The sun was beaming through the tall glass windows. Every wing of the museum was filled with chatter. It was warm. It was inviting. And I would argue that I had the best company of all. Taylor and Jacob. As we made our way through an area dotted with sculptures, the three of us were just chatting, catching up, and easing into the day. I casually asked them if they had any particular preference for the type of art they wanted to take pictures by. Taylor, ever easygoing, smiled and said she was open to anything. With so much love in her heart and a genuine smile that you could see in her eyes, she said, "We trust you!" (Okay, brb... crying. I love them). Then came Jacob’s mischievous grin. With a little chuckle in his voice, he said, "Nah, not here... this isn't my art." And just like that, the tone for the entire session was set. We all burst out laughing at Jacob’s playful joke, as if he had his own personal collection hidden somewhere in the museum! That lighthearted moment captured the energy of the day perfectly – full of joy, humor, and a sense of effortless fun. From then on, every photo we took felt like a celebration, not just of their love, but of their shared sense of humor and connection.
As we wandered through the museum, with stunning sculptures and vibrant art all around us, Taylor and Jacob's love shined even brighter. Whether they were wrapped up in a sweet embrace or bursting into laughter mid-pose, every shot felt as natural as their chemistry. It was a joy to capture their playful spirit in such an iconic Chicago location – a place rich in history and beauty, but made even more special by the energy they brought to it. And a few things dawned on me very quickly. The first being, that we were surrounded by beautiful works of art, but Taylor and Jacob and their effortless love was the real masterpiece. I don't know if you remember, but last fall I had the honor of photographing their first engagement session. And it was there that I learned of their genuine love and kindness. I also learned that these two are able to so easily turn unscripted, genuine moments into beautiful memories. That's exactly what happened during our day at the museum. It also dawned on me how much I missed being with them. Being with Taylor and Jacob is like being home. I know that sounds so cheesy, but it's true. They just have so much love in their hearts for everyone around them and they aren't afraid to show it. Their laughter is contagious. Their easygoing, carefree spirits are inspiring. And their joy is such an easy source of happiness. So all I have to say is this, for all you engaged couples out there, looking to capture your own love story in a way that reflects who you are, take a note from Taylor and Jacob: have fun with it! Your session should be as unique as your love – playful, joyful, and full of genuine moments. And if your partner happens to claim they have secret art displayed at the Art Institute, just go with it! You never know where the laughter will lead.
Taylor and Jacob, I know you already know how I feel about you, but here goes anyway. I simply adore you. I am so incredibly blessed to not only be your photographer and photograph the beauty of your love story and the beauty that you bring to the world, but I am blessed by your friendship. So thank you for a second date night, I don't get too many of those with my Love Elle friends. I cannot wait to celebrate you some more this weekend! Cheers to you lovebirds <3
Beauty: Glam Atelier
