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Hi, I'm Kenny Nakai.

 

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to document some of the city's most beautiful love stories.

 

I hope you find inspiration here and connect with the feelings I had when I created each photo.

kenny nakai chicago photographer in tuxedo on dark backdrop

Hi, I'm Kenny Nakai.

 

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m lucky enough to document some of the city's most beautiful love stories.

 

Welcome to my Chicago wedding blog, where I share my latest work and the deeper stories behind the photos. I hope you find inspiration here and connect with the feelings I had when I created each one.

CHICAGO WEDDING BLOG

REAL STORIES.

REAL VENUES.

REAL MOMENTS.

chicago skyline engagement night

It's been quite the journey since I started this Chicago wedding blog in 2007. Photography is more than something to post on social media. It's a time capsule. Stopping. Freezing. Holding a moment forever.

 

There is no greater privilege than being trusted to preserve these moments for the people I love working with.

 

Wedding photography has brought me to the rooftop Cupola at The LondonHouse and on to the turf at Wrigley Field. Not just documenting people, but our ever-evolving city, one frame at a time. One love story at a time.

Gorgeous University Club of Chicago Wedding Photography

University Club of Chicago Wedding Photography

It’s been over a year since the pandemic pushed their 2020 wedding to 2021…and about six hours ago Rachel + Matt were “married”! Though there are so many amazing photos to share be sure to scroll down to see their University Club of Chicago wedding photography teasers! Shout out to Misha from Nouvelle Events (and her team) for another wonderfully executed wedding!

Wedding Details:
Ceremony + Reception Venue: University Club of Chicago
Photographers: Nakai Photography
Planner + Coordinator: Misha from Nouvelle Events
Band: Chicago Catz
Floral + Decor: A Stem Above
Hair + Makeup: Tamara Hair and Makeup
Dress: Hayden Olivia Bridal

This photo on the rooftop of the University Club almost didn’t happen. If you don’t ask, you don’t know what you might miss! Thankfully we asked and had a few minutes to sneak these photos in before the ceremony and before the rainstorm!

university club of Chicago wedding photography rooftop

university club of Chicago wedding photography

These two love Chicago – it was only fitting that we made sure to take a photo next to the Chicago River on their wedding day!

university club of Chicago wedding photography river

Congrats again Rachel + Matt! You two were dancing machines tonight! We are so glad you were able to celebrate with all your friends and family tonight! Hope you enjoyed these wedding teasers for now! =)

with love,

your Chicago wedding photographers,

Kenny Nakai + Tom

West Loop Wedding Photos – Megan + Michael

West Loop Wedding Photos

Just seven hours ago, Megan and Michael said “I DO!” Though there are so many wonderful West Loop wedding photos from their day, here are three teaser pictures!

First up…a photo on the Kinzie Bridge. She must have crossed this bridge hundreds of times on her commute to work. I’m sure she had dreamed of taking her wedding photos in this exact spot…and we were glad to make her dreams come true!

west loop wedding photos Kinzie bridge

Wedding Details:
Getting Ready Location: Nobu Chicago Hotel
Ceremony + Reception Venue: Morgan MFG
Photographers: Nakai Photography
Catering: Blue Plate Catering
Florals: North Gate Floral
Band: One Night Band
Dessert: Dipsy Dessert
Late Night Snacks: Gayle’s Best Ever Grilled Cheese

Loved this photo of the two of them on the Morgan MFG staircase!

west loop wedding photos Morgan MFG

Everyone loves a good Chicago skyline photo – Up on the rooftop of Morgan MFG, you get an epic view of our city!

west loop wedding photos Morgan MFG rooftop

Congratulations again Megan + Michael!

with love,

your Chicago wedding photographers,

Kenny Nakai + Tom

Chicago Backyard Wedding Photos

Chicago Backyard Wedding Photos in Northfield

It was the most perfect evening for Erin + Keegan’s Chicago backyard wedding photos! Their terraced yard, complete with a pool and bocce ball court made it feel like a European garden wedding!

Scroll down to see their wedding photography slideshow! If you haven’t already, you can check out Erin + Keegan’s Chicago North Shore wedding photography blog post!

chicago north shore wedding photos backyard ceremony

chicago north shore wedding photography bridal party backyard

Wedding Details:
Planner/Coordinator: Misha from Nouvelle Events
Photographers: Nakai Photography
Decor: HMR Designs
Catering: Blue Plate Catering
Band: Greenlight
Tent: HDO
Videography: Mirar Weddings
Hair + Makeup: Kate Johnson Artistry
Wedding Dress: VWidon

chicago north shore wedding photos backyard reception tent details

chicago north shore wedding photos backyard reception tent details

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I'm Kenny Nakai, a Chicago wedding photographer creating beautiful, timeless imagery since 2007. For couples who value artistry, authenticity, and the moments that last forever.

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