I had the pleasure of returning to The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles, Illinois to photograph Paige and Michael’s wedding. It was a beautiful, intimate day filled with joy and heartfelt moments.

This wedding was a small celebration with close friends and family. The relaxed atmosphere allowed everyone to truly enjoy the moment. Several young children were present, which gave me a chance to capture fun, spontaneous moments throughout the day.

Paige found me through a friend whose wedding I photographed a few years ago. It’s always an honor when past clients recommend me—it’s the best compliment I can receive.

We originally planned to take family portraits outdoors, but due to the extreme heat that day, we moved everything inside. Thankfully, The Graceful Ordinary offers a beautiful interior space that worked perfectly for portraits. The light and textures inside added an elegant, modern touch.

Next, Paige and Michael held a short and sweet ceremony, full of emotion and connection. Afterward, guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the outdoor patio, which overlooks the Fox River and offers a lovely breeze.

Dinner followed in the restaurant’s warm, stylish dining room. The intimate setup made it easy for guests to relax, connect, and celebrate together.

This venue remains one of my favorites in the western suburbs. It combines modern design with a welcoming atmosphere. The riverside setting also makes it ideal for smaller, heartfelt weddings like Paige and Michael’s.

In short, this day was a reminder that meaningful moments don’t require a big crowd—just the right people, in the right place, with the right energy.