Downtown Naperville Engagement Photos || Tori & Daniel

There’s something so special about photographing a couple with deep roots and an incredible love story. Tori and I grew up in the same small town, went to the same school, and crossed paths often over the years. She was a year ahead of me, but in a close-knit community, those connections last. So when she reached out about capturing her wedding day, I was beyond excited! It’s always an honor when childhood connections support your work later in life.

Tori and Daniel have an amazing love story. They got engaged in Paris – how AMAZING is that? Tori thought the proposal might happen at the Eiffel Tower, but Daniel had a surprise up his sleeve and popped the question at Disneyland Paris instead! After spending time in Rhode Island, they recently moved back to Chicago permanently and are planning their wedding in Plainfield, Illinois for later this year. Their venue, located in Daniel’s hometown, is a beautiful space that made it the perfect choice.

Between moving back to Chicago and starting a new job, Tori and Daniel had a packed schedule, but we found the perfect weeknight to squeeze in their engagement session in Downtown Naperville. And let me tell you, we hit the jackpot with the weather! A rare 50-degree winter day, sunshine, and no snow in sight – it was the best kind of unexpected gift. It felt so good to be out chasing golden light again, especially with such a fun and easy-going couple!

During their session in Downtown Naperville, we laughed through poses, chased the sunset, and talked all about their wedding day. We imagined the weather, the fall leaves, and their dream of an outdoor ceremony – rain or shine. I also love asking my couples about their bachelor and bachelorette parties, too, because it gives me a little glimpse into their wedding crew. Tori and her friends are planning a Princess Diaries-themed sleepover at an Airbnb (obsessed with this idea!). Daniel’s best man is keeping his plans a surprise. But from what Daniel shared, he trusts his best man completely, so it’s going to be perfect.

Their entire wedding party is close, and they’re even planning a night together before the wedding to celebrate as a whole group, which I think is so special. I cannot wait to spend the day with Tori, Daniel, and their favorite people at their wedding day later this year!

Now, let’s talk about a little dose of reality – because life (and traffic) happens. Tori and Daniel hit some pretty gnarly traffic coming from the city to the suburbs (IYKYK). Even with extra time planned, sometimes things are just out of your control. By the time they arrived, we had about 30 minutes of daylight left. But here’s where experience and knowing my locations like the back of my hand come into play. My mission was to make them feel instantly relaxed and confident that we had enough time. And we did! I knew exactly how to chase the setting sun in Downtown Naperville, and we made the most of every moment. Looking at their final gallery, you’d never guess the tight timing – we captured absolute magic.

Tori and Daniel, I’m so grateful I got to document this exciting chapter in your love story. Your wedding day is going to be incredible, and I can’t wait to celebrate with you both!

Jillian Photography is a Chicagoland wedding & senior photographer serving Naperville, St. Charles, and beyond. Get in touch with Jill here & follow along on social for what’s happening behind the scenes!