Chicago Wedding PhotoGRAPHERS & VIDEOGRAPHERS
Celestial Styled Shoot at The Haight
Prepare for puppies, pretty gowns and one of the most unique places to tie the knot in Elgin, The Haight.
If you’re currently searching for wedding venues in and around Chicago, you have to check out The Haight, one of the real ‘marvels’ of Elgin. And our new favorite spot in the suburbs. This charming venue has been respectfully renovated, and restored to its former glory, without losing any of its rustic beauty or industrial appeal. It was chosen as our location for a Celestial-styled shoot back in May 2021 put together by ourselves, and Lauren Ashley Studios, in support of the Anderson Animal Shelter. A charity that severely deserves a light being shone on it.
The Haight, a Hip and Elegant Event Space
The Haight wedding venue is situated in the very heart of Elgin, in an area that is deeply historic. It’s beautiful exposed brick warehouse frame was once the Elgin Storage and Transfer Company, built back in 1890. Originally, it was a space for the employees of the Elgin watch factory to house their cars and horses while they were at work. Unfortunately, over time, the building was used less and less, and subsequently fell into disrepair. That was until John Haight swooped in, and began refurbishing the building back in 1985. It is now a uniquely warm, and inviting place to hold any type of celebration. With two floors and a rooftop area, all sporting a cool, industrial-chic vibe. With exposed brick walls and open-beamed ceilings that are perfect as a backdrop to a rustic wedding/event.
Newlyweds! Adopt a Pet, and Help Save a Life
You cannot walk around the Anderson Animal Shelter without it pulling at your heartstrings. If we had it our way, we’d be walking out of there with a puppy in one hand, a cat in the other, and a hamster hiding somewhere! There are so many cute animals of all shapes, sizes, and types – all of whom need a home. The guys at the shelter have been going for over 50 years, and as big animal lovers ourselves, we thought we’d organize this styled shoot at The Haight in Elgin, to raise awareness of their cause. And we were thinking of newlyweds in particular, buying their first house together. What better way to make it a home, than with a cute bundle of fur to join you in your new journey together. Plus, you’ll be saving a life.
Three Celestial Couples, One Enchanting Venue
The two main things we wanted to shine a light on during our Celestial styled shoot at The Haight in Elgin, was the wedding venue itself, and the Anderson Animal Shelter. To achieve this, we needed three couples to shoot, and a whole a host of talented vendors! Oh, and some puppies! The overall vibe of the shoot was ‘Celestial’, so think moons, stars and all things twinkly. But we didn’t go down the obvious route of simply placing cardboard moons and stars everywhere. No, we let our talented vendors create the celestially inspired pieces, and we then interwove them into the shots.
A Feather Purse, Ring Bouquet, and a Phalaenopsis Orchid
This Celestial-styled shoot at The Haight in Elgin would not have been possible were it not for the people skills, and expert organization of Afton Events. They are a Chicago-based wedding and event planning service! She put so much hard work into this shoot and was never once anything less than super-friendly. And these guys managed to pull together some incredible vendors, such as Stemming from Love. A unique floral design company that created some exquisite works of art for our shoot! Like that half-moon made of florals and feathers. Or that theatrical feather purse, ring bouquet, and bouquet of phalaenopsis orchids – all of which were out of this world.
It’s All About the Dress
Often when brides find their dream dress, they became the biggest advocate of that store. They’ll recommend it above every other vendor they booked for their wedding. And for me, that store was Bella Sposa Bridal Boutique. Whenever I hear it mentioned by one of my engaged couples, it brings a happy shiver down my spine, as I relive the fond memories of visiting there. It is a destination that is perfect for all different types of brides, with a super diverse collection of styles. And, we chose our gowns for this shoot at The Haight in Elgin here. All of which were really floaty, and ethereal, with touches of delicate lace. The last gown was probably my favorite, as it sparkled all over. From those loose translucent sleeves, down to that magical, diaphanous skirt. Gorgeous, and it looked wonderful on our model.
The Perfect Showcase for a Celestial Styled Shoot
We have to say a massive thank you to all of our vendors, for putting this Celestial styled shoot together and for making it such fun! The Haight in particular were lovely hosts, and a credit to the Elgin wedding community. They really helped us to imagine our celestial dream, and never once tried to stifle our ambition. Even when they saw all those excited puppies come through the door! Puppies brought over from the heroes at the Anderson Animal Shelter, a place we would dearly love you to donate to, or consider adopting from.
We would love the opportunity to be your engagement or wedding photographer in Chicago! Michael and I are We would love to be your wedding photographer in Chicago! Michael and I are obsessed with weddings and love to bring out the very best of our newly-weds, using a fresh modern style and an easy-going approach in our photography and wedding videography. We encourage you to browse our portfolio of past brides and if you feel we are right for you, please do get in touch via our contact page.
