Chicago Wedding at St. Benedict & Chief O’Neill’s

Lauren & Trey’s Elegant Chicago Wedding

St. Benedict Catholic Church Ceremony + Chief O’Neill’s Reception
Photography by Winterlyn Photography

Some wedding days feel like coming home — and Lauren and Trey’s wedding was exactly that. I first met Lauren a few years ago when she was a bridesmaid in Alison and Billy’s wedding, a celebration I had the honor of capturing. So when Lauren and Trey reached out about photographing their own wedding, I was beyond thrilled — not only because I remembered Lauren’s kind, grounded energy, but because it meant reuniting with a group of people who already felt like extended family.

From the moment I arrived on the wedding day, I was greeted with warm hugs and familiar faces. It honestly felt like I was walking into a welcome party just for me. Many guests recognized me from Alison and Billy’s day — calling me by name, checking in, and sharing their excitement. That kind of connection doesn’t happen often, and it’s something I’ll always hold close.

A Heartfelt Ceremony at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Chicago

Lauren and Trey chose to hold their ceremony at St. Benedict Catholic Church, a timeless North Side parish with beautiful stained-glass windows and old-world charm. Their ceremony was classic and deeply personal — centered on faith, family, and quiet joy.

While some couples love the spotlight, Lauren and Trey are beautifully introverted, preferring their day to focus less on posed portraits and more on the people, moments, and memories that matter most. We discussed this during their planning, and it helped shape the approach to their photography: documentary-style storytelling, natural moments, and thoughtful details.

Portraits at Chief O’Neill’s — A Hidden Gem Chicago Venue

After the ceremony, we made our way to Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood — a venue full of personality and charm. We captured romantic portraits of Lauren and Trey just outside the restaurant and inside their lush garden area, where the reception would later unfold.

This venue was the perfect match for the couple: relaxed, welcoming, and full of character.

An Emotional, Joyful Celebration

Under the tented garden space at Chief O’Neill’s, guests gathered for dinner, heartfelt toasts, and one truly unforgettable surprise — a performance by the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band. As the music filled the space, the energy in the room transformed. Everyone was clapping, dancing, and celebrating this incredible couple. It was a perfect nod to tradition and joy, and Lauren and Trey jumped right into the fun with their guests.

Afterward, Lauren changed into her party dress — a fun and stylish reception look that was so her — and the dance floor never stopped moving. The DJ kept the vibes high, the smiles wide, and the energy flowing late into the night.

Storytelling Over Posing

What I loved most about this wedding was how well it reflected who Lauren and Trey are as a couple. They didn’t want the spotlight — they wanted their people in it. Their priority was storytelling over posing, connection over perfection, and that’s exactly what the day became.

From their Catholic ceremony at St. Benedict’s to their Chicago pub wedding reception at Chief O’Neill’s, the entire day was filled with joy, gratitude, and genuine love. It was an honor to capture it all.

Planning a Wedding at Chief O’Neill’s or St. Benedict Catholic Church?

Whether you’re hosting your wedding at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Chief O’Neill’s Pub, or another hidden gem in Chicago, I’d love to help you document your day in a way that feels honest, effortless, and true to you.

Reach out here to inquire about wedding photography collections or view more real Chicago weddings on the Blog.

Chicago Wedding at St. Benedict & Chief O’Neill’s