souls
for
JOYFUL
and worldwide
chicago
HERE TO
make you feel
at home
NE
XT
PR
EV
WOW. We got along with Carissa so well and felt like we’ve known her for years after the FIRST time we met.
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."
Without hesitation the best decision we had made (besides saying "I do").
Carissa was an absolute delight and we wouldn't have the wedding of our dreams without her."
Carissa is simply the best.
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."
Her work is overall breathtaking and 100% worth the investment.
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!
Kara and Kyle | engagement + WEDDING
From the moment she started taking photos, we were instantly at ease.
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!
joy and derek | rockford wedding
Absolutely, absolutely recommend!
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.
Kara and Brendon | springfield WEDDING
When we got our pictures back, we were gasping and smiling for a straight half hour.
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!!
Danika and Stuart | central il WEDDING
Our wedding went so smoothly thanks to Carissa.
"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."
I look at our photos and see the truest versions of us, as a couple, from our goofiness to our passion.
"She creates a safe, intimate, and joyful space where the most camera shy (my husband) can be brought out of their shell and the most over the top camera hog (me) can be authentic."
Carissa truly was a dream to work with.
"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. "
love
notes
My approach:
At my core, I am a hostess.
My primary goal is to make sure that each soul in front of the lens feels comfortable, earnest, at home, and taken care of.
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