There’s something magical about November weddings. The crisp air, the warm golden hues, and the unmistakable coziness that brings people together. Alyson and Ryan’s wedding on November 23, 2024, at The Arbory in Chicago was a beautiful testament to all of this—and more.
As photographers at Albany Capture, we’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings in countless settings, but The Arbory stands out for its mix of industrial charm and natural warmth. From the moment we walked through the stunning orange double doors adorned with intricate art, we knew we were in for something special.
The day ran seamlessly, thanks to the talented Nina from The Simply Elegant Group, whose thoughtful planning ensured every detail was executed perfectly. From the timeline to the flow of the evening, everything unfolded with ease, which made our job as photographers not only straightforward but genuinely enjoyable.
A Venue That Shines
The Arbory is a dream for photographers. The exposed brick, soft string lighting, and lush greenery create a moody yet inviting atmosphere that photographs beautifully. For Alyson and Ryan’s celebration, we decided to lean into the venue’s natural ambiance by adopting a more photojournalistic approach. With such exquisite decor by Flowers for Dreams and enchanting lighting, we hardly needed to use flash—every corner of the space was picture-perfect.
As the ceremony unfolded under a canopy of twinkling lights, Alyson walked down the aisle surrounded by candlelight, creating an unforgettable scene. And the reception? A feast for the eyes and the palate. The long tables, adorned with cascading greenery, delicate blooms, and glowing candles, were a masterpiece in themselves.
A Dream Team of Vendors
It’s not often that everything comes together so flawlessly, but this wedding was an exception. The bartending and catering by Catered by Design left everyone raving. From perfectly crafted cocktails to a menu that delighted even the most discerning foodie, the experience was a standout.
Meanwhile, Impulse Entertainment kept the energy high with an incredible playlist that had everyone on the dance floor all night. Watching Alyson and Ryan dance surrounded by their loved ones under the venue’s exposed wood beams and glowing lights was pure magic.
From a Photographer’s Perspective
One of the standout aspects of this wedding was working with the staff at The Arbory. They were courteous, attentive, and truly cared about the success of the event. Their professionalism made our work effortless and allowed us to focus on documenting every meaningful moment.
The end result? Over 900 images that tell the story of Alyson and Ryan’s special day. From candid moments filled with laughter to heartfelt glances between the couple, every photo reflects the love and joy that filled the space.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering The Arbory for your wedding, you can rest assured it’s more than just a venue—it’s an experience. For Alyson and Ryan, it was the perfect backdrop for their love story, and for us as photographers, it was a setting that made every shot shine.
Congratulations again to Alyson and Ryan, and thank you for letting us be a part of your beautiful day!