Jenny & Joseph: JJFilms’ Own Wedding at Villa Terrace and Canvas
When a wedding photographer and videographer get married, you know it’s going to be utterly cinematic. Jenny and Joseph, the two “Js” behind JJFilms, celebrated with an outdoor ceremony at Villa Terrace in Milwaukee, then danced the night away at Canvas Venue in Chicago’s North Shore Cinema played a part in their love story from the very start.
In early 2020, Joseph messaged Jenny asking her to be in a music video he was filming. The COVID-19 pandemic put production on pause, but their growing connection didn’t face the same delay. During lockdown, they FaceTimed almost daily, played iMessage games and sometimes even fell asleep on the phone together. Rooted in shared faith and aligned goals, their relationship continued to deepen, and they eventually launched their own wedding photography and videography business together, JJFilms.
The ceremony took place in Villa Terrace’s Renaissance Garden, a landscaped expanse set between the Mediterranean-style manor and Lake Michigan. One look at the grounds and it’s easy to understand the appeal. The Italian Renaissance setting was made for a couple wanting a romantic, reverent ceremony in the daylight.
At sundown, the celebration moved to Canvas Venue in Wheeling, Illinois. With massive chandeliers and antique-mirror walls, the atmosphere was luxurious, but state-of-the-art lighting and sound kept the energy akin to a nightclub.
Their first dance ended with an explosion of confetti. “It felt surreal being surrounded by everyone we love,” Jenny said, “and it honestly felt like a scene straight out of a film.” For two people who have spent years behind the lens, that felt exactly right.
Vendors
PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER JJFilms
CEREMONY VENUE Villa Terrace
RECEPTION VENUE Canvas Venue
PLANNER & FLORAL Exquisite Events and Floral Design
DECOR Yanni Design Studio
BRIDE’S ATTIRE Blanche Bridal from Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
GROOM’S ATTIRE The Black Tux
HAIR Jen Bridal Artistry
MAKEUP Makeup by Perla Larios
STATIONERY Zola
CATERING Chic Chef Catering
CAKE & SWEETS Elvitas Bakery
CEREMONY MUSIC Jack Boatman Music Services
BAND Caribe Project
DJ CR Event Group
GUEST ILLUSTRATIONS Live Sketch Art by Hetal
PET ATTENDANT Wags of Love
