Illinois Weddings

Classic weddings have my heart. I have a feeling that will never change. It’s the beautiful tradition stamped with sweet little moments shared by the couple that truly win me over. So this chic Chicago wedding made my entire day. You can just tell every moment was magic to this couple, and thanks to Tim Tab Studios we can share in that joy here.

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The most important thing for us is that we could spend as much time during our wedding with the people we loved. That is why we chose to do the majority or our photos before the event. Our photographers, Tim and Bethany, a husband a wife team, couldn’t have been a better choice to shoot the event. They made us feel at ease and guided us through the early parts of the ceremony experience, staged pictures with family and friends, and of course shots of us in cool urban settings in and around downtown Chicago. They also were really accommodating to our request like the big group photo we took with all our guests in one shot. It took some wrangling but it is definitely a highlight to see every time I look back on it. With the staged photos out of the way by the time we got to the ceremony everything was set up to enjoy the evening.

The ceremony was held on the second level of the W hotel, up a beautiful set of granite steps, down past the arched mezzanine overlooks and through the two large wooden doors that led to a sanctuary type space the closely resembled the nave of a church. It was accented with candles and our “altar” was set up in front of a lovely fireplace set with more candles. Our mutual friend — who actually introduced us to one another — presided over the ceremony while a string quartet, hired through the Merit School of Music, provided warmth and feeling. One of the highlights of the ceremony was definitely a performance by our friend Heidi, a trained opera singer and wife to our officiant. As we walked down the aisle to cheers from our family and friends we couldn’t be happier. But the real fun was about to begin.

During cocktails we had a chance to mingle with all the people that came to celebrate with us. Our wonderful wedding coordinator Allison Goldwasser who worked for the W helped guide the evening and ensure that everything ran smoothly. As a lover of Chicago architecture, we named the tables after our favorite buildings. And as any good Chicago foodie would have it, we found a venue with top notch dinner and added a late night snack to the menu of Italian beef and Chicago style hot dogs- local favorites. We kept centerpieces on the reception tables more focused on candles to bring that added warm light into the ballroom. We just wanted to it to feel cozy and romantic during dinner and Allison of Stems provided the look we needed. We added personalized mints in the bathroom, M&M favors (our initials) and a Chicago architecture coffee table book as our guest book to bring in more personal touches.

After some fantastically funny, heartfelt speeches and a lovely dinner people we ready to dance. Thankfully DJ Angie Ma who we hired through Toast & Jam kept the dance floor packed all evening long. Honestly it was the most fun party I ever had; the music was incredible, everyone seemed to be having a great time and we never left the dance floor. When it was all over I was sad to see everyone leave but grateful that we got to spend so much time with all the people we loved.

I was a ball of nervous energy on the day of the wedding, but once it all got underway we just went with it, enjoyed our day and got a chance to celebrate our love and life together with all of our 130 family and friends there to help. Hiring great vendors we trusted to get the job done took any potential stress away and allowed us to focus on what really mattered. I recommend them all!

Photography: Tim Tab Studios | Florals: Stems, inc. | Wedding Gown: Dimitra's Bridal Couture | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Bride's Shoes: Calvin Klein | Makeup: Chris Khasho | Hair Stylist: Kelly Cardenas | DJ: Toast and Jam | Ceremony And Reception Venue: W Chicago City Center | Ceremony And Reception Venue: W Chicago City Center | Ceremony Musicians: Melanie Clevert Sarapa

Being a bridesmaid is always such an honor — I love getting to stand by my favorite ladies on their big days, but picking out a dress for a whole group of girls can undoubtably be a challenge! Well, things are about to change thanks to ChiChi Styles. This online devision of LeSalon makes picking out, ordering + purchasing bridesmaid dresses easy, fun and stress-free!

ChiChi Styles blends the best of both worlds — the expertise of a real store with years of experience + the convenience and savings of an online shop! And the best part? You and your ladies can save $40-$150 per dress on the same designer dresses you’d find elsewhere all while making sure your dresses are ordered in the correct size and within the same dye lot. Dye lots are important so the dresses are all the same shade of your chosen color. Featuring brands such as Dessy, Alfred Sung, Lela Rose, Social, After Six, Bari Jay, Bill Levkoff, Jordan, & Allure Bridesmaids, ChiChi Styles even offers a “Try-On Program” where for $25, a sample is sent straight to you and all your ladies can try on and order from home!

To make tracking your order easy-as-can-be, ChiChi Styles offers Order Tracking so you (or even your maid of honor!) can review + double check all individual orders in your bridal party before the final order is sent into the designer! You’ll even get email notifications throughout the entire ordering process as well as estimated delivery dates all through your online account. Head over here for more info, ordering guides and measuring videos! I’m loving this new way to shop for bridesmaids — and now’s the time to buy because ChiChi Styles is offering our readers $5 off each dress using code SMP32015 (expires March 31, 2105). Happy shopping, my dears!

There’s nothing like love caught on camera. Case in point? This simple yet completely stunning “I do” amongst the cityscape of Chicago. With Loudbyte Cinematography behind the lens, it’s a visual story that will live on for generations. From the Father of the Bride’s speech to the personal vows exchanged, every moment will bring a happy tear to your eye. Press play to see the entire day unfold!

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From Loudbyte Cinematography… The rehearsal dinner was at Epic Restaurant in downtown Chicago. The cocktail hour was set on a open rooftop with amazing views of the Chicago city skyline. Before dinner, 9 speeches were made by friends and family that have known the couple their entire lives, including friends that set Nicole and Steve up on their first date.

The wedding day was at The Peninsula Chicago hotel. Nicole dressed in a gorgeous pink fitted Vera Wang dress. The couples first look was on a rooftop balcony nestled in the Chicago skyline. You could almost touch some of the skyscrapers they were so close. When Steve first turned to see Nicole, its a must-see moment. The couple didn’t need any encouragement from us to stay in the moment with each other.

The ceremony was decorated by Kehoe designs and the Ken Arlen Orchestra was on hand to play live music for the processional and recessional. The couple had a Rabbi and Priest to perform the Ketubah signing and the ceremony rituals including breaking the glass.

After the ceremony, the room was opened up for the evening to begin. Nicole’s father had a very touching speech that left many people in tears. After the couples first dance, everyone was invited to the dance floor and the part began.

The couple had an after-party upstairs at the Hotel Peninsula with DJ on hand and the party kept on rocking!

We got a beautiful shot with Nicole and Steve dancing solo in the hallway and then jumping into an elevatory.

From the beautiful Bride… Steve and I were introduced by mutual friends a few months before our first date. After getting schedules coordinated we met up with a group of friends at the old town art fair and spent the next 11 hours laughing and talking. 3 weeks later I was pretty much moved in and in 5 months we were engaged. We both knew right away this was it and we were so excited to begin a life together.

The proposal was a dream. He took my parents to dinner the night before we left for Mexico to ask permission to marry me. We flew to Playa del Carmen the next day for my birthday and stayed at the Banyan tree Mayakoba resort. Steve got down on one knee and proposed after dinner that night at this beautiful restaurant out on a pier.

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Cinematography: Loudbyte Cinematography | Photography: Carasco | Event Design: Kehoe Designs | Event Planning: Clementine Custom Events | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Jewelry: Jenny Packham | Make Up: Makeup By Aga | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Epic Restaurant | Wedding Venue: Peninsula Chicago

I am all for any excuse to get together with my favorite people but especially if it involves wine and cheese… and painting. Tami O’Malley crafted just such an event – a coming together of friends to do something creative with photography by Sabrina Nohling and Audra Zaba. It has the usual pretty suspects ( gorgeous florals, a yummy food spread) plus a little something fun and unexpected. 

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Photographed by the talented Sabrina Nohling (a wedding and lifestyle photographer) and Audra Zaba (product photographer) and set in the backdrop of my modern meets traditional dining room, our vision was to create a inspiration backdrop for other women to connect with their girlfriends over a glass of wine and an evening of laughter spent while creating lovely, abstract, organic paintings.

The chic transitional dining room of designer and stylist Tami O’Malley, served as the perfect backdrop and mixed pretty vintage furniture pieces with modern touches for a warm and inviting feel. Our modern take on the traditional wine and paint theme, was to bring in watercolor artist Lauren Dahl, who loose organic nature meets abstract style, allowed the artists to create their own unique masterpieces, instead of cookie cutter designs.

The overall goal was to inspire women to create an event in which they can celebrate, connect and create something beautiful together.

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Gallery Canvas, 10 x 10
Small Display Easel
White Acrylic Paint
Watercolor Paints
Small Pointed Brush, Size 1 for detail work
Large Flat Brush, Size 10 or 12 for covering large areas
Gold Pen

 Connect with your blank canvas. 
A white canvas can be super intimidating! So take some time to look at it, and kind of plan out your idea. One thing I always do before beginning a painting, is to paint the entire canvas with a washy clear neutral. It really does make the canvas less intimidating, and get’s you going. Not overly wet, just a little damp wash across the canvas. A washy clear neutral could be created by using your largest brush (to cover more of the canvas quicker), and mixing a tiny tiny small amount of paint (possible a color you will be using most), with 90% water. You will later be covering all this up, but it’s not pointless. In this step, also consider where in your canvas you want your focal area to be, and what color palette you intend on using.

 Outline Large Nature Inspired shapes.
Outline large, organic/nature inspired shapes with light colored paint. Think about flowers, leaves, branches, etc. Draw a simplified version of that on your canvas, in three different areas. Three is an odd number, and will help carry the eye around the canvas.

In this step, begin with watered down paint, so that you can easily wipe away if it’s not the placement you like. But when you’re ready, mix about 60% white paint, with 40% of watercolor paint. With a thin brush, draw your shapes out. For example, a fern leaf, could become an arched line, with oblong circles surrounding it. We are used to drawing dark outlines, and filling in the inside with a light version, so for this painting, ignore that.

Address the remaining empty canvas space with playful markings.
Fill in empty canvas space (not empty space within shapes you created in the first step, but empty space beyond that), with smaller organic/nature inspired shapes, and whimsical patterns. Use your small brush, with a 50/50 water to paint ratio. Be quick, trust your initial placement idea, and accept imperfections.

These mark makings could be a smaller version of shapes you already have, or something new. I like to do abstract branches, and groupings of dashes. For this step, use the same thin paint brush. But, darker colors. Here, you are essentially creating small pockets of canvas space that will later be addressed with washy water colors.

Coloring in the lines, unleash your inner child.
Be playful, and be childlike with your choices. Go back to when you were five years old, and you loved coloring in the lines. It’s almost therapeutic. Like I said in step one, ignore the concept of dark outlines, and lighter insides. Instead, embrace the opposite of that. Fill in all shapes with either 1. Darker versions of the light outline, or 2. Soft colors that are opposite of the outline color.
Mix it up, and try both.

For example, if you created an outline in a light pastel green, then try filling in the inside of that shape with a pink pastel color (since green and red are opposite on the color wheel).

 Color outside the lines while leaving tiny borders of white space all around.
Think Ombre, washy, and free. Think of this step, as if all existing lines and shapes are buildings, and with step 4 (this step) imagine that a river as leaked into the city, filling in all the nooks and crannies. Except, leave about 1-3 cm of space between your soon to be paint, and the existing shapes. A gap is playful, and is one of the key elements in this painting. Start by filling in the empty space with a dark color, then then use only water, to help spread the color throughout.

 Finishing Touches.
This is the final step, and will give a ton of luxury and shine to a canvas. Use gold leaf, OR the deco color Premium Gold Leaf Pen. Outline some of your existing marks, or create new ones. It’s okay to have some larger marks this time.

Photography: Sabrina Nohling Photography | Photography: Audra Zaba | Design And Styling: Tami O'Malley | Florist: Lemondrop Designery | Invitations: Michaels | Make-up : Toni Fisher | Calligraphy: Studio Albers | At Home With Designer/Stylist: Tami O'Malley | Decor: Joann Fabrics | Hair Styling: Leana Killham | Paint Project : Lauren Dahl

In the midst of planning my own nuptials, the one consensus I’ve taken to heart is that the entire day goes by in a blur. The solution? Investing in reliving every happy tear and terrific toast in the form of cinematography. And a show stopper like this one from Loudbyte has me all the more excited. Get those tissues ready SMP’ers, because some happy tears are about to arrive!

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From Loudbyte… In our first meeting with Mirini and Jason, we exchanged Netflix playlists and realized our common passion for great movies and TV. Later, as we helped the couple plan their wedding day schedule, we had so many interesting ideas for their wedding film and decided to add a second day of shooting so that we would have enough time to make everything happen. Mirini and Jason had a rehearsal walk-through the day before at Armour House so it made sense to schedule the cinema shoot that day. We met the couple at our downtown studio to record their voice over. They had written a few lines about how they met and what it meant to them personally. After recoding their voice-overs, we drove to the venue and shot Jason driving in his convertible. We captured aerials and car-mount shots. Then we setup an incredible first look under the outdoor pagoda. Both parents were present and we captured some really touching reaction shots. We also mic’d the couple and you can hear their real first reaction’s to seeing each other; so touching. This pre-shoot allowed us to tell the couple’s story in a much more detailed and intimate way.

After meeting Mirini, Jason was deployed to Afghanistan. During a long walk in the desert, he realized how much he loved her. Mirini made herself a promise that if Jason returned from the war, she would marry him. The toasts are not to be missed!

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Cinematography: Loudbyte Cinematography| Photography: Redwall Photography | Ceremony Venue: The Armour House| Reception Venue: The Armour House | Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Shoes: Bruno Magli | DJ:Roberto Monatero | Brides’ Dress: Jasmine Couture

When it comes to getting prettied up for your Big Day, it’s so, so important to choose a makeup artist that fits your personal needs. I mean, how often do you really get dolled up by a professional? I can count on one hand how many times I have and each experience yielded a different result. Enter makeup guru Carly Pribich. She’s sharing her top three must-know tips to find your perfect match!

1. FIND AN ARTIST THAT FITS YOUR STYLE.

My biggest tip is to think about what your ideal bridal look is. Is it soft and polished? Is it smoky & dramatic? You should be able to get a feel for the artist’s work by their portfolio and content on their webpage. My advice is to limit the amount of people you reach out – make contact with those you truly feel like you would connect with on both a style and personality basis.

2. START EARLY!

Busy wedding season typically runs May-September (may depend on where you live), and these popular months tend to book up quickly in advance for in-demand artists. Start conversation early in wedding planning with artists you are interested in. Make sure you understand their policies and payments. Also see how they interact with you. Did they answer your questions? What was the response time? Was it personal? Take notice of this.

3. BE HONEST AND SPEAK UP.

This goes back to the initial tip when I suggested to find an artist that you connect with. I encourage feedback with my clients so if needed we can adjust and tweak the look to their preferences. If it’s hard for you to verbalize what you like and don’t like, bring a few pictures you like. The artist should ask questions to what you specifically like about the photos to make sure they understand your vision.

FINAL THOUGHT…

Find an artist who not only makes you look beautiful, but makes you feel beautiful. On your wedding day you deserve to feel pampered and look your very best. Please use my tips above in your search for finding the perfect artist for you. Choose someone who you know will add to your special day.

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DIY WATERCOLOR MAKEUP BRUSH JARS

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Makeup Artist: Carly Pribich, Makeup Artist

With my own wedding a few months away, it’s easy to get caught up in all the planning, from guest lists to DJs. But then this Chicago wedding came along and made me stop for a minute. It got me thinking about all these sentimental moments, this beautiful Bride and her father, the sweet handkerchief for her mom. This Bride is absolutely glowing in Jacqui Cole‘s pics and this gallery is a true heart warmer.

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From Jacqui Cole Photography… This stunning Chicago wedding is full of pure romance and complete joy! Elizabeth and Daniel wed in the jaw-dropping St Ignatius in Chicago. Having both met at Loyola University, the Church held a special place in their hearts. Elizabeth’s small and unique touches really made her day extra special including the tiny framed photos of her grandparents wrapped around her bouquet. Her beautiful lace Kate Spade shoes were the perfect ballet flat to dance the night away in! Not to mention Elizabeth’s stunning Allure Exclusives gown that really added an elegant and classic Chicago feel. We headed to Loyola University to take portraits around the stunning lakeside campus! The weather was a perfect sunny day. The cream stone and unique setting perfectly complemented the romantic photos that Elizabeth and Daniel were wanting. The couple chose to host their reception in the Chicago Marriott O’Hare ballroom where they pulled from the blue of the bridesmaids’ dresses to accent the room. Their day was centered around family, friends and celebrating their love for each other. It was a true joy to capture such a wonderful day!

From The Bride… My favorite moment of our day was our ceremony. I loved walking down the aisle and seeing Dan waiting happy and excited to see me at the end of it. He looked so incredibly handsome. During the ceremony, we loved being able to look out and see so many people from so many different parts of our lives who had all come together that day to watch us get married. Our style for the day was a traditional family wedding. We wanted to show where we came from, and tracked down almost every old family wedding photo, dating from 1884 onwards for both our families. I wanted something that would be beautiful that day and beautiful when I looked back in 20 years. My biggest advice to future brides would be to not worry too much – a wonderful thing is happening on your wedding day, and it’s that you get to marry the one you love.

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Floral Design: Ashland-Addison Florist | Cake: Oak Mill Bakery | Ceremony Venue: St Ignatius, Chicago | Hair And Makeup: Chicago Bridal Hair And Makeup | Venue: The Aspen Institute At Wye River | Bridal Gown: Allure Bridal

From the Bride’s Jenny Packham dress to the profiteroles dessert, I’m embarrassingly drooling over this chic Chicagoan celebration. Field & Florist transformed Salvage One‘s urban space into a romantic oasis and these two lovebirds just never stopped smiling. Averyhouse made sure to snap every sweet moment and these pics are my new go-to source for a little midweek pick-me-up.

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From Averyhouse… Few things could have surpassed the rooftop view of The Legacy on this beautiful June morning except that of the soon-to-be Mrs. Wetherell! But seriously, the sun was shining, Sophia’s smile beamed as she slipped into her beaded Jenny Packham dress, and Andrew had just realized that he had gotten the exact same card for his bride-to-be. The day was off to a great start. We’ve loved this couple from the minute we met them (maybe it was the Smilebooth shenanigans at our open house party) and the creativity they injected into their Salvage One ceremony and reception was just one more reason that we absolutely adore these two. Did we mention that Sophia and Andrew enlisted an amazing amount of local artisans to make their wedding that much more spectacular? The lush floral arrangements had been grown just for this event right outside of Chicago and their guests sipped local craft beers alongside Chicago’s very own Letherbee + Koval throughout the night. Cake? No way. Profiteroles and a heaping scoop of Black Dog gelato for these two.

Photography: averyhouse | Coordination: Big Day Easy | Floral Design: Field & Florist | Wedding Gown: Jenny Packham | Ceremony Venue: Salvage One | Reception Venue: Salvage One | Catering: Hearty Boys

http://kristinlavoie.comAround these parts, Kristin La Voie Photography is totally legend.  An award winning photographer recently named one of the Best Wedding Photographers of 2015, she is a serious expert at capturing each and every gorgeous moment of your day as it unfolds naturally.  In other words?  Stunning images for you, and a whole lot of swooning for those of us here at SMP.  We call that a win-win, lovelies.

A specialist in film photography, and one of the leading film photogs in the Chicago area, we’ve been obsessed with Kristin’s work since the very moment we laid our eyes on her breathtaking captures.  Think beautiful light-filled images that document your day in the prettiest of ways.  With Kristin La Voie Photography, you’ll have those special moments you didn’t even realize were being captured (she’s that good, people) to remember for always.  And, bonus.  Kristin La Voie Photography recently launched KLP BEAUTY, a brand new site totally devoted to capturing all of you stunning brides pre-wedding in a beautiful + oh-so-romantic light.  It’s boudoir reinvented, and it’s totally awesome.

Contact Kristin La Voie Photography today to get started on your amazing journey.  And don’t forget that Kristin is offering SMP readers $300 off any 2015 wedding package through March 31st!

Kristin La Voie Photography is giving away a Boudoir Mini Session to one lucky SMP reader, which will include session time (30 minutes) and digital images!*  To enter, leave a comment below telling us your most beautiful feature!  The winner, chosen completely at random, will be announced right here on SMP on Friday, March 27, 2015.  For terms and conditions, click here.  Good luck, lovelies! xo

*Boudoir session must be held at a location within 20 miles of 60174.  Value $450. 

As a Chicago native and a full-blown wedding junkie, you can say I’m a tad bit smitten with the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Take its pre-eminent address on Michigan Avenue, add in a seriously incredible Grand Ballroom + top it all off with top-notch service, and you’ve got what wedding dreams are made of. 

Offering couples their choice of gorgeous event spaces that can accommodate both large groups and more intimate functions, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is the setting to some of the city’s most extraordinary events! From florals to cakes, ice carvings to linens + tabletop decor, the staff at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago are there to walk you through from “I will” to “I do!” Whether you’re planning a modern affair or a traditional soiree, the on-site catering managers and banquet teams will help bring your wedding day ideas into a seriously gorgeous reality.

For more information and to get started on planning your big day at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, head over here. Happy planning! xo

It’s a question of what came first – the venue or the wedding style – but either way, these go together like bread and butter. With bright blooms, stunning stationery and plenty of pizazz, Estera Events made sure the presence of art was always close by for this Chicago celebration. Pen/Carlson captured every picture perfect moment and I’m declaring this gallery my main midweek source of inspiration.

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From Estera Events… Sarah lived in a building overlooking Chicago’s MCA for a few years. After making the move to Brooklyn with Stan, the MCA remained a special place for them. When deciding where to have their wedding, hosting it at the MCA was an easy decision for them! The lower patio and garden was transformed for their ceremony, which incorporated both Persian and American traditions. Guests sipped champagne while Sarah and Stan said their vows. Cocktail Hour took place on the upper terrace, with guests sipping cocktails, enjoying the photobooth, and ordering drinks from the bar covered in gold sequins. Once guests entered the MCA for dinner, they were greeted with an escort display of hanging ribbons and tassels with their escort cards attached. Dinner was served in the atrium of the MCA, with a unique table layout and enormous white balloons suspended overhead. For desert, five delicious cakes were flown in from Momofuku Milk Bar in New York, a favorite of Sarah and Stan’s. These gorgeous cakes were displayed on Nimblewell pieces. Dancing took place in the cafe, where Sarah and Stan had their first dance to Etta James “Teach Me Tonight”, and Sarah changed into the most gorgeous custom feather mini skirt!

Photography: Pen/Carlson | Videography: XO Pictures | Event Planning: Estera Events | Floral Design: Fleur Inc | Wedding Dress: Kathryn Conover | Cake: Momofuku Milk Bar | Reception Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | Catering: Wolfgang Puck Catering | Hair And Makeup: Nika Vaughan Bridal Artists | DJ: Toast and Jam | Balloons: Balloons By Tommy | Draping: Art of Imagination | Furniture Rentals: Bowery And Bash | Photobooth: Magnolia Photo Booth Co. | Vintage Rentals: Nimble Well

Intimate, personal, and nothing short of magical, this chic Chicago fete is the definition of fun. From the mini chicken and waffles served during cocktail hour, to the DIY paper cranes, to the couple’s dog posing as a paper cut out, every detail was planned to perfection. With touches like personal vows and the couple’s homemade sugar pie the sweetness is evident with every T&C Photographie image here!

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From the beautiful Bride… This love story began when the two of us met through a mutual friend. We hit it off immediately, and became fast friends. We spent the better part of the following year diving head first into best-friendship, but couldn’t deny that we were falling for each other. I told my parents and friends that I just knew I was going to marry him before we even started dating.

Matthew & I got married at Loft on Lake in Chicago, IL. We wanted to showcase the beauty of the Loft space itself by keeping decorations clean and minimal. We had our ceremony indoors, and moved to the front area for cocktail hour while the room was flipped for our reception. To start off the day, the Groomsmen and Dads joined Matt for a straight razor shave and haircut party at a local barber shop, while the Bridesmaids, Flower Girl, Moms and I got ready in the Presidential suite at our hotel. We had an incredible team of vendors to help pull off our vision, but we did all of the planning on our own! Matt & I did quite a bit of DIY to make the day feel more personal, and my family made an incredible paper crane piece that hung on the Loft’s brick wall from a birch branch.

We wanted to make sure our wedding felt extremely personal and the opposite of traditional. The day was intimate, personal, and nothing short of magical. We believe that definitely shows in our photos. August 30th, 2014 will be my favorite day forever!

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DIY paper crane escort cards
1 | Fold paper cranes in a variety of 3″ x 3″ paper patterns
2 | Affix twine between two standing objects
3 | Hang cranes with mini clothespins
4| Write names on front and table numbers on back of tags
5 | Tie name tags with ribbon
6 | Hang ribbon off cranes

DIY paper crane wall/backdrop
1 | Fold paper cranes in a variety of 6″ x 6″ solid colors
2 | Thread gold embroidery floss on a needle
3 | Use needle to thread cranes from the hole in the bottom through the top center
4 | Thread as many cranes as you’d like onto a single string (we liked them varying heights/numbers)
5 | Spread cranes out along the string
6 | Add dot/bead of hot glue underneath the bottom of each crane, and slide the crane just over the bead of glue
7 | Once dry, tie each string onto a birch branch (you could also use a dowel rod, or any other long object)
8 | We hung our birch branch and cranes up against the wall behind the head table. It also makes a fantastic backdrop for photos.

Photography: T&C Photographie | Floral Design: Flowers by Stem | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Bride's Shoes: BHLDN | Bridesmaids' Dresses: The Dainty Yard | Catering: Hearty Boys | Makeup: Shannon O'Brien MUA | Hair Stylist: Debra Petrielli Freelance Hairstylist | DJ: Style Matters DJs | Hotel: Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro | Bride's Earrings: BHLDN | Bride's Sash: BHLDN | Bridesmaid's Earrings: Bauble Bar | Ceremony & Reception: Loft on Lake | Ceremony Backdrop: Satin Chair Covers Rental | Confetti: BHLDN | Day Of Coordinator: Sarah Rhodes-Boyce | Groom & Groomsmen Shirts: Nordstrom | Groom & Groomsmen Suits: Jos. A. Bank | Groom & Groomsmen Ties/Suspenders: The Tie Bar | Groom's Shoes: Navy/Tan Sperry Topsiders | Groomsmen Shoes: Navy/Tan Sperry Topsiders | Pie Topper: BHLDN | Pizelles: Mark + Colette Evans | Shaving Party: Church Of Evangelical Faith | Sugar Pie: Mindy Segal

What’s black and white and chic all over? This modern beauty captured by T&S Hughes and Amor In Motion. It’s what happens when two professional designers say “I do” in a Chicago loft that screams urban chic from the inside out. Complete with one of the coolest ceremony backdrops of all time, I promise this pretty part is only get started.

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From Amor In Motion…A black and white affair with a vintage flair set against an urban backdrop. This wedding could not have been more picturesque. Not surprising that every last detail was designed by the designer couple themselves, Morgan Marie and Chris… Sweet. Yes, Sweet. A fitting last name for this stunning couple.

Everything tied in perfectly, we love the mural hanging “We seem to have been designed for each other” and the symbolic S painting… The dark cool venue with a trumpet band and a first dance song that says “If I couldn’t have you I’d rather be alone.” The tears, the simple lines, the brick wall, the hanging bulbs, and the Greek goddess-like dress that no one could take their eyes off…it was all spot on.

Chris and Morgan, may that sparkle and joy never fade from your eyes. You were, indeed, meant for each other.

Photography: T&S Hughes Photography | Videography: Amor In Motion | Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham | Reception Venue: Gallery 1028 | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Band: Bluewater Kings Band

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Bluewater Kings Band

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Set alongside the Chicago river, this darling duo wed amongst family, friends, and a stunning view. Cattails transformed their ideas of romance into beautiful arrangements that perfectly complemented the South Branch Tavern space. From Jenny Yoo clad ‘maids hopping on a trolley, to every cityscape scene, the gallery captured by Jacqui Cole is the best place to see it all, more here!

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From Jacqui Cole Photography…Rachel and Chris’ wedding was such a happy and elegant affair! They chose to have their ceremony and reception outside at South Branch Tavern, Chicago. Their style was sophisticated and chic, yet super fun at the same time! Rachel looked absolutely stunning in her Pronovias gown and the Jenny Yoo bridesmaid dresses complimented her perfectly.

The day began at the beautiful getting ready suite at The Palmer House Hilton. Rachel and Chris decided to have a first look at Lurie Gardens in Millennium Park. It was such a sweet and intimate moment between the bride and groom.

The venue itself holds stunning views over Chicago’s river, where the guest’s enjoyed their cocktail hour. We were able to sneak out to capture an iconic image of the couple in the middle of a Chicago bridge!

Dinner was held inside the restaurant, with bright florals and a beautiful metallic cake! When hosting a wedding reception at a class-A downtown restaurant you can be sure that the food was outstanding! The dinner reception then welcomed guests onto the open air dance floor on a perfect summer’s evening. After the heartfelt first dance, they partied the night away underneath the city lights.

From The Bride and Groom…We spent nearly three months driving around Chicagoland to find the perfect venue for our wedding. Since we were not getting married in a church, we wanted to find a place that could host both a ceremony and reception. We also were looking for something close to the city for our friends and family from out of town. Since we wanted to shy away from having a ‘wedding color’, a space that was already decorated was a high priority. When we stumbled across South Branch Tavern & Grille, we both sensed that we had found our venue. The beautiful indoor dinner space and outdoor bar were exactly what we were looking for.

Jacqui Cole was, by far, the most helpful, professional and skillful vendor we dealt with throughout the wedding planning process. She helped make our wedding day go very smoothly, and in the process captured beautiful photos. Lisa Atterberry from Cattails did a phenomenal job transforming our ideas into beautiful floral arrangements that perfectly complemented the space.

One of the best parts of our wedding day was hopping on a trolley, and riding around the city to take photos before the ceremony. It was fun wandering through the Lurie Gardens and Olive Park in full wedding gear. We would advise anyone who reads this to really take the time to get to know your vendors. The more time you spend with them, the easier it is for them to capture and create exactly what you are looking for. Also, remember it’s your party… have fun!

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Floral Design: Cattails | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Cake: Oak Mill Bakery | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Makeup: Sheri Cox | Hair: Your Stylist AJ | DJ: Music By Design | Men's Suits: Hugo Boss | String Quartet: Park West Strings | Ceremony And Reception: South Branch Tavern | Getting Ready: The Palmer House

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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This is a wedding where romance takes center stage.  Think two gorgeous sweethearts tying the knot in a vintage-inspired celebration with the amazing Chicago skyline as their backdrop.  It’s lush blooms from Fasan Florist meets a fabulous Justin Alexander gown meets one jaw-droppingly gorgeous image after another captured by Tamara Gruner Photography.  See them all in the full gallery. 

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From Tamara Gruner Photography… Katie and Kyle grew up worlds apart. She in the US, while he in New Zealand. But, they were meant to be. Their wedding was a coming together of two hemispheres and they made that happen in style!

The rooftop at the Wyndham, in Chicago, was a perfect setting for a quaint celebration with close family and friends, who joined them from far and near. Dressed in Justin Alexander, Katie exuded a vintage look for a modern bride. The bridesmaids chose to wear unique, yet matching, designs which elegantly complemented the bride. Soft, yet subtle, the bouquets completed an absolute wonderful look.

The evening was a very emotional affair. Perched high above the Chicago skyline they celebrated the day watching the fall sun drift away as the delicate candle lights took over. The couple joined their guests rejoicing and celebrating this romantic evening.

We were delighted to be part of this wonderful wedding and we wish the couple the very best!

Photography: Tamara Gruner Photography | Coordination: Hotel Galvez | Floral Design: Fasan Florist | Wedding Dress: Justin Alexander | Cake: Alliance Bakery | Shoes: Rene Caovilla | Catering: Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront | Makeup Artist: Kristy Rogowski | Hair Stylist: Megan Hollinger | DJ: Knight Sounds Entertainment | Groom's Attire: Black Tie Formalwear | Groomsmen's Attire: Black Tie Formalwear | Reverend: Sarah Evans | Hotel: Hotel Galvez | Hair Accessories: January Rose Bridal Boutique | Ice Blue Bridesmaid Dress: Bella Bridesmaid | Ivory Lace Bridesmaid Dress: House of Brides | Lace Jacket: Mignonette Bridal | Portrait Drawing: Corrie Wessman | Purple Bridesmaid Dress: Bella Bridesmaid | Rose Bridesmaid Dress: Bella Bianca

How do you spend the perfect Sunday?  Getting to know the fabulous + oh-so-talented team of eco-friendly wedding vendors at the Chicago Green Wedding Alliance.  Because when it comes to hosting an amazing event that is also socially conscious, this is a group of vendors that will most definitely deliver. Learn so much more about their mission… and their crazy cool wedding show, Committed, below.

From Chicago Green Wedding Alliance… The Chicago Green Wedding Alliance is a group of eco-friendly wedding vendors that is committed to making less environmentally impactful events. We connect vendors with the conscious consumer for mindful weddings and social events. Our vendors create gorgeous events that transcend people’s expectations of “green” weddings.

Check out the Chicago Green Wedding Alliance on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.  

The GWA is hosting a wedding show on February 22nd at Greenhouse Loft!  Any couple that books with the code “SMP” will get $5 off!  The discount on tickets can be redeemed on the Eventbrite ticketing page.

We’re saying farewell to yet another pretty week on the Little Black Book blog, but not before we go out with a bang in the form of this Kate Ignatowski wedding. Her imagery defines elegance and the combo of sparkle, ribbons, floral patterning, eclectic blooms and metallics is spot on. So grab that Friday afternoon cocktail (we won’t tell if you start early) and click through this gallery goodness—it’s so worth it.

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From Kate Ignatowski…Karen + John’s wedding was sophisticated yet fun and relaxed. One of my favorite elements was their ceremony backdrop – gold and white drapes over an earthy wood structure. I also love how they integrated their love of good food and wine with the cheese paired escort cards. Everything came together so beautifully.

While it did rain a bit in the morning, we were lucky that it cleared up in time for family photos + the outdoor ceremony. I still think Karen + John would have had the perfect day had it poured the whole time – they were so happy and in the moment. And I love the way they look at each other.

Photography: Kate Ignatowski Photography | Videographer: Hoopla Films | Floral Design: Asrai Garden | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Sweet Mandy B's | Bride's Shoes: Nordstrom | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Bridesmaids' Dresses : Jenny Yoo | Makeup Artist: Hale Koa phineas Estate | Hair Stylist: Your Stylist AJ | DJ: Style Matters DJs | Groom's Suit: Suitsupply | Groomsmen Attire: J.Crew | Officiant: Reverand Jim Rehnberg | Altar: Ultrapom | Bride's Necklace And Ring: Dana Rebecca | Bride's Purse: Ted Baker | Bride's Rings: Gregg Helfer | Bride's Robe: Love Ophelia | Bride's Sash: Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique | Bridesmaid's Robes: Silk And More | Cake Topper: Better Off Wed | Ceremony And Reception: Saddle & Cycle Club | Floral Ribbon: Frou Frou Chic | Girls' Hangers: Delovely Details | Groom's Shoes: Nordstrom | Groom's Tie: Sid Mashburn | Hotel (getting Ready): The Guesthouse Hotel | Linens: Ultrapom | Mother Of The Bride Dress: Nordstrom | Mother Of The Groom Dress: Tadashi Shoji | Mr. And Mrs. Chair Signs: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | Paper Goods: Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique | Photobooth: Magnolia Photo Booth Co. | Strings: Style Matters DJs | Table Numbers: Better Off Wed

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Take a sophisticated setting like The Drake Hotel and add in a stunning gown designed by Project Runway contestant Kate Pankoke and a whole host of amazing details coordinated by Lola Productions and the results are this: a drop-dead gorgeous set of nuptials that take classic to an entirely new level.  See it all captured by MaiCamera right here and the beautiful Smiling Toad Productions’ film below. 

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From the Bride… George and I had a lot of aspirations for our wedding (not necessarily the same!) but at the end of the day it came down to three main things: work with people you love, respect your heritage, and throw a great party.

George is from Russia where weddings (and all parties for that matter) are not beholden to the 12:00 cut off of most American venues. We knew we wanted a place that would entertain our late curfew and allow us to go crazy on the food, drinks, and whatever else might come up. Thankfully we were able to work with my favorite hotel in Chicago (The Drake) to create the wedding of our dreams. As a nod to my Jewish heritage, we had our first look at the Ketubah signing ceremony. It was a wrestle of schedules to accomplish, but in the end it was perfect. With just our families around us, both my mom and mother in law remarked to me later that it was like having a private wedding ceremony. The pictures from that moment capture the build up and excitement of the day perfectly.

For the reception, we wanted to create an atmosphere where people felt relaxed but taken care of. That meant a family style dinner of beef stroganoff, lamb, potatoes, and kugel that kept our guests happy even through a marathon 10 speeches (including one fully in Russian). But the real highlight of the night was the ice luge which – together with our Russian DJ – kept everyone dancing way past 1 AM. (The photo booth later in the night captures the progression pretty accurately.)

The day was a huge success but it couldn’t have been accomplished without the help of our vendors. Our florist, Cornelia McNamara, helped us achieve our vision of relaxed, natural floral arrangements that complemented, but didn’t fight against, the fantastic decor of the room. Our invitation and stationery designer satisfied George’s desire for “lots of things with wreaths on them,” and my darling dress designer Kate Pankoke not only granted my wish for a ridiculous amount of tulle, but made the dress shopping experience so special that to this day we remain good friends. Our photographer, Mai Duong, captured the day perfectly and had such a great time she stayed through the after party to capture the groomsmen jumping in lake Michigan at sunrise. It was just one of the many unexpected moments that made the day truly memorable.

Not all of the unexpected moments were positive of course – the groomsmen all forgot how to tie bow ties, one flower girl insisted on being photographed eating cheese (who could blame her), and I fell out of the chair during the Hora. But the day was perfect despite its imperfections. With your friends and family around you, and the love of your life by your side, it can’t help but be.

Photography: MaiCamera | Coordinator: LOLA Event Productions | Florist: Cornelia McNamara Flowers | Wedding Dress: Elaya Vaughn Bridal | Cake: Amy Beck Cake Design | Invitations: Chena Design | Ceremony: The Drake | Reception: The Drake | Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Etsy | Make Up: Hush Salon | Hair: Sonia Roselli | Groom's Attire: Ralph Lauren | Bride's Jewelry, Bride And Groom Gifts: Tiffany & Co. | Bridesmaids' Robes: Etsy | Family Gifts: Kate Spade | Ice Luge: Art Below Zero | Maid Of Honor Dress: Badgley Mischka | Music And Photobooth: Mary Monica Music | Video: Smiling Toad

Equal parts glamour and artisanal, this colorful soiree is my personified daydream. With Kate Spade and Kinfolk acting as inspiration, their Big Day was filled with bright balloons, Toast And Jam tunes, bow ties, and a craft beer and cake pairing table (uhm, genuis!). Estera Events incorporated organic greenery atop butcher paper covered tables, and you can enjoy every bright and bubbly detail here!

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From Julia Franzosa Photography… Kelly + Tim got ready at Hotel Lincoln overlooking the lake. The weather could not have been more perfect or clear for their day. The wedding party even joked that Kelly had to have bribed someone for the weather! Their ceremony was during the afternoon at St. Vincent DePaul Church, and afterwards we explored the city with their wedding party for photos.

The dresses Kelly picked for her bridesmaids were perfectly Kate Spade inspired and the groomsmen looked absolutely dapper in their bow ties. A New Leaf was decked out with a colorful balloon display over the dance floor filled with gorgeous greenery (seriously. how amazing is that!?) butcher paper table runners and a Craft Beer and Sweet Mandy B’s Cake pairing table. Guests danced the entire night away and it was such fun capturing their wedding!

Photography: Julia Franzosa | Event Planner: Estera Events | Cake: Sweet Mandy B's | Ceremony Venue: St. Vincent De Paul | Reception Venue: A New Leaf | Catering: FIG Catering | Makeup: Rosie Scianna | Hair: Colee Frome | DJ: Toast and Jam | Balloon Display: Balloons By Tommy | Chalkboard Art: Reenie Rose

I’ll admit it.  As much as I love being a bridesmaid (and, oh, do I love it), trekking to bridal shop after bridal shop to try on gowns is, well, seriously tiring.  Which is why I am all sorts of obsessed with Brideside, the online retailer that brings the bridal shop to YOU by letting you browse bridesmaid dresses online and then try them on in the comfort of your very own home. Say it with me, loves: awesome.

With Brideside, you can choose from a plethora of style choices and colors, all with the help of an amazing stylist who works with you every step of the way to guarantee a fabulous (+ chic) bridal party. Just chat with the stylist about your dream wedding and vision, then let them take over and guide your besties through an array of different designers on Brideside’s online store.  They’ll even provide instructional videos on measuring and selecting the best dress types for your body!  And when every last dress is chosen, they’ll ship the samples to your home, so you can have that girl’s day with mimosas and cozy yoga pants.  Soooo comfortable and soooo fun.

Ready to get started?  Visit the Brideside website ASAP or, if you live in Chicago, make an appointment with a stylist here. And don’t forget this exclusive discount for SMP readers: When you buy your bridesmaid dress in February, the first $20 is on Brideside!  Use discount code “SMP20” at checkout. (Terms & Conditions: Cannot be combined with any past or future promotions. Readers must purchase bridesmaid dress at full price on or before 2/28/15. Offer does not apply to the following designers: Joanna August, Donna Morgan, Jenny Yoo.)