Nicole and Zach’s wedding was emotional from start to finish—every detail woven with intention and meaning.

Nicole began her morning at the Ambassador Hotel before meeting Zach, who got ready at their apartment, for a rooftop first look overlooking the Chicago skyline. From there, we headed to Lincoln Park for portraits filled with sunshine, laughter, and a wedding party that brought all the hype.

Their ceremony took place beneath the honeycomb in Lincoln Park, the very spot where Nicole’s parents were married over 30 years ago. That legacy made the moment even more meaningful, layering their vows with history, family, and intention.

The celebration continued at Café Brauer, a venue deeply rooted in Nicole’s family story. The couple honored that legacy with thoughtful details, incorporating the same emblem her parents used on their wedding day, and Zach meticulously hand-stamped matchboxes as guest favors. Having their closest family and friends gathered around made the day even more special.

One of my favorite moments of the night was how they opened the dance floor for ten full minutes before dinner. The energy was immediate and electric. Guests singing Taylor Swift at the top of their lungs, hands in the air, and yes… sweat already forming before anyone had even taken their seats. It brought excitement to the very start of the evening and definitely set the tone for what was to come. 

From a Chicago skyline rooftop first look to vows in a sentimental family location and a dance floor that never slowed down, Nicole and Zach’s wedding was stunning through and through.

View Nicole and Zach’s full wedding gallery here.