Brookfield Zoo Summer Wedding | Ashley & Jacob

Talk about an unforgettable wedding. My animal loving heart was beyond excited to celebrate with Ashley and Jacob at Brookfield Zoo for their summer wedding. It was the kind of day that felt uniquely them—fun, heartfelt, joyful, and just the right amount of wild.

Their love story is one for the movies (literally!). These two first met while working at a movie theater, and from the very beginning, the connection was instant. Fast forward to a dreamy Navy Pier proposal, an engagement session at that very same spot, and then… one epic, unforgettable wedding day centered around their shared love of animals.

We kicked things off by saying hello to the dolphins and seals, and right away, you could see the excitement on Ashley’s face. Her eyes lit up every time she saw an animal—or looked at Jacob. There was this undeniable sparkle in her expression, like she was taking in every moment with full, open-hearted wonder.

The love between these two was undeniable, and so was the emotion from the people around them. There were so many happy tears throughout the day—tears of joy, of gratitude, of pure love. From heartfelt vows to sweet speeches and emotional glances across the room, it was one of those weddings where you could feel the meaning in every moment.

In true Chicago fashion, we made a stop for a scoop at Rainbow Cone, posed in front of the Ferris wheel (just like at Navy Pier), and had a private giraffe feeding. Yes actual giraffes (four to be exact), just casually making an appearance with the bride and groom.

Ashley and Jacob, your wedding day was nothing short of epic. Thank you for letting me be part of the adventure, for trusting me to capture every wild, sweet, tear-filled moment, and for reminding all of us how beautiful it is when love feels like both a comfort and an adventure.

I’ll never forget this one.

Vendor Team

Venue | Brookfield Zoo

Planner | Rosanna & Co

Floral | Floral Wonder Events

DJ | DJ-Chicago

Cake | Bombon Cakes

Hair | Revolve Hair Studios

Makeup | Refined Beauty Boutique

Dress | Michelle's Bridal and Tuxedo

Dress Designer | Essence of Australia

Bridesmaid Dresses | Azazie

Guys Attire | Men's Wearhouse

Being Joy Photo Team

Lead Photographer | Joy Bijedic

Second Photographer | Osiris Cote

Photo Assistant | Haris Bijedic