Illinois Weddings

A wedding at Chicago’s Salvage One is guaranteed to be filled to the brim with vintage charm and quirk. This soiree starring two beautiful brides (who couldn’t be more head-over-heels in love) shot by Kari Bedford Photography is no exception. Über-personalized touches like a brooch bouquet made from the brides’ mother’s and grandmother’s vintage jewelry and a reception intro film done by the amazingly talented I Do Films make this beauty of wedding one you’ll be swooning over all morning! Take a peek at the rest of the delicious details in the gallery!

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From Amanda, a Bride… The back of our custom program fans read “Two brides, one dress, & an affair to remember.” And that, it was! As a wedding photographer myself, I knew how wonderful weddings with personal touches and details full of meaning can be, so I knew I wanted our wedding to really be about us. From the custom program fans to the “Hers and Hers” mix CD favors to the custom gelato flavors to the handpicked songs and even the introduction film of us (created by I Do Films) we screened before being introduced into our reception. These personal details showcased how very different we are individually, but how we really are a perfect fit for each other at the end of the day.

My day started with my bridesmaids at The Elysian Hotel, sipping mimosas, watching Keeping up with the Kardashians, and getting perfectly made up. While Katrina got ready at our venue, Salvage One, by drinking countless cans of coca cola, eating McDonalds, and playing with our niece. I wore a beautiful gown, Kate Spade shoes, hand beaded Swarovski Johanna Johnson accessories, and vintage rhinestone earrings that once belonged to Katrina’s great-grandmother that I had repaired to wear on my wedding day. I also had a vintage brooch bouquet made from rhinestone pieces that I collected from both our grandmothers and mothers. Katrina wore a sharp suit and Chuck Taylors, with a last minute addition of a pocket watch given to her by one of our friends. Our first look was on the roof of Salvage One, with the Chicago skyline in the background. Katrina is a little bit country and I am a little bit rock and roll, but at the end of the day, the country girl did move to Chicago to marry her city girl, so it was the perfect setting.

The ceremony was held outdoors with pink garden roses hung in old bottles all around the ceremony aisle, full of greenery. Before we walked down the aisle, our families were treated to a performance of the Paul McCartney song “Maybe I’m Amazed” sung by our very talented cousin (an up and coming jazz singer!). Our wedding party then led the way up the aisle, including our niece with a sandwich board sign that read “Amanda & Katrina, About To Be Married” that I had made. We walked up the aisle together and were married by my very own father in front of all our loving friends and family. We couldn’t have been happier! Our niece led the wedding party out by pulling an embroidery ring of turquoise ribbons and tin cans clanging on the ground (a DIY project made by my mother). It couldn’t have been more perfect. Our reception was one big party and that is exactly how we wanted it to be! Before being announced as Mrs. and Mrs. Miller, our guests were shown the reception introduction film we had made on a stage. The film showcases our relationship perfectly: A laid back country girl and a high-maintenance city girl who found love in the middle.  We were then introduced to our guests, complete with Katrina’s requisite McDonald’s coke as she had all throughout the film.

We wanted a very informal and fun wedding, so everyone sat where they liked, Toast & Jam kept the tunes going all night, and the food and gelato was served until everyone was stuffed! We had candy cigarettes and chocolate cigars in vintage cigar boxes at the bar. My amazing officiant father made glass milk jugs into beautiful lights that adorned every corner of the room.  Our wedding favors were mix CDs of Amanda’s rock mix and Katrina’s country mix. (We even made a bet before the wedding of which one more people would want to take home. My mix of indie rock songs definitely won!) The photo booth was full of people all night long, and the dance floor was never empty! At the end of the night, we went back to our hotel utterly exhausted from all the fun, but bursting at the seams with love from our families and oh-so very happily married!

Wedding Photography: Kari Bedford Photography / Wedding Venue: Salvage One in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Chicago Flower Company / Brooch Bouquet: Fantasy Floral Designs / Wedding Cinematography: I Do Films / Wedding Invitations + Print Materials: Flakes Paperie / Catering: J&L Catering / Wedding Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery / Gelato: Black Dog Gelato / Photo Booth: 312 Photobooth / DJ: Toast & Jam / Accommodations: Waldorf Astoria Chicago (formerly The Elysian) / Wedding Dress: Weddings 826 / Heels: Kate Spade / Accessories: Johanna Johnson / Wedding Suit: Express / Sneakers: Converse / Hair: Laurie Rodgers / Makeup: Nika Vaughan

Every relationship is a journey but this Indiana-born and bred couple, who met in high school, fell in love in college and traveled great distances to be together, have truly had one great, romantic adventure.  It only seems appropriate that their engagement session with J. Nelson Photography would take them on a journey around the great city of Chicago not only documenting their sweet, easy love for one another but also a city near and dear to their hearts.  See it all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From the Bride-to-Be… We both attended the same high school in Indiana — Chesterton High School — but didn’t meet until sophomore year, when I would frequent my friend Bethany Babich’s locker, Babich being right next to Babcock. At first, I thought he seemed like a funny, goofy guy but didn’t know his name or ever really meet him. The first time I actually talked to him was because he was bent over at his locker retrieving books and his boxers were out with the word “naughty” printed across his butt.  I thought it was hilarious and made a joke of some sort but still didn’t really know his name. It wasn’t until the second year German class went on a field trip to South Bend when we actually met. Erik sat behind me on the bus and let me listen to his headphones. I was pretty stoked/intrigued when I put them on and Sheryl Crow’s “Strong Enough to Be My Man” was on. We didn’t sit together during the German performance (Erik’s current girlfriend was also there), but when we had lunch afterwards at Perkins, we somehow sat at a table together and actually have a picture from that first dining experience to document it. From that point on, I had a huge crush on Erik.

Junior year at CHS, we had German class together and our friendship continued to grow. During a brief single stint, we even went on a date or two, before Erik returned to his ex, leaving me heartbroken. Understanding I lost the battle but still wanting to win the war, I made and gave Erik a “Guaranteed Unlimited Date Pass” on January 25, 2002 — never to be expired. When we  went away to college, I went to Indiana University and Erik went to Rose Hulman, and we became even closer. Rose Hulman’s population was over 80% men, and the women who were there weren’t really his type. So frequently, in search of a good party, Erik and all his roommates/friends/soccer team would come to IU and stay with me. This continued for two years. It wasn’t until the end of sophomore year, when some acquaintances and I went to Rose Hulman for Erik’s frat party that our relationship really started. A girl was flirting with Erik shamelessly, and I was annoyed (despite having my own boyfriend), and I went outside to call a friend.  Erik noticed I was gone and apparently left the girl to see why I was upset. In a drunken stupor, he confessed his love to me … that he’d been in love with for the last two years but never wanted to ruin my other relationships, that for the last 2 years he had been waiting for the chance to be with me. He then pulled out the unlimited date pass I had given him 3½ years earlier — he had hung on to it the entire time.

From there, I left my current boyfriend, and Erik and I started to date over the summer, but just for fun as I was transferring to Penn State University. But by August, I realized I wanted to stay at IU and be closer to Erik (in addition to the fact I’d have to take a fifth year at PSU due to non-transferable credits). And we’ve been together ever since. Despite when I interned in NYC and he interned in Chicago, and despite that then I went to London to study abroad for the semester, and despite when he got a job in San Diego and I moved with him and then his job sent him to New Jersey for 3-4 months and Dallas for another 4 months. We somehow made it through and couldn’t be happier or better for it. 

Photography: J. Nelson Photography / Location: Chicago, Illinois

Perfection.  When it comes to describing this glorious Mt. Prospect affair, there’s just one word (and one word only) that can give all of this lovely absolute justice.  And that word is perfection.  From the breathtaking blooms crafted by Flor del Monte to the all caps ADORABLE bride and groom (seriously, how cute are they!?!), it’s a perfectly perfect soiree in every.which.way.  Plus, with every last love-filled moment captured by Katherine Salvatori Photography, we’re in for one – you got it – P.E.R.F.E.C.T. Thursday.  Join me in the gallery for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Katherine Salvatori Photography… Michele and Joseph had an exquisite spring wedding this April in Mount Prospect, Illinois. Preparations and the first look were done at Michele’s parents’ home, which had beautiful light for pictures on the inside and a gorgeous garden in the backyard for the first look. Their ceremony was held at the Korean Gospel Presbyterian Church in Schaumburg. Michele wore a flowing Vwidon dress and chose light champagne, purple, and pinks for the flowers and reception decor. Michele and Joseph are Korean and incorporated aspects of their culture into their wedding day (from a bilingual reception to old Korean folk dances after dinner). Shai Chung, the wedding coordinator and close friend of the bride, made the day run perfectly. If I could describe this wedding in three words it would be exquisite, romantic, and classy. It was simply beautiful, and I am so happy that I could be a part of Michele and Joseph’s day.

Wedding Photography: Katherine Salvatori Photography / Ceremony: Gospel Presbyterian Church in Schaumburg, Illinois / Reception + Catering: Victoria in the Park in Mt. Prospect, Illinois / Wedding Coordination: Shai Chung of Drunk on Shoes / Floral Design: Flor del Monte / DJ: Steve Tak of Remix Entertainment / Wedding Dress + Veil: Vwidon / Hair: Livia Caporale / Makeup: Melissa of Sonia Roselli

If you’re thinking of getting married on a holiday and are looking for ways to incorporate it into your wedding without getting too theme-y, take a hint from this Irish heritage loving couple and get designing! Sure, they infused their day with green, and even a few shamrocks, but it works so well and doesn’t even come close to going overboard. It’s tasteful, upbeat, and totally cheers worthy! Fragrant Design whipped up the pretty, pretty florals while Victoria Sprung Photography snapped up the goodies. Click here for even more.

 Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Fragrant Design… Kaitlin and Frank O’Hare are a beautiful couple with a strong Irish heritage, and their wedding was full of fun, joyous details that reflected their relationship — they wed in March on St. Patrick’s Day! Even more special was that the bride’s grandfather, whom she lovingly calls “Gampy,” officiated the ceremony. Kaitlin and Frank’s style was an organic, bright look that pulled details from their Irish heritage, even borrowing some of the Irish props from Frank’s parents’ wedding 30 years before. While the city of Chicago crowded around the iconic Chicago River (dyed green for the occasion), 240 guests traveled to Architectural Artifacts to see Kaitlin and Frank say “I do.”

Architectural Artifacts is a large, lofted space that serves as an antique store during the week and focuses on old world pieces that are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The overall feel of the ceremony and reception was organic, alive and fresh, especially when placed in a historical building filled with such eclectic items. Details like hanging globe lights, flowing fabric, lush floral elements on the archway and vibrant centerpieces brought such a lovely, natural feeling inside the warehouse space. The historical items juxtaposed with the lively and natural design worked together to create the perfect atmosphere! 

Photographer Victoria Sprung captured both the details and moments of pure happiness from the couple, and every aspect of the wedding was exquisitely executed by Sweetchic Events. Even the food was given special detail: the catering by Food For Thought was all gluten-free, as well as the pies from Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery.

Wedding Photography: Victoria Sprung Photography / Wedding Venue: Architectural Artifacts in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Fragrant Design / Wedding Planning: Hollie Smith of Sweetchic Events / Gluten-Free Catering: Food for Thought / Pies: Rose’s Wheat Free Bakery / Music: Stitely Entertainment / Wedding Dress: Liancarlo via Dimitra Bridal / Bridal Shoes: Nina / Bridal Earrings: Kate Spade / Bridal Sash: Venust Bridal / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid

From the very moment these two sweethearts promised to say “I Do,” they knew just where to celebrate their big day – Walnut Grove Farm.  Yep, not only is this stunning locale the very lucky (and very dashing) groom’s family farm, it’s also one of the most breathtaking settings you will ever lay your eyes upon, with a tree-filled clearing perfect for ceremonies and a glorious red barn adding a touch of rustic elegance to the landscape.  Kari Bedford Photography was on hand to capture all of the pretty and the heartwarming moments are literally FILLING the gallery.  Join me there for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Nathan and I met during our freshman year at the University of Illinois-Urbana/Champaign. Nathan proposed at midnight on New Year’s Eve 2011 while ringing in the New Year with our closest friends. It was such a celebratory night filled with champagne, good food and fun! I was excited to start planning our dream wedding. We both love the fall, with its rich colors and crisp weather, and had a perfect location in mind: Nathan’s family farm, Walnut Grove Farm, in Knoxville, Illinois. Located just three hours west of Chicago (where we both live and work), the farm is breathtaking — especially in the fall with all of the leaves changing and endless fields of corn. The town of Knoxville is small and quaint with beautiful local shops and restaurants. We both wanted our day to be romantic, classic and intimate. Our photographer, Kari Bedford, was married on the farm, so I knew she would know just how to capture the day. We also decided to have a string quartet play during our ceremony in the Walnut Grove and asked members of the Peoria Symphony Orchestra to play because Istvan Szabo was also married on the farm. Our pastor, the Rev. Michel Clark has known the King family for more than 30 years, so it was only natural for him to marry us. My close friend, Candice Albergo, designed and baked our red velvet wedding cake. We also served homemade pies from family-owned Bishop Hill Bakery, which turned out to be a big hit among our guests! All who attended went home with handmade soy candles with various fall fragrances made by Jartastic Gifts, a local artisan. I designed the programs and menus, using a beautiful tree stamp I found at Paper Source. The tree stamp not only symbolized the Walnut Grove, but also the growing love we have for each other.

We wanted everyone to feel welcome at Nathan’s home and to celebrate our marriage and the joining of our families. It was important to both of us to make meaningful choices and incorporate tradition and family. I wore my mother’s veil from my parents’ wedding 37 years ago. My friend Jill Novak and her mother, who own an Etsy shop called Jill’s Boutique, modernized the veil by adding pearls to the veil’s crown and transforming the veil cap into a hairpiece, keeping the lace and pearl detailing. (We ended up using pieces of the original veil to make a handkerchief that we gave to my mother at our rehearsal dinner.) Little did I know, my mother would let me use her lace handkerchief from her wedding day as my “something old.” And I couldn’t have a farm wedding without my cowgirl boots! Nathan’s mother, Jan, designed all of the flower arrangements for the event — they were stunning. She created a large ceremonial wreath surrounded by gourds, pumpkins, corn stalks and bundled hay, as well as gorgeous eclectic table arrangements with succulents and flowers freshly picked from the garden. We were overjoyed when Jan had a straw wedding wreath made for us, covered in hundreds of twinkle lights. It was hung in the barn for our reception, and it was truly a heartfelt surprise. We also used Jan’s antique tablecloths to help create a vintage look.

As we said our vows, we were surrounded by our family and close friends. My sister was my matron of honor, Nathan’s twin brother was his best man, my cousins were my bridesmaids, Nathan’s nieces were our flower girls, and my cousins’ sons were our ring bearers. Nathan’s groomsmen were a collection of family and close friends from grade school and college. It was so special to marry the love of my life with our support system surrounding us on that crisp autumn evening. After the ceremony, we took beautiful pictures around the property. We then had a cocktail hour in the barn, decorated with flowers, gourds, hay bales and twinkling lights. We then moved to an open tent and had dinner under the stars. We chose a menu to highlight local fare, including a greens and apple salad, roasted vegetables and filet mignon. Once we cut the cake and served the homemade pies, we returned to the barn to celebrate and dance! Nathan’s aunts surprised us by performing an original song they wrote for us. As we danced the night away, we knew we had chosen an unforgettable location and will always remember our wedding day fondly! 

Wedding Photography: Kari Bedford Photography / Wedding Venue: Walnut Grove Farm in Knoxville, Illinois / Floral Design: Jan King of Walnut Grove Farm (The Groom’s Mother) / Officiant: Rev. Michel Clark / Catering: Club 41 / Pies: Bishop Hill Bakery / Wedding Cake: Candice Albergo, A Friend of the Bride / Wedding Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas / Wedding Menus + Programs: DIY with Supplies via Paper Source / Ceremony Musicians: Members of the Peoria Symphony Orchestra / Equipment Rental: AAA Rents / Guest Book: Shutterfly / Favors: Jartastic Soy Candles and Specialty Gifts (jartasticgifts@yahoo.com) / Wedding Dress: Priscilla of Boston (Now Closed) / Bride’s Accessories: Mother of the Bride’s + Redesigned by Jill’s Boutique / Bride’s Cowboy Boots: Frye via Nordstrom / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: ML Monique Lhuillier via Nordstrom / Flower Girls’ Dresses: Rare Editions via Dillards Groom’s, Groomsmen’s + Ring Bearers’ Attire: Nordstrom / Rings: Donna Jewelry Co.

Kristin La Voie Photography always manages to capture the sweetest, most genuine moments with her couples.  There is so much joy that exudes from each and every image and this adorable beach engagement session is no exception.  The love these two have for each other (and their adorable dog!) is as clear as the waters of Glencoe Beach where they shared an adorable picnic for two!  See it all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Kristin of Kristin La Voie Photography… Kelly and Luke met me at Glencoe Beach in Glencoe, Illinois, for their session, which I knew would be nothing short of spectacular considering their September wedding will be at Cuneo Mansion with all the best vendors. Kelly came prepared with a plethora of fun items, such as coffee cups from Biggby; their adorable goldendoodle, Kaiah; a picnic basket with wine, cheese, bread, grapes and all the trimmings; a banner and more. The photos turned out amazing!

Photography: Kristin La Voie Photography / Location: Glencoe Beach in Glencoe, Illinois / Sign: BHLDN / Coffee: Biggby / Ring: Custom / Groom’s Watch: Rolex / Bride’s First Outfit: Loft, Francesca’s Collections + Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s (Shoes) / Groom’s First Outfit: Bugatchi Uomo + Seven via Nordstrom / Bride’s Second Outfit: Olivia Moone + Trouve via Nordstrom / Groom’s Second Outfit: Tommy Bahama via Nordstrom

This is the kind of wedding that forces ear-to-ear smiles on everyone who watches the stunning highlight film from Loudbyte Cinematography. It’s the kind of wedding that has an energy that is happily contagious. It’s the kind of wedding we can all relate to because the bride and groom are so beautiful, yet so down to earth friendly, we feel like we know them the moment we first spy their prevalent smiles. It is the perfect wedding to put you in the perfect mood for your Saturday morning.

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Brian proposed on a trip to Whistler, British Columbia.  He woke up that morning and knew that he would propose that day so he popped the ring in his pocket as we set out for the day.  The plan for the day’s activities had not been fully hashed and I was inspired on a whim to go zip lining after a hike that morning.  So, yes, it made a lot more sense why Brian seemed uncharacteristically unnerved while we were zipping around the mountains, 10,000 above ground, engagement ring in pocket, moments before the big proposal.

I grew up in Chicago and would drive by the Lincoln Park Zoo every day on the way to school so Café Brauer and the zoo have always felt like an extension of my neighborhood.  Café Brauer had always resonated with me as the most beautiful place in the world ever since I was dazzled by my best friend, Matt’s, jazz-themed bar mitzvah in that venue when we were in 7th grade.  Fast forward a decade, Brian and I now live just a few blocks west of the zoo and Café B, we take our dog, T, on walks there every weekend. So it really felt like we were inviting everyone to our backyard to celebrate with us in our home.

We wanted to incorporate the zoo into the wedding so we had animal shaped place cards and table numbers, laid out on moss and monstera leaves to give it a jungle-like feel.  We had green linens to maintain an earthy feel along with a floral deep purple.

We incorporated several personalized elements from Jewish tradition into our wedding day.  My cousin and one of my bridesmaids, Amy, made me beautiful “Bridal Blessings” which I read during the ceremony leading up to the chuppa called the badeken.  The bridal blessing my cousin made was printed on a decorated tambourine which I could play during the badeken while my family and friends sang and danced to traditional Jewish wedding music.  There is also a Jewish belief that a bride has a special connection with God on her wedding day so I gave each of my bridesmaids and my best friend Matt a special blessing under my veil – these were all deeply personal, moving moments for all of us.

We sent our guests home with mini cupcakes in mini Chinese takeout containers that were baked by our favorite local bakery and baker of our wedding cake in the same flavors as our wedding cake.

Cinematography: Loudbyte Cinematography / Photography: Danielle Aquiline Photography / Flowers: Ashland Addison Florists / Event Design: Ashland Addison Florists / Event Planning: Anika Kai Events / Ceremony Location: Café Brauer at the Lincoln Park Zoo / Reception Location: The Foreman Pavilion, Lincoln Park Zoo / Invitations: Designed by Clementine Ink + Printed by Accucolor Plus / Shoes: Kate Spade / Dress Designer: Ulla Maija + TOMS / Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Jenny Yoo Collection / Men’s Fashion: DKNY

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Saturday has finally arrived and before you start turning into a weekend warrior, we simply MUST introduce you to the talents behind SQN Events. We know you will be best of friends, and we couldn’t wait to make the connection. But you don’t even have to take our word – oh no, stop by their site to see all their talent for yourselves…you’ll be BFF in no time.

Welcome SQN Events! We couldn’t be more thrilled to have you join the SMP Illinois family! xoxo

This quirky, colorful wedding is totally brightening my morning today. It may be cloudy and cool where I am, but this backyard beauty is providing all the sunshine I need. The couple is adorable, the flowers are fresh and totally vibrant and Studio Rebekah Photography captured all the meaningful moments gorgeously. Head over to the full gallery for even more!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride & Groom… Before starting a new life together as a married couple, we had gotten a head start after getting jobs in Chicago and found a little apartment in the Logan Square neighborhood. As a young couple, each of us from small towns in Illinois, we had known for some time at this point that we would want to get married, and we had talked about how we would be able to make a wedding possible. We knew we wanted a very modest wedding, from the venues to the food, but wanted it to feel welcoming in a way that had come to reflect our relationship. We knew that this would not be possible without the help of family and friends, and their fingerprints were all over our wedding. Our engagement started our wedding planning on a snowy January night in Chicago. After a dinner downtown that almost didn’t happen because of the blowing snow, we returned to our quiet little apartment, and Lacey was proposed to in her pajamas. The ring is a vintage setting from Marlene Harris Collection in Pennsylvania, and the diamond is the same one that her father presented to her late mother at their engagement. In many ways, the traits of the engagement ring would drive much of the design of the wedding ahead: vintage with a very personal touch.

Cost was an extremely critical factor in how we moved forward. For the wedding ceremony venue, we selected the Historic Iroquois County Courthouse in Watseka, Illinois, the town where the bride was raised. Today, the courthouse is more of a historical museum than anything and serves as a gathering place for community events. The old courtroom on the top floor had many of the characteristics that we were looking to capture, including an old elegance that we were trying to reproduce with many of the elements of the wedding. One of our best mutual friends served as officiate upon our request, and we were able to seat our closest family and friends in a very private and intimate ceremony. The museum also provided plenty of great opportunities for pictures as well, and our photographer Rebekah Albaugh of Studio Rebekah was able to capture many of the elements of the venue that we found so endearing.

The wedding was followed by a poolside cocktail hour at Lacey’s childhood home. Further into the back yard, a white tent illuminated by paper lanterns held the reception to follow. The table settings contained handmade place settings and blue mason jars, which were discovered in a family member’s basement and cleaned up to provide a charming touch to the centerpieces constructed by The Flower Shak in Watseka. For the food, we wanted to showcase the care and love that Lacey’s grandmother puts into all of her food. As a caterer for nearly 50 years, Beulah has provided thousands of meals to people of the community, and she was at her best in preparing our favorite dishes to share with our family and friends. The conclusion of dinner led way to a night of dancing and laughs. We are incredibly thankful for the help and support of family and friends that worked so hard to make our day one we will never forget.

Wedding Photography: Rebekah Albaugh of Studio Rebekah Photography / Second Shooter: Bethany Burt / Ceremony: Iroquois County Historic Museum Courthouse in Watseka, Illinois / The Bride’s Family Home in Watseka, Illinois / Floral Design: Flower Shak / Bouquet Charm: Enchanted Glass / Boutonnieres + Bride’s Shoe Clips: Pomp & Plumage / Catering: Beulah Reed, Grandmother of the Bride / Wedding Cake: London Walder, Sister of the Bride / Tent: Sunrise Tents / Wedding Dress: Enzoani / Bride’s Hair Flower + Earrings: MillieICARO / Engagement Ring: Marlene Harris Collection / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Men’s Suits: Jos. A. Bank / Bow Ties: The Tie Bar / Men’s Shoes: Converse

Heartwarming.  I seriously can’t describe this stunning day any other way.  From the at-home setting to the gorgeous DIY details to the MORE than moving vows these two lovebirds exchanged, every last glorious moment has warmed my heart in every.which.way.  And when you combine all of this backyard perfection with a bundle of brilliant images captured by Jacki Warren Photography, groomsmen donning cute-as-can-be green cardis and a beyond fabulous film from Alea Lovely… well. It’s just a “cozy on up for a whole lot of sweetness” kind of day.  See it all here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

And a breathtaking film from the ever-fabulous Alea Lovely to wrap up the day…

From the Bride… Jake and I had a dream of what our perfect wedding would look like long before we were even engaged. When my parents built their dream home in the country in Illinois, we knew that was the perfect location for the unique, intimate and relaxed wedding we had always wanted. After convincing my parents — and it did take some convincing — we began planning. We had two main goals for our wedding. One, that each person who attended our wedding felt like they were not just spectators, but that they played a special part in our day and ultimately in our marriage. Two, that our love for each other was evident in every detail of the day. My most favorite part of the wedding was walking down the aisle to the whole congregation singing a song that Jake wrote for me. The emotions I was already feeling were only intensified by hearing our loved ones sing such beautiful words to me. We also laid a stone on everyone’s seat and during our unity ceremony we had everyone write their initials on the stone and say a prayer over it. We then walked up and down the aisle and were able to greet everyone as we collected their stone to place in a lantern with our unity candle. We have the lantern and stones with all the names on them displayed in our home as a reminder of how much we are loved. It was also important to us to use our family and friends’ talents and gifts to help bring our day together. My aunt and cousin did my hair and makeup, my sister-in-law and our friends sang the songs, my cousin designed our invitations, and our sisters and aunts made all the delicious desserts for our dessert table.

The decorations and color palate were kept simple enough so the natural surroundings stood out, but they were special enough to be remembered. Our family horses and the surrounding cornfields made for the perfect backdrop. For the centerpieces, we used wood that my uncle cut from a tree on his farm, soybeans as a nod to the local farms, and a mismatched collection of glassware and bird salt and pepper shakers that we collected from thrift stores and yard sales throughout our engagement. Each table was also set with mismatched thrift store plates. We were also lucky enough to serve an assortment of beer from our favorite local brewery, Brickstone Brewery. And everyone had such a wonderful time dancing the night away.

The wedding exceeded our dreams, and it was truly the perfect day. The weather was perfect, my parents were great hosts, and we couldn’t have asked for anything more. We often reflect on the day and feel so lucky that there wasn’t a single thing that we would have changed. We are so blessed to have the amazing video from Alea Lovely that did an unbelievable job of capturing all the beauty and emotions of our wedding.

Wedding Photography: Jacki Warren Photography / Wedding Venue: The Bride’s Parents’ Home in Bourbonnais, Illinois / Floral Design: The Flower Girl / Decor Design: Brock Morris / Wedding Cinematography: Alea Lovely / Wedding Invitations: A Cousin of the Bride / Wedding Cake: Nana’s Cakery / Desserts: The Sisters + Aunts of the Bride & Groom / Music: Friends + the Groom’s Sister / DJ: Jim Cerone / Tent + Chairs: Herriot’s / Lighting: J Bros. Productions / Buggy Rental: Jim & Becky’s Horse & Carriage Service / Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals / Bride’s  Jewelry: Fay Cullin / Bride’s Hair Piece: Target / Bride’s Hair: Linda Menard (The Bride’s Aunt) / Makeup: Jenna Menard (A Cousin of the Bride) / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Anthropologie / Groom’s Suit: Caravelli / Groom’s Hat: Banana Republic / Groomsmen’s Attire: Banana Republic

A breathtaking Windy City backdrop, a bundle of brightly colored balloons and style for miles and miles – I’m swooning just thinking about this gorgeous e-shoot captured by Vienna Glenn Photography.  From the casual, at-home session (cute pup included!) to the sweet jaunt on the Navy Pier, it’s just one magical, love-filled moment after another.  And the stunning couple filling every last image with their smiling faces?!?  Simply LOVELY.  See it all here.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From the Bride-to-Be… We really wanted to capture our personalities in the session. By mixing style with location, we tried to accomplish that. My inspirations definitely came from two very different sources. One of those was the floor-to-ceiling windows in our new apartment. I love window light in photographs and just knew that they would photograph beautifully. I chose a sheer maxi skirt that would show light through and add a little flounce to the shots, as well as bare feet to create a relaxed feel. The second inspiration was a Harper’s Bazaar editorial with Mila Kunis. It was taken on a carousel and had a somewhat whimsical, circus feel to it. We decided to head down to Navy Pier on an unusually warm day in March, where we realized that it was the off-season and the carousel was closed! I mean, covered in a tarp and not even feasible to sneak on it, closed. However, with a great photographer nothing will ruin a vision! We worked with what we had, and I think we got even better images for it! Those particular outfits were chosen with COLOR in mind. It’s hard to get most men to wear a lot of color, so I sneaked in that bright tie for a compromise. Neither of us had gotten our photos taken since we were seniors in high school, and I have to admit they weren’t the best images I’ve ever seen, so we were definitely nervous about how the day would go. We were pleasantly surprised though and ended up having a fabulous time. It made me very excited and ready for the wedding!

Photography: Vienna Glenn Photography / Locations: Navy Pier + The Couple’s Apartment, Both in Chicago, Illinois

This Illinois couple has the kind of relationship that I think we all strive to find and keep forever.  A magical, fairytale story so full of love that I feel honored just to be able to witness their joyous celebration through these images by Studio Rebekah Photography. The happiness that glows from the faces of this bride and groom is quite infectious and brightens up every moment of their beautiful day just as much as the sweet details they incorporated into it.  See them all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Every little girl has a dream of a fairy-tale she hopes to make their own. I have realized that my fairy-tale with Nate was nothing I could have planned out and it ended up being better than anything I had wished for. We first met in 2008; he was a single professional who could hear, and I was a recent college graduate with a hearing loss. We caught each other’s eyes a few times, and later in the evening went out with mutual friends for a few drinks. He asked me to dance, and of course I accepted. Nate didn’t know any sign language in the beginning, and so communication was a barrier we had to learn to embrace. I am able to lip read, and he was very accommodating to make sure he was always facing me when he spoke. Over the next few weeks we texted each other and learned as much as we could about one another. We met up a few times over the next couple months, and each time our attraction for each other grew. I realized then that I wasn’t just attracted to this man, but I truly was thankful and appreciative for him. The amount of time he took and the extra effort it was for us to communicate was never unnoticed. He took time to learn some sign language on his own, and begin to use this to help in our communication. Although it was something we both had to learn to adjust to, it never stood in the way of us getting to know each other. Where there is a will, there is a way. Where there is the driving force of love, nothing was going to stop us.

In September 2009, we started seeing each other more, and our bi-lingual relationship blossomed. When Nate proposed on November 28, 2011, I knew that I wasn’t dreaming any longer. He was the man I was going to spend the rest of my life with. The days and weeks of wedding planning weren’t as stressful as some believe them to be. There were days when we became overwhelmed, and then we stepped back and took a deep breath. We realized that this was just a ceremony and that it was a declaration of our love for each other. We tried to be calm, and enjoy the wedding planning amidst all the business and scheduled appointments. Our Reverend, Kent Olney, was hearing and also knew sign language. This was very important to me because this is my language. He was able to make this day extra special for me by including the one thing that often stands in the way of proper communication. He was able to fully speak and express every aspect of the ceremony to both hearing and non-hearing guests. It was the greatest gift on my wedding day, being able to sign our vows. It was a moment I will never forget, and it brings a smile to my face. When Reverend Olney pronounced us as husband and wife in sign language in front of our loved ones, it was the moment I have been waiting for my entire life. It was a moment I will forever cherish.

Our friends and family all say that our wedding was one of a kind, with signed and spoken vows. The inspiration for our wedding was the theme “Give Love.” We included a sparkle ornament on each centerpiece at the reception. We wanted to “give love” back to our friends and family who we felt made our special day possible. The décor was created by David Cook and my mother, as they understood my vision. It meant the world to me. It was always my dream to have him help my mother design the décor for my wedding. David Cook designed all of the bridal party bouquets and boutonnieres. He used fresh, white roses, adding natural greens and plenty of silver sparkle.  The setting of the wedding was nature inspired with the river as a backdrop under a pristine, white tent. When I walked down the aisle that was scattered with the petals from 500 fresh, white roses; it was then when my fairy-tale moment began. The photographer, Rebekah Albaugh of Studio Rebekah, captured the most remarkable shots from our special day. She is a very talented and artistic photographer. She is able to transform a typical view into a magical scene with a dreamy backdrop. She uses all of the elements available to complete the design and picture she has in her head. The angles, lighting, positioning of each individual was thought out creating true perfection.  She took some amazing pictures of us signing our vows to each other; one picture is of me signing the word “love” and my husband, Nate, signing the word “forever.” A picture is truly worth 1,000 words!

Wedding Photography: Studio Rebekah Photography / Second Shooter: Bethany Burt / Wedding Venue: Kankakee Country Club in Kankakee, Illinois / Event Planning, Floral + Event Design: David Cook / Lanterns: Z Gallerie + Pier One Imports / Glassware + Additional Lanterns: Pottery Barn / DJ: DJ Smiley / Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Hair + Makeup: DIY / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bari Jay / Tuxedos: Seno Formal Wear

Visiting the Windy City ranks hip atop my list of “things I seriously NEED to do” – and this cute as can be engagement session has me thoroughly convinced that frolicking around downtown Chicago is something that just can’t wait.  A darling duo, sunny blue skies, a Millennium Park lounge session and a sweet stop at Macy’s (where these two lovebirds first met!) all makes for one seriously adorable e-shoot, don’t you think?!?  Thankfully, You Me Photography captured every last ounce of magic and the gallery is filled to the brim with a whole lot of L.O.V.E.  Join me there for more.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Julia of You Me Photography… It was the beautiful Easter Sunday morning when I had the chance to capture the love that this adorable couple share. They met a few years ago at a Macy’s store at the perfume counter, and that is where they wanted me to start their engagement session. The are truly made for each other and made me feel great in their presence. We had a blast walking through Millennium Park and shooting on those beautiful streets of downtown Chicago and getting the vibes that only Michigan Avenue can give. Looking forward to be a part of their wedding day this coming October!

Photography: You Me Photography / Locations: Macy’s on State Street + Millennium Park + Michigan Avenue (All in Chicago, Illinois)

A little bit traditional, a little bit contemporary and a whole lot of AMAZING, this Chicago soiree is all about bringing the fabulous to our Wednesday morning.  I’m talking a stunning Allerton Hotel setting, seriously stellar DIY details (yes, DIY!) and a plethora of stop-you-in-your-tracks gorgeous images by JPP Studios.  Add to all of that pretty a sophisticated Nicole Miller gown and bundles of beautiful textures and patterns galore and well.  You’re about to fall head over heels in LOVE.  See it all here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… My husband Matt and I live in New York City, but I grew up in Indiana and Matt grew up in New Jersey. So when it came to finding a location for the wedding, we had to find the perfect compromise. Chicago was it — it was only an hour from where I grew up, it was easy for people to fly into, and it still had the city feel we were used to from living in NYC. We hosted our guests for our ceremony and reception at The Allerton Hotel on October 22, 2011. The location was just off Michigan Avenue (which was ideal for our visitors), the décor was beautiful yet unique, and the view of the city from the ceremony/reception room on the 23rd floor was breathtaking.

When it came to the overall theme and tone of the wedding, the only thing we knew was that we wanted it to have some personality. Classic, but fun. And after working in the wedding industry for over three years at that point, I was always most inspired by the interesting details, so I knew my wedding had to have that. We started with a palette of neutrals – grays, whites, creams, blushes and a touch of black. Rather than a punch of color, we decided to liven up the décor and details with a few simple patterns. Matt and I found some we loved at a local stationery store (a floral burst, stripes, polka dots) and we used those to tie everything together – from the paper products (including tissue packets we made for the ceremony!) and fabrics (bouquets, tablecloths, etc.) to the cake design, cocktail straws and everything in between. We also tried to take some of the “normal” wedding stuff and put a new spin on it. For example, rather than seating cards or one large seating chart, we bought nine different frames in various shapes, sizes and styles and framed all of our seating arrangements to make a pretty display. Instead of a traditional guest book, we bought 10 bottles of wine (one for each of our first 10 anniversaries) which our guests signed. In lieu of a tiered wedding cake, we decided on three cake flavors – s’mores, tres leches, and caramel apple – and twelve cakes (yes, twelve), each featuring a design that played off our patterns. For our first dance, we surprised our guests with a special one that was half a slow dance and the other half a choreographed fast dance. And since we didn’t have an “exit” from our ceremony (we walked straight into the cocktail hour), we did a confetti toss during our last song.

But at the end of the day what really brought it all together were two things.  Our fabulous vendors. We’re convinced we had the best of the best. Our officiants made our ceremony so perfect and memorable that our guests still can’t stop talking about how special and amazing it was. Our cake baker made a showstopper of a cake display. Our day-of coordinator was a dream come true who kept everything running smoothly. Our photographer captured each and every special moment beautifully. Our band ROCKED and kept the dance floor packed all night. Etc. Etc. Etc.  AND our loving family and friends. Enough said.

Wedding Photography: JPP Studios / Wedding Venue: The Allerton Hotel in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Kristina Lynn Floral / Day-Of Coordination: Melissa Star Event Design / Officiants: Rabbi Michael Sternfield + Fr. Richard Jakubik / Wedding Cinematography: Lexoria Wedding Films / Wedding Cake: Bombon Cake Gallery / Lighting + Chuppah: Elegant Event Lighting / Chairs: Tablescapes Party Rentals / Band: Green Thirteen / Transportation: Windy City Trolley / Wedding Gown: Nicole Miller / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Hair: Adrianne of Maxine Salon / Makeup: Justine Spooner / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: LulaKate / Tuxedos: Jos. A. Bank

One of the hardest parts of planning my own wedding was deciding on a color palette. I’m a total color lover through and through. So why I didn’t think of blanketing my wedding with the whole color spectrum; I don’t know. It seems like a complete no brainer and one that this wedding executed impeccably. With florals and decor by Botanicals, Inc along with planning by Designer Event Chicago, the River East Art Center turned into a color savvy party complete with cutest (and I’m sure scrumptious) mini hotdog treats. It doesn’t get much more Chicago than that! See all the festivities captured by Artisan Events in the full gallery.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… I have a hard time articulating how August 27, 2011 went — most adjectives just don’t suffice. My husband Adam and I just refer to it as the “Best Day Ever. ” That seems like the closest description, although it still falls miles short. We wanted the day to be fun, social and jovial — like a rooftop get-together or block party (but in heels) with a nod to our favorite city and hometown, Chicago. 

Our fabulous wedding planner, Katie Goggin from Designer Event Chicago, understood our vision and quickly recruited the ultimate team of vendors, as well as the stunning River East Art Center. The Entertaining Company whipped up Chicago-style party appetizers with an upscale twist, followed by a delicious meal. Roeser’s Bakery customized cupcakes and topped our cupcake tower with the Chicago landscape from our invitations.  Botanicals gathered bright flowers and fruits for that “just picked from a farmers market” vibe, and Gold Coast All Stars packed the dance floor every second of the evening covering everything from Motown to Kanye. We chose Artesian Events for our photography because we were looking for an editorial feel to our photos — one that perfectly captured the energy and love in the room. Tina did an incredible job grabbing fabulous moments throughout the night, keeping our wedding party focused and snapping those small, yet incredibly important, details.

I know Adam and I will have lots of fabulous days.  However, this one, I feel, will always remain the best day ever, and it’s because of the irreplaceable team that helped bring it together.

Wedding Photography: Artisan Events / Wedding Venue: River East Art Center in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Planning: Katie Goggin of Designer Event Chicago / Floral Design + Decor: Botanicals, Inc. / Catering: Entertaining Company / Wedding Cake + Cupcakes: Roeser’s Bakery / Band: Gold Coast All Stars

The best piece of wedding advice I have ever heard is to throw out the rules. Write your wedding like you write your story – fabulous, personal, and with you at the center. When this Chicago couple could not land on the perfect wedding venue, they simply decided to hold the big event at their favorite restaurant and LOLA Event Productions was up to the task of making it perfect. When the stunning bride couldn’t find her dream dress off the rack, she turned to Dame Couture to custom design the perfect gown. And when contemplating how to capture it all, this smart couple picked Jeremy Lawson Photography. A decision we can all thank them for once visiting the gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Like most couples, we wanted to have a wedding that truly represented who we are while still incorporating the traditions that are important to each other and our families. After evaluating all the standard “Chicago Wedding” locations, we knew that we would have to look at some non-traditional wedding venues for our reception.  One night, we went to our favorite local restaurant in Evanston, and we realized that we had to have our reception at the restaurant. Heather and the team at Union Pizzeria were more than accommodating, and we managed to have the “fun” wedding reception we had dreamed of! Our reception had the atmosphere of a party. We choose not to have a formal dinner but rather open seating with food served throughout the entire night. Josh and the Empty Pockets rocked the night away playing non-standard wedding music, but allowing our guests to bust a move on the beautiful dance floor of SPACE.

The women of Dame Couture, also located in Evanston, made me the most beautiful dress I could have ever imagined. When I was unable to find the exact dress I was looking for in the stores, I approached Holly at Dame Couture and without even seeing a picture of what I was looking for, she sketched my dream dress. Crizen Hasegawa very patiently did makeup and hair for the entire wedding party and made us all look absolutely radiant. Our main objective with our makeup and hair was to ensure that we kept our individual styles without looking too “overdone.” Andrea Allen provided floral arrangements that accentuated the beauty of the chapel but still had an aspect of “funk.” In addition, the subtle decor she placed through the reception venue allowed us to have the romantic feeling we were looking for, without taking away from the beauty of both Alice Millar Chapel and Union Pizzeria. LOLA Events was my absolute savior. Kristy  and her team made sure that I had nothing to worry about and made the entire day seamless. I felt as though I was working with someone that I had known for years, even though we just met that month! It was a relief to have someone you trust, ensuring the success of your wedding day. And finally — Jeremy Lawson! Really, his pictures speak for themselves. I can’t imagine anyone else shooting our wedding.

Wedding Photography: Jeremy Lawson Photography / Ceremony: Alice Millar Chapel at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois / Reception: Union Pizzeria + SPACE in Evanston, Illinois / Floral Design: Andrea Allen / Event Planning: LOLA Event Productions / Wedding Invitations: Lovely Paperie / Band: Josh and the Empty Pockets / Accommodations: Hilton Orrington/Evanston / Custom Wedding Dress: Dame Couture / Shoes: TOMS / Makeup: Crizen Hasegawa Hair & Makeup

The love story behind this wedding is what sealed the deal for us.  At first glance, it was all the gorgeous details crafted by Alice’s Garden and The Ideal Day, all the layers of ombre on that impeccable cake by Amy Beck Cake Design, all the sparkle from those Kate Spade shoes and the perfect documentation of the day captured by Jess Barfield Photography that pulled us in, hook. line and sinker. But then we read the Bride’s story. It’s love realized at the age of eleven. ELEVEN! It doesn’t get much sweeter than that. Read it and weep and then check out the gallery for so much more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Our love story is not like most — I mean who really finds their soul mate when they’re 11 years old? That is why I have always said that Russ was not only a gift from God, but a gift from my mother. Shortly after she passed away, a charming boy walked into my life and brought my smile back. So when we got engaged after over a decade of being each others’ better half there was a sigh of “it’s about time” from our friends and family!

When nailing down our wedding style, there were a couple of things we knew were doing to be difficult. How would we incorporate our love for the city of Chicago, where we grew up, with our love for the state of Texas, where we went to college? How do you mix big city style with country style? And that’s when we found Gallery 1028. It was everything we could have imagined in a venue. It was city chic, but its unfinished wood floors and ceilings gave us the rustic Texas feel we were looking for as well. It was a space that we could transform into whatever we wanted — we loved the blank canvas feel of the space.

We wanted our wedding to feel intimate and romantic, not just for Russ and me, but for our guests as well. That’s how we came to settle on a winter wedding. Nothing says romance like snuggling up close with your loved one in a candlelit room on a dark, cold night. To make our big day feel intimate, we turned to our friends, family and vendors for help. Our invitations, place cards and programs were handmade by my best friend’s mother, our officiant was a close family friend, and our photographer, Jess Barfield, went to college with us. Our wonderful florist, Scarlet Petal, pinned a photo of my mother on her wedding day to my bouquet so she could be with me on the biggest day of my life. It was these small touches that made our day feel like our own. In the years to come when Russ and I look back, I don’t know if we will be able to remember what we ate or what flowers were in my bouquet, but what we will never forget was the feeling in the room that night. There was so much love and happiness. One thing I know for sure was my mother was with us all on that day — we saw her in our smiles, heard her in our stories and felt her in our hearts.

Wedding Photography: Jess Barfield Photography / Wedding Venue: Gallery 1028 in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Scarlet Petal / Event Design: Alice’s Garden / Event Planning: Laura Patterson of The Ideal Day / Wedding Invitations: Charmant Invitations / Catering: Calihan Catering / Cake + Cupcakes: Amy Beck Cake Design / DJ: Fig Media / Wedding Dress: Priscilla of Boston (Now Closed) / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Bride’s Hair Piece: Peacock Pixys / Hair: Marek Hartwig Bridal Stylist / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo / Bridesmaid’s Shawls: Classy Wedding / Men’s Suits: Tommy Hilfiger / Men’s Ties: Brooks Brothers

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Each and every shot from this lovely collection of images by Studio Rebekah Photography shows a story filled with romance.  The Champaign wedding is perfectly ethereal in every single way from the elegant ceremony to the country club reception that glows with luxurious details.  Crisp, clean and classic is the name of the game for this sweet pair and the result couldn’t be more magical. See it all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… It was so important to Nate and me that everything about our wedding be so authentic and personal. The first vendor that we hired was our photographer, Studio Rebekah. We are not much for posing for pictures, and it was important to us that our photographer be able to capture the “real” moments of our wedding day. Rebekah was able to do just that. She was so easy to work with and helped make us feel comfortable in front of the camera. To help bring our wedding to life, we turned to Big City Brides and Alice’s Garden. I had always envisioned such a romantic and ethereal day but am also very into modern and clean lines. PJ Acosta, from Alice’s Garden, was able to help us bring both of those visions to life. We included a modern gallery art wall installation to pay tribute to the families and marriages we had come from. Our parents’ and grandparents’ wedding pictures lined a beautifully draped white hallway.

We chose silver, gold and ivory as our wedding colors. I have always loved mixed metals, and it made perfect sense for those to be our wedding colors. The bridesmaids wore gold, strapless dresses from Bella Bridesmaid with their own silver sandals, and they each carried their own specific bouquet of white flowers. The table linens were all gold with gold chiavari chairs. Silver vases and crystals accented all the tables, including beautiful white candelabras holding bountiful arrangements of various white flowers and tons of candlelight to give the romantic feel that we had wanted. Our wedding invitations were gold and ivory and included an “R” monogram that we used throughout our wedding décor, from the ring bearer pillows to the menus to the dance floor. Our dance floor area was in a separate room from the dinner reception. Alice’s Garden was able to help us create a beautiful and modern dance floor. The room was draped all in white, with a white dance floor that included our “R” monogram and white lounge furniture placed around the room. With soft purple up-lighting, the room was indescribably perfect and helped us achieve the modern dance club feel we wanted. The night ended with a surprise fireworks display secretly planned by my mother-in-law … perfect!

From Rebekah of Studio Rebekah Photography… I met with Courtney and Nate about a year and a half before their actual wedding date. I was very excited to see how this gorgeous swanky Chicago couple planned to bring their love for city flair down to their home in rural central Illinois. We decided to shoot their engagement photos in the fall in the city. We had a blast walking through Lincoln Park and shooting on those architecturally gorgeous bridges in Chicago. Even though the two love birds had been together since youth, I could tell they were still seriously enamored with one another. That made capturing their wedding day all the more special. Their venue transformed under the brilliance of Alice’s Garden. The day ran perfectly smooth under the flawless direction of the coordinators of Big City Bride! It’ll be a wedding I will never forget, however, for the brilliant surprise fireworks display that brought tears to the couples eyes at the end of the night.

Wedding Photography: Studio Rebekah Photography / Ceremony: St. Matthew Catholic Church in Champaign, Illinois / Reception: The Champaign Country Club in Champaign, Illinois / Floral + Event Design: Alice’s Garden / Event Planning: Big City Bride / Wedding Invitations: Magnificent Milestones / Wedding Cake + Desserts: The Cake Artist Studio / Wedding Cinematography: Grandpa Dreamworks / Wedding Gown: Vera Wang / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Simple Silhouettes via Bella Bridesmaid / Engagement Ring: Jan Dee Custom Jewelry / Wedding Bands: Geneva Seal

This Chicago wedding by Artisan Events, Inc. had me doing double takes.  I could have sworn I was looking at an elegant, European royal wedding ceremony.  The bride is timeless in her Melissa Sweet gown and Gilded Shadows veil and the traditional ceremony is exquisite.  Only when we step out and see the skyscraper-lined view from their reception at theWit Hotel are we transported back to the present for a gorgeous, organically modern celebration!  See it all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Kevin and I met in Brussels, Belgium, and immediately fell in love. After six years of dating and a private and personal engagement, we began the wedding process. It was very important to me to have a cohesive wedding motif that was representative of our backgrounds and our relationship, without being overkill or kitschy. Kevin is from Belgium, the birthplace of the Art Nouveau movement of the early 20th century, which was inspired by the blending of nature and man. I, on the other hand, am a native Chicagoan with a love of sophistication and modern art. After some thought, we decided that our motto for the wedding would be “Modern Art Nouveau” in order to reflect Kevin’s nationality, but still keeping our wedding young, fun, unique, and personal. With this theme in mind and an overall goal for our guests to just have fun at our wedding, we kept many details under wraps until the big day. 

Our ceremony took place at our local parish, St. Michael’s in Old Town, and was presided by my childhood priest, who just so happens to be a fluent French speaker. This enabled us to have a completely bilingual mass because Kevin and many of our guests are French-speaking. We even said our vows in French! We hand-selected the musicians and songs, which included my processional into the mass to our favorite song, “The Wind” by Cat Stevens. After the ceremony, guests were transported by coach bus to theWit Hotel — a swanky, cool boutique hotel in the Loop. We chose theWit to showcase our fun-loving personalities and the city of Chicago, which our guests viewed from the top of the roof on the 27th floor. We had over 30 Belgians in town for the wedding, so it really showed off Chicago’s beauty and also provided our Chicago-based guests another view of our great city.  After cocktails, guests descended into the dimly-lit ballroom, which showcased floral centerpieces designed by Richard Remiard Event Design and lighting by Chicago Lighting Design. Richard Remiard Event Design hand-picked modern, lucite tables, which were topped with not only guests’ place cards, but gorgeous green and white flowers and water features of varying heights. Our table centerpieces were another representation of our theme: three variations of the centerpieces were very green and romantic but still organic and natural, and each centerpieces had a very modern, clean edge to tie. The evening was filled with little details, including a custom invitation suite from Be U Brides, personalized DIY menus, table numbers, etc., and even a replica of the famous Mannekin Pis fountain in Belgium as a surprise to Kevin! 

Keeping our wedding motif in mind, my attire consisted of a Melissa Sweet for Priscilla of Boston gown, Kate Spade “Charm” pumps, little white gloves that my mom gave me the day of the wedding, and last but definitely not least, a custom veil created by Kristen for Gilded Shadows that was ordered and purchased through Etsy. My gown was a traditional lace dress, but was modernized with an organaza top layer and illusion straps. It was complemented with a matching, organza sash and silver, antique beading. The chapel-length veil completed the look in that it was an early 20th century “Juliet Cap” with matching silver beaded fascinators, a style which was common during the Art Nouveau period in Europe. I think I really captured our Modern Art Nouveau idea by having a vintage-style dress and veil with modern flair to it. 

Wedding Photography + Cinematography: Artisan Events, Inc. / Ceremony: St. Michael in Old Town Parish in Chicago, Illinois / Reception: theWit Hotel in Chicago, Illinois / Floral + Event Design: Richard Remiard Event Design / Wedding Invitations: Be U Brides / Wedding Dress: Melissa Sweet for Priscilla of Boston (Now Closed) / Bride’s Veil: Gilded Shadows / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade “Charm”

You know we love, love, LOVE a traditional ballroom affair here on SMP – and, oh my goodness, is this Chicago soiree all kinds of fabulous.  The glorious Cafe Brauer setting (hello gorgeous!), dazzling florals and lighting by Ashland Addison Florist Company and stunning images captured by Amanda Hein Photography are almost too perfect for words.  And with dazzling detail after dazzling detail planned by the talented team at Bliss Weddings and Events, we haven’t stopped smiling yet.  Click here for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… When Greg and I got engaged, we knew we had to have our wedding and celebration at Cafe Brauer. I’d been by it a hundred times as we lived downtown, and I couldn’t believe the setting. It was an intimate/isolated spot in the beautiful Lincoln Park, and we dreamed of filling the gorgeous ballroom with our family and friends to witness our vows and celebrate our marriage. I had seen pictures of  the space with the gorgeous wood floors, Tiffany glass and the prairie stone architecture, and I knew we needed to check it out. I went to see it with my parents, and we couldn’t resist the little oasis in the city in such a peaceful, romantic setting, with an incredible view of the Chicago skyline. Greg even said before we got engaged, he knew that’s where we’d get married. We truly are so happy we chose Cafe Brauer and couldn’t imagine a better place to begin our lives together. Our officiant was the same one who married my parents over 30 years ago, and he actually grew up with Greg’s parents. We were so happy with the intimate ceremony he performed, and he is very dear to our hearts. Our vendors were amazing, and all helped us have the most perfect wedding day. A huge thank you to everyone!

Wedding Photography: Amanda Hein Photography / Wedding Venue: Cafe Brauer at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Coordination: Kara Superfine of Bliss Weddings and Events / Floral Design + Lighting: Ashland Addison Florist Company / Catering + Linens: Food for Thought / Wedding Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery / Officiant: Father Al Johnson / Music: TVK Orchestra / Accommodations: The Whitehall Hotel / Transportation: Windy City Limousine / Wedding Dress: Priscilla of Boston / Brooch on Back of Wedding Dress: From the Groom’s Grandmother / Bride’s Shoes: Bourne / Bridesmaids Dresses: LulaKate “Gina” (With Party Skirt — Color: Wine) via Bella Bridesmaid / Bridesmaids’ Shoes: Nina / Makeup: Jen and Roz of Beauty on Call / Hair: Beauty on Call + Emily, A Family Friend / Men’s Attire: Black Tie Formalwear