees the good in everyone. Sometimes it’s hard for me to give people the benefit of the doubt. However, Mike truly has a heart of gold.” ~Sierra

“His eyes. I swear I can get lost in them. His eyes are so warm and kind.” ~Sierra

“I love Sierra’s positive attitude. When I met Sierra I was a huge pessimist (she’ll probably say that I still am), but Sierra has this infectious way of seeing the positive in all things.” ~Michael

“We choose each other everyday. I know with him by my side nothing is impossible. What we have is symbiotic. We are apart of each other. Us being a part is no longer an option. I love him not only for who he is, but because of the person I have become with him in my life.” ~Sierra

“Mike came into my life when the world was moving fast and I was use to everything changing. Life was moving so fast. He came in and became a constant in my life. He grounded me and centered me. He feels like home.” ~Sierra

“Honestly, I knew the moment I met him that he was more than just a friend. He felt like home. He made me feel that everything was ok just by looking at me.” ~Sierra

Delta Wedding Sweetheart Song

Delta Sigma Theta wedding stroll!!

Ain't nothing like a Delta Sigma Theta wedding!

“People assume Mike is this button up, suit wearing stuffy guy when they first meet him. He’s actually super turnt most of the time. He just has to peep the vibe before he let’s everybody experience the fun he brings.” ~Sierra

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue: Avante Banquets

Event Coordinator: Anika Kai Events

Makeup: Danielle Rochon Makeup & Jessica Moore

Hair: Al Campbell & Jenn Jackson

Photographer: Nicee Martin Photo & Design

Bridal Gown: for Ceremony - Demetrios | for Reception - Lazaro

Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen’s Tuxedoes: Jo Jayden

Florist: Kio Kreations

Cake Designer: The Baking Institue Bakery

Music: DJ Commando

Officiant: Rev. Dr. Michele Watkins

Engagement Ring: Callye Peyrovi Jewelry (custom made)

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from this Chicago Wedding at the Avante Banquets by Chicago Wedding Photographer, Nicee Martin.

If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Bridgeport Art Center Wedding: Lauren + Jeff

I fell in love. Documenting Lauren & Jeff’s first day as husband and wife was way more magical then I could have ever imagined. From the tears Jeff shed when he saw Lauren for the first time to the electrifying dance Lauren and father surprised all of the guest with during their Father/Daughter Dance—the day was filled with so.much.love.

After getting ready with her best girlfriends, Lauren met Jeff at Aster Hall @ 900 North Michigan for the sweetest first look. In the car ride over, all Lauren kept saying was “I just need to see Jeff”. And when she did, all the anxiety she felt just melted away. She was at peace. He truly is her “calm”. Their first look was so sweet, even I needed a tissue to regroup.

Once portraits commenced, we headed over to the Bridgeport Art Center where Lauren shared another tearful first look with her father before the ceremony. Together they walked down the aisle and he gave her away to thee most amazing and deserving young man, Jeff. The ceremony was full of joy and laugher and even included a musical selection by a small choir. Everyone in the room rejoiced as they vowed themselves to one another and jumped the broom!

The celebration continued into the night where there was a delicious meal, drinks galore, crazy wild dancing and late night burgers (yum!). It was a celebration that truly spoke to who Lauren and Jeff are as individuals and as a dynamic couple. I am so honored to have been able to share in their special day. Lauren & Jeff, thank you for entrusting me with the opportunity to capture all these wonderful memories. I wish you both a lifetime of love, happiness and beautiful babies! xoxo

“About 5 minutes into our first conversation [on our first date] I was overwhelmed with a sense of stillness that I had never experienced before. I was so present and felt so comfortable and it was if we had known each other for years. I was able to be 1000% my most authentic self without hesitation. There was no doubt in my mind that this man was going to play a special role in my life. To this day he is my calm and I pray that feeling will never go away.” ~Lauren

“I Love You …With My Whole Heart”

“I’m my most authentic self when I’m with Jeff and felt that immediately, even friends and family noticed the way I talked about him was different and that I was “me”. He was so trustworthy and so generous and we just fit together.” ~Lauren

“I’ve never had so much fun with another person doing the mundane. We could be having the time of our lives just driving, cleaning, or waiting for a flight. She makes the special occasions matter so much more. My life with Lauren is more than I could have ever hoped to have.” ~Jeff

“I fell in love and keep falling in love with her because she’s never been anything besides her most authentic self. She said something to me on our second date that took me by surprise. It wasn’t just the content, but it implied that she’d also be giving her opinion at face value regardless of whether or not it was a popular opinion or not. That same kind of honesty, coupled with her sense of humor, passion, and work ethic is what drew me to her and continues to drive me to loving her.” ~Jeff

“I used to work for a restaurant group and would go hours without eating late into the night. On his way home from work when we first started dating, he used to drop off snacks and treats to make sure I never went without eating. As our relationship progressed he started to add flowers and/or sweet notes. One particularly busy night, Jeff dropped off a snack with an encouraging note written in purple pen on the back of a photocopy of one of his textbook pages. I noticed that there were letters circled with the same purple pen on the text book copy. I quickly tried to decipher it but couldn’t take much time away from work. The next morning something told me to reread the circled letters and I was able to decipher his message of “I’m so in love with you”. The next day he picked me up from work to take me to class and before I could tell him I found the note and let him know that I was in love with him too, he blurted it out for the first time. It was so genuine and thoughtful, and to this day he never ceases to amaze me.” ~Lauren

“She’s so stunning, but the thing that made, and makes, her so endearing is how her eyes light up when she talks about something she’s passionate about.” ~Jeff

“The most important thing to Lauren is that we have a life together based on love and affection, and that communication is always open.” ~Jeff

“Jeff’s kind and gentle spirit won me over on our first date. He is so handsome that sometimes I catch myself just looking at him. He has gorgeous piercing blue puppy dog eyes and look right into your soul. During our first date, his stunning good looks were paired with a soft-spoken and somewhat timid demeanor that caught me off guard. I later learned that he was nervous and I thought that was the cutest thing in the world.” ~Lauren

“Lauren has the most expressive eyes I’ve ever seen. Her smile is so much more than just her mouth, her entire face lights up.” ~Jeff

“We laugh together and learn together and as simple as it may seem, we can actually talk to one another. It’s like we have our own language and are always on the same page. Jeff is selfless and nurturing and we balance each other out. Even in trying moments, we choose to love each other every day. I can’t imagine my life without Jeff and my life before him seems like a distant venture. He was put on this Earth for me and I thank God everyday for that.” ~Lauren

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue: Bridgeport Art Center

Event Planner: Lauren Robinson (the Bride)

Day of Coordinator: Stephanie Spence

Makeup: Danielle Rochon Makeup

Hair: Kesha “Keystylist” Levy

Photographer: Nicee Martin Photo & Design

Catering: Cocina Fusion

Draping/Lighting: Art of Imagination

Florist: InFlorEsence

Ceremony Music: Trinity United Church of Christ

Cake Designer: Bjorn Bakery

Music: The DJ Firm

Bridal Gown - Bella Bianca Couture

Dress Designer - Hayley Paige

Groom & Groomsmen’s Tuxedoes - Black Tux

Bridesmaid’s Dresses - Brideside

Nails - Lady Legs

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from this Chicago Wedding at the Bridgeport Art Center by Chicago Wedding Photographer, Nicee Martin.

If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Chicago Loop Engagement Session: Coniah + Gboyega

Coniah and Gboyega met in 2012 at a mutual friend’s housewarming party in Washington D.C. At the time Kobe Bryant was going though a divorce and upon meeting each other, Coniah and Gboyega got into a debate about prenuptial agreements. Let them tell it, they haven’t ceased to debate with each other about any and everything til this very day. Lol. They both love to debate, but when it came to falling in love with one another, there was no debating there. Coniah recalls, “I remember thinking that he was so stubborn, just like me, but if I could get him to bend for me, then we would probably have a good time”. These two lovebirds have been inseparable ever since. Coniah & Gboyega are set to wed this November 11th! I cannot wait to celebrate with them both!

“…his charm, he really makes the world fall in love with him. He has a natural warmth that attracts everyone.” ~Coniah

“I love when we are both genuinely laughing about something — laughter has a way of making you feel free and it’s great when we have that feeling together.” ~Gboyega

“Her genuine smile is beautiful. You can see the truth behind it— like she is really happy or enjoying something.” ~Gboyega

“I always dreamt of being married and having a family but I could never identify the face of the woman. It wasn’t until Coniah and I started dating that the face in those dreams were clearly Coniah. It was kind of a surreal realization after a couple random reoccurring dreams.” ~Gboyega

“Gboyega went above and beyond on the proposal. He tricked me into thinking we were going to a private art gallery event. He actually rented a banquet room at the Waldorf Astoria and displayed all of our photos together around the room like a photo gallery. He had a photographer capture the moment when he proposed and then the staff served us dinner and wine... He thought of every detail. My favorite flowers were in the room, there were shadow boxes with inside jokes. The photos followed the evolution of our relationship and ended with our move to Chicago. It was perfect.” ~Coniah

“The excitement of what the future will bring. Imaging who we both are today and what we can both become together is motivating to me. The passion and dedication to keep working on ourselves and the relationship keeps me in love.” ~Gboyega

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Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from their session.

If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Bolingbrook Golf Club Wedding: Eman + Vincent

What a fun celebration Eman & Vincent’s wedding day was. Not only did I get to work with one of my favorite creative teams Pamela Hewlett Events, Danielle Rochon Makeup and Penthouse Sweets for this Bolingbrook Golf Club wedding, but I got to work with this very fun, cool, and affectionate couple. Eman & Vincent are every wedding photographers dream! They have crazy chemistry with each other, they trust their wedding vendors and give them creative freedom to do what they do best, and they are just all around fun loving people!! They literally flowed through their wedding day so naturally and carefree— just living in the moment! Which made things super easy for me, because I never had to force anything. I just came along for the ride and captured all the genuine emotions that unfolded throughout the day. The laughter, the awe, the dancing, the excitement. Nothing contrived or forced here. All genuine. All natural. All love. 

A Hardy Sandwich with their favorite photographer <3

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue: Bolingbrook Golf Club

Event Coordinator: Pamela Hewlett Events

Florist: Floral Events

Cake Designer: Penthouse Sweets

Luxury Invitations: IJORERE, Inc.

Makeup Artist: Danielle Rochon Makeup

Wedding Gown Designer: Pantora Bridal

Groom’s Attire: The Dapper Club, Inc

Music: DJ Commando 

Officiant: Pastor Frederick Wilson

Secondary Photographer: Michelle Vergara

Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from this Bolingbrook Golf Club Wedding by Chicago Wedding Photographer Miss Motley Photography.

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If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Fishermen's Inn, Elburn Wedding: Emily + Mike

Ok, now these two literally make me swoon. Seriously. Not only do they absolutely adore me, their favorite photographer, but they are both head-over-heels for each other and have been that way since Day 1. There’s so much to love about this couple. Here are a few things that I adore about them:

First of all, they’re gorgeous. I mean just look through the photos for yourself! Emily is so petite and cute, you literally just want to put her in your pocket :) There’s something about her face that is so innocent and angelic. She is a beautiful woman indeed. No wonder Mike fell head-over-heels for her :)

And then there’s Mike, he’s not bad looking either. He’s tall, handsome and has a small scar on his left cheek which makes him a little rough around the edges, a quality that I like in a guy :) And he’s a man’s man. He’s a hard worker and a great provider and he simply adores his girls, Emily and Ava, above all else. You can see it simply in the way he looks at them. It will literally make your heart melt. Not only did Mike commit himself to Emily, his beautiful bride, on their wedding day, but he embraced his new role as a stepfather with open arms and made vows to Emily’s daughter Ava as well. She even got her own mini-commitment band and a special first dance with her new dad during the reception. It was truly heart-warming. 

Lastly, their love for each other. We all know that being a single mom is not easy, but I could only image how much more difficult it would be to be a single teenage mom, as Emily was. One of the things that I absolutely admire about Emily is how she has overcome every.single.obstacle with such grace and class; and that despite all odds, she has raised a beautiful & vibrant little girl who is a joy to all she encounters. Throughout their wedding day, I could not help but feel immensely humbled to be able to witness Emily marry her Prince Charming, Mike—the missing puzzle piece who fit so perfectly into their family. A man who came into Emily & Ava’s lives with hands and arms wide open with a willingness to love them and give them all of himself wanting nothing in return. What a blessing it is to have overcome so many obstacles throughout life’s journey and to have found a love that is so pure, so strong and so unconditional. Every girl deserves that fairytale happy ending and I am so honored to have documented hers <3

And yet the journey has just begun! I wish nothing but many many many years of happiness and love for this amazing couple. Throughout this process they have become dear friends and an inspiration to me. They will always have a special place in my heart. Without further ado, here's a sneak peek into Emily & Mike's Fishermen's Inn, Elburn wedding.  

Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...

Venue & Event Coordination: Fishermen's Inn

Makeup: One Bridal Company

Hair Stylist: Kelly Johnson

Cake: Vanilla Sugar Bakery

Music: Toast & Jam

Click Here to view the entire gallery of images from this Fishermen's Inn, Elburn wedding by Chicago Wedding Photographer Miss Motley Photography.

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If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Pazzo's 311 Chicago Wedding: Felicia+ Bart

Felicia & Bart's urban wedding took place on a warm summer day at Pazzo's 311 in Chicago, Illinois. Their marital union is a result of dreams, fate and the childhood wishes of a three year old girl. Growing up Felicia's mom always teased her about her preschool friend Bart and how everyday after preschool, Felicia would come home and tell her that she was going to marry Bart and they were going to have 13 children! Felicia often thought her mother made the story up because after all, how could a three year old already be planning a family? Fast forward 15 years to a few weeks before Felicia is set to head off to college while she is attending her friend Britton's graduation party. Britton, walks up to a group of her and her friends and introduces them to his college roommate, Bart. Felicia immediately recalls her mother's stories and tells him, "I went to preschool with a guy named Bart." As luck would have it, this was the same Bart from preschool! A few months later the two reconnected while Bart was in Chicago during Thanksgiving break and the rest is history!

The decor for this spectacular wedding is just as unique as this couple's story. The blue and purple color scheme was inspired by Felicia's favorite flower, orchids, and a navy blue James Bond tuxedo with a black lapel. Felicia loved the idea of having gold as the accent color since it was less common then silver. Consequently, gold accents ended up being much harder to find which lead to a few DIY projects which included: table numbers, gift card box, menus, escort cards, etc. In the end, these colors came together in a very tasteful and elegant way.

View their wedding slideshow below!

Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this celebration to life...
Venue: Pazzo’s at 311
Event Planner: One Fine Day Events
Cake Designer: Oak Mill Bakery
Makeup Artist: Danielle Rochon Makeup
Floral Designer: Bella Flora Inc
Cinema and Video: Borrowed and Blue Productions
DJ: Charles Protege

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If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo

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Wilmette Sheridan Shores Engagement: Amanda + Nick

There’s no greater feeling than walking away from a photo session feeling 100% reassured that photography was what you were created to do in life. That’s how I felt the night I wrapped up Amanda & Nick's engagement session. The chemistry between the two of them was so electrifying and they were so free and natural in front of the camera–seriously every photographers dream! We began their engagement at the Bahá'í House of Worship then took a stroll across the street to the beach just in time to catch a beautiful sunset. So excited for their wedding next summer at the Sheridan Shores Yacht Club!

Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography

Austin Lo'ren | Chicago Headshots

There was never a dull moment growing up with my cousin Lauren.  From running through the house playing tag,  getting in trouble for breaking something, to putting on dance performances for our entire family during the holidays-- we always had a blast together.  Lauren was the dancer in our family. She was always bouncing around, flipping and bustin' moves.  I, on the other hand, was what I like to call "rhythmically-challanged".  I had no rhythm, no coordination, and no confidence to try to perform in front of anyone.  But it never failed, every holiday season Lauren would choreograph a dance, force me learn it and make the entire family sit down and watch.  I'd be behind her stumbling over my feet and butchering all the steps she spent hours teaching me and she'd be grooving right along.  I've never met a person who loved to dance as much as she does, it just comes naturally for her.  She was destined to dance.

Lauren, I am so honored to be apart of your journey and to be able to capture these shots for you.  I wish you much success in all your endeavors.  When you make it big, don't you forget about us little people. Lol. 

Love ya girlie! :)  

Luke 10 days old | Chicago's Newborn Photographer

Meet Luke!  I've been waiting for his arrival all year long!  His mother, my dear friend Galina, and I have been planning his newborn session since January.  He was the perfect little sleeping baby and he was oh soooooooooooo sweet… I mean just look at those cheeks!!!  I can't wait to watch him grow up over the years!  Love this wonderful family.   

Welcome to the world, Luke!

Chicago River East Art Center Wedding: MALLORY + TOM

When I woke up to raindrops hitting my window on the morning of Mallory & Tom’s wedding day I was saddened by the possibility that this bride wouldn’t be able to take her pre-ceremony photos around the city as we had both hoped.  A few days prior Mallory and I had mapped-out our route around the city of the top 3 places that she wanted to have photos taken- we were ready.  A stormy day was not what we envisioned for her bridal portraits.  However when I arrived to her hotel suite later that morning, Mallory didn’t seem phased by the clouds at all.  She laughed with her bridesmaids, glammed up, and slipped into her dress with such confidence as if there wasn’t a cloud in the sky.  I was amazed by her calm demeanor and carefree attitude throughout the morning.

Well, to our surprise, just past noon the clouds parted and the sun began to fill the suite!!  We all beamed with excitement as we boarded the party bus and headed on our way.   Even with the humidity and wind, Mallory was radiant- simply breathtaking.  Which resulted in some pretty spectacular photos!

That evening, all the toast & speeches that I heard from their close family members and friends confirmed all that I’d witnessed throughout the day.  Mallory and Tom are a dynamic duo!!  They live in the moment and enjoy every moment with each other regardless of the circumstances at hand.

Mallory & Tom, thank you for the opportunity to share in your big day!  I wish you both all the best as you embark upon this journey as husband & wife.

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography