Denise & Michael’s Wedding at St. Mary of the Angels & The Murphy
Denise & Michael: A Timeless Chicago Love Story
Denise and Michael’s April 29, 2017 celebration blended modern luxury with historic elegance: from the Dana Hotel and Spa to the soaring dome of St. Mary of the Angels and The Murphy, the landmark auditorium behind the famous green doors on Erie Street, their film is a study in tradition, high-energy celebration, and intimate moments.
The Morning: Anticipation at the Dana Hotel
The day began at the Dana Hotel and Spa, where Denise and Michael prepared in separate luxury suites. Our cameras captured the delicate details of the morning: the shimmer of the rings, the intricate lace of the dress, and the quiet moments of reflection before the festivities began.
The Ceremony at St. Mary of the Angels
A party bus and limousine whisked the wedding party to St. Mary of the Angels, Bucktown’s “Polish cathedral” whose Roman dome is visible for miles, and one of our 12 most beautiful churches in Chicago. We captured the bride’s dramatic arrival and the groom’s anticipation, and discreetly mic’d Michael so every word of their vows was captured in crystal-clear audio, a detail that makes the ceremony chapter feel intimate no matter how grand the room. Following the “I dos,” the basilica-scale interior framed portraits of the newlyweds with their families.
Portraits: Iconic Chicago Backdrops
Chicago served as the ultimate cinematic backdrop: timeless shots in front of The Murphy’s famous green doors and grand internal staircase, and sweeping bridal party visuals at the Chicago Board of Trade and Union Station.
The Reception: Elegance and Energy at The Murphy
As the sun set, the celebration moved inside The Murphy, which we filmed in its pristine state before guests arrived to showcase the couple’s vision for the decor and lighting.
- The sound of music: a piano trio provided a classical soundtrack for cocktails and dinner before transitioning into the couple’s favorite hits, including a memorable dance to Guns N’ Roses.
- Heartfelt traditions: a blessing from Aunt Mary and moving speeches from the best man, the maid of honor, and the father of the bride.
- The party: the DJ took over and the dance floor stayed packed until the final song at midnight.
The Final Look: Moonlight at The Murphy
One of the most magical segments of this film is the private late-night session: we stepped away from the crowd with Denise and Michael for a quiet shoot on the balcony and in front of The Murphy, capturing the romance of the city at night, the perfect, intimate conclusion to a day of grand celebration.
The Details
- Videography: 312FILMS
- Getting ready: Dana Hotel and Spa
- Ceremony: St. Mary of the Angels, Bucktown
- Reception: The Murphy, River North
Planning a wedding at The Murphy or St. Mary of the Angels? From the green doors to the dome, we know these landmarks’ angles. Check your date →