One of the most common questions I get from my lovely brides is , “Where should we take our engagement/wedding photos?!”

Fear not, you beautiful soon-to-be-newlyweds. I’ve collected a list of my absolute favorite spots in and around the city of Chicago in order in order to help you choose the perfect location(s) for you!

I met this wonderful pair on St. Paddy’s day downtown (one day post parade so it wasn’t the green apocalypse you may be imagining) and the sun seemed to be shining just for them. Having both grown up in the Chicago area, they wanted their engagement session backdrop to be representative of the backdrop to their love story. Sweeping skylines, dazzlingly blue skies and the shimmering waves of Lake Michigan lent even more beauty to this shoot. Scroll on down to check out some of the magic!

A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to capture Melanie and Dave’s engagement session at one of my favorite new spots in the area, per their suggestion. Throw in a healthy dose of fall colors, gorgeous light and a lovely and beautiful couple who are tying the knot next July and, well, I can’t possibly imagine a better way to spend some time on a Sunday afternoon.

Bonus points for their “Save The Date” creativity! Scroll on down to see some of the magic for yourself <3.

Summerlicious definition: Mariella and Andy at Montrose Beach and Bird Sanctuary. Holy moly, this is the stuff summer dreams are made of!