Elevated Celebration at RPM Events | Chicago Wedding Photographer

This elevated celebration at RPM Events is exactly the wedding I dream about as a Chicago photographer. This was a dream day, put on by a fantastic vendor team. I am so excited for you to see it! 

Kasey and Derek’s wedding day in Chicago was perfection.

From the start, it was clear this was not going to be a minimal, understated affair. This was a full scale, fashion forward, editorial moment set in one of the city’s most iconic luxury venues. Kasey told me about her vision for this day, and she nailed it perfectly. From venue choice to ending the day with a street vendor indoors… she captured the luxury event of her dreams. 

RPM Events Chicago sits right near the river and from the moment you walk through the door, you can immediately sense the beauty and intentionality. Every detail of your experience is considered. The ceremony room is simple and elevated. And the ballroom is a fantastic space to make your vision come to life for your reception.  

But let’s rewind to the start of this big day. I arrived at a nearby hotel where Kasey and Derek were getting ready in separate rooms. 

There’s one thing you need to know about Kasey: she understands fashion. Her long sleeve lace gown was fitted and sculpted, with a low back and subtle shimmer that caught the light in every frame. It felt timeless, but not predictable. Her little blue heels gave her that subtle, pastel pop of color that further elevated her bridal look. And the look was completed with hair by Erin Graham, and makeup by Shannon O’Brien.

For her reception dress, Kasey picked a short, embellished party dress paired with pointed heels and a confident energy that carried straight onto the dance floor. Derek matched her effortlessly in a classic black tuxedo. Clean lines, sharp tailoring, no distractions. Together, they were editorial without trying too hard.

These two decided to do a first look near the water in downtown Chicago.

Their bridal party accompanied them outside, to support this emotional moment between Kasey & Derek. The bridesmaids wore sleek black gowns and carried single stem calla lilies. The groomsmen stayed in traditional black tie. The overall palette was black and white with layered ivory florals. They looked every bit a dream for our portraits, which we took outside on the steps. 

Then it was time to start their elevated celebration at RGM Events: 

Ashland Addison Floral Decor created sculptural arrangements that framed the ceremony space in soft, cascading texture. It was dramatic in the best way. With production by Frost Chicago, candlelight and warm tones transformed the space into something equally intimate and cinematic.

Noelle of Olive Fine Weddings led the day with precision. Every transition felt smooth. Every detail felt considered. From the refined cake by ECBG Studio to the high energy set by Maggie Speaks Band, the night built momentum. It was loud, packed, and very Chicago. Family and friends flew in from all over, and the dance floor proved their high energy & excitement. 

RPM Events was the perfect backdrop for their big day.

If you are a couple who prioritizes fashion, curated details, and imagery that feels timeless rather than trendy, this kind of setting delivers. From the skyline portraits, to the river walk first look. And the candlelit reception room, layered in florals and texture. It all works because it was intentional.

Having your big day at RPM Events is all about prioritizing a space (and a team) that support your vision, then letting the style speak clearly.

Kasey and Derek did exactly that. It was an honor to be your luxury Chicago wedding photographer!