I absolutely loved shooting this Hotel Baker St. Charles Wedding!  This was my third time shooting a wedding at this beautiful hotel, we’ve been able to photograph a wedding in almost every season, last time having been in the fall.  After shooting Rachel and John’s Chicago engagement session, I was thrilled to be able to photograph their Hotel Baker St. Charles Wedding as well because these two are just so great behind the camera.

What I love most about weddings at the historic Hotel Baker, is that the backdrop itself is just stunning.  We had two rooms for Rachel’s getting ready time.  The natural light coming through the windows with the vintage feel of the hotel created some dynamic shots.  Rachel had shared with me her idea for the first look and I was thrilled.  We decided to have them do their first look in front of the Fox River.  They each had a bunch of white balloons which they released on the count of three.  It was such a fun and unique way to add some spark to that first look.  I love first looks because the couple can get pictures out of the way and enjoy the rest of the evening pretty much uninterrupted.

Even though it was sprinkling outside, we were able to manage to get some wonderful pictures in the Rose Garden out back.  The ceremony was moved indoors due to the weather but it was equally as stunning in the Waterfront room.  As always, the beautiful Rainbow room was used for the reception and it did not disappoint.  I hope you enjoyed this Hotel Baker St. Charles Wedding as much as I did!

Ceremony and Reception Venue: Hotel Baker |  Cake: Oak Mill Bakery | DJ: A Posh Production| Make-up: Joana Klein | Hair: Natalie Freund of NV Salon and Spa  | Suits: Men’s Warehouse | Wedding Dress: Essence Designs from Diana’s Bridal | Invitaions: Lovelytations Invites |