TO THE BLOG

Hello, summer! It’s officially here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Outdoor events, meeting up with friends, dining al fresco—there is so much to love about this season.

One of the best places to soak up summer is right in the heart of Chicago. From the stunning skyline to the endless possibilities for adventure, it’s a city that creates unforgettable memories.

Now imagine exchanging your vows with that iconic skyline as your backdrop. That’s exactly what made Sarah & Matt’s elopement so incredibly special.

Sarah & Matt used Simply Eloped to help create their dream day. Alongside Rebecca of Something Profound Weddings they (literally) tied the knot in front of their five favorite people; their children.

When they look back at their gallery, I hope they are able to relive it all, the emotions, the joy, the electricity the city provides. Strangers cheering them on as they rode their bikes and walked by the happy couple! Everyone in their vicinity was vibing!

Let’s discuss guests of honor…

Their children. They were the perfect witnesses. No better best man or maid of honor could have been chosen. They brought their love, excitement, and support to every moment of the ceremony, making an already beautiful day even more memorable.

This was a day, I will never forget. I loved capturing this beautiful ceremony blending two amazing families. A true honor.

Until next time,

xoxo

Renèe

Hello!! Here we are, another year has flown by. I hope your holiday season was filled with love and joy and all of the good things. As I close out 2025 with this final blog, I’m holding a bittersweet gratitude for the clients who made this year so meaningful. Most I knew, some I just met, all I just adore! So cheers to another wonderful year capturing your greatest treasures and memories. I could not be more honored to be the person you selected to do so.

Now imagine you move to Chicago. New city, new apartment, new chapter. Not knowing, your fate has been decided. Your soul mate lives in that exact building. Your future awaits. He spies you in the elevator and he knows you’re the one. The courage, to knock on your door. Do you believe in destiny, I know Kelly & Rony do! They just tied the knot in an incredible, intimate ceremony and reception.

A knock on your door from a stranger turns into a real, love, story. It is what romcoms are made of! And it was a true honor to capture the love story of Kelly & Rony this month! They are a true match indeed.

I have had the great pleasure getting to know Kelly and Rony throughout the duration of the year! They planned their elopement alongside Simply Eloped back in February. We chatted about their plans and visions for their special day. They were so excited about all that was to come! The most important thing to them was celebrating their love, their way, with their closest family and friends. The venue, an unique wedding location- a former firehouse.

Everything they envisioned, came to life. All the out of town family, friends, present. The atmosphere, perfect. I mean, look at Kelly’s smile! Congrats to Mr. & Mrs Youkhana! Wishing you a life time of happiness together!

Well, that is a wrap for 2025. Wishing you the best for 2026!

xoxo

Renée

Hello hello! SUMMER is here! Are you enjoying this season? I sure am. Pool is open, the days are long and the sun is shinning. I may hide in AC during those peak heat hours, but hey, you gotta make sure you do not melt!

I’d love to share my most recent elopement with you. As a partner with Simply Eloped, it was an absolute honor to capture Jessica & Matt’s special day. Simply Eloped coordinated all the details, that makes it easy for couples to just show up & get married!

The location, such a neat Chicago landmark- The Firehouse. This firehouse was built back in 1906 and had four horse stables. I mean, can you imagine it all- the history is rich!

Jessica and Matt live in South Dakota, but wanted a destination wedding. They love Chicago so it was a win win! When I first met Jessi and Matt via Facetime, they shared they met in a psych ward…..both employees. I mean, what a story!

They shared a beautiful and intimate ceremony with their closest family & friends. It was perfect. They started their day with a first look.

Then, in firehouse fashion, this brave bride made her entrance in the most memorable way!

To witness the love and devotion Jessi & Matt share, was a true honor. I hope you enjoy these images with each passing year. Cheers to you both!

Until next time, friends.

Renée