I typically am not a big “city girl,” but after our weekend in Chicago I am being forced to reconsider! Amanda and Alex welcomed us into their perfectly decorated (I’m serious – straight out of Pinterest) condo with donuts, cupcakes, popcorn, fresh flowers by our bed and even a Chicago coffee mug! Their hospitality was unparalleled!

The attention to detail didn’t stop there. Ahead of time, Amanda had sent me an email with all of the spots they had in mind for their engagement session – complete with a Google map laying everything out (including distance / time to get from one location to the next) and a corresponding Pinterest board with photos of each location so I could visualize the session. It was truly remarkable! I couldn’t even respond to the email for a full 24 hours because I was soaking it all in!!

We started the next morning off at the spot where Alex proposed to Amanda at North Pond. Instantly, I knew this was going to be an easy day. They were so photogenic and comfortable with each other! Plus, their outfits were on point! Also, did you see Amanda’s gorgeous pear-shaped ring? Heart eyes! From there we walked through Lincoln Park and made our way to Velvet Taco for lunch. If you haven’t been, you need to go. So. Much. Flavor!!

After a power nap (umm, taking pictures is hard work) we were back at it in the heart of the city. Tall buildings, city lights, and a beautiful river. Somehow the crowds parted ways whenever we needed to take a photo – these two clearly have an impressive force.

That evening we headed to Olive Park for a few final photos before eating at Ema for dinner. Another point for these two! The food was incredible – all tapas style so we got to work together to find the best plates for all of us. It was a great ending to a perfect day!

Alex and Amanda, thank you so much for everything! You two were the best hosts and we had so much fun getting to know you both better – hearing all about work, playing Mario Kart… (struggle bus over here…), and tormenting your cats with my apron strings. You fed us so well and I can’t wait to get back to your city! Let the wedding countdown officially begin! Excited to see you both in North Carolina for your special day!