Illinois Weddings

Winter is upon us and there’s no doubt that for all you darlings who live in snow-covered locations, it’s the best season to snuggle up to your sweetie. This afternoon, we’re getting a dose of those warm embraces in the form of this cozy five year anniversary sesh with Britta Hundertmark. The Mrs. in a snug sweater, prettied up by Carly Pribich and the Mr. in his wool coat… snuggle up to the gallery here!

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From Britta Hundertmark…If you have ever thought of having an anniversary session, but thought “eh, we already have our wedding photos, do we really need another session?” I will tell you right now, the answer is YES!!!

When you have been with your love, married for one, two, three, fifty years – you have a comfort and a connection with them that didn’t exist during your dating, engagement, or on your wedding day. It is incredible to see the ease with which married couples interact in front of the camera; the chemistry is not fueled by excitement surrounding the wedding planning or the day itself (though that energy is SO incredible!!) but it is a chemistry fueled by hope for the future, by the good and bad times that have passed, by knowing someone as well as you know yourself, or better. It is a reflection on how the past few years of life, living with your best friend, doing life with them. It is the perfect way to commemorate your love, the way it is, right in that moment.

When Elizabeth (also a wedding photographer!) came to me a few months back to talk about an anniversary session, I was thrilled! She and Vincent have been married for five years, and have not had any professional photos taken since their wedding. They had recently moved to Chicago from the south and wanted to use the background of this gorgeous city (even in the winter!) as the setting of their photos, to celebrate their new home.

Photography: Britta Hundertmark | Make Up: Carly Pribich, Makeup Artist | Venue: Chicago | Film Lab: The Find Lab

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. This Chicago fête? It’s got a little of everything. A show-stopping venue like The James Hotel? Check! A sparkling Jenny Packham gown? Check! A foodie feast at The Publican? Check! Tunes a la Toast And Jam? Check! Elle Rose Photo captured what can only be described pure glamour, and I can’t help but come back to the gallery for a second serving here.

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From Elle Rose Photo… Ben and Claire live in Shanghai, but are both from Chicago and planned a gorgeous, food lovers wedding in the urban Fulton Market District of Chicago. What a visually stunning, and wildly fun wedding this was. There was glamour, heartfelt speeches, urban backdrops, huge smiles, sweaty dance moves, tons of love, and some sparklers to cap it all off. Oh – and food. SO much amazing food! I was seriously impressed that they were able to plan this wedding from around the globe! I loved getting to be apart of this intimate + personal wedding, and photographing the day as it unfolded was so great.

Claire wore a killer Jenny Packham dress, the Esme, and the whole day was flanked with amazing florals by Cornelia McNamara. Ben was dapper as ever in his custom Navy suit. The favors were sake glasses that came in small bags that were made by Claire’s mother from old kimono dresses that she hand carried over from Japan.

Their wedding program was the greatest idea ever – completely original. They made their wedding program, you know those cards/papers people hand out in church to say who is in the wedding, who is reading, and all that info – only they made a book. That was pretty much the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. It opened with the standard ceremony layout, then got into the bridal party. Each bridal party member had a page of their own with an interesting fact, and some awesome drawings around a picture of them. Then at the back of the book was a list of every guest that attended and a fun/interesting/ridiculous fact about them in their native language!

The reception and food were held and taken care of at The Publican Chicago. They wanted their pictures to represent them, not be overly “gushy” and so show off the urban backdrop of the Fulton Market area.

Photography: Elle Rose Photo | Wedding Coordinator: MatchMade Event Co. | Floral Design: Cornelia McNamara Flowers | Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham | Church: St Mary Of Celle | Shoes: Stuart Weitzmen | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | DJ: Toast and Jam | Hotel: The James Chicago | Hotel: ACME | Hair Piece: Twigs & Honey | Hair Salon: Zazu | Restaurant: The Publican

It only takes one look at these gorgeous images from Tim Tab Studios to see that this duo easily falls into the soulmate category. Their wedding was a combination of love and beautiful touches from the Bride, her mother and Amy Stockbridge, and the result? Well, with Pollen Floral Design blooms and a Vera Wang gown, lets just say I’m sure to remember this gorgeous gallery forever.

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From the beautiful Bride… Tommy and I met through friends five years ago, moved in together a year after that, and have loved each other since the beginning. Tommy is a metalhead loving butcher and I am a vegetarian paralegal, and together we form a very happy union.

The wedding planning process was a super fun and exciting time for both of us. We had a vision from the day we got engaged: laid back, natural, and super fun. My mom helped a ton with finding vendors who fit our vision for our wedding and our planning process was super fun.

Tommy and I made every decision together from food to flowers to escort cards. Loved ones from both sides of the family helped personalize the day, from the guestbook, to stringing up the escort cards, to the homemade chuppah, to the memory cards for guests to fill out and the homemade fans that Tommy slaved over until the day before the wedding. Planning the event was definitely a labor of love. 

Photography: Tim Tab Studios | Coordinator: Big Day Easy | Floral Design: Pollen | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Wedding Cake: Bittersweet | Invitations: F.U.N Cards and Gifts | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Food For Thought | DJ: Toast and Jam | Groomsmen Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Wedding Venue: Salvage One | Alterations: Julia Needleman

I always recommend warehouses to my engaged girlfriends. You can literally do anything, transform them into any scene. And this wedding at the Ravenswood Event Center proves my point perfectly. As someone who planned countless weddings for others already, this bride knew what she was doing when she crafted her own. Jordan Quinn captured it all and this gallery is popping with Pinterest-worthy ideas!

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From The Bride… I crept through the dimly lit stairwell I had led hundreds of brides up before, in my big white dress, stepping softly in my shiny flats. As the general manager of this intimate, exposed warehouse, I had coordinated more weddings here than I could count. I’d seen every great idea, every example of commitment, every celebration of love. Six years and six months after my first day of work at the Ravenswood Event Center, the best day ever had finally arrived. It was MY wedding.

All of the stress and anxiety that I usually feel for my couples met me on my special day. But with each step, I was getting closer to my friends, my family, my colleagues, and my husband.

As I reached the top, I was greeted with the familiar scent of the cologne Dave had worn on our first date and the proud smile I had so recently cracked during our first look. I held my grandmother’s brooch tightly around a blush bouquet, and walked down the aisle of the Atrium to meet him.

Our officiant began by sharing our love story, one that was 15 years in the making. After a series of traditions, vows of commitment and life changing questions, we spoke directly to one another. Making promises to understand each others’ wants, admirations, love, and to spend the rest of our lives side-by-side. The homespun location and our family, our friends and our humble vendors who have become friends, in the crowd made every minute of that day unforgettable and so, so beautiful.

I remembered the last journal entry I wrote to him on April 11th, how fast 24 hours can pass, anticipating every one of the 365 passage and doodles he put to paper during the last year of our engagement. I thought ahead to our one year anniversary, where we will open the bottle of red we had picked during one of our many winery adventures and read the letters we wrote to each other on our wedding day.

As we walked our guests down the cracked sidewalk to the ordinary hallway I walk through every morning, I lost my breath at the enchantment, the candles and the transformation. I broke bread with our head chef, swung around the dance floor with my florist, and surprised my husband, not with the 16ft farm table of desserts, but the small, perfect Marine cake I secretly ordered to honor his time serving our country.

Every weekend, I cross my heart and hope for a clear blue sky. I fluff white, ruffled dresses, and am so satisfied when I can give my brides everything they had hoped for on their wedding day. But nothing will ever fill me like the generosity, the love and the hard work I received from those around me on my day. For every one of the candles suspended in the air, for every stem outlining the entrance into my reception, for every bite of our delicious dinner, I am truly grateful for all of those who made our special day an honest labor of love.

Photography: Jordan Quinn Photography | Floral Design: Anna Held Florist | Wedding Dress: Kitty Chen Couture | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Makeup And Hair: Tamara Makeup + Hair Artistry | DJ: Cage And Aquarium | Officiant: Rev It Up | Cake And Cupcakes: Molly's Cupcakes | Cake Topper & Chair Signs: BHLDN | Ceremony And Reception Venue: Ravenswood Event Center | Donuts: Glazed And Infused | Event Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Groom's Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery | Groomsmen Photography Location: Revolution Brewing | Signage: Purple Peony Couture

Between the mint ‘maids and the lovely Dilly Lily blooms, this unbelievably stunning gallery from Kina Wicks Photography can only be described as dreamy. With a light filled venue and a peachy mint palette, this gorgeous affair is show-stopping from beginning to end. What lies beyond all the pretty is moment upon sweet moment of perfection. Click here for more and check out the fun I Do Film below!

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From Kina Wicks Photography… Elegant and classic with a bit of whimsy is how I would describe Diana & Ryan’s day. Diana got ready for the day at their Lincoln Park home with her sweet dog Maya tagging along the entire time. There was an air of excitement the entire morning and it perfectly came together as Ryan had the biggest smile on his face as Diana walked down the aisle of Madonna Della Strada Chapel. The color scheme was a refreshing mint and peach and the perfect sunny day that accompanied the color scheme made the day truly beautiful.

Photography: Kina Wicks | Videography: I Do Films | Floral Design: Dilly Lily | Wedding Gown: Love Yu | Cake: Bittersweet | Ceremony Venue: Madonna Della Strada Chapel | Reception Venue: Cudahy Library | Hair & Makeup: Genacelli Salon | DJ: Music By Design | Groom's Attire: Black Tie Formalwear

This windy city e-shesh has totally run away with my heart after laying eyes on all the lovely images from Jacqui Cole Photography. With Chicago as their backdrop, these lovebirds were all smiles and sweet stares as they embarked on their city stroll. A lovely riverwalk against a beautiful skyline, the gallery is filled with even more gorgeousness, and you can see it all right here.

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From Jacqui Cole Photography…I just love everything about Lauren and Mike’s quintessential Chicago engagement session. Lauren and Mike are both from Arizona and were planning their Chicago wedding from a distance. They are such an easy going, kind-hearted couple. We started the session at the Art Institute and strolled down Michigan Avenue to Chicago’s River walk. It was a beautiful summer’s evening and it made the perfect backdrop for this stunning couple :)

I’m so glad that our schedules worked out to fit in their session before the big day! I absolutely love when my couples opt to do an engagement session for multiple reasons. Firstly, how often do you get to have professional, romantic photos of you and your beau?! I still have my e-session photos framed all over our home. I think it’s really important to capture such a special time in your lives, in such an effortless way. Secondly, it’s super beneficial for the wedding day! I find that my couples that I get to connect with over their e-session are always instantly relaxed when they see me on the big day. The entire evening is all about creating wonderful memories that will be captured for years to come.

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography

Take just one step inside the doors at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) and one thing will be certain… this is the place you’ll host your wedding.  Because The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) isn’t just any wedding venue, it’s the perfect combo of breathtaking beauty (hello, Grand Ballroom) and top-notch service… all wrapped up in one dream-worthy locale.

Located just steps from the amazingness that is North Michigan Avenue and nestled amongst some of the world’s coolest landmarks (think the Museum of Contemporary Art and the John Hancock Building), The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) is not only a seriously stunning place to say I do, it boasts a team of Wedding Experts that will handle every last aspect of your big day, from providing those much needed vendor recommendations to customizing yummy menus to organizing the guest accommodations.  And speaking of guests, they’re going to love sampling the crazy culinary skills of Executive Chef Martin Knaubert, the floor-to-ceiling skyline views of Chicago and the 400,000 crystal chandelier located in the ballroom.  It’s basically a wedding paradise.

So what are you waiting for, lovelies?  Head on over to The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) (and their blog!) to start planning your dream wedding… you’ll even receive a guest room stay the night prior to the wedding day and complimentary lunches for the men’s and women’s changing rooms on the day of the wedding!

Photography: Amanda Hein Photography | Photography: Kingensmith | Photography: Katie Kett Photography | Photography: Gerber + Scarpelli Wedding Photography | Photography: Kent Drake Photography

For all you Bachelor Pad fans, you might recognize a few friendly faces at this elegant Chicago affair. When Michael Stagliano married his true love, Emily, surrounded by friends and family last Memorial Day weekend, it was a day to remember. From the classic elegance of Galleria Marchetti, to the delightful details choreographed by Big City Bride and captured by the always-wonderful David Wittig, you’ll see in a heartbeat just how lovely the day was! See more of the fun they had at the party – and spot those familiar ABC faces in the gallery! Oh — and don’t miss the same-day-edit film from Imagique Weddings.

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From Big City Bride… Michael Stagliano ABC’s The Bachelorette star in 2009, Bachelor Pad 2 winner in 2011 and Bachelor Pad 3 in 2012 tied the knot in Chicago over Memorial Day weekend, exactly two years from their first moment together in Chicago. Michael Stagliano and his beautiful fiancee Emily Tuchscherer’s love is quite the fairytale. Chrissy Magliano of Big City Bride planned the wedding of their dreams at Galleria Marchetti, an enchanting venue. The outdooor ceremony was intimate and romantic. The couple shared their vows under a beautiful structure covered in soft white draping and flower petals lining the aisle. Cocktail hour followed in the courtyard. During this time guests signed Michael and Emily’s one of a kind guest book. The couple asked each guest to help design art work for their home. Guests grabbed a bottle of spray paint and designed!

The reception moved into the tented area at Galleria Marchetti. The design was classic and elegant. The reception was full of fun surprise dances performed by the wedding party. Michael, Emily, Michael’s twin brother (married to Bachelorette winner DeAnna Stagliano) and Emily’s sister surprised guests with a dance to “Classic” by MKTO. Later, Michael and his groomsmen performed a surprise dance dedicated to Emily, which was a mix of songs showcasing Michael’s breakdancing moves. Many Bachelor/Bachelorette alums were in attendance at the wedding including: Tenley Molzahn, Kiptyn Locke, Robby Descant, Ed Swiderski and Michael Stagliano’s twin brother Stephen Stagliano with his “Bachelorette” wife DeAnna Pappas.

Photography: David Wittig Photography | Videographer: Imagique Weddings | Wedding Planner: Big City Bride | Floral Design: A Stem Above | Hair: Robert Jeffrey | Lighting: Keith Christopher Entertainment | Wedding Venue: Galleria Marchetti | Cup Cakes: Molly's Cupcakes

When it comes to wedding day beauty, Kate Johnson Artistry Bridal Team really knows how its done. From glamorous updos to that perfect smokey eye and everything in between, their team of beauty experts will make sure you look like the best you on your wedding day.  Fabulous?  We think so.  Spend your Saturday getting to know them… and check out the amazing giveaway below!

From Kate Johnson Artistry Bridal Team… Kate Johnson Artistry Bridal Team are experts at helping you develop the look your trying to achieve! Every artist on our team is an expert in their field. We all teach makeup and/or hair to other artists and travel the country working with bridal magazines and designers helping them create the looks they love. We know that every wedding is different and every bride is unique! We know you want to look your best self, not a cookie cutter of another bride.

You’ve spent hours creating this overall look and feeling for the day. Our wish is to take all of that information and create a look with you that perfectly fits you into that feeling. Are you a Vintage Bride? Classic Bride? Romantic Bride? Or a bride like no one has seen before? We’ve worked with them all and meeting you is what we’re excited to do.

At our trials we sit down with you and customize a look that makes you feel nothing less than amazing. Looking forward to meeting you!

‘Tis the season for holiday decorating, my friends, and the talented team at Art of Imagination is here to show us just how awesome it truly is.  Think rustic meets contemporary with a big ol’ side of glitter to really spice up the action.  Now add in the crazy cool venue known as Chez and Amanda Hein Photography to capture it all beautifully with her lens and, voila!  Pure perfection.  See it all here.   

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From Art of Imagination… The contemporary setting of this space with the minimal yet stunning architectural design was the perfect match for this collaboration. The theme was creating a modern enchanted winter atmosphere with a touch of sparkle and fun.

By combining wood elements in the design with the tables and chairs this offered an organic nature feel. The farm tables made the perfect setting for the gold and white chinaware with the linen napkins tied with fresh seasonal foliage which offered a slight fragrance reminisce of the holidays. Table decor doesn’t have to be about flowers as the focal so we incorporated greens, berries, white painted branches with a collection of clean and gold votives for a warm glow.

For a playful use of the taller ceiling we hung white tree branches with floating gold and platinum glass ornament balls over the tables and larger white round balloons at different heights. Lighting is always an important element as it helps set the mood. White glowing circles were projected onto the balloons and surroundings to help add that perfect touch.

Creating the right signature bar at every party is always a challenge. To keep with the same theme, two wooden farm highboy tables were placed together for a champagne station that displayed a triple cream goat brie with rosemary bread from a local bakery, petite grapes and of course delicious bottles of Champagne. A Holiday greeting was displayed on a blackboard easel surrounded with gold glitter painted leaves. Behind the bar, tiers of white vertical thin branches twinkled from white LED lights woven throughout to add that magical sparkle next to Chez’s beautiful glass staircase.

Planning Corporate Holiday parties can be fun keeping to a simple yet creative theme, knowing your budget and selecting that perfect venue. Chez offers such a clean and modern palette that you can let your imagination be adventurous.

Photography: Amanda Hein Photography | Wedding Venue: Chez Chicago | Balloons: Balloons By Tommy | Event Design + Decor: Art of Imagination | Rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals

A beautiful bride, a gorgeous dress, and subtle snow flurries to wrap up the evening; this, my friends, is one picture perfect winter wedding. As we all pack up and prepare for our holiday travels, I think we all could use a dose of pretty before the chaos begins and these photos are just that. Tamara Gruner snapped up every sparkle and snowflake and this gallery will be my source of calm for the week ahead.

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From Tamara Gruner Photography… Liz and Jack’s beautiful wedding day was filled with love – love from their family and love from their friends. While Liz was getting ready her adoring sister stood by her side, watching her with tear-filled eyes. Liz and her sister “locked” themselves into one room preparing, so her wonderful eight bridesmaids couldn’t see her until she was “ready.” As she tiptoed into the hallway her bridesmaids were waiting with their iPhones like paparazzi! Flashes went off! They wowed, swooned, and the room was filled with emotions from tears of joy.

Liz and Jack had a very traditional church wedding at St Francis. Liz’s two brothers led her down the aisle, where Jack stood waiting for his beautiful bride – tense, but smiling. The entire moment was surreal – watching Liz fight her tears as she approached Jack. The church ceremony was full of sentiments – acknowledging their dear friends and family members who were witness to this occasion and remembering their beloved ones blessing them from heaven. Those dear ones, though not present, were present throughout the day – in the church honored with words and during the cocktail hour commemorated through pictures. Also, Liz’s bouquet that she carried was wrapped with her Grandfathers scarf that he wore in the Marine’s. He passed away from cancer and was a huge part of her life so she wanted him to be with her and apart of her special day.

As Liz and Jack walked down the aisle as Mr and Mrs, for the first time, they were led by an acclaimed bagpiper from Scotland in keeping with the traditions.

After the beautiful church ceremony, steeped in tradition, Liz and Jack, along with their bridesmaids and groomsmen, braved the cold to take some enjoyable pictures against a snowy backdrop. Liz’s pretty bridesmaids were wearing black dresses, and complementing them were Jack and his handsome groomsmen / ushers. Among them all, one stood out with her white dress – our beautiful bride Liz. While their bridal party didn’t last long in the cold, Liz and Jack wanted some images while it was snowing. That definitely made for a very romantic effect!

Towards the evening guests indulged in cocktails and music at the Ruth Lake Country Club, followed by a beautiful dinner accompanied with speeches, dances and more emotions. Liz chose a white gold color theme for her cocktail and reception hours, which perfectly matched the winter scenery outside. It was a perfectly planned wedding, where everybody enjoyed a beautiful day together filled with warmth despite the freezing temperatures outside! What a wonderful winter wedding!

From The Bride… Jack proposed to me by re-creating our first date that we had together. He had a scavenger hunt throughout the city of Chicago, with a note and rose at each place that we had been together on our very first date. The last place that he led me to on the scavenger hunt was the Peninsula Hotel in Chicago, where he proposed on the grand staircase of the hotel where we then had dinner and celebrated their engagement.

Photography: Tamara Gruner Photography | Wedding Dress: Heidi Elnora Atelier | Cake: Ruth Lake Country Club | Stationery: Pixie Chicago | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Romantic Day Boutique | DJ: Sounds Abound | Groom's Attire: Vera Wang | Groomsmen's Attire: Vera Wang | Limousine: M&M Limousine | Venue: Ruth Lake Country Club | Bagpiper: Dave Johnston | Bride's Jewelry: BHLDN | Groom's Cufflinks: The Irish Jeweler | Linen: Covered Affairs | Veil: Nina | Wedding Band: The Irish Jeweler

Give me a wedding with a blush and gold color palette any day of the week and I am all sorts of happy. Now throw in a fab locale like The Chicago Botanic Garden, a sweeter than sweet duo saying “I do” and an amazing team of vendors that includes JDetailed Events, Toast And Jam and Jenelle Kappe Photography and that, my loves, is a Monday worth celebrating.  Party on right here.

From JDetailed Events… I met Daisy and Bing ten months before their wedding. I instantly connected with their vision for their wedding day and we jump started the planning right away. Daisy and Bing knew they wanted a romantic garden style wedding so I knew the Chicago Botanic Garden would be our first stop during our venue visits.

Quickly after visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden, they knew it was the perfect venue. We decided to have the ceremony in the beautiful Rose Terrace, the cocktail hour in English Walled Garden, and the reception in McGinley Pavillion.

Daisy and Bing are the sweetest couple and we quickly became friends through out the planning process. Their guests were coming in from all over the world so it was very important that the evening was perfect and enjoyed by all – and it sure was!

To keep with their romantic garden theme, we chose a color scheme of gold, whites, and soft blush. The flowers consisted of romantic garden roses and lots of peonies – Daisy’s favorite flower! The very talented Jessica Griffin with HMR Designs designed the decor to perfection!

It was a beautiful summer day and the wedding day was flawless from start to finish. The evening reflected Daisy and Bing’s personality and incorporated wonderful family traditions.

And, as if the photos aren’t enough to fall in love with this wedding – here is a recap video by Poetic Productions:

http://poeticweddings.com/events/daisy-and-bing.html

Photography: Jenelle Kappe Photography | Videographer: Poetic Productions | Wedding Planner: JDetailed Events | Wedding Dress: Marchesa | Wedding Cake: Amy Beck Cake Design | Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale | Hair And MakeUp: Belle-Row Hair and Makeup by Elena Denning | Groom's Attire: Tribut Ives Saint Laurent | Ceremony Music: Chris Sarlas Orchestra | Floral And Decor: HMR Designs | Garden: Chicago Botanic Garden | Getting Ready Location: Doonbeg Lodge | Invitations And Papere: Magnificent Milestones | Reception Entertainment: Toast and Jam

It never fails, when an engagement on the waterfront lands in my lap, my heart is sent into flip flops. And when it takes place on a dock, complete with wine and cheese, some seriously gorgeous bling and two stylish sweeties like this one from Kristin La Voie Photography? You can bet I’ll be swooning over it for some time. Join me right here!

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From Kristin La Voie Photography…Just as the summer started winding down in Chicago, we thought it would be perfect for longtime boaters Lory & Scott to end their summer on their boat “Nobody” for their engagement session. With wine, crackers, and cheese, they picnicked on the boat, cuddled up, fed each other, and snuggled in close for kisses; the perfect way to end their fantastic summer at Burnham Harbour. This beautiful area was the most picturesque place for photos overlooking Lake Michigan and Chicago’s Soldier Field. These two danced on the dock, cozied up on the bow of the boat, and warmed up under a blanket. The perfect recipe for the sweetest engagement session ever.

Photography: Kristin La Voie Photography | Venue: Burnham Harbour

Fresh wedding ideas get my heart racing and the thought of a champagne brunch reception, with a little Southern charm tossed in, and I’m sold. Held at the gorgeous Armour House outside of Chicago, this summertime fete has me absolutely swooning – and taking notes. Two Birds Photography worked their magic and I’m adding pocketed gowns, orchids and historic mansions to my list of favorites immediately.

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From Gail at GZ Weddings & Special Events… Lauren and Brian were married on Saturday, August 9, 2014 at the historic Armour House on the grounds of Lake Forest Academy in Chicago’s northwest suburbs.

Their ceremony was held outdoors on a beautiful, sunny morning. Lauren’s dream was to have a wedding and reception on a estate that was similar to the look of a southern plantation. Their event included many traditions that described good ole’ southern charm since Lauren’s family is originally from New Orleans.

Their reception immediately followed and included those southern details such as shrimp & grits, and chicken & biscuit benedicts on their brunch buffet! Their “Champagne Brunch Reception” was accompanied by music from the Elmhurst College Jazz Band who played popular tunes from the roaring 20’s and classics that everyone enjoyed.

Lauren’s wedding gown was something right off of a southern plantation! She wanted it to look simple yet elegant for their morning wedding.

The plants and centerpieces that helped achieve the look of an outdoor garden reception were brought in and created by the mother of the bride.

Photography: Two Birds Photography | Event Coordinator: GZ Weddings & Special Events | Floral Design: Stems, inc. | Cake: Poppie's Bakeshop | Venue: Armour House | Music: Elmhurst College Jazz Quartet

This Mark Zunino Bride and her handsome groom were literally surrounded with love on their wedding day. Evan Hunt captured the moments that mattered, while close family and friends gathered at Balena for an inviting celebration planned by Kelly Cavanaugh. From the six cakes baked out of love, to Artistrings rendition of Katy Perry, every detail was personal and you can see it all here.

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From The Bride…On a whim, I signed up for a beginners’ rock climbing class, thinking I should try something new and different. I noticed a good-looking guy in the advanced class. He introduced himself and we chatted briefly during class for a few weeks. Eventually he invited me to come climb with him on a Friday night. When I arrived, he encouraged me to try a move that was clearly above my skill-levl, offering to take me out for a drink if I could make it. I didn’t make it and instead fell off the wall injuring my knee, but I still got that drink. We had a blast that night and have been together ever since. We are total partners in life and we love to do things our own way. We added running, mountain biking, and wake surfing and you can always find us taking adventures together, including moving to the suburbs.

Our wedding really reflected our personal choices and who we are as a couple. From the beginning, it was important to us to have a beautiful wedding without all of the fuss. Our favorite parts of other weddings are the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. So, we decided to mash them all together and skip (almost) everything else — including a formal dinner with seat assignments — in favor of a more relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. We knew immediately that we wanted to have the wedding at Balena; the food is divine, the drinks are spectacular, the staff is amazing, and the decor reflects perfectly the things we like and the mood of the day: warm and inviting, with soft beautiful lighting, rich leather chairs, and exposed wood.

Our ceremony was “in the round,” with my law-school best friend officiating and our moms providing heartfelt personal introductions. Our family and bridal party sat in chairs around the ceremony and everyone else stood around, which lent to the intimate, family atmosphere. The introduction to my favorite Coldplay song “Reign of Love”, played as I walked down the aisle and a quartet played a version of Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” for the recessional.

After the ceremony, I changed out of my first dress and heels and into a comfortable ball-gown and flats. Dave kept me company as I had my hair twirled into a bun, and we snacked on appetizers and champagne in the quiet of Balena’s downstairs private-dining room. The reception was divine; we hand picked our favorite items off Balena’s seasonal menu, and Dave’s sister made six gorgeous cakes. We named our signature drinks “The Polly” and “The Reuben,” after the characters in “Along Came Polly” who remind us of each other. Our family and friends were in on all aspects of the wedding, my mom designed our invitations and made the groomsmen’s cufflinks. A family friend handled all the flowers. Almost all our vendors were friends, and all were in attendance to help us celebrate. We were surrounded by love at our wedding and wouldn’t have done it any other way.

Photography: Evan Hunt | Videography: Evan Hunt | Wedding Planner: Clementine Custom Events | Florist: R. Jane Morgan Interior + Design: Rjanemorgan@aol.com, 847-275-3530 | Wedding Dress: Mark Zunino | Cakes: Sweet As Cake | Bride's Shoes: Stuart Weitzmen | Jewelry: Mark Zunino | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Ann Taylor | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: JLM Couture, Inc | Hair And Makeup: Kate Johnson Artistry | String Quartet: Artistrings | Wedding Venue: Balena | Bridesmaid's Dress: Watters | Cake Stands: Nimble Well | Clutch: Judith Leiber | Custom Veil: The Giving Bride | Dress Belt: Ms. Couture | Earrings: New York Jewelers | Flower Girl's Dress: Autolive | Getting Ready Venue: Public Hotel | Groom / Groomsmen Cufflinks: McLaughlin Glazeware | Groom's Suite: Nicholas Joseph | Reception Dress: David's Bridal | Wedding Rings: New York Jewelers

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Jenny Yoo

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I love Olivia Leigh. Seriously. She captures weddings in a way that tells the prettiest of stories, and I always want to reach through the screen and kiss her for it. This chic Chicago soiree is a wonderful example, because boy does it have a story to tell. With literary nods tucked throughout the floral-filled reception, it’s all as gorgeous as it is meaningful, and you can see just what I mean here.

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Detail wise, this one was a stunner, with an enormous and lush bouquet which we often don’t get in the city. The maids wore a dress of their choosing in pink, gold or blue. Table decor paid more nods to the literary bent with many different quotes about love from a variety of authors printed on one side of the menu cards along with, of course, the menu on the other side. It was so fun to walk around and read all the different quotes and it really lent a super personalized feel to the day! Card tables were done as library call number cards with ivy and greenery spilling out of card catalogs. Tables featured rustic summer blooms along with golden pears and candle light. Angelo is Italian and many of the guests were from Italy. Limoncello paid homage to his heritage with his dad giving a beautiful toast, and the backs of the bride and groom chairs reading Avere & Tenere (to have and to hold). All of this of course was beautifully accented by the amazing architectural gem that is the Cultural Center! Emily and Angelo did my favorite first dance EVER to Be My Baby by the Ronettes which was just so special in this space. Lastly, the invitations were AMAZING with vintage postcards of Chicago reproduced as Save the Dates and beautiful custom calligraphy by Jilly Ink & Sarah Drake Design pulling in their beautiful color scheme. It was just gorgeous!

Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie | Coordinator: Estera Events | Florist: Fleur Inc | Wedding Gown: Jenny Packham | Cake: Dominos Pastries | Invitations: Sarah Drake Design | Ceremony Venue: Holy Family Church | Catering: Blue Plate | Calligraphy: Jilly Ink | Groom's Attire: Suitsupply | Officiant: Fr. John Belmonte | Venue: Chicago Cultural Center | Music: Style Matters DJs | Rentals: re:find Joy

Having grown up on a farm, I adore when a couple opts for wide open spaces and an oh-so lovely landscape for their nuptials. Farm Friends NFP proved to be the perfect place and with Tonya Tuitman behind the scenes every moment sparkled (just like the Bride’s bouquet!). After taking a peek at all the pretty snapped up by the talented Peter Gubernat, this cream of the crop gallery has me feeling right at home.

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From Peter Gubernat…Chantel and Chris are a pretty awesome couple. Aside from the strong love they have for each other, they have an awesome story to tell.

When Chantel was younger, she was in a pretty bad car accident. Through a number of operations she had a number of metal plates grafted to her bones. Through intensive therapy and rehab the plates were removed and she saved them in a jar for 16 years.

Now, enter Chris. Knowing Chantel had these metal plates, what better way to express his love for her than making his wedding ring from those same metal plates? That’s exactly what he did.

I hope you enjoy their epic wedding at a beautiful farm house location.

Photography: Peter Gubernat | Event Design: Tonya Tuitman | Wedding Dress: Ivy And Aster | Catering: Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa | Hair & Makeup: Hale Koa phineas Estate | Farm: Farm Friends NFP

Some weddings are romantic, some are adorable; others are whimsical, and some just look like one fun party. This Chicago celebration is all of that and more. A beautiful bride, gorgeous florals, cool venue, and a gelato AND cookie bar make this celebration unlike any other. Cristina G caught every smile and this gallery leaves me feeling very jealous of all those lucky guests.

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From The Bride… We met in the theater in 2007. We were cast in one of the best and most romantic musicals of all time, “West Side Story.” Daniel played “Baby John” and I was a dancer and “girlfriend of Diesel” in the “Jet” gang. We became great friends through long rehearsals and the run of the show. We started dating and realized very quickly we were good for each other’s soul. We dated for seven years which took us from our hometown Milwaukee, WI to Chicago, IL. Along the way we “grew up” together, became best friends, held each other’s hand through really hard times, and supported each other through our greatest successes. Being struggling artists is not easy, but Daniel is the person you want at the finish line when you have nothing left and I’m the person encouraging you along the way. 

It was in year six when the proposal happened. We had finally found our place in Chicago. I was coming home on a rainy evening from work and messaged Dan to see if he’d pick me up from the train to avoid the wet walk home. He replied “I’m at work babe.” I walked home and noticed on the front door to our building, was taped a white envelope that said “Holly.” Inside read a list of reasons why Dan loved me. I walked up the three flights of stairs to another envelope – more reasons. I paused, knowing what was going on, and took a deep breath. Inside I found more letters, flowers, and pictures of our 6 year journey scattered everywhere amongst candles! I walked through our apartment and found more letters leading me to our back porch. I opened the door and found Dan, in a fancy suit surrounded by twinkle lights with our song playing. He got down on one knee and opened the box. In true fashion, I swore like a sailor, and said YES! The ring was custom made by Dan and is spectacular!

Photography: Cristina G Photography | Wedding Planner: Soiree Weddings & Events | Florist: Vale Of Enna | Wedding Dress: Rivini | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Jewell Events | Makeup Artist: Shannon O'Brien MUA | Hair Stylist: Jane Roberts Salon Kelly Cunningham | DJ: DJK Entertainment | Mens Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Transportation: Loyalty Limo | Ceremony & Reception: Salvage One | Gelato Cart: Black Dog Gelato | Musicians: Acoustic Generation

As high school sweethearts AND college sweethearts, these two lovebirds, they’ve got a love that runs deep. So when it came to choosing their wedding venue, an at-home affair with their nearest and dearest made perfect sense. With the help of An Affair To Remember, they pulled of the Kate Spade-esque elegant style they had in mind and it’s pretty darn cute if I might say so myself. Head to the full gallery from Louie Abellera for more!

From An Affair To Remember…Mariah and Austin were high school and college sweethearts. Their love for each other was undeniable. So grounded and down to earth, they knew all along that they didn’t want to have their wedding reception at a traditional venue, but instead in the backyard of Mariah’s childhood home. Mariah’s vision from the start was simple; she wanted an elegant, backyard wedding. Her style was a bit more challenging; she wanted it to feel like Kate Spade without going overboard or feeling like a circus. I think we achieved exactly what she wanted!

Many, many detail went into the planning of this wedding. First, we hired MDM Entertainment, not only for DJ and lighting services, but to bring in a company to transform the outdoor pool into a dance floor. Then, we meet with Elegant Presentations to bring the “Kate Spade” vision to life. We hired Blue Peak Tents to bring in a large outdoor tent (because no one should take the risk of having an outdoor wedding in Illinois without a tent!). Lastly, we worked with Fleur Couture to dress the tables up and down with beautiful floral. The entire day was captured beautifully with the help of Louie Abellera Photography.

I’ve never seen a bride and groom smile as much as they did on their wedding day. Mariah and Austin were on cloud nine, over the moon with happiness. From their extravagant balloon release at the ceremony, to their 1st dance over the pool, to their send off at the end of the night with giant sparklers, I think they accomplished everything they wished for in their wedding day. We couldn’t have been more honored to have been a part of this beautiful day.

Photography: Louie Abellera | Event Planning: An Affair To Remember | Florist: Fleur Couture | Ceremony: College Church | Reception: Bride's House | Catering: True Cuisine | Tent: Blue Peak Tents | Lighting / Staging / Music: MDM Entertainment | Linens/tables/chairs: Elegant Presentations

Clary Pfeiffer has a beautiful way with the camera. So when she steps behind the lens to capture a wedding as chic and classic as this beauty, I know we are in for a treat. And let me just tell you, this gallery is certainly a treat. Modern and sophisticated, this couples’ beautiful day plays out like a dream, leaving us with a stunning collection of images that each look like a work of art. See them all here.

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From The Bride…Keith always says it was love at first sight, but it took me a little longer. We met our first year in college at DePauw University; Greencastle, Indiana. Three years later, we started dating. Since then, we’ve been together through six moves, five jobs, four apartments, and now, one wedding. Long distance isn’t for everyone, but it made us strong communicators, and an even stronger couple. Now that we’re in the same place and life has settled down, we couldn’t be happier.

When you have the perfect Chicago spring day, everything seems to go right. And that’s exactly what happened on May 31, 2014. It was a warm 72 degrees with a lake breeze, and after nearly eight years together, we were getting married. From the ceremony to the reception, the day moved beautifully. The feel of our Museum of Contemporary Art party was fresh and modern, with clean lines and all white tables. We aimed for timeless elegance, yet kept the celebration chic and current. Nothing says spring like white tulips, peonies, and ranunculus (bride’s favorite flower), which were spread throughout the main gallery floor. To make the grand gallery space feel more intimate, yet still dramatic, we opted for two long king’s tables to seat our 175 guests. Perhaps our favorite memory of the day was dancing our first dance, as the Bubbly Creek Band played. Our love for Bluegrass music is something we enjoy as a couple, and their performance was fresh and fun–a great way to transition into the party! We couldn’t have asked for more love and energy from our guests!

Photography: Clary Pfeiffer Photography | Floral Design: Fleur Inc | Cake: Gingersnap Sweets & Such | Ceremony Venue: Old St. Patrick's Church | Reception Venue: Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Wolfgang Puck Catering | Make Up: Christina Stokes | DJ: Stitely Entertainment | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Transportation: Trolley Car & Bus Co. | Bride's Clutch: Diane Von Furstenberg | Bride's Dress And Veil: BHLDN | Music: Bubbly Creek Bluegrass Band