Lincoln Park & North Avenue Beach Engagement || Ashlee & Ben

Ashlee and Ben are the kind of couple you just know are meant to be together. These two first met in high school at Manteno and started dating in 2021. Fast forward a few years, and they got engaged this past fall in New York! I was lucky enough to photograph their surprise proposal party, and even then, it was crystal clear how much love surrounded them – both from each other and their amazing families.

One of my favorite things about Ashlee and Ben is their shared love for travel. Every time they post, they’re either exploring a new city or heading off to a concert… Definitely my kinda people!

We recently got to sneak in their engagement session on one of the first official summer-like days in Chicago. And let me tell you, everyone else had the same idea. The traffic and packed beaches confirmed it! We originally planned to shoot their entire session at North Avenue Beach, but after a last-minute parking curveball, we pivoted and started at Lincoln Park Zoo under the iconic honeycomb. And honestly, I’m so glad we did.

The glow we captured in the soft, natural setting at Lincoln Park Zoo was absolute magic. There’s something so special about finding a little pocket of nature right in the heart of the city. Later, when we made our way to North Avenue Beach, Lake Michigan was absolutely showing off with the most beautiful blue water. Between the lake, sunshine, skyline views, and this sweet couple, it was a total dream of a session.

Ashlee and Ben are planning their wedding in less than a year, and I love that! We’re counting down the days until their wedding this September at Venue 5126 in Oswego. It’s going to be full of love, intentional details, and all the good vibes that these two naturally bring.

Can’t wait to celebrate these two again later this year!

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!