By definition an elopement is “an act or instance of running off secretly, as to be married.” Although these days more and more couples are choosing to elope for various reasons, Defne and Sinan decided to do it in more traditional terms. They flew in from Paris on Sunday .Got engaged on Monday. Contacted us on Tuesday. Got a dress, marriage license and rings on Wednesday and got married on Thursday! And they kept it secret from everyone. I think for a few days myself and Rev. Marian were they only ones who even knew they had gotten engaged!

I met them at The Drake Hotel where I was immediately caught up in their excitement and energy. We took some photos there and then headed out to meet Rev. Marian at the nearby park for their ceremony. I’ve been to a lot of ceremonies, in the hundreds, and yet there is something magical about watching two people who are clearly head over heels in love with each either say their vows. I was grinning from ear to ear behind my camera.

We headed over to the lake and explored Michigan Ave for some photos afterwards before I left them to continue their celebrations.

Thanks you to the happy couple for letting us be in on the secret! Here are some of our favorite photos!

Photography: Becky Brown Photography

Officiant: Marian Hale, All Ceremonies Beautifully Done