Wedding & Elopement Photography

Capturing the intimate moments and emotions of your special day is at the heart of what I do. From grand celebrations to private elopements, every love story deserves to be documented with care, artistry, and authenticity. Whether in breathtaking countryside landscapes or the vibrant cityscape of Chicago, my goal is to capture your vision and most sacred moments to be preserved for a lifetime.

♡♡♡

BASED IN CHICAGO, IL

The phrase 'for free spirits in love' written in elegant white cursive on a black background.

Reach out and share all the details of your big day!

A woman and a man embracing on a beach during sunset with a city skyline in the background, one has her arm around the other's neck, and she is smiling at him.
A newlywed couple embraces outdoors, with the groom standing behind the bride, both smiling and holding a large bouquet of white flowers and greenery.
A bride and groom walking hand-in-hand through a grassy field, smiling and looking at each other on a clear day.
A close-up of a couple holding hands over the water, with the woman in a white dress and the man in a black shirt.
California wedding photography
Homer, Alaska Anchorage, Alaska Chicago, Illinois wedding elopement photography
wedding elopement chicago photography
California wedding elopement photographer
A bride and groom walking hand in hand on a path lined with trees and grass, with a view of the ocean in the background.
A man and woman sitting on a concrete ledge near a body of water with a city skyline in the background, engaging in a moment of connection and smiling at each other.
A round wooden box containing two rings resting on lace fabric, surrounded by green foliage. Next to it is a round wooden lid with the engraved phrase "you will forever be my always" with a heart, partially obscured by leaves.
A wedding ceremony taking place inside a beautifully decorated chapel with the couple standing at the altar, surrounded by guests seated in pews adorned with white flowers and greenery. The chapel has large windows and wooden architectural features.
glacier elopement photography alaska
Four small boxes with embroidered fabrics and lace, containing jewelry and accessories, on a wooden surface.
A bride in a white wedding gown with lace details and a man in a gray suit walking on a stone pathway in a garden.
A couple dressed in wedding attire standing hand in hand on the porch of a small rustic wooden cabin in a grassy field under a clear blue sky.
Close-up of a white, iced celebration cake with mountain and forest designs, placed on an ornate metal cake stand, with cupcakes in the background.
A colorful bouquet of various flowers resting on a black wooden surface outdoors.
A bride wearing a white wedding gown with lace details on the back, holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, walking outdoors on a stone pathway surrounded by greenery.
A bride and groom share a joyful moment outdoors, with the bride wearing a lace wedding dress and the groom in a gray suit, smiling at each other.
A bride and groom sharing a tender moment outdoors, with the bride holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery.
A group of people at a wedding celebration outside, with the bride and groom in the center, the bride in a white gown and the groom in a gray suit. The crowd is posing and smiling, some children in dresses and shirts, some adults in dresses and suits
A lit candle inside a wooden holder with pine branches nearby, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
A floral arrangement of pink and white peonies in a glass jar on a wooden surface.
A silver engagement ring with a large central diamond and small side diamonds, resting on top of a black and copper-toned ring, placed on a rough wooden surface.
A bouquet of pink, white, purple roses, purple carnations, blue sea holly, and greenery.
A woman holding a bouquet of white, purple, and blue flowers in front of a blue background, wearing a white outfit, a pearl necklace, and a fur coat.
Back of a woman wearing a lace wedding dress and veil, with other dresses hanging in the background.
A bride and groom kiss outdoors during their wedding, with the bride holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, standing near a tree.
Pink peony and flower buds on a round wood slice with leaves, on a paper surface.
Set of pearl and jewelry accessories including a hair comb with pearl and feather decorations, earrings, a bracelet, and a necklace, placed on a textured white fabric background.
A close-up photograph of a ring with a green gemstone and intricate rose gold detailing, resting on white textured material, with blurred dark background.
A white wedding dress hanging on a wall in a room with white wooden walls and a dark brown lower wall section.
A man and woman share a tender moment outdoors, with the man gently holding the woman's chin and smiling at her, surrounded by greenery. They are on Lake Michigan in Chicago being photographed.
A couple faces each other near Lake Michigan with the Chicago city skyline in the background, smiling. A Chicago engagement photographer captures their images.
Close-up of a floral crown with small white, yellow, red, and purple flowers on a person's long, curly red hair.
Close-up of a couple's hands showing wedding rings, with the woman's hand resting on top of the man's hand. The woman is wearing an engagement ring with a gemstone, and a wedding band, while the man is wearing a plain gold wedding band.
A bride in a strapless, cream-colored wedding gown adjusting her belt, standing beside a groom in a green suit, outdoors near a brick wall and greenery.
A bride wearing a white wedding gown standing in front of rustic wooden doors in Chicago.
A white, multi-layered wedding cake decorated with small white flowers and greenery, featuring intricate piping on the sides.
A woman in a wedding dress is sitting on a patio, adjusting her shoe.

weddings

Whether you’re planning a large wedding or a small gathering with close friends and family, I’m here to capture it all.

Chicago wedding and elopement photographer micro-wedding

elopements

Dreaming of a private getaway with just you and your loved one? Adventures are my favorite and I want to help you make those dreams come true.

Chicago Alaska wedding and elopement photography cabin adventure elopement

Portraits

I love working with families and couples to capture special moments over time in places that mean the most.

Chicago wedding and elopement photographer family photography

“Ivy was simply amazing. She is a magician with the camera! Can’t wait to work with her again!” -G+M

Chicago Illinois Anchorage Alaska wedding elopement photographer photography adventure

How do we know you’re the best fit for us?

01.

You place a high value on organic interactions and want to capture the special looks, laughs, and everything in between the poses.

02.

You’re a laid-back couple who cares about the details and the vibe but care most about the people around you and the love you share.

Chicago Homer Alaska Anchorage Illinois wedding elopement micro-wedding photography photographer timeless classic moody

03.

You want someone who can help you stay calm, enjoy the process, and make you feel at ease throughout every moment of your day.

Chicago elopement wedding photographer photography micro-wedding roses
White blooming roses with green leaves on a bush, dew drops on the leaves, brick building and greenery in the background.
A woman with long brown hair smiling at the camera on a beach with trees and rocks in the background.

Hi! I’m Ivy and I own Ivy Bowler Photography. I’m also the primary shooter and have been photographing weddings for over a decade. I’ve spent my life living in beautiful Alaska but recently relocated to Chicago to join my fiancé as we plan our own wedding coming up this fall. I love exploring new places in and around Chicago, especially natural areas and forest/nature preserves as well as anything along the lakefront! Some fun facts about me:

  • I learned to shoot on a film camera and used to develop my own photos in the dark room. Ask me about adding film to your wedding day!

  • I love to travel but am a homebody at heart. Books, gardening, and DIY home projects are some of my faves.

  • My favorite spots in Chicago are Osterman Beach, the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, and Planta Queen!

  • I can’t survive without coffee…

  • Mountains make me feel alive. In my spare time, I’m a mountain runner and love to use that time to scout out new shooting locations for destinations.

  • My fiancé and sister are my second shooters most of the time—they know what to do and we get each other! They have an amazing eye for capturing things from a different perspective. Rest assured, your memories are in good hands.

  • I love dogs, a good playlist, and a mystery novel on vacation.

I can’t wait to connect and help you make your wedding vision come to life!

get to know your chicago photographer

Black and white illustration of Peter Pan flying with a dagger in each hand, wearing a pointed hat and a tunic, with a mischievous expression.

“Fun and professional! highly recommend. This was my first time working with Ivy and it was a great experience.” -S+K

Chicago wedding and elopement photography
California wedding and micro-wedding elopement photography
Alaska Chicago wedding and elopement photography
California wedding and elopement micro-wedding photographer photography
A woman in a wedding dress sitting on a deck surrounded by potted plants and flowers.
A woman in a white wedding dress twirling outside a building with large wooden doors and the sign 'Firehouse Chicago' in a window.
Chicago wedding and elopement photography
A bride and groom on their wedding day outdoors, with the groom embracing the bride from behind while she holds a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, both smiling.
A bride in a white wedding gown and a groom in a grey suit holding hands and walking along a pathway surrounded by large trees with twisted branches.
A bride and groom walking down a stone pathway in a garden during their wedding ceremony, viewed from behind. The bride wears a white lace wedding dress with a deep back, and the groom is in a gray suit. The garden is lush and green with colorful flo
Wedding party outside with the bride and groom in the center, smiling and leaning towards each other, surrounded by family and friends dressed in formal attire, with string lights overhead and greenery in the background.
A bride and groom embrace and smile, standing on a stone patio outside a rustic building with ivy and flowering plants.
Bride and groom sitting on a dock by a lake with trees in the background, wedding ceremony scene.
Colorful bouquet of mixed flowers resting on a black wooden railing.
A couple in wedding attire sharing a kiss outdoors, with the woman holding a colorful bouquet, surrounded by trees and greenery.
A white, three-layer wedding cake with simple mountain and pine tree designs decorated with small tree shapes, on a decorative silver cake stand, surrounded by cupcakes with pink frosting.
A couple shares a kiss on a grassy beach with driftwood, mountains, and water in the background, during daytime.
A bride and groom kissing in a grassy field with a forest in the background.
A bride and groom holding hands and walking through a grassy field on a clear day.
A bride holding hands with a man outdoors on a cloudy day, with driftwood logs and mountains in the background.
A couple standing outdoors on a grassy area near a body of water, with mountains in the background. The man is kissing the woman's cheek, and both are smiling. The woman is wearing a white dress and denim jacket, while the man is dressed in dark pant
Close-up of a bouquet with pink, purple, and white roses, purple thistles, and assorted greenery.
A bride and groom standing in a grassy field near a creek, embracing each other and smiling, with a forest background and clear sky.
A bride and groom standing close together outside in a grassy field, smiling at each other, with trees and a body of water in the background.
A couple in wedding attire standing outdoors on a grassy field, with the man kissing the woman's cheek and she smiling, near a small wooden cabin with a forest in the background.
Couple in wedding attire standing on a frozen lake with a winter landscape in the background.
A wedding vow book tied with brown ribbon, a ring, and rings are on top of the vow book on a wooden surface.
A bride in a white lace strapless wedding dress holding a bouquet of pink and white flowers near a lake with mountains in the background.
Close-up of stacked rings on a textured surface, including a diamond engagement ring and a wedding band.
Bridal accessories on a wooden surface, including a pair of beige heels with jeweled embellishments, a small round box of rings, a handwritten note that says "you will forever be my always", a long sparkly belt, a lace garter with a bow, and a white
Four small boxes containing vintage or handmade fabric and lace items, including embroidered and lace-trimmed textiles, arranged on a wooden surface.
A couple kissing outdoors on a grassy area, with mountains and cloudy sky in the background, dressed in semi-formal attire with a woman in a white lace dress and denim jacket, and a man in a white shirt, black vest, and tie.
Four small cardboard boxes placed in a row on a wooden surface, each containing lace or embroidered fabric and jewelry, likely part of a wedding or special occasion gift set.
A bride and groom standing hand-in-hand on the porch of a small wooden cabin in a grassy field under a clear sky.
A floral arrangement of pink and white peonies in three glass jars on a wooden table, with decorative items like seashells, a framed picture, a white ceramic pitcher, and pink roses on a round wooden stand.
A white photo frame with the names "Mike & Terri" and a date, leaning against a tree near a lake with a wooden fence and green grass in the foreground.
A person pinning a pink flower boutonniere with green leaves onto another person's dark plaid vest.
A couple wearing matching blue sunglasses hugging and kissing outdoors, with greenery in the background.
A silver ring with a dark blue gemstone in a white jewelry box on a rustic wooden surface with blue paint chipping.
Pink peony and smaller pink flower with green leaves on a round wooden slice placed on a map or chart.
A four-tiered white wedding cake decorated with pink and purple tulips and green leaves, with some tulips placed on the cake and others around it on the table.
Back of a bride wearing a white lace wedding dress and a veil, with a person in a light blue dress visible in the background.
A bride and groom sharing a kiss outdoors during their wedding. The bride is holding a bouquet of white flowers and wearing a lace wedding dress, while the groom is in a gray suit with a white tie. They are standing near a tree with green foliage in
An elegantly set banquet table with glassware, white napkins, a table number card reading '5', and floral centerpiece, set near a window with trees outside.
A woman looking into a mirror, partially visible, with focus on her face reflected in the mirror.
Pair of white and light blue Converse All Star sneakers and a smaller pair of matching light blue sneakers on a wooden surface.
A smiling bride in a white wedding dress holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, standing close to a groom in a gray suit, outdoors surrounded by greenery and decorative stonework.
A woman and a young boy sitting in a field of dry grass, with trees in the background. The woman is smiling and holding the boy, who is leaning his head against her and smiling.
Elegant pearl jewelry set including earrings, bracelets, and a hair comb with feathers, displayed on a white textured surface and a box.
A box containing multiple wedding favors shaped like anchors, each wrapped in clear plastic with a circular tag tied on with white ribbon. The tags have a nautical theme with an anchor illustration, initials "M T," and the date "6.16.2018."
A person pinning a pink boutonniere with green leaves onto another person's dark vest.
A woman in a blue denim jacket hugging a young girl in white dress, smiling happily inside a home with a wooden bookshelf and plant in the background.
A bride and groom embrace and kiss during their wedding at a stone covered outdoor venue.
Pearl necklace and earrings displayed on a colorful, blurred background.
A woman in a white wedding dress holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, standing outdoors next to a tree, with a natural background of trees and bushes.
A couple in wedding attire stands close, holding a bouquet, on icy landscape with snow-covered mountains in the background.
A two-tiered white wedding cake decorated with white flowers and green centers, with decorative piping around the edges.
A man and a woman are ice skating on a frozen lake in winter; the man is holding the woman's hand and guiding her, both are dressed warmly and smiling.
A loving family of four at the beach, with a father holding a young boy and a mother holding a young girl, all sharing an affectionate moment.
A woman and a young girl sit on a fallen log on a sandy beach, hugging and smiling, with a lake and trees in the background during sunset.
A woman helping a young girl in a white dress stand in a shallow river surrounded by rocks and trees.
A couple holding hands and looking at each other in a green, wooded area with tall grass and a large, twisted tree
A family of four with a dog standing in a field of tall grass during autumn, smiling and enjoying time together.
A close-up of a jewelry piece featuring a large green stone and a rose gold band with leaf and diamond details, resting on white textured material.
A man and woman smiling and standing together outdoors in a wooded area with trees and fallen leaves.
A man and a woman crouching in the snow with three dogs in a winter landscape with trees in the background.
Woman in a white lace wedding dress standing on a rocky outcrop in a snowy, mountainous landscape, facing away from the camera.
A bride and groom standing close together on snow-covered ground with large blue icebergs in the background.
A man holding a crying baby outdoors, with a woman smiling nearby, in front of tall grass and trees.
A family of three, a woman, a man, and a baby, outdoors in a grassy field with trees and a cloudy sky in the background. The woman is kissing the baby's head, and the man is holding the baby, who is dressed in a striped shirt.
A silver engagement ring with a large center stone in a round wooden box with a hinged lid, resting on a piece of green moss on a wooden surface.
A woman standing on snow-covered terrain near glaciers, wearing a fur coat and holding a bouquet of flowers.
A bride and groom dancing at their wedding reception indoors with guests seated at tables in the background.
A long dining table set for a formal event with white tablecloths, red napkins, glasses, and cutlery. There is a decorative pencil with a heart-shaped top engraved with a name and date.
A couple in formal attire sharing a romantic moment outdoors with ice and glacier in the background.
A wedding dress hanging on a white wall in a room with wood-paneled lower walls and two windows with wooden frames.
A wedding couple sitting on a ski lift, with a green mountain landscape in the background.
A smiling couple sitting on rocks by the ocean at sunset. The woman is wearing a gray cap and a maroon puffer jacket, and the man is wearing a black cap and a dark puffer vest. The warm light from the setting sun illuminates the scene.
A couple embraces in a lush, green outdoor setting with trees, grass, and distant mountains in the background.
Close-up of a diamond pendant necklace hanging among pink and purple flowers.
A bride and groom share a kiss on a mountain ridge, holding hands, with a scenic landscape of mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
Bride in a white gown with four bridesmaids in pink dresses outdoors on a mountain with a scenic background of mountains under cloudy sky.
Chocolate cupcake with pink frosting and white sprinkles, placed on a wooden surface, with blurred background of more desserts.
A bride and groom kissing at their wedding, decorated with hanging dollar bills tied with purple, blue, and clear ribbons, inside a venue with large windows and mountains in the background.
A bride and groom dancing closely during their wedding reception, holding hands with foreheads touching.
A couple dressed in formal winter attire standing in front of a glacier in a snowy landscape
A bouquet of pink and white flowers, a pair of white sandals with embellishments, and orange ribbons on a dark surface.
Close-up of two people holding hands, one with a wedding band, outdoors
A bouquet of pink, white, and cream artificial flowers with decorative greenery and gold accents.
Close-up of a woman’s hand resting on her wedding dress, showing a periwinkle blue stone ring and pink glittery nail polish.
Close-up of a woman's hand holding the sleeve of a lace wedding dress with floral embroidery, with soft, warm bokeh lights in the background.
A wedding dress and a bouquet of flowers on snow with mountainous background.
Close-up of a delicate white lace fabric with floral patterns lying on rocky ground.
A bride and groom standing on snow-covered rocks in a winter landscape with mountains in the background.
A bride and groom on their wedding day outdoors in a snowy landscape, with the groom kissing the bride's cheek and she holding a large bouquet of red, white, and blush flowers.
A bouquet of pink and white peonies in a clear glass vase.
Silver necklace with a pendant featuring diamonds and a pearl, hanging from a leafy plant.
A slice of layered vanilla cake with purple fruit jam filling and white frosting, with some crumbs on the plate, in focus with a blurred background.
A bride in a strapless, cream-colored wedding gown with a full skirt, standing inside a house near the door, looking down with her hands on her hips.
A woman in a strapless, cream-colored wedding gown stands indoors near a window, with her hands in her pockets, looking to the side. The room has floral curtains, wooden furniture, and decorative items.
Close-up of a bride and groom's feet, with the bride wearing white high heels and a slit in her wedding dress, and the groom wearing dark shoes, bright orange socks, and holding the bride's hand.
A woman in a wedding dress adjusting her shoe on a wooden deck surrounded by potted plants and flowers.
Close-up of a woman’s red curly hair styled in an updo, adorned with a floral headband featuring small colorful flowers.
Close-up of a man's suit with a yellow tie and a boutonniere on the left lapel featuring small flowers and greenery.
Close-up of a couple's hands showing wedding rings. The woman's hand has an engagement ring with a green gemstone and small diamonds, and her nails are painted pink. The man's hand has a plain gold wedding band. The hands are resting together, symbol
White blooming roses growing on a bush, with green leaves and dew drops, in front of a brick building with stairs.
A bouquet of orange and purple flowers in a white vase on a wooden surface.

“Ivy did fantastic work with our engagement and wedding photos. she created a warm and relaxing atmosphere. She went above and beyond and we love our pictures!” -M

FAQs

A black and white drawing of mountains and trees.

Can we request specific photos?

One of the things I’ll do when we initially talk is get a feel for what parts of the day are most important to you. As we continue to meet and plan over time leading up to your wedding, I’ll ask for more specifics on any special family shots or pairings you’d like taken. You can rest assured that I’ve got an extensive list of all the details and important moments and I won’t miss a thing.

Do you travel?

I do! I love to travel and will happily go anywhere to capture your big day—please see pricing and packages for travel fee details.

How long have you been shooting weddings?

I started my photography business in 2009 and have been shooting weddings ever since! Now that I am no longer in the classroom teaching, I am able to take on more mid-week shoots and intimate wedding adventures.

Do you offer engagement shoots?

Yes, my Willow wedding package includes an engagement shoot option but I’ll also happily schedule something separate if that’s what you’re looking for! You can also create a custom package with add-ons.

How long does it take to get our photos back?

For weddings, expect between 6-8 weeks for full edited albums to be complete and delivered. For elopements, around 4 weeks, and family shoots or engagements, between 2-3 weeks. I will typically share a sneak peak of 8-10 photos at most 48 hours post-event.