A Winter Chicago Cultural Center Wedding

Colleen and Luke’s Chicago Cultural Center wedding was impeccably designed and full of warmth. It’s exactly the kind of day that makes me grateful to photograph weddings in Chicago! This was my first wedding of the year, and such a wonderful way to begin the season. Between the Chicago Cultural Center being one of my favorite venues in the world, Colleen and Luke being absolute angels, and Regina from Amelia Cole Events leading the planning, there was so much to love about this wedding! 

Wrigley Building Photos before the festivities

One of my favorite spots in the city for portraits is Wrigley Building, so of course we headed over there with Colleen and Luke and their bridal party! There’s so much space for bridal party photos, and I had so much fun with this group at Wrigley before we headed back to the Chicago Cultural Center for the ceremony.

Why I Love the Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center has so much beauty and character. The marble, mosaic details, and of course the Tiffany glass dome make the space completely iconic. For a wedding, that means the best approach is thoughtful and complementary.

For Colleen and Luke’s wedding, the design was absolutely perfect. The soft green linens, splashes of gold, and rose accents really complemented the venue design and tied everything in together. Full credit to Life in Bloom who did an amazing job designing florals in creams, pale pinks and mauves to fit the space beautifully.

As a photographer, I also love weddings at the Chicago Cultural Center because around every corner there’s an amazing opportunity for portraits, and tons of variety. I loved using the staircase for some bridal portraits of Colleen. And the Preston Bradley Hall for the ceremony and reception was chefs kiss. 

To see more of my Chicago wedding photography, you can visit my wedding portfolio here.

A Chicago Winter Wedding in the Snow

One of my favorite details about Colleen and Luke is that snow seemed to follow them through this whole season of their life. They had snow around their proposal, snow for their engagement photos, and snow again on their wedding day! It felt like such a sweet little through-line for their relationship that made their wedding feel even more magical. 

Beyond that, Colleen and Luke are just wonderful people, absolute sweethearts! They were kind, joyful, and so excited on their wedding day. There are weddings where you just know these people were meant to be together, and this was one of them.

A Gorgeously Designed Chicago Cultural Center Reception

This wedding was designed so beautifully, and Regina from Amelia Cole Events brought everything together just as they imagined. The room felt intentionally designed to tie every detail in with the canvas of the Chicago Cultural Center. The reception tables were set with green linens, pastel florals and warm candlelight. The floral design by Life in Bloom added the perfect color accent. The result? A high-end feel that perfectly complimented the venue. 

For couples planning to use strong design elements into their wedding day, I always recommend saving time for a few photos together before the reception starts, to grab some photos with the full design exactly as the vendor team envisioned it. This is also just such a fun part of the day with my couples!

For another stylish Chicago wedding day, check out Sydney and Johnny’s wedding at Chicago Illuminating Company!

Photographing Colleen and Luke’s Wedding Details

One of my favorite things to photograph on wedding days are the details. The florals, linens, cake, and ceremony + reception setup as a whole were all chosen with so much care, and elevated the day in every way. I made sure the images reflected that.

I also loved photographing this wedding on film. From couples portraits outside the Art Institute of Chicago to the softer winter tones and reception details at the Chicago Cultural Center, it all translated beautifully to film! It felt like the right medium for a wedding that was romantic and full of personality.

See more of Colleen and Luke’s wedding day portraits on my Instagram! 

Tips for Planning a Chicago Cultural Center Winter Wedding

Is the Chicago Cultural Center a good venue for a winter wedding in Chicago?

Yes! The Chicago Cultural Center works beautifully for a winter wedding because the interiors are gorgeous and give you so much to work with for portraits. So you don’t need to worry about a snowy, windy Chicago day stopping you from getting gorgeous images if you don’t want to be outside. 

How should we plan our photography timeline for a Chicago Cultural Center wedding?

For a Chicago Cultural Center wedding, I’ve found it’s helpful to plan the photo timeline around the spaces you want to prioritize. Gorgeously and intricately designed reception? Make time for portraits in the room before guests arrive to capture it in every detail. I always recommend planning on some buffer time between transitions, to take a breath and enjoy being present with each other. Those are always the best images of the day! 

When working together with my couples during the planning process, I’m happy to help you build a photography timeline that captures everything that’s important to you on your wedding day. That includes taking into account your venue, the scale of your event, and your priorities for photography.

What should we look for in a photographer for a wedding at the Chicago Cultural Center?

Your photographer needs to be comfortable with indoor spaces, low light, capturing room design and details, while balancing editorial portraits and candid moments throughout the day. This is a venue with a lot of variety and gorgeous design built in, so it also helps having experience shooting weddings here to get the most from it! 

chicago wedding photography: let’s work together

Colleen and Luke’s day brought so many things that I love to one wedding: my favorite Chicago wedding venue, an amazing vendor team, beautiful design, and just the most lovely couple who were fully present with each other on their day.

It was such a joy to photograph this whole season for them, from their snowy engagement session to their beautiful winter Chicago Cultural Center wedding. Colleen and Luke are truly the sweetest, and I’m so grateful I got to document this part of their lives.

Planning a Chicago Cultural Center wedding or getting married somewhere else in Chicago? I would love to capture it! Reach out to schedule a call and chat more about your wedding plans.

Vendor Credits

Photography: Ashlyn Henry // Planning: Amelia Cole Events, Regina DiTomassi // Venue: Chicago Cultural Center // Hotel: Palmer House // Catering: Paramount Events // Florist/Decor: Life in Bloom // Makeup: Glam by Stefanie // Hair: Anomalie Beauty Agency // Band: Rendezvous // Wedding Party Transportation: M+M Limo // Cake: Vanille Patisserie // Officiant: Andrew Clarkson // Coat Check: VIP Valet Services

The Newbury Boston Wedding in Back Bay

Eileen and Conor’s wedding at The Newbury Boston was a winter day in the middle of downtown Boston. A gorgeous venue and an iconic location for portraits like Boston Public Garden really took the day to the next level. The Newbury has to be one of the best Boston wedding venues I’ve gotten the privilege to photograph at!

With a church ceremony in the South End and a reception at The Newbury, the day was both very traditional and modern. Winter weddings in Boston have a natural holiday charm to them, and Eileen and Conor’s wedding right before Christmas had that magic. I will always love a winter wedding in Boston!

See more on what it’s like to work with me!

Why The Newbury Boston Is a 10/10 Wedding Venue 

One thing I really love from shooting weddings at The Newbury Boston, is how the location, the space and the experience work so well together! If you plan it right, the day can flow together seamlessly while still feeling completely like top shelf, high luxury. Here are a few of the things I noticed as a wedding photographer that brought their day to the next level, and gave Eileen and Conor the space to enjoy every moment.

Back Bay Boston 

The hotel is right across from the Boston Public Garden and just off Newbury Street in the Back Bay neighborhood. You can literally walk out the front doors at The Newbury and be at one of the best photo locations in Boston within minutes. Removing travel time for a downtown wedding is absolutely huge since it gives you more time with your people, and less time rushing around.  

See more of my favorite Boston weddings in my portfolio here.

Getting Ready Space

The suites at The Newbury are a really good place to start the day. There’s a lot of natural light for prep photos, views straight into the Public Garden, and enough space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the morning together.

A Ceremony at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross

Before making their way to The Newbury, Eileen and Conor were married at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston's South End. The scale of the church is absolutely incredible. The vaulted wood ceilings, stone details, and long center aisle made their wedding ceremony feel so open and grand. Combined with the Christmas trees decorating the cathedral, it really was a gorgeous winter wedding venue in Boston.

The Ballroom

The ballroom at The Newbury overlooks the Public Garden, so throughout the day you’re either getting the natural light garden views, or city lights and the skyline at night. Obsessed. They do an amazing job at making the ballroom feel like a natural extension of the garden with natural touches in the decor. 

The Newbury was recently voted one of the best wedding venues with luxury ballrooms in Boston, so from top to bottom, every inch is going to be elegant even before you start adding your personality to it. You can see more about their wedding spaces and the ballrooms specifically here. 

Guest Experience

If you’ll be hosting out of town guests for your wedding, you can have them stay at The Newbury! Being in Back Bay makes the entire weekend easy, and they’ll have everything they need within a few minutes walk downtown. I can also say personally, from experience as a photographer working with the wedding team at The Newbury, and attending a wedding at The Newbury as a guest, they deliver an incredible level of service and attention! 

Boston Public Garden Wedding Photos

One of my favorite parts of their wedding day was taking photos with the wedding party in the Boston Public Garden. We used the bridge for portraits, which gave us a classic downtown Boston vibe. Since it’s a busy area, it does mean that you may have to manage traffic and work quickly, but trust me when I say it’s worth every second! I would highly recommend having an experienced photographer who’s worked here before and knows how to handle crowds. 

Having a location like the garden right across the street from the wedding venue was a dream! The time set aside in the timeline was used fully for photos, not travel. Having experience directing the wedding party (and sometimes, traffic!) for photos definitely helps make the most out of time for photos as well.

See another iconic New England wedding venue and of my favorite weddings I’ve photographed here. 

Tips For Your Wedding at The Newbury Boston

The Newbury team was great to work with and really made the day stay organized and on track. Since Eileen and Conor had a great vendor team, you could really sense they were present in the moment instead of feeling squeezed for time. 

If you’re considering The Newbury Boston for your wedding, a few things to keep in mind.

• It’s a popular Boston wedding venue, so booking early is important.

• Work with a planner familiar with the venue to get the most out of the space and keep your timeline on track.

• You absolutely have to make time for photos in the Boston Public Garden!

Planning a Wedding in Downtown Boston?

If you’re planning your wedding at The Newbury or in downtown Boston, I’d love to connect! Being familiar with the best spots in Boston and across New England, I’d love to help you document your wedding day with an artful eye. Reach out to chat about your wedding plans, I can’t wait to meet you!

Vendor Team

Photography: Ashlyn Henry // Venue: The Newbury Boston // Month-of Coordination: Event Planning by Sara // Videographer: Story Box Film // Florist: Parker Florist // Dress: Vows, Justin Alexander // DJ & Cocktail Hour Music: CZone Entertainment // Make-up: Make-up by Celena // Hair: Hair by Jami // Transportation: Rockstar Limo

A Modern Chicago Illuminating Company Wedding

There are some places that just grab you and  pull you in as soon as you walk through the door. The atmosphere feels warm and full of possibility the moment you step inside. That’s exactly how it felt walking into the Chicago Illuminating Company for Sydney and Johnny’s wedding! Even before the day began, the energy here already hinted at something special.

Sydney and Johnny are the kind of couple who make everything feel easy. They’re grounded, family-oriented, and wonderfully low-key. They’re the kind of people who care more about being present than being posed. Photographing them felt natural and unhurried, which is always such a gift on a wedding day!

A STYLISH Welcome Party at Ummo Chicago

The celebration kicked off the night before with a welcome party! I absolutely love capturing these with my couples. It’s such a great way to ease into the wedding weekend, reconnect with friends and family, and get excited for the celebration ahead.

Sydney and Johnny hosted theirs at Ummo, one of Chicago’s most stylish spots. The space is moody and art-forward, filled with album covers, warm candlelight, and rich pops of color. Long tables were set with vibrant florals and custom-wrapped chocolate bars with their photo on them (such a fun + cute personal touch!). The whole evening felt intimate and lively at the same time, with guests tucked into velvet booths, sharing cocktails, and filling the room with contagious pre-wedding energy. It was the perfect start to the weekend!

Planning your wedding weekend and looking for someone to capture it? I can’t wait to hear about it!

A CHICAGO Illuminating Company Wedding With an Interior Designer’s Vision

Sydney’s mom, Jill — who is an incredibly talented interior designer — brought the entire day to life through a breathtaking design vision. Every corner of the space felt intentional. The florals, the warm lighting, the arrangements… it all came together in a way that was elegant and elevated.

When clients bring in a strong design perspective, it transforms an already beautiful venue into something so unique to the couple, and that’s exactly what happened here! The Chicago Illuminating Company’s indoor-outdoor layout and clean architectural lines created the perfect canvas for Jill’s ideas.

Film, Texture + an Unforgettable Reception!

I photographed the day on film and digital, which always brings such a nostalgic, artful layer to a wedding gallery. The tones paired beautifully with the moody greens, deep plums, and natural textures woven throughout the reception design. Film was just something that fit so well with the energy of their day.

The reception space was unforgettable: florals by EV Design Collective, warm pendants layered with candlelight, textured linens, and fruit-inspired tablescapes that felt both modern and old-world. It was a space so atmospheric and perfect for Sydney and Johnny. 

With Sydney’s Jewish family and Johnny’s Italian family coming together, the day was full of emotion and connection. Both families were involved, present, and so clearly supportive, shaping the entire atmosphere into one of love.

See more of my film work at Hanna and Firas’s Hammond Castle wedding in Gloucester, MA!

Why the Chicago Illuminating Company Is One of the Best Chicago Wedding Venues

If you're searching for a Chicago wedding venue that blends modern architecture, flexibility, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Chicago Illuminating Company should absolutely be on your shortlist.

Here’s what makes it so special:

• A seamless indoor–outdoor flow that’s rare in the city

• A blank-canvas layout that allows for incredibly curated design

• Space for both intimate and larger celebrations

• A high-end atmosphere without feeling formal or rigid

• Endless options for photography, from minimalist architectural lines to lush, layered tablescapes

It’s truly one of those venues that shapes itself around the couple! For Sydney and Johnny, it became the perfect backdrop for a day that was both emotional and stylish.

A Vendor Team That Brought Everything Together

This wedding was the result of an incredible team, some of the best in Chicago and beyond:

Event Planner: LK Events Bridget Rogers // Photography: Ashlyn Henry // Venue: Chicago Illuminating Company // Catering: Paramount Events // Floral: EV Design Collective // Video: Bella Tiamo // Entertainment: Jordan Kahn Orchestra // Entertainment: Gold Coast Entertainment // Lighting: Frost // Transportation: Premier Trolley // Hair: Dorota Pabian // Makeup: Makeup by Anna-Lise // Hotel: The Langham // Cake: ECBG // Sweets: Miko’s Italian Ice

Chicago Illuminating Company: A Stunning Wedding Venue

If you’re drawn to warm, design-driven spaces, thoughtful details, and a celebration that feels personal from start to finish, the Chicago Illuminating Company is an incredible choice. It’s one of my favorite venues in the city for its flexibility, character, and the way it photographs.

If you’re planning a Chicago Illuminating Company wedding (or just starting the search for your Chicago wedding venue) I’d love to connect and help you document the day in a way that feels true to you!

A Hammond Castle Wedding in Gloucester, MA | Coastal Romance + Historic Charm

A Hammond Castle wedding in Gloucester, Massachusetts is about as New England as it gets! Ocean views, stone archways, and moody coastal light that changes every minute. This one was especially meaningful because Hanna and Firas were actually my first Boston wedding couple. They both grew up in Chicago, just like me, and I met Hanna while shooting a wedding there. We hit it off and they asked me to shoot their Gloucester wedding! And to photograph it all at a seaside castle? Pretty unforgettable.

Hammond Castle - A Castle by the Sea

If you’ve never been, Hammond Castle Museum sits about an hour north of Boston and is one of the most unique venues on the Massachusetts coast. It’s a beautiful castle by the sea, built nearly a century ago with stone archways, tall windows, and an ocean view that stretches for miles. It’s filled with medieval architecture, dramatic staircases, and windows that look straight out to the Atlantic. Seeing it for the first time, I was a bit in awe.

The weather that day kept us on our toes. Wild wind, dark clouds, and pre-storm tension in the air. But honestly? It fit the setting perfectly, and Hanna and Firas embraced the moodiness of it all. Hammond Castle on a rainy day is so cinematic, and the weather honestly gave their photos so much depth and texture.

Check out Eden and Brian’s wedding at Wychmere Beach Club for more beautiful East Coast wedding inspiration!

The Day of the Wedding

Just as the beautiful outdoor ceremony wrapped and everyone began heading inside for cocktail hour, the skies opened up. The rain was torrential, a true New England downpour that came out of nowhere. Guests hurried inside as the rain started to fall, where the sound of raindrops really added to the castle ambiance. 

Hanna, who’s also a photographer herself, loves shooting with film and asked if I could incorporate some into their wedding day, and I’m so glad we did. It ended up being such a perfect fit for the atmosphere at Hammond Castle. (See more of my favorite film photos from their day!) The colors and the texture all brought such a timeless feel to their gallery, and now they’re some of my favorite photos!

Details of the day

Every detail of this Hammond Castle wedding was so personal to the couple. Hanna’s sister, Olivia, hand-painted the invitations, and Sage Florals brought in soft, organic arrangements that fit perfectly against the castle’s stone textures.

The tables were lined with books (!!)  a nod to Hanna and Firas’s shared love of reading, and the cake featured tiny cats representing their own fur babies. It was those kinds of thoughtful touches that made the day feel so true to them.

Hanna wore a Jenny Yoo gown paired with Dior heels, and Firas looked classic in his Ralph Lauren tux. Their vibe was very “effortlessly elegant”. 

The ceremony music was played by Hanna’s cousins, Chris Kalkbrenner and Courtney Sullivan, while their friend Jarod Apple performed on the saxophone later in the evening. Custom Sounds DJ kept everyone dancing well into the night, and dinner from Creative Catering was nothing short of incredible + delicious.

They got ready that morning at The Beauport Hotel, which has probably the best ocean views in Gloucester! It was the perfect calm before the energy of the day kicked in.

Inside A Personal Celebration

This day was overflowing with connection and sweet moments with family. Firas’s sister stood beside him as one of the groomspeople, and the couple’s families were deeply involved throughout the day. One of my favorite moments was during the reception when Hanna’s sisters gave their toast - they turned it into a mad lib game and had the guests get involved! So much fun, highly recommend.

What I loved most about their wedding day was how personal it felt. Every single part of it felt like a true reflection of who they are and the people who love them. 

“Ashlyn is an incredible, kind, professional, talented photographer and you should highly consider her for your East Coast wedding. I couldn't have dreamed up a better photographer and could not have imagined my wedding photos would have come out as incredible as they did.”

Hanna & Firas

Getting Married in New ENgland? Let’s Chat.

Getting to photograph my first Boston wedding for this truly gorgeous couple was an amazing experience. If you’re planning your own Hammond Castle wedding or dreaming up a celebration somewhere along the New England coast, I’d love to be there to capture it with an artistic and documentary approach that feels true to you. You can see more of my work, and reach out to chat about your wedding plans. I can’t wait to meet you!

Vendor Team

Venue: Hammond Castle // Photography: Ashlyn Henry // Florals: Sage Florals // Invitations: Designed + painted by Olivia Sutton // Dress: Jenny Yoo // Shoes: Dior // Firas’s Tux: Ralph Lauren // DJ: Custom Sounds DJ // Caterer: Creative Catering // Saxophonist: Jarod Apple // Guitarists: Chris Kalkbrenner + Courtney Sullivan // Hotel: The Beauport // Signature Scents: Byredo + Le Labo

Wychmere Beach Club Wedding: Eden & Brian’s Cape Cod Celebration

Eden and Brian’s Wychmere Beach Club wedding was the kind of Cape Cod celebration that perfectly captured New England summer. Ocean views, coastal charm, and an amazing group of friends by their side. I had never been to the Cape before, and getting to photograph this weekend felt like the best introduction! Beach views, the sweetest people, and that laid-back New England charm everyone talks about. I love it here.

From the moment I arrived, I knew Eden and Brian’s celebration was going to be something special. It was the Fourth of July weekend, and the entire atmosphere had a relaxed and festive energy. The weekend kicked off with a 4th of July themed welcome party: think red white and blue decor, strawberry margs and great food. 

Eden & Brian’s Day: A Wedding Centered on Family and Connection

One of my favorite parts about photographing this Cape Cod wedding was that there was no wedding party! Just Eden, Brian, and the people they love most. It made the entire day feel so intimate and intentional. Everyone was present, soaking in every moment, rather than worrying about a timeline or formalities.

Their families and friends gave me just the warmest welcome, immediately making me feel like I’d been part of the group for years. I left that weekend feeling like I’d made lifelong friends. After the wedding, Eden and Brian even sent me screenshots of texts from their friends and family saying how much they loved the photos! And the weather? A perfect New England summer day. Warm sunshine, a light coastal breeze, and the kind of beautiful weather you’d hope for on a Cape Cod wedding day. There were also a few quiet, emotional moments woven throughout the day honoring Eden’s mom. Subtle, heartfelt touches that added even more meaning to an already beautiful celebration.

Coastal Details That Made Their Day Stand Out

Every single detail of the day reflected Eden and Brian’s personalities. The florals by Foraged Floral of Cape Cod were the perfect mix of soft and coastal, with organic arrangements that looked right at home against the ocean backdrop. The reception carried the same relaxed energy as the rest of the day: guests mingled between tables, the music started up, and everyone was just genuinely having a great time being together.

Eden’s gown from Jenny Yoo, which she bought at Flair Boston, moved so beautifully in the Cape Cod breeze. The couple even designed their own invitations, which were printed at Minuteman Press. It was such a sweet and personal touch! Their cake by Brenda’s Cakes for All Occasions was simple and gorgeous. And I can’t forget the music! Natalia Bonfini played acoustic guitar during the ceremony and cocktail hour, and DJ Danny Walsh kept everyone on their feet once the party began.

What I loved most was how natural it all felt. Everyone showed up ready to celebrate, no stress, no bad energy. Just good people, good weather, and the kind of day that reminded me how lucky I am to be a wedding photographer.

Why Wychmere Beach Club Is One of Cape Cod’s Dream Wedding Venues

As a New England wedding photographer, I can confidently say that Wychmere Beach Club is one of the most breathtaking venues on Cape Cod! Truly. The property sits right on the water, with panoramic ocean views and absolutely incredible light. Whether couples choose to get married on the beach, on the private lawn overlooking the harbor, or inside one of the club’s gorgeous event spaces, it all feels really timeless and romantic.

The staff at Wychmere take such great care of their couples too, from the in-house catering team to the on-site coordination. Everything ran seamlessly on Eden and Brian’s wedding day. As a wedding venue, the Wychmere strikes the perfect balance between luxury and coastal charm, making it ideal for couples who want a wedding that’s high end and elevated, but also a relaxed celebration by the water.

The beauty of Wychmere Beach Club is that it doesn’t need much. It’s one of those venues that looks incredible in every direction! My best advice? Choose colors and details that work with the natural tones. Soft blues, sandy neutrals, and textures that feel coastal without trying too hard.

A Weekend to Remember

Getting to the Cape that weekend was a bit of an adventure, traffic, bridges, and all. But? It felt like a rite of passage for anyone spending the Fourth of July in New England. Once I arrived, I understood the hype. There’s something about Cape Cod that feels lively and peaceful at the same time.

After photographing their Charleston engagement session earlier that year, this weekend felt like a full-circle moment with Eden and Brian. We already had that connection, and it made documenting their day feel even more natural. Between the ocean breeze, the fireworks in the distance, and the warmth of their people, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to Cape Cod!

“Ashlyn is so incredibly talented and such a great person to work with for special events in your life. She wowed us with our engagement photos in Charleston and know our wedding photos will come out just as amazing. Us Boston / East Coast / Cape Cod clients are lucky that she will be here full time!”

Eden & Brian

A Cape Cod Summer Wedding That Left an Impression 

Eden and Brian’s wedding was everything I love about what I do. Real emotion, good people, and a setting that’s beautiful and charming. It was one of those weekends that reminded me why I’m so grateful to photograph couples who are just as kind as they are stylish.

If you’re planning your own Cape Cod or Wychmere Beach Club wedding, I’d love to hear your story and help you capture it! Check out more of my work and reach out to chat about your wedding.

Vendor Team

Venue & Catering: Wychmere Beach Club // Photography: Ashlyn Henry @ashlynhenryphoto // Florals: Foraged Floral of Cape Cod // Dress Designer: Jenny Yoo // Dress Shop: Flair Boston // Guitarist: Natalia Bonfini // DJ: Danny Walsh // Cake: Brenda’s Cakes for All Occasions // Welcome Sign + Mirror: Timeless Occasions New England // Invitations: Designed by the couple, printed at Minuteman Press