Lauren & Andy's Jewish Wedding at The Drake Hotel Chicago

Capturing a Chicago Classic: Lauren & Andy’s Stunning Wedding at The Drake

There is something truly timeless about a wedding at The Drake Hotel, and Lauren and Andy’s day was the epitome of Gold Coast glamour: love, tradition, and celebration in one of Chicago’s most historic settings.

Morning Preparations

Our day began at 11 AM, with our team split between the two suites: Artem with Andy and the gents, capturing the camaraderie and final details, while Lauren stepped into her Hayley Paige gown surrounded by her bridesmaids and her mother. One of the most touching early moments to film was the father-daughter first look, a quiet, emotional pause before the whirlwind began.

Picturesque Portraits

For portraits, we headed into the city: the courtyard at Fourth Presbyterian Church and the lush Art Institute South Garden gave Lauren and Andy’s first look and couple portraits a serene, cinematic backdrop in the heart of downtown.

A Ceremony of Tradition

The ceremony took place in the magnificent Gold Coast Room. From the intimate ketubah signing to the processional led by Rabbi Noah Chertkoff, the sense of tradition was palpable. We mic’d the Rabbi to ensure every word of the ceremony was captured with crystal clarity for their final film.

An Unforgettable Reception

If the ceremony was about tradition, the reception was about pure joy. The newlyweds made their grand march to “Come and Get Your Love,” and one of the absolute highlights for our lens was their choreographed first dance to Michael Bublé’s “Everything,” nailed to the last move and ending on a perfect dip as the music swelled. The energy stayed high all night: the vibrant Hora, always a favorite for dynamic cinematography, the classic bouquet toss, and a late-night delivery of Small Cheval cheeseburgers and fries for every guest. The best Chicago ending there is.

Lauren and Andy, thank you for letting us tell your story. It was a day filled with elegance, laughter, and some seriously impressive dance moves.

The Creative Team

Videography: 312FILMS
Planning: Events to a T
Venue: The Drake Hotel
Photography: Rachael Kazmier Photography
Florals: Milwaukee Flower Company
Hair & makeup: Solo Salon
Band: Rendezvous Music
Gown: Hayley Paige
Tux: Joseph Abboud
Cake: Cake Chicago
Linens: BBJ La Tavola
Flatware & crystal: Festive Frog & Halls Rentals
Paper products: Katherine Elizabeth Events
Calligraphy: Brittney Tovar Calligraphy
Late-night food: Small Cheval

Planning a Jewish wedding or a celebration at The Drake? See our Drake venue guide or check your date →