Guest Count: 9

Maggie and Dave not only hired me to take portraits of them in their Skokie neighborhood on their original wedding date in May but they also hired me back to document their mini wedding reception with their families in July. The two were able to get married at Old St. Pat’s 3 months after their original date.

Unfortunately even during the pandemic Old St. Pat’s stuck to their age old policy of only allowing certain photographers access to photograph ceremonies. (Not trying to be shady just letting you all know the facts!) Since I’m not on their preferred vendor list, composed of mainly larger photo studios I was unable to document the couple’s ceremony but it was such a joy to join them on Piccolo Sogno’s beautiful and hidden patio for their small lunch reception with family.

I think there might be a misconception that mini or micro wedding receptions can’t include the typical reception events like, toasts, cake cutting or first dances. In 2020 I witnessed a mixture of all of these sprinkled into smaller receptions - and honestly - it was magical. My biggest take away from all of these small celebrations has been that BIGGER ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER.

A real plus side of a less than 10 guest count means that speech giving is a lot less nerve-wracking and even more meaningful feeling.

I know that not everyone is always a big fan of first dances but I personally think it’s such a sweet moment to photograph and is a nice touch to make the mini reception feel more special. (if you’re comfortable with it!)

Also, big props to Piccolo Sogno for allowing the couple to bring in their delicious vegan wedding cake from Kal’ish. Honestly one of the best parts of 2020 weddings was I got to take home more cake than ever!