Hotel Baker Wedding

“They say the first time ain’t the greatest…” Prince, “Raspberry Beret”

I had my first experience shooting at wedding at the gorgeous and intimate Hotel Baker in St. Charles with Tim and Jackie in early September. Connected through Tim’s dad, who runs in one of the social dance circles I do (pre-COVID), I met with the newlyweds, learning of their love story, and their plans for their special day to celebrate the next step in their lives together.

The wedding day arrived, and we couldn’t have prayed for better weather. The temperatures a comfortable, yet not-too-warm, 83 degrees. The sun shining its’ glorious rays on the venue, with no rain in sight. It was as close to a picture perfect “end of summer”-type day anyone could ask for—even if it was a few weeks before Fall officially arrived.

The afternoon started with a few fun poses with the groomsmen, who were already energized and ready to celebrate Tim’s day. Allowing enough time for Jackie to finish getting ready, we then proceeded to have the first look at the tower at the back of the hotel. It’s a small enclosed space about 10-15 steps above the ground. It was all Lynzi (my second shooter) and I could do to keep him from turning too early as he was dying to see Jackie in her (wedding) dress. And once he did see her, he was beaming brighter than the sun.

With the ceremony approaching, we ran through the family and bridal party images. Family members were more than happy to do both a “serious” and “silly” face for pictures. And the bridal party was too. But they went even a bit further. The bridesmaids decided to let out their inner vogue. The groomsmen thought it would be fun to have Tim re-create one-hale of the scene from Titanic (just overlooking the Fox River).

Pictures completed, then came the wedding—held just above the boat docks. (Kudos to Garvin Gardens for the stellar floral arrangements that accented the day perfectly.) Vows spoken. Promises made. Blessings given. And then…they were married. Amid a chorus of cheers and applause, the couple exited the ceremony and everyone took time to congratulate the newlyweds before the reception.

Held inside the Rainbow Room, the reception was nothing short of a grand celebration. Tim and Jackie were given stirring speeches from each’s father, the best men (Tim had two), and the maid of honor. Tears were shed. Laughs were had. Smiles were beaming. The moments reiterated how much love Tim and Jackie share not just among each other, but with their families and friends.

Elite DJs kept the party going after dinner with music that kept the dance floor filled and energetic (sans the mush slow dances). That vibe that ended the evening, was the same that started the day: energized…and full of love.

“But I tell ya, If I had the chance 2 do it all again, I wouldn’t change a pose…” — Prince, “Raspberry Beret”