chicago wedding

photography

FOR FREE SPIRITS IN LOVE

From grand celebrations to private elopements, every love story deserves to be documented with care, artistry, and authenticity.

BASED IN CHICAGO, IL

White blooming roses with green leaves on a bush, dew drops on the leaves, brick building and greenery in the background.

about me

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 husband before we got married. I love exploring new places in and around Chicago and Illinois, 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.

  • I love dogs, a good playlist, and a mystery novel I can’t put down.

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

Black text on white background script font of the name 'Ivy'.

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

A wedding cake sits on a pedestal with red ribbon around the base and white mountains and trees etched in the white frosting.

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.

Photo of a couple eloping in a meadow standing on the porch of a quaint cabin.

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

A married couple poses for a portrait in snow with their two dogs.
PRICING

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

Bridal jewelry for a destination bride complete with pearls, a hair piece, and dangly earrings.

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.

A photo of a bride from the back through her veil and she is wearing coral beads.

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.

“Fun and professional! Highly recommend. This was my first time working with Ivy and it was a great experience.”

-S+K

A close-up of a bridal bouquet with white flowers, wedding rings, including a gold band and a diamond ring, surrounded by white rose petals.
A bride with long hair wearing a veil on her head, standing with her eyes closed, as someone tenderly touches her shoulder in Chicago, IL.

“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

FAQ

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CAN WE REQUEST SPECIFIC SHOTS?

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.

SHOULD I HAVE A SECOND SHOOTER?

This is completely dependent on what your goals are for your day and how large a group you plan to invite. While I have confidently shot many full-day weddings completely solo, I recommend hiring a second for at least part of your day if you plan to have a very large wedding and want lots of candids of your guests enjoying your reception. A second perspective can offer a really fun take on your day and ensure you have all your special people captured.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SHOOTING WEDDINGS?

I started my photography business in 2009 and have been shooting weddings ever since! It has been my full-time business and occupation since 2024.

DO YOU DO ENGAGEMENTS?

Yes! I offer engagement sessions or surprise proposals with a portrait session after—these are $450 and include 75+ beautifully edited shots delivered digitally with up to an hour of shooting. I also offer 50% off engagements with any wedding booking, and a one hour engagement session is included with the Willow package (10-hour wedding day).

WHAT IS THE TURNAROUND TIME?

For weddings, expect between 6-8 weeks for full edited albums to be complete and delivered. For elopements, around 4 weeks, and engagements, between 2-3 weeks. I will typically share a sneak peak at most 48 hours post-event. Galleries are delivered through pic-time, beautifully formatted to showcase all your precious moments and giving you the option to order prints and products directly. Unlimited high-res and web-size downloads are included with your wedding package at no additional cost to you and anyone you’d like to share your gallery with.