Illinois Weddings

Anna Guziak is making my Monday morning seriously lovely thanks to this pretty party she sent our way, and I could barely wait to hit publish and share it with all of you. It’s a wedding complete with a dress that I’ve been dreaming of since I set my sights on it, fun florals as far as the eye can see and our favorite detail of all – love. This duo was surrounded not only by the prettiness they created, but also a troop of family and friends who couldn’t be more thrilled. And how can you not adore that? See more right here.

From the Bride… The venue my husband and I chose is a really unique space in Chicago’s West Loop called Prairie Production. The walls are white and there is a lot of natural light, so I thought it would be fun to incorporate these characteristics into our theme. The bridesmaids wore white dresses and our invitations were printed with white ink on a natural colored paper. To contrast the white, we added vibrant colors with flowers and decor. Our good friend Nathan was our floral designer and he did an amazing job of warming the venue’s ambiance and creating breathtaking spaces for our ceremony & reception. He set the tone for a beautiful and fun night filled with warmth, laughter and love.

I was a very lucky bride in that I had a lot of help from family and friends in my wedding planning. As I mentioned before, my friend Nathan did our flowers and decor; my godmother was our officient; my sister (and made of honor) did my makeup; and I’m a graphic designer, so I was able to do all of the invitations & print pieces for our event. These personal touches helped to make our wedding an immensely special occasion that truly reflected both my husband and myself.

Wedding Photography: Anna Guziak / Wedding Venue: Prairie Production in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design + Decor: Nathan Waldo / Ceremony Music: Larkspur Strings / Wedding Dress: Pronovias via Dimitra’s Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bride’s Earrings: The Parisian Flea / Bridesmaid Dresses: BCBG / Groom’s Attire: DKNY / Groomsmen shoes: Adidas / Hair: Trisha from Salon Buzz

When an entire family gets involved in your Big Day, it makes everything that much more special. Which is why this beautiful bride and her dapper groom enlisted the help of mothers, brothers, cousins and fathers alike to pull off their dream wedding.  The result?  A downright fabulous day with table numbers DIYed by the mother of the bride, milk glass centerpieces from grandma’s collection and a ceremony performed by the bride’s cousin-in-law.  Don’t miss a minute captured by Cage + Aquarium in the full gallery.  It’s beyond beautiful.

From the Bride… My husband is from Minneapolis, Minnesota and I grew up in central Illinois. We both moved to Chicago after college and enjoyed everything the city had to offer. When we started planning our wedding, our main goal was to make it easy for our guests who were traveling to celebrate with us. We chose Galleria Marchetti for both our ceremony and reception venue and arranged for trolleys so that our guests could arrive in style, stress free. 

Many of the vendors we selected ended up having one fabulous thing in common – they were women running their own small businesses! I was so happy to support their passions and truly enjoyed working with them all. Etsy was a source of great inspiration and many last minute purchases. I was also very lucky to be able to incorporate family history into our décor. We used antique milk glass from both my grandmothers’ collections to hold the floral centerpieces, displayed wedding photos from both sides of the family, and my mother and a friend even DIY’d the table numbers!

Our wedding was indeed a family affair – my cousin’s husband and his father were our officiants, both our cousins read Scriptures, and my brother, his roommate, and my mother’s college roommate provided the music before and during our ceremony…people are still talking about how great they sounded! There were so many wonderful people who worked together to make our day special…the feeling of gratitude was overwhelming.

Wedding Photography: Cage + Aquarium / Venue + Catering: Galleria Marchetti in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Pollen / Cupcakes: Simply Sinful Cupcakes / DJ: DJ Moppy from Cage + Aquarium / Escort Cards: Calligraphy with Style / Table Numbers: DIY by the Bride’s Mother & Friend / Photobooth: Shutterbooth Chicago / Transportation: Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Company / Wedding Dress: Blu by Mori Lee via Bridal Elegance / Bride’s Shoes: Nina via Von Maur / Veil: Country Lace / Jewelry: Nadri via Von Maur / Hairpins: Embellishing You / Hair + Makeup: Josie from Sine Qua Non / Bridesmaids’ Attire: Bari Jay “#230” / Bridesmaid clutches: Yellowcloth / Groomsmen Attire: Pronto Uomo via Men’s Wearhouse + The Tie Bar / Cufflinks: Mister Manatee / Rings: dimend Scaasi

Sometimes the chicest of affairs take place in sleek hotels with chandeliers and floor to ceiling marble. But this day is more than its beautiful surroundings. What makes this wedding even more grandeur is not one amazing tuxedo, but two. From a pin symbolizing something old, new and blue attached to the lapel of one groom to be and right on through to Pen/Carlson photography capturing family and friends joining together in this most joyous occasion; you can watch it all unfold right here.

From Anticipation Events… Eric + Mike were married at Public Hotel Chicago in Chicago in October. Full disclosure: Eric and Mike live in Omaha and own an amazing hair salon there. Eric has been my hair stylist since I was 15 years old. He loves to tell the story of me running into the salon after a soccer game with a towel twisting up my still wet hair an hour before the Homecoming dance. So obviously this man can work miracles.

When they told me they were getting married in Chicago I insisted I would coordinate, mostly because I wanted to attend. I regret nothing. They flew 20 of their closest family and friends to Chicago and spent the weekend enjoying their company before getting hitched on Sunday. It was an exquisite event to say the least. Since they had just 20 guests at the wedding, they threw a dinner party to end all dinner parties. Seriously. It was six courses of delicacies and the Dom was flowing nonstop. Service at the Public Hotel was excellent and Botanicals created an amazing ombre centerpiece that spanned the length of the table.

After dinner they enjoyed drinks on the terrace and a second helping of dessert from the scrumptious dessert table that the pastry chef at Public whipped up. There’s something to be said for a small and intimate wedding and this one was really quite lovely.

Wedding Photography: Pen/Carlson / Day-of Coordination: Anticipation Events / Wedding Venue: Public Chicago in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Catering + Dessert Table: Public Chicago / Floral Design: Botanicals Chicago / Officiant: Chicago Wedding Judge / Suits: Hugo Boss Black Label, Lanvin + Escada / Bow Ties: Ralph Lauren / Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo + Gucci

This is one of those e-sessions that just makes you happy.  Happy because engagements are just so darn wonderful and these two cuties are embracing every moment of it.  Whether they are frolicking on the beach, hugging in the park or just looking downright spectacular for a night on the town, they are 100%, without a doubt, head over heels in LOVE.  And how could that NOT fill your entire body with joy? Click here for a gallery overflowing with beautiful moments captured by Jacobus Photography.  It’s sooo good.

From Jacobus Photography… When we got the chance to photograph an engagement session in Chicago my husband and I were ecstatic! It was my first time visiting the windy city and couldn’t have been more excited. The couple, Andrea and Sean, are living in uptown Chicago and thought that Lincoln Park and the beach would be a perfect spot at sunset. After we shot around the park we went to Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel where we continued to shoot night portraits. It set the perfect romantic scene for Andrea and Sean as the sun went down and the city lights lit up. 

Wedding Photography: Jacobus Photography / Locations: Lincoln Park + Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Both in Chicago, Illinois

Who is that jumping on the bed? Why – it’s the boys. That first look of shyness and a swipe of a tear? The oh-so-sweet nearly-weds. And then the invitation to kiss the bride? It’s now official. Watch the highlight film from I Do Films, and you’ll catch the quick, but firm and loving squeeze between a father and daughter. You’ll also see a gorgeous ballroom filled with luxury and months of planning! But wait, personal poetry for each guest written by Rose Metal Press? One of the most unique personal touches we’ve ever seen. This, my friends, is a wedding worth it’s weight in gold! From Lori at LOLA Event Productions and Brandon Wong Photography, a classically elegant wedding full of pure love and loveliness.

See all those special moments in the highlight film from I Do Films.

Yujin & Nan | A Wedding at The Peninsula Chicago from I Do Films on Vimeo.

From Lori at LOLA Event Productions… Yujin and Nan tied the knot on October 6, 2012 in a ceremony at Rockefeller Chapel at the University of Chicago and then celebrated in a reception for 200 friends and family at the Peninsula Hotel downtown Chicago – the bride’s home town.  Yujin’s inspiration was fall in wine country – as the couple currently resides in San Francisco. They wanted to bring a little of the romance of California to the Midwest.  Using a base of white and ivory, then weaving in some traditional fall foliage like liquid amber and pops of warm coral and orange, the ballroom at the Peninsula was warm and inviting on a cool autumn day.  In a nod to their love for poetry – 3 poets welcomed guests into cocktail hour by penning original poems based on thier topic requests on their vintage typewriters. Cocktails were followed by a gourmet dinner and dancing in the Grand Salon.  As a tribute to the groom’s Chinese heritage, the cake plates were painted with a raspberry double happiness – a good luck symbol traditionally displayed at Chinese weddings.

Wedding Photography: Brandon Wong Photography / Wedding Planning + Design: Lori Stephenson of LOLA Event Productions  / Wedding Cinematography: I Do Films / Wedding Ceremony Venue: Rockefeller Chapel at the University of Chicago / Wedding Reception Venue + Catering + Cake: The Peninsula-Chicago / Personal Flowers + Decor + Lighting: Kehoe Designs / Hair: Jenna of Sonia Roselli / Makeup: Andie Cumber / Ceremony + Cocktail String Duo: MaryMonica Music  / Wedding Reception Music: Christy Bennet and the Fumee Gypsy Project + DJ Chaz / Poet: Kathleen Rooney of Rose Metal Press, Inc.

I’m just going to come right out and say it – I am addicted to Etsy.  Like spend hours online, shop ’til I drop, can’t get enough crafty goodness addicted.  It’s awesome.  So, when I read that this beautiful bride happens to be an Etsy connoisseur of drop-dead gorgeous hair pieces, I knew I was going to love her… and her dashing beau.  And with one sweetly crafted DIY detail after another, beautiful blooms by Nancy Krause Floral Design and a gallery of amazing images captured by Life On Prints Photography, a new addiction has begun.  Click here for so much more and then stay tuned for a pretty, pretty film from Oak Street Films below.

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From the Bride… Jeremy and I met at the University of Illinois in 2006 at an ’80s-themed mixer between his fraternity and my sorority. I was 18, he was 22, and there was an unmistakable, immediate attraction between us. Nearly six years and a lot of growing up later, we got engaged and committed to being partners for life. As of late October, we are happily wed and living in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago! When deciding on the specifics of our special day, we tried to incorporate personal and handmade touches, while still keeping it elegant, classy and timeless. Saint Joseph is the oldest Catholic church in the area, with sky-high stained glass windows, a super-long aisle and large altar to accommodate our jolly and giant wedding party. Our reception venue, Michigan Shores Club, is a hidden gem in Wilmette, situated right along Lake Michigan. Its English Tudor style and vaulted ceilings exhibit the work of the architect Daniel Burnham, who designed such Chicago icons as Union Station and the Rookery Building.

My mom and I create and sell unique hair accessories together on Etsy, so it was a no-brainer to showcase some “Jill’s Boutique” originals. For the ceremony, I wore a simple cathedral-length veil and blusher. At the reception, I donned a cap-like hairpiece made of various vintage rhinestone appliqués, as well as a lacy garter with an azure colored bauble (my something blue). While I had a hand in the design, all three accessories were made with love by my mom. My bridal bouquet was wrapped in my maternal grandmother’s lace hanky, with my paternal grandmother’s rhinestone brooch pinned to it. Each bridesmaid chose a one-of-a-kind sparkler from our shop; some had on headbands, while others wore combs. I liked that my girls were able to express their individual personalities. My 2-year-old nephew and ring bearer, Andrew, carried yet another piece of my mom’s handiwork: a ring pillow artfully combining silk and vintage lace from France, as well as hand-embroidery with a verse from the first reading in our mass, Song of Songs. So special. Our ceremony was memorable and romantic, perfectly described by one guest as “traditional … with pizzazz.”

When planning our reception, Jeremy and I agreed on three must-haves: good food, good music and good fun. We also endeavored to extend the meaningful, handmade touches into the evening portion of our wedding. I designed, stamped and embossed the menus and escort cards. We had friends and family sign a guest book I created on MyPublisher displaying our engagement photos. We placed hand-tied sprigs of rosemary and bay leaves at each place setting, a nod to my husband’s Dutch heritage (our now-shared last name means herb merchant or grocer, and rosemary symbolizes fidelity). Our whimsical bird cake toppers, again created by my mom, complemented the organic elements of our day (i.e. herbs at each plate, artichoke and kale in the floral arrangements). Plus, I LOVE bird motifs – our home is filled with them!  During his toast, my husband’s twin brother and best man, Ryan, quoted the poet William Yeats, and it really resonated with me. He said, “The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to become sharper.” Of course, our wedding day was magical to Jeremy and me. But it was not just about having the perfect venues, gorgeous flowers, or even the most fabulous hairpiece. It was the magic behind having our loved ones in one room, people who support us as a couple and believe in our commitment to one another. That’s what it was really all about, and for that, we are forever thankful.

Wedding Photography: Life On Prints Photography / Ceremony: St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wilmette, Illinois / Reception: Michigan Shores Club in Wilmette, Illinois / Floral Design: Nancy Krause Floral Design / Wedding Cinematography: Oak Street Films / Wedding Cake: Oak Mill Bakery / Cake Toppers: DIY by the Bride’s Mother / Herbs: English Hedgerow / Wedding Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas / Programs, Menus + Escort Cards: DIY by the Bride with Paper via Paper Source / Music: Steve Edwards Orchestra / Wedding Dress: Enzoani via Dimitra’s Bridal / Bride’s Veil, Bride’s Hair Piece + Bridesmaids’ Hair Pieces: Jill’s Boutique (Owned by the Bride & Her Mother) / Bride’s Faux Fur Bolero: Fabulous Furs / Bride’s Shoes: Angela Nuran of The Left Bank Bridal Finery / Bride’s Earrings: Vintage / Bride’s Bracelet: Nadri via Von Maur / Bride’s Engagement + Wedding Rings: Donna Jewelry Co. / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bill Levkoff / Bride’s + Bridesmaids’ Hair: Filippo Aliperta of Estetica / Bride’s Makeup: Isabel Fuente for Bobbi Brown / Groom’s Tuxedo: Jos. A. Bank / Groomsmen’s Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse

This couple is gorgeous. That is easy to see in all the breathtaking images from Evan Hunt Photo. But I can tell they are beyond beautiful on the inside too from the Bride’s sweet description. It’s perfectly heart warming. And their winter engagement session with the stunning Chicago skyline serving proudly as their backdrop? It couldn’t have turned out more perfect…which this couple couldn’t deserve more. See it all right here.

From the Bride… Andre and I started dating shortly after the loss of my mother. To me, he has become more than just my spouse, he has become the person I trust with all of my heart and the person who helped me get out of a very dark time in my life. We only know how to have fun with each other, and even when I am being a pain he knows how to deal with me. After about a year, Andre proposed to me in July 2012 on top of the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier on a very HOT day. I was the happiest girl alive at that moment. I couldn’t believe it that my dream was finally coming true. My dream was not only to marry the man of my dreams but also to finally get the chance to live near him. Andre is a member of the United States Army and we have been forced to spend many nights apart and have our relationship via technology.

We originally planned on waiting until summer of 2014, but when we found out he would be deploying at the beginning of 2013, we knew we had to jump on the ball. So in September 2012, I went and visited him in Colorado, where he is stationed, and we tied the knot. Although we are now a married couple and I am happier than I have ever been, I still want what every little girl wants: a fairy tale wedding. We are not doing things in the correct order, but I know I will have everything every other brides get the chance to enjoy. We just did our engagement pictures and could not be any happier! Next up is the planning for the wedding while he is gone protecting our country. The decision to get married and become an Army wife was not an easy one, but I know it was the right one for the both of us. I love my husband with all of my heart.

Photography: Evan Hunt Photo / Location: Chicago, Illinois / Bride’s Boots: Etienne Aigner / Bride’s Jacket + Watch: Michael Kors / Bride’s Scarf: J.Crew / Groom’s Shoes, Jacket + Shirt: Polo Ralph Lauren

We love it when couples brave the cold weather and get outside for their engagement sessions, no matter what the season. These adorable New York transplants must have felt right at home in the cold weather and Olivia Leigh Photographie captured such a great variety of images. We love them all. Click here for more!

From Olivia Leigh Photographie… I photographed Ivana and Kevin around the West Loop for a more urban look, which was a perfect fit for these recent New York transplants! Ivana and Kevin are just the sweetest couple, and we had the most picturesque fall day! I get a lot of requests for photo inspiration for cold weather shoots, and I thought they looked so stylish in their cream coat and brown leather jacket. Perfectly warm and chic!

Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie / Location: West Loop, Chicago, Illinois

Though currently snow-covered and experiencing the blustery winds of winter, Chicago has a magical something that manages to warm my heart despite the below-zero temps. And when my favorite city produces a wedding as lovely as this one at Venue SIX10 from Erica Rose Photography, I fall in love a little bit more. See every last gorgeous image in the full gallery!

From Erica Rose Photography… Jessica is an incredibly talented and detail-oriented bride who really made their wedding unique. She used thoughtful and creative touches such as Russian doll-shaped terrariums on the tables and custom-screenprinted tote bags as favors. She personally designed their programs, which were amazing. There were succulents in all of the florals, including bouquets and centerpieces. Venue SIX10 is a lesser known but absolutely stunning location, right in the heart of the Chicago Loop on Michigan Avenue. I’m certain that if more people knew that this venue were there, they would be all over it! The views from the terrace are the best in the city, and floor-to-ceiling windows make the city lights into a sparkling backdrop during dinner. Alex and Jessica were dedicated to their dance lessons and gave an amazing choreographed show to their guests during the first dance, one of the highlights of the night for sure. Even more important than having planned a gorgeous wedding is the fact that Alex and Jessica are two wonderful and genuine people with the sweetest family and friends around.

Wedding Photography: Erica Rose Photography / Ceremony: St. Alphonsus Church in Chicago, Illinois / Reception: Venue SIX10 in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Marguerite Gardens Florist / Catering: Wolfgang Puck / Accommodations: Swissotel Chicago / Wedding Dress: White by Vera Wang

Oh Chicago, you might be experiencing some colder than normal temperatures this week (and that’s an understatement), but you sure do know how to give me the warm and fuzzies with your charming ways. And your adorable couples, and their adorable engagement sessions. And when all of that is seen through the lens of Brosnan Photographic, it’s enough to make your forget for a moment how chilly it is outside, because these images are heartwarming and then some. See them all here!

From Brosnan Photographic… Natalie and Sal chose downtown Chicago for the backdrop of their engagement shoot. As a stylish couple who love city life, it was the perfect choice. We started at the river on Michigan Avenue, stopped at the giant bean to get a view of the city, headed on the L train at State Street and finished with a few more portraits near the river.

Photography: Brosnan Photographic / Location: Chicago, Illinois

I’ve got two words for: gelato bar. Oh, how I love that fabulous dessert and I’m pretty sure I now need to convince all my engaged friends that they have to have one at their wedding. So original and so pretty. And it doesn’t stop there! This gorgeous bride planned an entire Napa meets France wedding and the result was absolutely beautiful. We’ve got Kate Miller Photography to thank for all these pretty images and you can see even more right here.

From the Bride… We got married on October 6, 2012 after being together eight years! When planning our big day, we just tried to stay true to who we are as a couple and make it as personal as possible. This is best seen in our ceremony. Instead of classical music, we asked our string quartet to play our favorites. Our parents walked in to the Beatles’ “In My Life,” the bridesmaids entered to Elton John’s “Our Song,” and I walked down the aisle to The Beatles “Here Comes the Sun.” We got married in a nondenominational chapel in Glenview. Mike’s dad greeted the audience and gave a Jewish blessing (as Mike is Jewish). Then my dad, a Cook County judge, officiated. He spoke about us a couple, and then Mike and I exchanged our own personally written vows. A mutual friend of ours sang Gershwin’s “Someone to Watch Over Me,” a favorite of my grandmother who couldn’t be there. We exited the chapel to the Beatles’ “All You Need is Love,” accompanied by Mike’s cousin and groomsmen on the trumpet. I think we succeeded in making it personal!

As for the rest of the wedding, Mike and I are wine lovers and have traveled to Napa and France together. We decided we wanted our guests to feel as if they were on a French vineyard in the countryside. Our florist immediately got the idea and ran with it. She used soft pinks, light celery greens and created romantic feel for our flowers. In the arrangements. she used grapes and berries, such as raspberries. At the reception, we came up with the idea of calling the space “Chateau Brown.” The centerpieces were manzanita trees that we hoped would give a natural, green, canopy feel to the room. We named each table after a different type of wine and placed wine labels on wine bottles that said, “Chateau Brown. Est. Oct. 6, 2012.” Our favors were purple chocolate grapes!

My mother and I really enjoyed the planning and tried to put as many personal touches in as we could. We made the programs, placecards, and gift card holder. We choose to have a gelato cart late in the evening and made our own sign with different puns for each flavor (Mr. and Mrs. Brown-ie Delight, anyone?). She also helped me pick out my dress — the most important part!  After searching many stores, I found a gorgeous Reem Acra that I fell in love with. What sold me, is when they told this Audrey Hepburn lover that the dress was called “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Done! Overall, I was so happy with our wedding. I was also SO pleased with our photographers at Kate Miller Photography. They were such a blast to work with, and we adore the photos. 

Wedding Photography: Kate Miller Photography / Ceremony: Schram Memorial Chapel in Glenview, Illinois / Reception: The Glen Club in Glenview, Illinois / Floral Design: Four Finches / Wedding Cake: Oak Mill Bakery / Gelato Cart: Via Gelato / Wedding Invitations: Carlson Craft + Mi-Te Printing / Programs + Place Cards: DIY by Bride + Her Mother / Menu + Table Cards: Documents and Designs / Ceremony Music: Amaryllis Strings / Reception DJ: Erica of Toast & Jam / Photo Booth: The Traveling Photo Booth / Favors: Morkes Chocolates / Wedding Dress: Reem Acra via Bella Bianca / Bride’s Shoes: L.K. Bennett / Bride’s Hair Accessory: Bel Aire Bridal via Reddington Bridal / Bride’s Earrings: Susan G. Allen / Hair: Katie Bauer of Salon 117 / Makeup: Salon 117 / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bill Levkoff / Groomsmen’s Tuxes: Black Tie Formalwear / Groomsmen’s Ties: The Tie Bar / Rings: Ethan Lord Jewelry

Ten years is a big milestone in any relationship, and this adorable couple marked theirs with an engagement ring! Their engagement photos, taken by Katherine Salvatori Photography, capture their understandable joy, and you can see all of the fun (and the bride-to-be’s gorgeous ring!) in the full gallery!

From Katherine Salvatori Photography… Sarah and Steve celebrated their 10-year anniversary this year, marking a decade of love with an engagement. These high school sweethearts currently live in the heart of downtown Chicago, and they wanted their engagement session to embody their love of the city and their home. North Avenue beach was the perfect location for them with its skyline view, lake, people, and the business of the city. They are so much fun and easy-going, and we had a blast working together. I’m so excited when I am able to work with couples truly in love like Sarah and Steve are. I can’t wait for their wedding day!

Photography: Katherine Salvatori Photography / Location: Chicago, Illinois

Talk about an all star team. Jeremy Lawson Photography and his camera, Engaging Events by Ali and their creative minds, Exquisite Designs, Inc. and the greenest thumbs out there… Even Toast and Jam to keep the party going late into the evening. If ever a wedding was destined to be pure perfection, this was it. Add so much love into the mixture and you’ve got a gallery that is worth a peek or three. Click here for more!

From Engaging Events by Ali … Megan and David’s wedding was about celebrating! Celebrating in a lovely ceremony preformed by a good family friend and celebrating by dancing the night away. There was a Scotch and Bubbly Bar at cocktail hour and a lovely seated dinner with full bar and dancing to Toast and Jam DJs. The wedding took place at Room 1520, a cool lofty space in the West Loop area of Chicago. 

Photography: Jeremy Lawson Photography / Flowers: Exquisite Designs, Alexandra Jusino / Event Planning & Design: Engaging Events by Ali and Exquisite Designs / Venue: Room 1520 / Invitations: Clementine Ink / Draping: Art of Imagination / Catering: Food Evolution / DJ: Toast and Jam

I feel like if I went to this wedding, I’d still be talking about it to this day. You know how some weddings are just totally fabulous and the bride and groom think of absolutely everything? Well, this is one of those weddings. From the 16 piece swing band to the vintage arcade games, this wedding must have been off the charts fun! Pen/Carlson captured it all and you can click here for even more.

Don’t miss their fab wedding film from I Do Films!

From the Bride… My favorite DIY project was the creation of our custom postcards, which we created in lieu of a guest book. Marc and I are huge movie lovers, so instead of doing a typical guestbook, we decided to do postcards. But we decided to print a different image on EACH postcard — each one a screen grab from a moment of love in all our favorite films. We pre-addressed each postcard to our home and stamped them. Then we had suitcases filled with postcards and pens, and beautiful signs explaining what to do. We even found an antique mail sorting panel to put the cards in once written. At the end of the event, my mom collected the postcards and sent them to us in small chunks after we got back from our honeymoon. It was a great way to keep remembering the event over a longer period of time and made the joy of the wedding last that much longer. Plus, it was fun to see what movies each of our friends and family picked!

We had to move our ceremony inside at the last minute due to a SEVERE storm that came all of a sudden, but we made it work and still beautiful. Our good friend Doug married us atop the stairs at Architectural Artifacts while the crowd sat patiently below drinking delicious infused ice waters handed out upon arrival and fanning themselves with ivory fans to combat the Chicago August heat and humidity. With the help of my event planner and designer, Erin Patrick (now with Todd Events), Marc and I used our vision to borrow from the MANY antiques the venue has to offer (and will lend to you for your event!) to create vignettes with an eclectic and vintage look that was uniquely ours for the night. Lots of illumination kept the venue warm and sparkling like it would have done in the ’20s, and instead of over the top flower arrangements, we used many many clusters of unique flowers in a variety of beautiful crystal and metal vases. White lace patterned ginger jars graced our sweetheart table to separate ourselves from the crowd — as did antique white dining chairs. And every table was laded up with floating candles, candelabras, and candles atop candlesticks that danced and flickered around the room, bringing it to life, and reflecting in the many pieces of metal, glass and crystal decorating the room. We continued this theme of “collections” in flowers, and displays, and even to the cakes. Instead of having one massive cake, I decided to have a “collection of cakes.” Seven beautiful cakes were displayed on a vintage cart – each one beautiful in it’s own regard, but linking back to each other in color, ribbons, lace, cameos and rhinestones – so that they reflected both my dress and the invitations that originally kicked off the event designs. I worked closely with Amy Beck to make these come to life, and keep a theme so that they all felt of the same family. The rest of the food, was equally impressive, as Food Evolution brought to us an amazing four-course meal, in addition to signature cocktail and regular cocktails at the cocktail hour with heavy apps, and they ended the night with a large variety of late night snacks.

For the start of the reception, into the first few hours of dancing, we had an amazing 16-piece swing band play. Then for the second half of the night, we had a DJ come on to really take the crowd to the next level and really just DANCE the night away. For those who didn’t like to dance, we made to sure have an alternate entertainment. We rented six vintage arcade games that were located just off the dance floor, so everyone could still hear the music and see each other, but not necessarily dance. It was a great way to keep people entertained, and it was especially fun to see older aunts and uncles let their child side out and compete against each other again. All in all, it was an amazing event that we are very proud of. We worked really hard to put it together, and it was totally worth it. We could not have been luckier to have such an amazing wedding and are so thankful to all those who helped make it happen for us! Please see the list of credits below, and ask them to make your event just as amazing – as I could not be more grateful to them for making my dreams come true!

Wedding Photography: Pen/Carlson / Wedding Venue: Architectural Artifacts in Chicago, Illinois / Event Planning: Erin Patrick McDonald / Wedding Cinematography: I Do Films / Catering: Food Evolution / Wedding Cakes: Amy Beck Cake Design / Cake Topper: Lollipop Workshop / Invitations + Branding: Camden Richards of Liminal Press + Bindery / Band: Alan Gresik Swing Shift Orchestra / DJ: Style Matters DJs / Decor: Formerly EP2 Productions / Favors: Garrett’s Popcorn / Accommodations: Hotel Allegro / Vintage Games: Chicago Pinball / Transportation: Aries Charter Transportation Inc. / Welcome Bags, Dancing Shoes, Tags,  Signage, Post Card Guest Book, Seating Cards, Favor Labels, Ring Holder Book, Cake Station Signs, Welcome Bag Ornaments + Bridesmaids’ Jewelry: DIY by the Bride / Weekend Brochures: DIY by the Bride & Groom / Wedding Dress: Justin Alexander Signature via Bride & Gift Bridal Store / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Bride’s Jewelry: Custom + Family Heirlooms / Bride’s Veil: The Left Bank Bridal Finery / Hair: Renee Feldman / Makeup: Darcy Lynn McGrath (DarcyLynnMcGrath@gmail.com) / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: BHLDN / Bridesmaids’ Jewelry: Cuttlefish Jewelry (Owned by the Bride) / Robes: Sandmaidens Sleepwear / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss / Groom’s Shoes: Bass via Amazon / Groomsmen’s Suits: Wilke Rodriguez via Men’s Wearhouse

You know you have a keeper when he proposes to you on his birthday instead of going out and partying with the boys. Now that’s romantic! Brosnan Photographic captured this adorable couple as they revisited the very place where he popped the question and you can see all their lovely images right here in the full gallery.

From Brosnan Photographic… The Lily Pond at Lincoln Park in Chicago was the perfect spot for Felicia and Anthony’s engagement shoot. It was a relaxing spot for Felicia when she lived in the city. Anthony proposed to Felicia on his birthday at the top of a parking garage where they used to go up to the top to look out at the city skyline. Now abandoned and shut down, we were determined to commemorate the moment with a few last photos for them to cherish, so we sneaked up to the top.

Photography: Brosnan Photographic / Location: The Lily Pond at Lincoln Park in Chicago, Illinois

This next couple proves that the love of your life may be living right around the corner from you, and that you’re bound to run into each other at some point! I love this couple’s story and their whirlwind romance that ended in this spectacular fete captured by Olivia Leigh Photographie. It’s like a real life fairy tale and you can live happily ever after right here in the gallery.

Check out this fabulous film from Leap Weddings:

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From the Bride… Ted and I met in May 2010, and we were immediately smitten with each other! Coincidentally, we both lived on Oak Street, and that is where Ted proposed to me in December 2011, underneath the lighted gazebo across from The Drake Hotel. Since we wanted a summer wedding, planning began pronto! Choosing the historic Drake Hotel for our reception was simple; my family and I have always enjoyed the ambiance of The Drake. Ted and I love the rich and storied history of the hotel, and its neoclassical, opulent décor fit perfectly with our vision of an elegant, classic and glamorous wedding. Truly the icing on the cake was residing in the absolutely decadent Princess Diana Suite for the wedding weekend. What a perfect space for me to prepare for the big day, surrounded by my mom and my best friends!

Ted and I made a conscious effort to live each moment in every part of the day and to make time for private moments together. We had talked about making sure we were by each others’ sides the entire night. During Ted’s toast, he presented me with Chinese finger cuffs to ensure we stayed together … and they were pink and navy! We have a multitude of amazing memories of our wedding day. We will never forget seeing each other for the first time, taking pictures on the beach and streets of Chicago with tons of people yelling “Congratulations!”  and dancing with our families and friends! Ted and I were blessed with an idyllic day, a glorious event celebrating the beginning of our lives together, surrounded by loving family and friends. Our ceremony was held at Saint James Chapel, a breathtaking chapel dedicated in 1918 and modeled after Sainte Chapelle in Paris. Our floral designer, Cornelia McNamara, arranged great poufs of sugary pink, Dutch hydrangea and fragrant O’Hara garden roses with boughs of gilded magnolia and feathery apricot eremeris lilies in vintage chic gold urns to flank our exchange of vows. We could not have found a more romantic setting for our ceremony. As a nod to Ted’s love of sailing, the cocktail hour had a nautical feel. The hour commenced in the Venetian, a room that gave the guest a spectacular view of Lake Michigan. Dazzling arrangements of blue hydrangea, cobalt blue delphinium and masses of navy blue viburnum berries adorned the tables, and the vases were covered in sailing rope. Our engagement photos, taken on a sailboat on Lake Michigan, complemented the nautical charm of the space.

I selected pink and navy for our wedding colors, as they handsomely reflected who Ted and I are individually and as a couple. I have very feminine tastes and have always loved pink; navy, a masculine color, symbolized Ted’s strong and calm nature. Together, the colors illustrated our classic style. We used stunning pops of gold throughout, from the cake to the gilded magnolia leaves that formed our new monogram above the head table. The lower centerpieces were arranged in gorgeous, cut-crystal vessels, which added another layer of flash and glamour to the already stunning room. Cornelia used masses of garden roses and dahlias in every shade of pink, set off by gold “camel” roses and gilded foliage. The taller centerpieces were long-stemmed garden roses and dinner plate dahlias with golden magnolia branches arranged in antique birdbaths. She also surprised us with two bougainvillea topiaries with trailing vines covered in hot pink blooms, which framed us for the few moments were able to sit!  The table numbers were street names of Chicago, personally meaningful to us.

Wedding Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie / Ceremony: Saint James Chapel in Chicago, Illinois / Reception: The Drake Hotel in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Planning: Renny Pederson of Bliss Weddings & Events / Floral Design: Cornelia McNamara Flowers / Wedding Cinematography: Leap Weddings / Wedding Cake: Sarah’s Bakery / Band: Don Cagen Orchestra / Wedding Dress: Enzoani / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Bride’s Accessories: The Left Bank Bridal Finery / Hair: Ashley Condron / Makeup: Rachel Reiman / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Alfred Sung

I love that this Bride asked herself when choosing a location, how can you say no to a T-rex in your reception space? That’s right, lovelies, this wedding of two history buffs at The Field Museum came with elephants and a dinosaur on the guest list and it just might be the fantastic wedding of your dreams. The prettiest purples and greens in every detail by LK Events and Dessy bridesmaids dresses will knock you right off your feet and you can see it all from Amanda Hein Photography in the gallery right here.

From the Bride… We wanted to get married at a venue that spoke to our love of history. So when we walked into The Field Museum for the first time, we knew no matter how many other venues we saw, this was the one we wanted to get married in.  The white marble and the ionic columns reminded us of our time in Rome, and how can you say no to a T-Rex in your reception space?

We had planned to have the ceremony and cocktail hour outside on the museum’s terrace, but the day dawned a little chilly, so we moved the ceremony inside. What a great decision! Our guests faced the south dome of the museum, and the bridal party was able to make a grand entrance down the staircase. At the reception, guests were able to watch the action on the dance floor from the comfort of two lounge areas full of beautiful French Regency style furniture and enjoy mini Chicago hotdogs and milkshakes as late-night snacks.

We are so thankful for the wonderful team we had working with us. All of our vendors made the planning process easy, and the final product was incredible! Our band kept the crowd on their feet all night long (our guests would have stayed until the wee hours of the morning if they had the choice!), and Food For Thought and Cake did an amazing job with dinner and dessert. Our photographer, Amanda Hein, captured every magical moment of the night, and we are so happy we can relive all those moments whenever we look at her amazing photos. Jesse Deckard of Event Creative went above and beyond with incredible floral designs that just made every table pop with color. And none of this would have been possible without the wonderful and incredibly capable Lauren Knuepfer of LK Events, who was working behind the scenes at every turn. We had such a great time — we wish we could make our wedding an annual event!

Wedding Photography: Amanda Hein Photography / Wedding Venue: The Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Planning: Lauren Knuepfer of LK Events / Floral Design + Decor: Jesse Deckard of Event Creative / Catering: Food For Thought / Wedding Cake: Cake / Wedding Invitations: Kara Underwood of Magnificent Milestones / Programs + Menus: Stace Cadet Designs / Band: Deja Vu / Transportation: V.I.P. Valet Services / Wedding Dress: VWIDON / Bride’s Shoes: Nina / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dessy / Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss

I so wish I had the calm, cool and collected nature that this bride had on her wedding day. She was super laid back yet totally involved in the planning. She was so cool in fact, that she created the gorgeous centerpieces just hours before strolling down the aisle! Anticipation Events coordinated this pretty gem while Olivia Leigh Photographie captured all the pretty and you can click here for even more.

From Anticipation Events… When I met Anni and Ross, we just clicked. They were just. so. chill. As we were talking, I asked if they were taking a honeymoon after the wedding, and they said yes, they were going to Palm Springs. Without thinking, I said, “Oh, are you staying at the Ace Hotel?” The answer was yes, which I am sure creeped them both out a little bit, but I just knew. They are exactly cool enough to stay there and fit right in. Aimee coordinated their big day, and as you can tell from the amazing pictures by Olivia Leigh Photographie, it was gorgeous. Anni told me she was going to do her own flowers, and I could just tell she was a bride who could handle it (and create blog-worthy, creations no less). She and Ross got up the morning of the wedding and motored over to the farmers’ market to pick out some stems. An effortless topknot and a fierce red lip, and Anni was ready. With a few styling touches from BHLDN, Goose Island brews and a beautiful day for an outdoor ceremony, all the pieces of the puzzle came together for a perfect day, and Style Matters brought the dance party home. Anni and Ross are some of the most kind, calm and lovely people you will ever meet, and Anticipation Events was honored to be a part of their big day. The best news is that Anni was in the process of starting her own photography company called Anni Cee Photographie, and she is currently rocking it all over the city. I can’t wait until we get to do our first wedding together as vendors!

Wedding Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie / Wedding Venue: Salvage One in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Day Coordination: Anticipation Events / Flowers: DIY by the Bride & Bridesmaids with Flowers from the Farmers’ Market / Officiant: Bruce Falk / Catering: Food for Thought / Wedding Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s / DJ: Style Matters DJs / Wedding Dress: Sarah Seven / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Bride’s Hair + Makeup: Salon Soca / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Their Choice (Mostly Zara + Nordstrom) / Men’s Suits: Formally Modern Tuxedo / Groom’s Tie: J.Crew

For those of you who love cozying up and sharing a cup of joe with your beloved, get your pretty little eyes ready for this engagement session from Jill Tiongco Photography. It’s filled with oodles of love and all the splendor of Fall and when these two sweethearts have a special place in their history at Starbucks, we get to see some of the most darling of photographs complete with that iconic coffee cup. Trust me, you’re not going to want to miss your coffee break this morning, so you can spend it all in the gallery right here.

From the Bride-to-Be… Mark and I chose to do our engagement pictures in downtown Wheaton, Illinois. Wheaton is where I bought my first condo and where Mark and I will call home once we are married. Wheaton is also where we spend a lot of time trying out new restaurants, exploring the downtown area and going for walks. We got engaged May 25, 2012, at Lake Lawn Lodge in Wisconsin, a place where I vacation with my family every year. We wanted our pictures in the fall because we both love all there is to love about the season — the colorful leaves, cool crisp weather and football. :) We also chose to take some pictures at Starbucks, which holds a special place in our hearts. We met at work, and part of our daily routine throughout the work week would be to swing by Starbucks together to get our favorite drinks (a skinny vanilla for me and a three Splenda vanilla latte for Mark). Mark and I will be married on May 3, 2013. We cannot wait!

Photography: Jill Tiongco Photography / Location: Wheaton, Illinois / LOVE Sign: Lazy Caterpillar / White Winter Jacket: Express / Hair: Jillian of Jillian’s Salon in Elmhurst (630-453-3083)

It takes a talent, patience + tons of creativity to turn a blank slate like Prairie Production into a warm, inviting ceremony + reception venue, and this bride + groom made it happen-on a tight budget, nonetheless! With bold pink + purple florals from Fasan Florist and a menu designed by the groom and brought to life by Honest Foods Catering, this industrial-chic soirée is one for the books. See the rest of the gorgeous images from Carasco Photography in the full gallery!

From the Bride… We were married on Friday, July 13, 2012 (yes, Friday the 13th) at Prairie Production, a photo studio located in Chicago’s West Loop/Meatpacking area. Tony (my groom) and I have been together since college and have since lived together in San Francisco, New York, and now Chicago, where I was born and raised. We are by nature city kids and wanted the reception to feel much like a chic, classy and elegant cocktail party.

We started the day at the Public Hotel, one of my favorite places in the city. It’s a stunning hotel with such a chic, hip feel. I knew that not only would we love prepping there, but also that the pictures would be great as well. Much like the wedding venue, the hotel is very modern, yet comfortable. When the thunder storm (with full on lightening and sideways rain) came plowing through as we were about to leave the hotel for pictures on the lake, I knew it would be all right because the space was so beautiful. As for the wedding, we knew from the second we saw the high ceilings, natural light and indoor/outdoor space that Prairie Production was the place to hold the ceremony and reception. As expected, this was a completely raw space, from the linens down to the bathroom hand soap, which left us tons of room for creativity but also some challenges for budget. We decided to sick with mercury glass, a ton of candles and bright pink and purple for flowers. The choice to have the ceremony at the venue and not a church came as a shock to our Catholic families, but in retrospect it was one of the most intimate weddings most had attended before. My cousins did all the music, which was an amazingly personal touch. The bridal party walked down to a gorgeous version of the Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” and Tony and I walked out to The Cure’s “Friday I’m in Love.” My cousin also sang an Adele song during the ceremony that left no one with a dry eye. We wrote our vows and ring exchanges — both very personal, but we were so happy we went for them.

Tony is a chef, so the food was a key element to the reception, but we really wanted to maintain the cocktail party feel. We did passed appetizers and a buffet with open seating. We found a caterer that let Tony design the menu, which again added an incredible personal touch. Of course, the pastry chef at his restaurant made us a beautiful cake as a present — with champagne infused frosting to die for. Looking back, I am proud to say how much we were able to do on the budget we maintained. From choosing the fonts and design of the invites to the many trips to garden stores for mercury glass and the many music rehearsals with my makeshift wedding band, the night turned out exactly how we wanted, and we wouldn’t change a thing.

Wedding Photography: Carasco Photography / Wedding Venue: Prairie Production in Chicago, Illinois / Design + Planning: DIY by the Bride / Floral Design: Maggie of Fasan Florist / Catering: Honest Foods Catering / Wedding Invitations: Morgan Ingersol, A Friend of the Bride / Wedding Dress: Watters + Extensive Alterations by Mrs. Etta D’Amico / Bride’s Shoes: Vintage / Hair: Jordan Kellam, A Cousin of Bride / Makeup: Ei On You Makeup