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.
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.
REAL STORIES.
REAL VENUES.
REAL MOMENTS.
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.
Chicago Studio Engagement Photography
Loved how this photo looks in black and white!
They changed outfits and we took this last studio photo before heading outside – Magazine cover worthy! As an engagement photographer, I love shooting in new spaces…and this was the first studio engagement session at my current studio space!
Chicago Lifestyle Engagement Photos
We took to the streets for a few lifestyle pictures in the neighborhood!
Love love love!
Chicago Radisson Blu Wedding Teaser Photos
It’s 2am and Casey + Stefanie just finished up their wedding reception at the Chicago Radisson Blu! It was such a special day between two wonderful families! There are so many amazing photos, but here are just three teaser photos from the day! Stefanie works as a makeup artist for Cynde Cosmetics…and it’s always special to work on a wedding of a fellow wedding professional. She helped countless brides and bridesmaids prepare for their special day…and today was finally hers!
Shout out to Jan Ehrenberg from Parties, Events, and More for planning and coordinating their special day! She assembled some of the best wedding professionals in Chicago!
Wedding Details:
Ceremony + Reception Venue: Chicago Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
Planner + Coordinators: Jan from Parties, Events, & More!
Florals + Decor: Natalie from HMR Designs
Makeup: Cynde Cosmetics
Dress: Casablanca Bridal
Dresser: Caroline Shaw from The Wedding Dresser
Photographers: Nakai Photography
Band: Gold Coast All-Stars
Best Wedding Photos at The Gwen Hotel + Chicago Union Station
When the groom is an architect and the bride loves fashion…you get some pretty amazing pictures! We made sure to include the best details into their wedding photos…from the luxury interior at The Gwen Hotel to the bride’s three pairs of heels!
Shout out to Vasso from The Gwen Chicago who is one of the best in our industry! The staff at the Gwen blew me away with their attentiveness!
If you haven’t already seen them, be sure to check out Bessie + Tom’s Chicago Engagement Photography Blog Post.
Wedding Details:
Ceremony + Reception Venue: The Gwen Chicago
Dress: Enzoani from Dimitras Bridal Couture
Bride’s Shoes: Gucci, Christian Louboutin
Photographer: Nakai Photography
Band: Chicago Groove Time
Flowers: A Pretty Flower by A & A Floral Arts
One of the best photos from Union Station. Photographer Tip: Look up at the ceiling and be sure to include the whole interior into a photo! Love all the symmetry going on in this picture!
Good light + minimized distractions = a clean, timeless + gorgeous photo of the bride + groom!
The Gwen Hotel has a Grand Lux Suite with a private rooftop patio. What a shot down Michigan Ave!
Getting Ready Wedding Photos at The Gwen Chicago
Starting off their wedding photos with a few of Bessie’s luxury details!
There are wedding ring photos…and then there are wedding ring photos! Love how this picture is uniquely Bessie’s!
Love these next few photos with Bessie’s parents-
Tom was getting ready elsewhere in The Gwen
A few photos on their private terrace at The Gwen – overlooking Michigan Ave!
Love their smiles! =)
Wrigley Building + Chicago Union Station Wedding Pictures
They didn’t let a little drizzle keep them from one of the best photo locations in the city!
Wedding Ceremony Photos at The Gwen Chicago
Before their wedding ceremony, they had a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony
We had to take a few photos inside lobby area of the Gwen Hotel!
They had a choreographed first dance for their guests!
One last photo with Bessie in her party dress!
Congrats again to Bessie + Tom! So glad you two found one another to create the latest ‘Dynamic Duo’ – ‘Batman + Robin!’ =) Can’t wait to share the full set with you all!
with love,
your Chicago wedding photographer,
Kenny Nakai
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.
