Shayla and Lawrence go WAY back, actually meeting through a mutual friend at a party. Upon meeting, they spent some time together but then went their separate ways. A few years ago though, the two of them reconnected. After reconnecting they truly felt that no time was lost and was able to pick up where they left off. Now they spend their days sipping boba in Chinatown or having picnics on the University of Chicago campus. Their time spent there while dating was actually the reason Lawrence felt it was fitting to propose to Shayla there. Shayla is obsessed with how beautiful the University of Chicago’s Campus is, so the two of them then decided to host their elopement ceremony there as well.

First Look

For their Elopement, Shayla and Lawrence took some time just the two of them on the University of Chicago’s campus. They met at their ceremony site, at the iconic C bench located outside of Cobb hall. We had Lawrence look away from Shayla so that when she approached they both could see each other’s reactions. Seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day is a super intimate moment. There is a LOT of excitement and emotions that come with seeing each other on your wedding day. This is why I suggest a first look for those who are open to them.

After their first look, Shayla and Lawrence spent a bit of time just the two of them. Soon after, the rest of their family approached for their ceremony.

The Ceremony

After their first look, their family approached the C Bench for their ceremony. Surrounded by the Gothic architecture and gorgeous greenery the University of Chicago is known for, we felt as if we were in our own little world for their elopement ceremony. Joined by their closest friends and family, the two shared vows and a kiss and were officially married. Their family’s then surrounded them to say a small prayer for the newlyweds to close out their ceremony. 

Group Photos

After the ceremony was finished we spent some time getting some group photos. The energy from everyone was so happy and full of love, it was really something special to be a part of. We stuck by the C Bench for the group photos. Afterwards the newlyweds and I snuck off to get some photos around some of their favorite spots around the University of Chicago campus to celebrate their elopement.

Couple’s Portraits

Finally to top off Shayla and Lawrence’s elopement we went around the University of Chicago campus to find some gorgeous spots for some couples portraits. You really can’t go wrong at the University of Chicago. The gothic architecture with the greenery climbing up the sides make you feel like you’ve been picked up and dropped into a different country. It’s no wonder Shayla is in love with the campus, it’s gorgeous and like nothing else in the Chicago area. The university’s website has a map listing off some of the key locations which you can find here. 

I’m so so happy that Shayla and Lawrence had me photograph their elopement, being a part of their special day and getting to walk around the University of Chicago campus with them was like something out of a dream. University of Chicago means so much to them and their relationship which made it all the more special. If you’re looking to elope but aren’t sure where to do it check out my blog talking about some of my favorite places to elope in the city.