Intimate Chicago Wedding Photographer

Emotional. Honest. Timeless. 

Elopements & Intimate Weddings

Elopements and Intimate Weddings are just as meaningful as big weddings — sometimes even more so. They’re raw, emotional, and deeply personal. Whether you’re eloping in downtown Chicago or planning a lakeside ceremony, your love deserves to be remembered. I’ll document your day with warmth, honesty, and intention, so that when you look back, you’ll feel the same emotions all over again. If you’re planning an elopement in Chicago (or beyond), I’d be honored to be part of your story. 

Bride and groom walking together during Chicago wedding session
Margarita Stepanenko | Chicago Wedding Photographer

Anuujin Duulim

Wow! Thank you to Margarita for capturing such a special time in our lives! She made my vision come to life. Will cherish these photos forever.

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Margarita Stepanenko | Chicago Wedding Photographer

Mia Hinchey

As the mother of Madison and my future son-in-law, Patrick, I cannot thank you enough for capturing this special moment of their engagement so beautifully. They look so genuinely happy, and you truly managed to reflect that in your photos.

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Margarita Stepanenko | Chicago Wedding Photographer

Diane Kmiecik

Beautiful photos of a very memorable 50th anniversary party with our family and friends. Margarita captured the beauty of our celebration. So happy to have these photos to look back on and remember our family celebrating our 50 years together.


Questions about my services? 

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Because these moments matter

There are moments in life that you don’t want to forget — the way your partner looks at you on your wedding day, the warmth of a hug from your child, the quiet joy of just being together. These moments are everyday and extraordinary at the same time. I believe in preserving them gently and honestly, so that years from now, you can come back to how it felt — not just how it looked.



Your wedding day is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a story, full of real emotions, quiet moments, and deep connection.

I don’t just take pretty pictures — I document love in its raw, gentle, and powerful form. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the city skyline, escaping for a quiet elopement, or dancing in golden light with your person, I’m here to capture your story exactly as it feels. Photography is the only part of your wedding that grows more valuable over time. Let’s make it unforgettable.




Margarita Stepanenko, Chicago wedding and proposal photographer

HI, I’M MARGARITA!

I believe that there is value and beauty in every moment, and I strive to convey that through my photography. Together we will create memories that will warm your hearts for years to come. Let’s share emotional moments and create something unique!

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Some moments happen only once in a lifetime

Whether it’s your wedding day, a quiet elopement, or a cozy afternoon with your family — these are the memories you’ll want to hold onto forever.

My goal is to preserve them with honesty, warmth, and heart — so years from now, you can look back and feel it all again.

Intimate wedding moment photographed in Chicago by Margarita Stepanenko
Couple enjoying outdoor portrait session in Chicago
Bride getting ready before ceremony in Chicago
Close-up of bride’s shoes and wedding dress details in Chicago
Father kissing bride on the cheek during wedding preparations in Chicago
Bride and groom holding hands walking outdoors during wedding
Close-up of engagement rings on couple's hands at Chicago City Hall elopement
Bride getting ready with mother’s help before wedding ceremony in Chicago
Bridal shoes next to groom shoes on ceremony day in Chicago
Wedding bouquet photographed in Chicago

Get in touch

Use the form below to share a few details about your vision, date, and what kind of session you’re dreaming of.


Bride smiling while holding her bouquet at wedding in Chicago
Intimate wedding moment photographed in Chicago by Margarita Stepanenko
Couple embracing after City Hall elopement in Chicago
Groom kissing bride at wedding in Chicago