Coronavirus + Cancer Couldn’t Stop this Chicago Wedding
One week ago, just a few hours before Governor Pritzker’s self isolation order began, Eileen + Alex were married in a Chicago bungalow. In the only home Eileen’s family had ever known. Their original wedding was to be held in May. Save the dates sent out and everything.
Things changed. As they so often do. Word from the doctors was that Eileen’s mother, the one who meticulously curated the decor in their beautiful home, only had a few weeks left.
It had been a long battle with cancer.
Add into this Covid-19. They couldn’t just bump up the wedding. Orders were passed that no more than 250 could gather. Then no more than 50. Then they closed down restaurants and large gathering spaces.
And so it was…a small gathering of 10 people, on the last day such a gathering could take place.
Eileen and Alex were married. With the most important people in their lives as witnesses. Most importantly, Eileen’s mother was able to see her beautiful daughter on her wedding day. A dream come true for so many.
It was perfect.
We are living in unprecedented times. We are all feeling something. It’s been weeks of fear, weeks of self isolation, quarantine, teleconferencing, loss of income, longer hours at work, kids at 24/7, and the list goes on. I truly hope these photos lift your spirit as they have for me. One that says…Love Endures.
Love, marriage and commitments. Love from generation to generation. Love for one another.
And yet this wonderful family is walking through the complex emotions of joy, sorrow and loss. I hope you can take a moment to lift up a prayer for Eileen’s mom, and their family.
There are many memorable moments in my 12+ years as a wedding photographer. This wedding is certainly up there as the most special I have ever be apart of. You can view their wedding photos as a slideshow or read about their day as you scroll down through this post.
A Chicago House Wedding Ceremony Photos
Eileen wrapped a piece of her mother’s wedding dress around her bouquet. (Pictured here below the rings) The gold band is her mother’s. You can see her parent’s anniversary engraved inside.
One photo says so much of what life is like during this coronavirus pandemic.
Though it was a day with a lot of thoughts and emotions…there’s still a special moment to smile and see yourself in the mirror on your wedding day!
Faithful hands of the past. Faithful hands of the present. Faithful hands of the future.
When your friend’s mom surprises you outside your home after the ceremony!
Just a little reminder of what life is like during self isolation and social distancing. The sound of the bagpipes brought this community together.
Eileen + Alex: Congratulations again! Praying for you all as you spend this time with family and the challenges you are facing. Your wedding was so special and I feel so honored to have been a witness. I hope these photos help you treasure these special moments. Your mom saw you, held your hands, loved on you and prayed for you. It was everything.
with love,
Kenny