chicago
and worldwide
tender
for
souls
Here's the thing: your wedding photos are different from any other photographs you'll ever take in your life. They are the photos you'll return to again and again to remind you of how you felt on the day you wed. They're also the photos that will hang on your walls, and your children's walls, and your grandchildren's walls for generations to come.
Holding and honoring both of these truths, I commit to providing you with wedding photographs that tell an honest story of your day--every touch, every tear--while framing every photo with intentionality so at the end of the day, you don't just have photographs for your wall; you have timeless, heartfelt art.
elevated, emotive coverage for the best day of your life
YOUR WEDDING DAY
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I approach couples' sessions a little differently. Instead of just recommending my favorite aesthetic locations throughout Chicago, I ask couples a series of questions that allow us to craft a photo session that feels more like a date that I happen to be third-wheeling.
Since first implementing this approach several years ago, I've gotten to see a more authentic side of my couples. And--my favorite part--I've gotten to know them on a much deeper level than I did before, simply by seeing them in their element and capturing it.
a beautiful time capsule to celebrate this season of your lives
and
ENGAGEMENTS
COUPLES
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at home
HERE TO
make you feel
notes
love
ALSO it was freezing on our wedding day and I didn’t even think to bring a jacket, but Carissa had an extra one she let me wear!!!! It’s the little things that mean the most. She went above and beyond for us and we truthfully cannot imagine our day without her."
WOW. We got along with Carissa so well and felt like we’ve known her for years after the FIRST time we met.
So helpful in brainstorming solutions and picture ideas. An expert in planning all the logistics of our day. Extraordinarily friendly. She intentionally got to know us and worked to make us comfortable during the shoot (like making a personalized playlist for us!) THEN THE PHOTOS 😭😭😭 she captured the joy and love with every shot. I 100% recommend her to everyone. You will not be disappointed."
Carissa is simply the best.
Kara and Kyle | engagement + WEDDING
From her clear communication and kindness, to her flexibility and attention to detail, Carissa is extremely professional, yet down to earth- not to mention a built-in hype girl for your special day! Her editing skills are impeccable. We will cherish our engagement and wedding photos for the rest of our lives!
Her work is overall breathtaking and 100% worth the investment.
joy and derek | rockford wedding
All day, she was kind, professional and gave us special moments together as she was capturing the day. Our actual experience was awesome, BUT THE PHOTOS! We absolutely loved them, each photo captured the wonder and joy of the day so perfectly, they were just what we had hoped for. We are so happy we chose Carissa!
From the moment she started taking photos, we were instantly at ease.
Kara and Brendon | springfield WEDDING
I remember wondering if it was silly to spend such a big portion of our budget on photography. I can honestly say it was 100% worth it! I was also afraid I’d be too uncomfortable in front of the camera to make it worth it. Carissa’s professionalism and ease eliminated that concern early in the day. Photos are forever, and Carissa’s style is timeless! She has an intuition for photography and people that translates beautifully into her work.
Absolutely, absolutely recommend!
Danika and Stuart | central il WEDDING
There is something really special to how she captures people. She was really fun to work with as well! Put on fun music and had a really relaxed but professional feel. We felt well directed and completely relaxed. Thanks Carissa!!
When we got our pictures back, we were gasping and smiling for a straight half hour.
"Everyone was so impressed. We were so blessed to have found Carissa Mennen to take such special photos for us. Thank you for your talent and for sharing it with us so we have memories that will last a lifetime! Such beautiful and stunning work. Snag Carissa if you can! You will be thrilled and won’t have any worries or regrets."
Our wedding went so smoothly thanks to Carissa.
"She was kind, hospitable, personable and exactly who we wanted to help us remember our day. From coordinating the details, finding sweet and authentic ways for my bridesmaids to encourage me while taking pictures, running the family photos, capturing the seemingly 'small' details, she did everything with grace and excellence. "
Carissa truly was a dream to work with.
LET'S MEET
My primary goal is to make sure that each soul in front of the lens feels comfortable, earnest, at home, and taken care of.
At my core, I am a hostess.
My approach:
