Illinois Weddings

I love that this bride incorporated a little Texas flair into her Illinois nuptials!  She brought the elegant, rustic vibe we love so much from the lone star state and perfectly blended it with the midwest vineyard setting.  The result is sweet, romantic and oh-so-much fun!  And I love that this cutie couple donned their wedding day digs one more time for an awesome day after session with the groom’s Camaro all shot by Pam Cooley Photography!  See it all in the full gallery!

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From the Bride… Matt and I really wanted to include “us” in our wedding. Because I am from Dallas, Texas, and he was born and raised in central Illinois, we had a difficult time deciding Texas vs. Illinois. Until we say the Mackinaw Valley Vineyard — then we knew! Originally our plan for our September wedding was to have the wedding outside and reception inside, but the weather had other plans. The day ended up being a light drizzly ALL day, but thanks to my amazing wedding planner, the transition was seamless. I wanted to include a little bit of rustic Texas chic in my wedding planning, which is where the cowboy boots for the bridesmaids and me came from, along with the burlap table coverings! I also wanted to include as many homemade items as I could so that our wedding day would mimic our home as well, something that was important to us. My florist thought that I was crazy when I came to her saying I wanted lots of lantern, flowers, candles and fun. But that is what I got! We were also fortunate to be able to get a photo booth for our guest to enjoy! As a result of the rainy day we were unable to use Matt’s ’69 Camaro as our getaway car, so our wonderful photographer let us do a “dress session” upon returning from our honeymoon — a piece of advice for brides-to-be: do the after session. The photos after the wedding were so much fun! Plus who wouldn’t want to put their dress back on?

Wedding Photography: Pam Cooley Photography / Wedding Venue: Mackinaw Valley Vineyard in Mackinaw, Illinois / Floral + Event Design: Beth Maxwell of McKinley Park Events / Event Planning: Lisa Ragan of Happily Ever After Weddings / Wedding Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas / Wedding Cake: That’s a Cake? / Photo Booth: Scott Schilling Photography / Wedding Dress: Watters

There’s nothing quite like a stunning Salvage One soiree to kick off the weekend in style – and when that stunning soiree also happens to be filled to the brim with vibrant purple and green hues, sweet vintage meets rustic details and the world’s most adorable bride and groom, well… we just can’t get enough.  All planned to absolute perfection by Anticipation Events and captured brilliantly by Olivia Leigh Photographie, it’s going to be a super fabulous Friday, indeed.  Click here for more.

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And one last dose of pretty from Studio 272 before you head off into your weekend…

From Olivia of Olivia Leigh Photographie… To give you a very brief overview, Diana and Mike were married in July in Chicago at Salvage One, an awesome vintage furniture and salvage store on the west side of the city. Diana and Mike met at Second City here in Chicago, a fact that would not surprise anyone after meeting this hilarious couple! They are such a fun couple who love to laugh and make jokes. Diana even started off her vows with a Dr. Dre quote.  Beyond the humor, however, lay a very deep connection between them, which rose to the surface on this day. It ended up being a perfect day mixed with whimsy and laughter, as well as romance and emotion.

Diana looked gorgeous in her Reem Acra gown, sprinkled with crystals, while Mike looked dapper in his suit. They gave each other gifts before the ceremony — Mike gave Diana a vintage jewelry box that had her in tears, and Diana gave Mike a custom drawing of them. They did a first look on one of the magnificent and well-known bridges over the Chicago River, and we took pictures around town, at their venue, and in a favorite restaurant. They were married outside in Salvage One’s quirky courtyard, where the ceremony incorporated elements of Diana’s Mexican heritage with readings in Spanish and English and a Mexico lasso tradition.

Escort cards were macarons that Mike hand-wrote all the labels for, and mason jars and rustic blooms provided the perfect decor for the celebration. A stunning cake took center stage with a tone-on-tone design that was just gorgeous!

Wedding Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie / Wedding Venue: Salvage One in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Planning: Anticipation Events / Cinematography: Joel of Studio 272 / Catering: Blue Plate Catering / Photo Booth: The Magnolia Photo Booth Co. / DJ: Style Matters DJs / Wedding Dress: Reem Acra / Hair: Dennis Bartolomei Salon / Makeup: Sonia Roselli / Accommodations: Hotel Palomar

Rustic and romance go hand and hand like peanut butter and jelly.  This team of talented wedding vendors, headed by the phenomenal Kristin La Voie Photography, showcased this ultimate pairing in the prettiest of ways from the lovely lace invitations right down to the hand-stamped, silverware pockets.  There are so many elegant details sure to inspire your own barn chic bash!  See it all in the full gallery!

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From Kristin of Kristin La Voie Photography… I was inspired to create a rustic, elegant shoot, infused with beautifully handcrafted details down to the silverware pockets. It was important to me to use all small businesses to showcase their talents, which many couples may not think of while planning their big affair. The tiniest details can really make a wedding that much more spectacular, like the custom ring pillow that can be used as a Christmas ornament long after the wedding or the intricate invitations with beading and details never before seen. These little things all come together to create an original and awe-inspiring event to really showcase each couple’s uniqueness.

Having taken place Valentine’s Day weekend on an extremely windy and chilly day, my hope was to document the idea of an intimate outdoor reception that could take place at a family farm, forest preserve or backyard. Many times, couples struggle in thinking of new, fresh ideas to make their wedding their own when really they don’t need to look very far. A great location may be just outside their window. As an added bonus, by supporting these small businesses, couples could certainly expect to not only get a great deal, but also completely customize everything to tell their own personal story.

Photography, Styling + Coordination: Kristin La Voie Photography / Venue: LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles, Illinois / Floral Design: FlowersFlowers / Wedding Cake: Dazzling Delights / Cookies + Cupcakes: Over the Top Cupcakes and Sweets / Invitation, Menu, Place Card + Table Card: TamTam Design / Bride & Groom Signs, Coasters, Cake Topper, Table Sign Holder + Chalkboard: This Fine Day / Banner, Silverware Pockets + Ring Pillow: Blue Pearls / Guest Book: O Romeo Bridal / Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal “Michelangelo” / Garter Set + Bracelet: The Chica Boutique / Hair Piece: Mad Props / Hair: Dee C. Kae Hair Artistry / Makeup: Vanessa’s Art of Beauty / Suit: Express / Bow Tie: Tux and Tulle

Salvage One is one of the coolest little spots in Chicago. A melding of hip urban loft meets grandma’s attic filled with vintage gems that all come together for such a lovely marrying spot. Saying I Do under a sea of twinkling chandeliers; there’s nothing quite like it. And with a little help from floral genius Pollen and beautiful images by Shane Welch Photography, this Chicago wedding has shot to the top of our favorites list. See more of the day right here.

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From the Couple… We wanted our day to feel like old-fashioned romance with very distinctive elements that were special to us and our lives together. Because our wedding was at Salvage One, an antique warehouse in Chicago, the space did a lot of the work for us. However, the special touches we added made the day distinctively ours and not just another wedding at Salvage One. To begin, we picked Christina’s favorite singer, Billie Holiday, and walked down the dimly lit aisle to three of her songs. A jazz trio that Jared grew up listening to played as guests arrived and for the cocktail hour. During the ceremony, a special Native American Hopi wedding vase was used as part of a unity ritual. We were gifted the vase early in our engagement when we visited a Hopi reservation for a story Jared did about Native Americans.

Our miniature programs were created on kraft paper, tri-folded and tied with string. We included our silhouettes and our wedding party member’s silhouettes as well. We also used our silhouettes in our wedding invitations and on our escort card table. Escort cards were made with kraft paper, in the shape of antique-looking price tags and attached to old bow ties and scarves – things we both enjoy collecting, and things our guests enjoyed wearing throughout the evening. We also created useful place cards that doubled as favors — boxes wrapped in seam binding with a tiny seckel pear and homemade caramels inside, topped with a note that read, “the perfect pair.” 

Pollen, our florist, did incredible work on the table tops. In addition to fruits and vegetables, she allowed us to incorporate antlers we collected from living in Wyoming and cotton we picked up living in New Mexico. Entering the reception with a mariachi band was one of the highlights of the night. The mariachi dance routine we did with our bridal party was a great way to kick off the reception with a bang! Instead of serving cake, we decided to go only with pie. We also decided to serve the pie, and to use the pie service as our receiving line so we had a chance to serve and talk to our guests at the same time. The pies were delicious, and we were able to use old stoves at Salvage One to create a super-cute serving station.

Wedding Photography: Shane Welch Photography / Wedding Venue: Salvage One in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Pollen / Day-Of Coordination: Lucia Bayt / Catering: Food For Thought / DJ: Style Matters / Wedding Dress: Watters

I’m a little bit at a loss for words when it comes to this breathtaking Chicago affair by Kina Wicks Photography, because, well, it’s just.that.good.  One part traditional, one part funky cool and all parts amazing, it’s everything you dream your wedding to be – sophisticated, awe-inspiring and beautiful in every.which.way.  Held at the oh-so-chic Rumba and featuring some drop-dead gorgeous purple hues, we’re in for an entire weekend of LOVELY.  Click here for more.

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From Kina of Kina Wicks Photography… Maria and Miguel are both Chicago natives and every location for their day held very personal significance to them. The Drake Hotel, where they got ready and had their first look and pictures is where Miguel’s father has worked for many years, and they both were in love with the architecture and chandeliers throughout the hotel. The Rumba supper club, where the ceremony and reception were held, is where they met and both work. The Rumba supper club is full of Latin inspiration, and we danced to a traditional Latin band for most of the night. The supper club has a very “rat pack” feel. 

Wedding Photography: Kina Wicks Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Rumba in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Maria Parks (219-616-8415) / Officiant: Robert Ehlert / Wedding Cinematography: Eugene Bush of E-Tre Productions / Wedding Cake: Creative Cakes / Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Mix No. 6 / Bride’s Hair: Stephanie Alegria / Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse / Accommodations + First Look: The Drake Hotel

I heart Salvage One in Chicago big time.  It is an urban wonderland with so many cool nooks and crannies just waiting for a photographer like Rebekah Albaugh of Studio Rebekah Photography to come along and capture all its vintage, industrial goodness.  This super sweet wedding brings with it a wild at heart beauty perfect for the space and is packed full of personal details that will make you swoon.  See them all in the full gallery!

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From the Bride… We met at White Sox game the summer of 2007. I was training for the Chicago marathon and volunteered to sell raffle tickets to help raise money for my training group (CARA). Patrick was a friend of the volunteer coordinator, in town for the weekend. It was love at first sight.

I had been in Manchester, England, for a friend’s wedding the week before, when I landed PK picked me up from the airport. I half-expected him to propose then, but he didn’t. We got home, watched two episodes of The Office, and then I went to unpack. I brought him the gift I bought him which was a bike jersey with a map of London. As I continued unpacking, I heard him yell from the living room, “Oh, I got you something too.” I am a huge David Bowie fan — Ziggy Stardust is my favorite record. PK and I collect vinyl records, but Ziggy Stardust was always so expensive I never bought it for myself. When I heard him yell, I also heard the opening chords to “5 Years,” which is the first song on that album, and I was so excited, realizing he had purchased it for me. I ran into the living room where the record was playing. I grabbed the album cover and started crying I was so excited, then he said, “Aren’t you going to look at the record?” So I peeked at the record player, and there was an original, 1920s engagement ring spinning along with the record. I turned around and he was on one knee. I got down on the floor with him, and he proposed.

Everyone danced the whole time at the wedding. The venue manager told my dad she had never seen everyone dance like that before. We owe so much to our awesome DJ Kate. When “Rebellion (Lies)” by Arcade Fire came on, my whole family squeezed into one giant group hug and sang every word with PK and I right in the middle. That was pretty amazing. The funniest wedding memory was when a bat got into the event space. He was just flying around, minding his own business and enjoying the scenery. People were chasing him with a net trying to get him out. They were afraid to tell me about him, but I kind of enjoyed it. We named him Mort. He was pretty cute. I loved so many of our details. Our personally written vows. Each table being named after a brewery that had meaning to us. Our music. The flowers were also the hardest vendor to find — I just couldn’t find someone who got what I was trying to describe. I spent ten minutes with Beth at Larkspur and I knew she was right. The day of the wedding, she impressed me beyond any expectations I had. They were so gorgeous I couldn’t throw most of them away! As far as advice to other brides, do what you want to do. Every bride has such different taste — that doesn’t mean it‘s wrong. Having an offbeat, unique wedding is just as special as a chapel-length train and sit-down dinner. Oh, and choose your favorite colors. You are going to see them a lot. Interview vendors, but don’t always just go with the ones with the most impressive resumes — it’s really important you like who you are working with. And get ready early! A little downtime to enjoy the space is awesome. Because once stuff starts happening, it doesn’t stop. EVER. Oh, and lastly, don’t accidentally get a bad tan line the week before your wedding. Whoops.

Photography: Rebekah Albaugh of Studio Rebekah Photography / Wedding Venue: Salvage One in Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Planning: Studio Rebekah Photography / Floral Design: Larkspur / Day-of Coordinator: Amy Stockbridge / Catering: D’Absolute Catering / DJ:  Kate of Toast & Jam / Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Goose Island Brewery / Wedding Dress: Lazaro via Macy’s / Engagement Ring: Vintage / Bride’s Bracelet: Borrowed from her Mother / Hair: Gordon of Ambra Salon & European Spa / Bridesmaids’s Dresses: Various via J.Crew / Men’s Suits: Men’s Wearhouse / Men’s Shoes: Vans / Men’s Ties: Etsy

FlowersFlowers is serving up some of the sweetest succulents I ever did see in this personality-filled wedding captured by Rejoy Photography. They are just the perfect compliment to this adorable duo’s big day, because something about succulents just screams style – and this couple has style for miles. Add the fact that they incorporated their sweet pups into the theme of the day, and you are left with a wedding blogger that has a serious crush on this stylish soiree! See it all here!

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From Joanne of FlowersFlowers… Charleen and Brian came to me in the spring knowing that they wanted succulents and craspedia in their wedding flowers. They’d seen photos in magazines and online, and they were certain, so that’s what we designed for their gorgeous gray and yellow wedding. They were a couple heads over heels in love, and the photographs capture this gorgeous couple in love on their wedding day, including a song sung by the bride for her new husband.

From the Bride… My favorite part of the planning process has got to be finding my wedding gown. It was my very first time stepping into a bridal shop and my very first bridal appointment. I had not expected to find my dress so quickly, but like they say, when you put it on, you just know. The magical and fun thing about finding my dress wasn’t the champagne after saying “yes to the dress” but that my sisters and I got to meet Lazaro, the designer of my dress! Not only did we get to meet him, but we also got to hug him, and being the sweetheart that he is, he drew us sketches of MY wedding gown!

Our theme was based around our two rescued pitbulls, Koko and Nabisco. Brian and I have such a deep love for our dogs and the breed itself that we decided to incorporate them into our wedding theme, along with the colors gray and yellow. We fashioned the favors, favor labels, invitations, and programs with pitbull silhouettes and I drew a seal with our dogs, which I printed on the front envelope flap of our wedding invitations. Some key words I focused on when planning the wedding were natural, playful, personal, romantic, timeless, outdoor, rustic and vintage. A few things that make our wedding unique: our dogs were our ring bearer and flower girl, my dad and I sang a song I composed instead of doing a father/daughter dance, I sang a dedication to my husband during the reception, everyone playing bag toss during cocktail hour (we had this specifically made for our wedding — the bags were yellow and gray) and our sweets table full of Filipino and Italian desserts (Brian’s Italian and I’m Filipina). My mom also wore a modern version of a Mestiza/Filipiniana dress, similar to what my grandmother wore on my parents’ wedding day, and Brian and I sat at our family table instead of a head table. My favorite parts of the wedding were the personalized details — seeing all of the hard work that my family put in. Another favorite was my song to Brian. This meant a lot to me because this is actually how I met him. I was his sister’s wedding singer five years ago, so it was only appropriate to dedicate the first of many to my darling husband on our wedding day. The words in this song really hit close to home, “We ain’t got nothing without love, and darling, you have enough for the both of us.” I’m a hopeless romantic and luckily enough for me, so is he. I honestly could not have been more blessed. My top favorite memory of the day was seeing how excited Brian was. I always thought of the bride being more excited, but he was SO ready to get the day started and to finally get married. It was just really endearing.

Wedding Photography: Rejoy Photography / Wedding Venue: Fountain Blue in Des Plaines, Illinois / Floral Design: FlowersFlowers / Décor + Design: The Bride’s Sister Carmine / Wedding Invitations + Paper Goods: DIY by the Bride + Her Family / Wedding Cake: Central Continental Bakery / Dog Candle Favors: DIY by the Bride’s Mother / Father + Daughter Duet Song: Composed by the Bride / Slideshows: The Bride’s Sister Celeste / Rings: dimend SCAASI / Band: I55 Showband, The Bride’s Father’s Band / DJ: Stax O Wax DJ Productions / Photo Booth: GlitterGuts / Wedding Dress: Lazaro via Bella Bianca / Bride’s Earrings: lilaBjewelrydesigns / Bride’s Shoes: Guess / Hairpiece: DIY by the Bride’s Sister Carmine / Hair: Anne Bautista, A Friend / Makeup: Cynthia Chea, A Friend / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: DIY by a Family Friend / Dresses for Bride’s Mother, Sisters + Aunt: Designed by the Bride’s Sister Carmine + Made by a Family Friend / Men’s Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse / Dog Bow Tie + Dog Flower Accessory: Pecan Pie Puppies

Getting dolled up on your wedding day, with super star perfect hair and a gorgeous gown, is one of the best feelings ever.  Everyone loves looking like a movie star every once in awhile so what could be better than having one more day of glamour with just you and your honey?  The day-after photo session is the perfect way to get a little longevity out of that post-ceremony glow!  This urban, Chicago shoot is so romantic, sexy and fun.  I love every shot captured by Erin Leppo Photography.  See them all in the full gallery!

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From Erin of Erin Leppo Photography… We did a day after session in Chicago, Illinois, a week after their barn wedding. They were still all excited and the bride was really excited to be in her wedding dress since she will most likely never wear it again. I thought their session was super fun (ice cream and all) and also had some sensual bits (alley and the sunset on Lake Michigan).

Photography: Erin Leppo Photography / Location: Chicago, Illinois / Wedding Dress: Casablanca Bridal (Style 1995)

We like to kick off the week in grand fashion here on SMP Illinois – and today’s fab Belvedere affair will most certainly do the trick.  Yep, with a traditional meets modern vibe, soft blue glow and room overflowing with romantic candlelight, there’s not a moment of ballroom goodness that doesn’t have our hearts skipping a beat.  Thankfully, Kristin La Voie Photography was on hand to capture all of the lovely, because we are in for a Monday filled to the brim with PRETTY.  Click here for more.

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From Kristin of Kristin La Voie Photography… This wedding was infused with cultural elements and the most beautiful design elements to create a spectacular event, just as you would expect from an interior designer like Kaitlyn. She played a large part in coordinating the affair. Kaitlyn, who comes from a large Irish family, and Odilon, who comes from a large Hispanic family, decided to incorporate their cultures into their wedding with live entertainment at the reception including Irish step dancers and Spanish dancers. Every detail was beautiful, bright, and bold.

Wedding Photography: Kristin La Voie Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Belvedere in Elk Grove Village, Illinois / Floral Design, Decor + Linens: Yanni Design Studio / Wedding Cake: The Baking Institute / DJ + Photobooths: Spinnin’ Discs / Irish Dancers: Trinity Irish Dancers / Spanish Dancers: AMDM / Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals via House of Brides / Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Jewelry: Kay Jewelers / Tuxedo Rentals: Black Tie Formalwear

A few months back we challenged all you lovelies to inspire a brand new invitation collection by Sarah Drake with your awesome design board building skills.  We were blown away by what you all created but ultimately this fun, Mexican beach-inspired board totally totally captured our hearts.  Sarah has been hard at work crafting a new invitation suite so perfect for a vibrant, summer-time soiree.  Before we reveal her awesome design let’s take one more look at the beautiful board that started it all!

Aren’t you so excited to see what Sarah Drake designed?  Well, we won’t keep you in suspense any longer because the outcome is just too good to keep secret!

From Sarah Drake… I was drawn immediately to the bright colors and beachy vibe from Taylor Jane’s inspiration board, and know upon seeing it, that I wanted to design something with Mexican clay handmade tiles as the base. The colorful tiles really showcase what Mexico is known for, and I think are a great jumping off point for a bright, fun, laid-back wedding. The best thing about these invites is that they can be digitally printed, so no matter how many colors you choose, they will still be an affordable invitation set. We paired ours with fuschia envelopes, but white would pop just as nicely, and be more wedding-like!

If you are anything like us, you’ve been soaking up and filing away all the steal-worthy ideas from this week’s Bridal Shower Inspiration Week thanks to the lovelies at Macy’s. From fashion finds to registry must haves, it’s been like a fabulous course in Swoon-Worthy Shopping 101. And today’s lesson is creating a bridal shower that is stop-in-your-tracks glamourous, and it goes without saying it’s a lesson worth learning…

First let’s take a look at a bridal shower that achieved this very type of glamour. A fête that makes you feel fancy just by looking at all the lovely images by Julia Franzosa Photography. With invitations that set the tone of chic Chicago elegance by Sarah Drake Design and jaw-droppingly gorgeous florals by Pistil & Vine – it’s a lesson in lovely that you’ll want to study up in the full gallery of images!

Click here for the FULL bridal shower!

Now we couldn’t show you all that pretty inspiration and not give you a few ideas on how to bring in all that glamour to life at the next shower you host. Take notes lovelies, because these are must haves for your next fabulous fête!

1. Vera Wang Golden Grosgrain 5-Piece Place Setting 2.Leeber Candle Holder Sparkle Tealight 3. Lighting by Design Candle Holders 4. Excell Napkin Rings 5. The Cellar Cake Stand with Mini Dome 6. 7. kate spade new york Vase, Hydrangea Collection 8. Vera Wang Ice Bucket

From Megan of Pistil & Vine… French Regency meets Urban Elegance at this downtown Chicago boutique hotel, a venue known for its rich, modern decor, exceptional service and amazing Gold Coast location. We created focused variations of height and texture with three high arrangements of soft celadon hydrangeas, blush sweet pea, French tulips, peonies, delicate dusty miller, ranunculus and our favorite English-grown garden rose, appropriately named Juliet. The negative space between these towering displays featured mirrored panel boxes, extending over four feet in length upon the table top, mimicking the elevated floral arrangements subtle watercolor-esque tones and floral selection.

This pastel palette was inspired by the Parisian open-air flower markets and was highlighted by soft pink champagne linens gracefully muted by a crisp hand-tailored hemstitch runner anchoring the center of the overall composition. Silver mercury accented candlesticks boasted flickering candlelight within various height hurricanes, radiating from each display. These details accent the already-beautiful Hemingway Salon, an intimate setting that boasts fabric-covered charcoal grey walls, antiqued mirrors and two opulent chandeliers. The decadent sweet table was detailed with a three-foot tower of pastel macarons, alluding to a window display at the famous Ladurée in Versailles. The little delights were subtly infused with rose essence, fresh apple and pistachio, and were created by esteemed pastry chef Andrew Johnson. House-made butterscotch pots de crème and pickup sweets completed this afternoon of perfection.

Photography: Julia Franzosa Photography / Venue: The Waldorf Astoria Chicago in Chicago, Illinois (Formerly The Elysian Hotel) / Floral + Event Design: Pistil & Vine / Invitations + Menus: Sarah Drake Design / Catering + Sweets Table: The Waldorf Astoria Chicago / Linens: BBJ Linen / Calligraphy: Stacey Shapiro

Chicago just might have the prettiest skyline in existence. But all of you Chicagoans knew that, right? And for a couple who wanted to celebrate that skyline and their love of architecture, the The Rookery was the perfect spot to play host. It’s chic city glamour and stunning architectural views all wrapped up into an out of this world fete. Now throw The Rasers Photography into the mix and the result is one beautiful image after another. Pore through them all right here.

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From the Bride… We really wanted to focus on the beautiful city of Chicago and its amazing architecture. When we first walked into the Rookery building, we instantly knew we wanted to get married there. It is truly one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. I wanted the entire day to reflect its luxurious, classic and elegant feel, while staying true to our own simple and modern tastes. I kept this in mind as we chose our photo spots, my dress, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, flowers and even the place settings.

From Derren + Lisa of The Rasers Photography… When you think of Chicago, the first thing that comes to mind is its skyline and its memorable mix of historic and iconic buildings. Melany and Eddy hail from downtown Chicago, and one of the things that helped set their day apart was the way they incorporated this unique aspect of the city into almost every part of their day. From where they both chose to get ready, their first look, their portraits, and finally their ceremony and reception, every aspect of their wedding was set against a striking piece of Chicago’s architecture.

This modern and elegant theme was present in every aspect of the day, starting with the suite at the JW Marriott where Melany chose to get ready, right in the midst of downtown. Eddy and his groomsmen chose to relax and prepare for the day at a chic modern loft on the West Side, which was complete with modern art and decor and a metal spiral staircase. The theme continued when Melany and Eddy met for their dramatic first look on the famous staircase in the entryway of the JW Marriott. For Melany and Eddy’s portraits, we incorporated the impressive columns and iconic Great Hall of Union Station. They also wanted to use the Kinzie Street Bridge, Chicago’s famous bascule-style bridge, well known for its distinct design and history. We ended our portraits by capturing them together on the striking, one-of-a-kind staircase inside the Rookery building itself. From start to finish, Melany and Eddy created a day that was full of the kind of elegance that you can only find in a city like Chicago. Being able to tell the story of their unique day through our images was so memorable and beautiful.

Wedding Photography: The Rasers Photography / Wedding Venue: The Rookery in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Vale of Enna Flowers / Catering: Jewell Events Catering / Wedding Cake: Bittersweet / DJ: Music Masters Entertainment / Wedding Dress: Amsale / Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Jewelry: Nordstrom + David Yurman / Hair: Livia Caporale / Makeup: Morgan Blaul / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Ann Taylor / Bridal Party Preparations: JW Marriott Chicago / Groomsmen Suits: Formally Modern Tuxedo / Drapes: Start With Imagination

This Rockford wedding by Turner Creative Photography is packing some serious charm.  From the gorgeous garden-inspired stationery suite that the graphic designer bride created herself to the darling yellow and blue country club reception, every inch of it is super sweet and loaded with perfect summer details.  I’m going to spend the morning day-dreaming of summer in the full gallery and you should too!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Turner Creative Photography… Megan and Ryan had a pretty summer wedding 4th of July weekend 2011 in Rockford, Illinois. Preparations and photos took place at her parent’s home overlooking the Rock River. The traditional ceremony was held at Christ United Methodist Church. Megan wore a beautiful WTOO gown and chose soft blue and yellow for the florals and reception decor. Megan is a graphic artist and designed the entire set of wedding stationery, from the invitations to the place cards and reception decor.The entire wedding party traveled by boat on the Rock River and arrived at the dock of the Rockford Country Club for the reception. 

Wedding Photography: Turner Creative Photography / Wedding Flowers: Stems Floral / Ceremony Venue: Christ United Methodist Church / Reception Venue: Rockford Country Club / Wedding Invitations: the bride / Wedding Cake: Patricia’s Patisserie of Rockford IL / Bride’s Shoes: Ivanka Trump / Bride’s Dress: WTOO / Jewelry: Alecia Tank  / Hair: Estilo Salon / Suits: Tommy Hilfiger / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Sara Grace of Rockford / Bridal hair flowers: Clark and Diversey / Wedding bands: Hands Jewelers of Iowa City IA

I know I say this a lot, but you are going to love this couple. They’re so sweet, and so in love, and I’m beyond excited that thanks to Loudbyte Cinematography, we get a little peek inside their adorable relationship. The Love Story was shot before the wedding, during a time that, you lucky engaged LBBers know, can be the most exciting time of your story together. I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about their smiles – so I’ll leave you with their story.

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When I was 27 I woke up one morning with the strangest (and nuttiest) light bulb moment: “Why not move from Chicago to NYC!” I had always dreamed of what it would be like to live there, and literally, two weeks from that moment I was unpacking boxes with two other girlfriends, freshly moved into our new home in Astoria, Queens. The plan was to live it out for a year, maybe two… and then come home. But something happened.. FATE (by the name of Giovanni) happened. We met in the least likely of places- Match.com. And like the very best of fairy tales, he swept me off my feet. 

Once Giovanni proposed, we decided we’d be living our lives together on the east coast.  Though my Chicago family and friends were happy for us, we soon recognized how sad they were to lose me.   So as our wedding date soon approached, we decided to surprise our guests with a welcome video to showcase our love but above all offer a sense of comfort to all our loved ones that I was in good hands. The video was not only a success in beautifully showcasing our love story, it also solidified our promise to love and cherish each other in the next chapter of our lives together. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house, and we are forever indebted to Loudbyte for giving us something we’ll cherish forever.

Cinematography: Loudbyte Cinematography

We are ending this fabulous week at SMP Illinois with a bright and sparkly beauty of a wedding by JordanQuinn Photography.  The bubbly personalities of this couple shine through every single detail of their wedding decor like the adorable mustache and lips invitations and escort cards, balloons, and the bride’s red sequin Toms.  Click here to see it all!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Last June, when Dave and I got engaged, tears and dropping to a knee were conspicuously missing. Instead, the engagement was full of laughter and riddled with little jokes that make us the couple we are. There was no question that the wedding needed to be the same thing — we wanted guests to leave the reception talking about how fun and how “us” the whole wedding was. We did everything possible to leave no part of our personalities out. We checked out ballrooms and hotels and museums, but it wasn’t until we walked into sunlit loft of the Ravenswood Billboard Factory that we’d found the perfect place. It encompassed the vintage but modern, fun but refined, and bold but relaxed feel that we envisioned the wedding being. We chose an early fall palate of crimson red and charcoal gray that was ever-present in the bridesmaids’ dresses, the groomsmen tuxes, the antique balloons that lined the ceremony, my glittery red Toms, Dave’s red Chucks and every single flower. We were lucky enough to have a Dave’s uncle perform the ceremony and the three of us wrote nearly the whole thing from start to finish with our own words. We even made up a unity ceremony so that not just our biological parents but also his stepparents could be equally involved.

The wedding was slowly coming together, but it wasn’t until we stumbled on the ‘Stache and Lips invitations on Minted.com that the whole thing sprung to life. The invitations just sang to us. Dave has been known to rock the occasional mustache and the deco detailing made them elegant enough that even his grandmother couldn’t help but love them too. Suddenly mustaches and lips were sneaking their way onto every piece of paper and even onto the groomsmen’s feet. They became constant reminders to every guest that this wedding was going to be fun. I’m actually shocked that no one came to the wedding with a mustache on their face, but since no one did, we provided some in the form of baked goods and escort cards that they could enjoy all night.

The morning was filled with hair and makeup for the ladies and straight razor shaves for the guys, culminating in a Chinese tea ceremony with all of our relatives from around the country and the world. Clad in Chinese qi paos my best friend (and maid of honor) poured tea while Dave and I knelt to receive blessings from our elders the way that our family had for generations before us. Later that afternoon, after photos around the city were done and the wedding rings has been warmed with the wishes of every guest, Dave and I each walked down the aisle with our dearest friends and our parents. We laughed and cried together during the readings and during our vows, and on the evening of our four year anniversary, we were married. I am not sure if there is one moment that I can definitively call out as my favorite from the whole day, but one that I can’t get out of my head is Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” as the last dance of the night. Dave and I had been on the dance floor all night so this song was no different, but instead of moving from group to group of guests saying good night, the guests spontaneously formed a giant circle around us. People who made friends with one another at dinner were now arm in arm belting out the lyrics and filling the room with more love than we ever thought possible.

Wedding Photography: JordanQuinn Photography / Wedding Venue: Ravenswood Event Center in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Ashland Addison Florist Co. / Day of  Coordinator: Laura Susin Koo of Honey Bee Weddings / Wedding Coordination & Venue Contact: Alyssa McKenzie of Ravenswood Event Center / Wedding Invitations: Minted / Wedding Cake: Luscious Layers Bakery / Officiant: The Groom’s Uncle / Wedding Dress: Watters “Mojave” / Bride’s Shoes: TOMS

I just LOVE the idea of creating a little love film that welcomes your guest to your reception – mostly when it’s as darling as this one from Blu Couture Wedding Films. And if your guests are anything like me, they will be glued to the screen letting out a tear or two because of all the cuteness. It’s such a fabulous way for all of your guests to feel connected to your story, and it is a must watch this morning for sure!

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From Mandie of Blu Couture Wedding Films… Margot and Jamie wanted to do something a little more special for the guests attending their wedding in Washington, DC. Their love story film, shot in Chicago, was the perfect introduction to their grand entrance at the reception. It gave all guests an inside scoop as to who they really are as a couple.

Cinematography: Blu Couture Wedding Films / Location: Chicago, Illinois

It’s another lovely Monday here on SMP Illinois and we just can’t think of a better way to jump start the week than with this stunning Chicago affair captured by Doug McGoldrick Photography.  Held at the BREATHTAKING Palmer House and bursting with sweet, traditional details and vibrant green hues, there’s not a single moment of this amazing affair that won’t leave you seriously longing for more. Luckily, the gallery is overflowing with ballroom goodness, including those pretty blooms by Walden Floral Design Co. and uber-gorgeous images of the adorable bride and groom.  Click here for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Doug McGoldrick Photography… I had a super time with a great couple at this wedding. Caroline and Joe where a total pleasure to work with and stayed cool through out the day. I also got to work with Denver Smith, a guy who I have shot for a couple times — he is a blast and the total life-of-the-party kind of guy. Another great thing about this wedding was the Palmer House. I’ve had a couple brides get ready there in the past and was aware that they have the best looking lobby in Chicago, but getting to shoot a reception there was totally amazing. Their ballrooms match the amazingness of the lobby. These may be the best looking rooms in Chicago — it’s like stepping into a European palace ballroom. The crew from the Palmer House did a really fantastic job with keeping the reception running flawlessly. One of my favorite DJ companies, Toast & Jam, was great as usual. They played a really cool set of music and kept the party jamming.

Wedding Photography: Doug McGoldrick Photography / Second Shooter: Denver Smith Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Palmer House in Chicago, Illinois / Floral Design: Walden Floral Design Co. / Wedding Planning: Jane Himmel of Palmer House (jane.himmel@hilton.com) / Wedding Cake: Take the Cake / DJ: Toast & Jam

Craving some fabulous boho inspiration to jump start your weekend?  Well, this darling photo shoot captured by Evan Hunt Photo is bursting with just the dose of whimsy you are looking for – including a pretty woodland setting, a bundle of sweet vintage details and a whole lot of vibrant pink hues.  All designed by the talented duo of Visions Event Studio and Natural Beauties Floral – and featuring a literal dream team of Illinois vendors – you’ll spend your ENTIRE weekend swooning over every last beautiful moment.  Click here for more.

Click here for the FULL photo shoot!

Oh, and we’re not done yet.  We have one seriously amazing film from One Fine Day Productions to take you into the weekend… Enjoy!

From Natural Beauties Floral Inc.… The Bohemian Woodland Romance wedding style truly captures the free spirit and charm of a unique bride and groom. The open range of nature’s wilderness provided the perfect backdrop for this whimsical celebration. From feminine details of ruffled blush peonies and antique lace to masculine adornments of rustic antlers, pheasant feathers and deer pelts, the couple’s nomadic treasures define the essence of their eclectic style. The metallic embellishments of candles and chargers provided a hint of enchanting romance. However, in a heartbeat the couple would leave behind their trinkets because it’s their true love they cherish on this journey. The lovely bride wore a bohemian style gown made of a lace bodice and a sheer fly train. Her hair was adorned with a metallic halo made from beads and wire showing off her subtle, long, wavy locks. Her lips were stained a ravishing burgundy.

Photography: Evan Hunt Photo / Location: Busse Woods in Schaumburg, Illinois / Floral Design: Natural Beauties Floral Inc. / Event Planning: Visions Event Studio / Event Design: Visions Event Studio + Natural Beauties Floral Inc. / Cinematography: One Fine Day Productions / Invitations: Julie Hanan Design / Wedding Dress: KT Jean Designs / Fur Coat: Vintage / Bridesmaid’s Attire: KT Jean Designs / Dinnerware: Plate / Baked Goods: Bleeding Heart Bakery / Stemware, Silverware, + Chairs: Classic Party Rentals / Chargers: Ravisloe Country Club

J. Nelson Photography is making our morning this fine Wednesday with this seriously stylish engagement session dreamt up by the beautiful Bride to be. We absolutely LOVE when we hear SMP Brides using our board builder to make their inspiration a reality, and this lovely lady did just that – creating a vintage aviation engagement session that will make your heart soar. See it all here!

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Jenny of J. Nelson Photography… Randy is a pilot, and Brittany is his fun, creative and gorgeous bride-to-be. We were able to take out a vintage Yak-52 Russian plane as a giant “prop” for their travel-themed engagement portraits. We also took portraits on the campus of Northwestern University, right down the street from their home. Brittany sent us inspiration boards she put together on SMP for her engagement and would be beside herself if her own photos ended up as someone else’s inspiration!

Photography: Jenny Nelson and Nate Agnini of J. Nelson Photography / Locations: Waukegan Regional Airfield in Waukegan, Illinois + Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois

Sweet Illinois, you are in for a burst of goodness with this chic cultural weekend of festivities by Christy Tyler Photography. Goodness, I tell you, in the prettiest of fashions -two fêtes that couldn’t be more gorgeous all for one couple so completely in love it seeps through the screen. A weekend of love, perfectly curated details and full gallery to keep it all in one pretty place – it just doesn’t get better, does it?

Click here for the FULL wedding!

Let’s top it all off with their gorgeous film by I Do Films, shall we?

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From the bride… When my then-fiancé and I set out to plan our wedding, we wanted it reflect us. We wanted an intercultural, interfaith weekend that celebrated the fusion of our differences and commemorated all that we already shared – a fitting and uncanny juxtaposition to the 10th anniversary of 9/11. The wedding weekend was kicked off Friday night, September 9, 2011, by the Mehndi (henna party): a lively, colorful affair that gave my friends and family a taste of Pakistani culture while still demonstrating that two cultures, separated by thousands of miles, could find commonality in music, dance and alcohol. The event started with Shaan and I making separate grand entrances. After we took our place in front of a large and beautiful backdrop, our siblings and close friends performed a Bollywood dance for the crowd that was choreographed by Shaan’s sister. I wore a teal dress with a lot of embellishment that was made in Pakistan. We also participated in some cultural rituals, including feeding each another chocolate, being garlanded by our sisters and having henna placed on our hands. Henna artists painted henna designs on our guests’ hands, and ladies were invited to wear colorful bangles that were provided. The remainder of the night was a fun dance party where Bollywood music segued to R&B.

Saturday, September 10, 2011, was the day of the interfaith wedding. Our motif for the day was inspired by a beautiful brooch that we found in a shop in Indonesia. We decided to use the lotus-like flower on the brooch on our paper goods, cake and even the henna on my hands and feet. (To honor my Irish heritage, I also had shamrocks painted into my henna design.) My wedding dress was handmade in Chicago with the help of Shaan’s aunts in Pakistan. They sent us samples of different fabric from Pakistan, one of which I picked to use as my sash fabric. My dressmaker sewed the flower brooch from Indonesia into my sash. One of my favorite parts of having a customized dress is that I got to request that pockets be put in! Also, my mom sewed a piece of fabric, which had “9/10/11” in blue thread (for my “something blue”) hidden in the inside of the skirt. On the morning of our wedding day, Shaan and I snuck away from everyone else and went for breakfast together near our hotel. It was surreal to be sitting together like any other day, knowing that later in the day we’d be married. Before the ceremony, Shaan and I did a First Look and photo safari of just the two of us around Chicago. The wedding ceremony included two string musicians (violin and cello) who collaborated with a sitar and tabla player, traditional South Asian musicians. I walked up the aisle to Canon in D, but it was a unique, fusion version utilizing all four musicians, unlike anything anyone had heard before. We crafted our ceremony with the help of the officiant and used readings from the Bible, the Qur’an and contemporary writers. Shaan and I also wrote our own vows. I carried a family rosary that my grandmother, mother, aunts and cousins also held in their wedding bouquet.

On Sunday, September 11, 2011, Shaan’s family hosted a brunch reception called a Valima at the Ritz Carlton Hotel. The brunch was followed by an interfaith blessing at the University of Chicago’s Bond Chapel, performed by a Catholic priest and a Muslim imam.  Overall, it was a perfectly intercultural wedding weekend celebrating everything that’s important to us as a couple!

Mehndi Vendors:
Photography: Christy Tyler Photography / Venue: Harold Washington Library in Chicago, Illinois / Cinematography: I Do Films / Event Design: Event Creative / Event Planning: Laura of The Ideal Day / Catering: Food for Thought / Henna: Aurora Mehndi + Crescent Moon Henna / DJ: DJ Chicago / Bride’s Dress: Nasreen Shaikh Design House

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Photography: Christy Tyler Photography / Wedding Venue: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago, Illinois / Event Planning: Laura of The Ideal Day / Wedding Flowers: Barbara Devlin / Wedding Cinematography: I Do Films / Catering: Food for Thought / Wedding Cake: Amy Beck Cake Designs / Wedding Invitations: Magnificent Milestones / Favors: Katherine Anne Confections / Officiant: Reverend Marian Hale / Wedding Dress: MJ Ernst / Groom’s Tuxedo: Munib Nawaz / Groom’s Bow Tie: Stefano Ricci / Groom’s Accessories: Paul Stuart / Graphics: Sandra Rogers / Ceremony Music: Caprice Music Ensembles + Alexander Duvel /  DJ: Toast & Jam / Menu Cards, Escort Cards, Table Cards: DIY by the Bride and Groom / Wedding Guestbook: Quote Ya