The Part In Which We Crashed a House Party

After our portraits were done in the park, we walked to the L and took the train from the Loop to Lincoln Square. The ride was a bit subdued. Even though we weren't in direct sun during pictures (thanks clouds), we were all a little wiped out from the heat and initial excitement.

We got to the Lincoln Square neighborhood a little earlier than necessary. Everyone was still so low on energy. I was a little worried, but hoped that when we got to the ceremony site the mood would turn around. Little did I know what was coming when we rounded the corner into the alley that would take us to the Giddings Plaza courtyard.

We started down the alley and heard cheers. There was a house party taking place behind some apartment buildings. The people hanging out and drinking all called to us to join them. Mr. Beagle waved at them and kept going. But I stopped. I don't know what made me stop, but it seemed like just the magic we needed at that very moment. I called to Mr. Beagle and told him we needed to have a drink with these awesome people. 

I don't know who these people were, but they were incredibly friendly. In no time we had solo cups and were drinking keg beer. They were excited we were on our way to get married and full of good wishes.

All of our wedding party got drinks. The cool beverages and party music was just the thing we needed. Suddenly the mood was joyful and I could feel excitement coursing through everyone. 

The hosts of the party convinced Mr. Beagle and I that we needed to play a quick game of beer pong. We took three shots each and I beat my fiance, making two of my three shots.

We looked at the time and realized we needed to get going. We made one last cheers to this magical moment and the people who invited us to join them. And then, full of glee, we headed to our ceremony site to get married.

photos by Justin Runquist and Craig Watson

Please do not repost any of our wedding pictures without our written permission.