
Tessa and Zachary’s wedding day at The Haley Mansion was joyful, emotional, and full of surprises, including the first snowfall of the season! These two radiate happiness, and you can feel it in every single photo. They are just as joyful in person as they appear in their images, and it was such a gift to document their celebration.
This wedding day represents a milestone for Kim Ritchie Photography! I photographed part of this wedding on film for the first time, and it was the perfect day to introduce film into my work. I was nervous, but Tessa and Zachary were incredibly patient and encouraging. The film photos have something so timeless and heartfelt about them, and I’m proud of how they turned out. I could not have asked for a sweeter couple to experience this with!
Now, let’s get to know this couple! Tessa is from North Carolina and Zachary is from the Chicago suburbs. I loved how their loved ones traveled from several different states to be part of their wedding. Their joy was contagious from the moment I arrived. You could feel how excited they were to begin their married life!
These two also proved that a first look on your wedding day does not take emotion away. In fact, it added even more meaningful moments to their day. They spent the afternoon together after their first look, and yet, both of them still had tears in their eyes when Tessa walked down the aisle with her father. It was such a sweet moment!
Winter arrived on their fall wedding day, which made the ceremony even more memorable. It was 65 degrees the day before and only 35 degrees on the wedding day… But Tessa and Zachary had dreamed of an outdoor ceremony, so they went for it! Guests wrapped themselves in blankets while the couple exchanged private vows and said “I Do” with a glowing sunset behind them.
Just after the dance floor opened, the first snow of the season began to fall outside The Haley Mansion. One of the groomsmen noticed and gave me a quick nudge as Tessa and Zachary slipped outside to enjoy a moment in the snow. I followed Tessa and Zachary outside and photographed the two of them dancing together in the snow. It was romantic, completely magical, and picture-perfect!
I absolutely love photographing at The Haley Mansion. The conservatory offers beautiful natural light and is perfect when the weather does not cooperate. The grounds outside are stunning with soft afternoon glow, and the interior spaces offer several cozy portrait locations. It is one of my favorite venues, especially on days like this where we needed options!
Tessa and Zachary, I adore you both, and I’m so grateful I could celebrate this incredible day with you. Your joy, your kindness, and your love made this wedding unforgettable!

VENDOR TEAM CREDIT | Venue: The Haley Mansion | Florals: Design Studio Decor | Photographer: Kim Ritchie Photography | Beauty: Pin Me Up Chicago | Bride’s Gown: David’s Bridal
Kim Ritchie Photography is a wedding and portrait photographer based in Chicagoland, specializing in weddings, seniors, and corporate headshots captured in a timeless style. Want to work together? Reach out here and follow along on social to see what’s happening behind the scenes!
Wedding Day at The Haley Mansion | Wedding Photos at The Haley Mansion in Joliet | Chicago Wedding Photographer | Chicagoland Wedding Photographer
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