We were standing under the stunning Tiffany glass dome at the Chicago Cultural Center. Even on a winter day when the skies outside were gray and dreary, the intricate gold details shimmered in the dim light pouring through the windows. It felt magical, almost like the building itself was celebrating Becca & Graeme’s love story right alongside us.
It wasn’t too crowded that afternoon, but enough people lingered to make a private person like Graeme feel a little outside his comfort zone. I asked them to step into the center of the dome and told Graeme to pick Becca up and spin her around like in the movies. He chuckled and hesitated, caught between not wanting to say no but not sure if he wanted to say yes. And that’s when Becca gave him the sweetest nudge: “You’ll be okay, Graeme,” she said with a grin as she pulled him to the middle of the room.
And let me tell you, he did it. He spun her around, the crowd smiled, and I was practically cheering behind my camera. The photo was absolutely worth it. But honestly? The real magic was watching Becca and Graeme in that moment, just being themselves. It was seeing how perfectly they balance one another. Becca’s bubbly confidence pulls Graeme out of his shell, while Graeme’s quiet steadiness centers her. And together, they laugh effortlessly, like they were made for these in-between, joy-filled moments.
That balance carried throughout the session. Graeme set aside his dislike for photos, simply because he loves seeing Becca smile. And Becca lit up every corner of the Cultural Center with her laughter. Their love feels so sophisticated and strong, yet playful in the most beautiful way.
Later, as we made our way to a second location, I had my own “oops” moment. The icy snow got the better of me, and down I went—me and my camera. Before I even had a chance to brush myself off, Becca and Graeme were there, checking on me, picking up my gear, and handling the moment with so much kindness. When I started laughing about it, they laughed with me, turning it into a sweet memory we’ll all remember. It was the perfect cherry on top of an already perfect day.
Becca & Graeme, you are such a reminder to not take life too seriously. To laugh, to care for one another, to find joy in the unexpected. Life is too short not to. I feel so honored to have spent this time with you and even more honored to be celebrating your wedding this weekend. I already know it’s going to be as beautiful, heartfelt, and joy-filled as the two of you.
