CHICAGO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Because this isn’t just photography—it’s the way you’ll remember everything.
This isn’t about stiff posing or overly curated scenes. It’s about creating space for something genuine to unfold—then documenting it with care, intention, and an eye for the quiet, meaningful in-between.
There’s a rhythm to this kind of storytelling: a bit of gentle direction, space to breathe, and just enough structure to let real emotion rise to the surface. Nothing is overly staged. Nothing is forced. Just presence, connection, and the freedom to be seen exactly as you are.
Because the most unforgettable images rarely come from perfect choreography—they come from the way someone reaches for your hand without thinking, or how your whole face softens in a moment of stillness. These are the details that anchor a memory. And that’s what deserves to be remembered.
Whether you’re hiking a mountaintop, in the countryside of Italy, exchanging vows in your backyard, or keeping it cool at Chicago City Hall—eloping is an intentional way to begin your marriage. It’s stripped of fuss, yet full of feeling. And at Tethered Stories, we capture it with the same depth and care as any grand celebration.
Small guest list. Big story.
elopement &
Intimate Celebration
collections
weekday city hall elopements start at $ 950
weekend elopements start at $ 1500
destination elopements - custom pricing
2 hour - full day coverage | 2nd photographer
Engagement session | Full weekend coverage | Home video highlight newlywed portrait session | prints & albums | custom album design
customizations available
INQUIRE ABOUT YOUR DATE
all collections include: Lead photographer, elopement planning guide,
timeline assistance, Online gallery with printing rights, high resolution digital images
FAQs
Will you pose us or is everything candid?
The word “pose” doesn’t quite fit here. The approach blends natural interaction with light direction—never stiff, never forced. Gentle guidance is offered to help you feel at ease, encouraging real connection and movement so the photos reflect how it felt, not just how it looked.
How many images can we expect?
You can expect about 75–100 images per hour of coverage. There is no hard cap—each gallery is curated to fully tell your story.
Sneak peeks are delivered within the first 72 hours after your wedding day, while the full gallery ready within 6–8 weeks, depending on the season.
How far in advance should we book our wedding date?
For weekday City Hall elopements, booking 1–3 months in advance is usually perfect. For weekend elopements or intimate weddings (especially on Saturdays), it's best to book at least 4–8 months ahead—even sooner during peak season (May–October).
Since full wedding dates tend to fill quickly, Saturdays are limited and prioritized for larger events. If you’re dreaming of a weekend elopement, reaching out early gives you the best chance to secure your ideal date.
Can we Bring Guests to our elopement?
Absolutely. As of June 2024, City Hall allows up to 10 guests, and intimate weddings can include up to 25 people. Whether it’s just the two of you or your closest circle, the experience will be personal and full of heart.
Do you offer help with planning or timelines?
Eloping in Chicago can be as simple or as personalized as you want it to be. Whether you’re planning a quiet City Hall ceremony or something more custom in the city, all you really need is a marriage license, a plan that feels like you, and someone to document it with heart.
→ [Read the full guide: How to Elope in Chicago]
→ [Step-by-step: How to Elope at Chicago City Hall]
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how do we elope in chicago?
Yes. Every couple receives personalized timeline support and any planning help that I could to help the day flow smoothly—with room for emotion, breathing space, and beautiful light. From getting ready to golden hour portraits, everything is built around the rhythm of your day.