PLANNER/STYLIST: Windermere Elegant Weddings & Events
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Town & Country Gardens
CAKE: Creative Cakes Bakery
CALLIGRAPHY & STATIONERY: Nerissa B. Modern Calligraphy
CHAIRS: Elegant Presentations
LINENS & CHARGERS: F&S Linens
TABLEWARE: Marquee Event Rentals
FAVORS: Boxed Expressions
VENUE: Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cinder & Vinegar Photography
For their wedding, Nora and Jimmy were inspired by words like regal, timeless and elegant. With crisp whites and clean lines, their goal of “simplicity with a statement” was captured.
– SARAH RODRIGUEZ, OWNER & LEAD PLANNER, SARAH KATHLEEN EVENTS
RECEPTION VENUE: The Empress Banquets
PHOTOGRAPHY: Sami Studio
EVENT PLANNER: Sarah Kathleen Events
STATIONERY: Anthology Custom Print
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Flowerville
CAKE & SWEETS: The Baking Institute
BRIDE’S SHOES: Badgley Mischka
PLANNER/STYLIST: Backyard Soirée Weddings and Events
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Andrew’s Garden
CAKE: Toni Patisserie & Café
STATIONERY & ART: MAXE Designs
LINENS & CHARGERS: Event Floral
VENUE: Fig & Olive – Chicago
PHOTOGRAPHY: Emma Mullins Photography
Darlene and Michael’s wedding was held at a pristine polo club — the perfect backdrop for this stately sailcloth tent dressed in hues of white and blue. After sunset, the atmosphere was soft and glowy as ambient lighting illuminated the tent.
– ARIN CALAMARI, SENIOR EVENT PLANNER, BIG CITY BRIDE
VENUE: Arranmore Farm + Polo Club
PHOTOGRAPHY: Christa Hitchcock Photography
EVENT PLANNER: Big City Bride
STATIONERY: Aerialist Press
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Yanni Design Studio
TENT: Blue Peak Tents
LINENS: BBJ Linen
CATERING: The Caterist
CAKE & SWEETS: Flourish Cake Design
PLANNER/STYLIST: You Name It Events
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Phillip’s Flowers
CAKE & SWEETS: Delish Cakes
STATIONERY: Designed by You Invitations
LINENS & CHARGERS: F&S Linens
CHAIRS: Elegant Presentations
VENUE: Kimpton Gray Hotel + Boleo
PHOTOGRAPHY: Rachael Schirano Photography
Morgan and Tom sought to create an ambiance of vintage romance for their wedding day. Gold vessels containing lush garden florals in shades of ivory, toffee, pink and red exuded romance. We utilized glowing Edison bulbs on the moon gate to complete the vintage vibe.
– ADAM HAVRILLA, AIFD PFCI, OWNER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR, ARTISTIC BLOOMS
VENUE: Lacuna Lofts
PHOTOGRAPHY: Indigo Lace Collective
FLORAL & DÉCOR: Artistic Blooms
STATIONERY: Minted
LINENS: LM Catering & Events
LIGHTING: SC Lighting Design
SWEETS: Vanille Patisserie
Bridal looks by Eva Lendel found at Eva’s Bridal International and Luxe Bridal Rack
Written by Christina Oddo | Photography by Rachael Schirano Photography
Feeling a little overwhelmed planning your wedding day feast? Don’t panic! Once you learn a couple tricks of the trade and answer a few basic questions about your vision, your caterer will be able to help you craft the perfect meal for your perfect day while also infusing your personalities.
Before you even start thinking about what food to put on your menu, you need to figure out how your meal is going to be served. Food service sets the tone for the rest of the reception, so take the time to mull over the following options before you pick.
Full service is for couples who want the meal to be the star of the show. If you don’t mind dinner taking up a good part of your reception, having individual courses served directly to your guests is the way to go. It is also the safest way to go since it requires the least amount of handling (not to mention the handling is done by trained professionals).
Buffet is for couples who can’t wait to get dancing. Opting for a buffet-style dinner gives you enough time to enjoy your food and a few toasts, but also gets the party started sooner. Keep in mind that social distancing may be more difficult to enforce, and clear partitions may need to be used between food stations, depending on public health guidelines. Once dinner wraps up, everyone is free to hit the dance floor or go back for seconds.
A combo is for couples who want the best of both worlds. Have the main course served directly to each guest, but skip wait staff for dessert and have your guests serve themselves. This way, you get all the elegance of a full-service dinner plus the added expedience of a buffet.
Work with your caterer to create a menu that has meaning by taking some time to reflect on food before deciding what to serve. What are your favorite meals to cook together? What foods conjure up happy memories? Come up with a list of foods that not only taste great, but have meaning, then talk to your caterer about them.
However, keep in mind that you and your partner aren’t the only ones dining out on your wedding night. Beef tartare may be your soon-to-be spouse’s favorite meal, but not everyone is comfortable with uncooked meat. Avoid unnerving your guests by offering a variety of options that are delicious, but don’t feel outlandish to guests with less adventurous palates.
There’s no point in serving foods that have special meaning to you if your guests have no clue about the backstory! Work with your stationer to personalize the menu card by adding little notes about how ravioli was the first dinner you ever cooked together or how lobster bisque reminds you of summer trips to Maine. Using your menu to let your guests in on a few special moments from your relationship will make them feel even more connected to the wedding.
One of the most beautiful elements of marriage is its ability to unite people who come from different places and upbringings. This type of melding is definitely something to be celebrated, so whether you’re Hindu and marrying an Italian Catholic, or a Cubs fan tying the knot with a Sox fan, consider using your menu to showcase your unique blending of cultures. Serving foods from your various backgrounds side by side is a creative and touching way to signify how you and your partner came together to create a love that’s one of a kind.
Most couples are so distracted during their reception that they just pick at their food or forget to eat completely. Allow yourself to really enjoy the food you spent so much time selecting. Also remember that food is fuel. How are you going to tear up the dance floor on an empty stomach? Avoid burning out early by taking care of yourself and making the most of your dinner.
Planning a menu for a big group of people can be stressful. Our best piece of advice is to trust your caterers. Feeding crowds is what they do best, so once you communicate your vision, it’s OK to let your caterer take the reins. Relinquishing control may feel scary, but the end result is worth it — a room full of your favorite people enjoying an amazing meal.
Written by Kellee Grucci | Photography by Emma Mullins Photography
Where you hold your wedding defines your day more than anything else. Your location sets the tone for the day and it says a lot about your personality as a couple. The sheer number of Chicago wedding venues, however, can make your head spin. City or country. Ballroom or barn. Indoors or outdoors. Library or loft. Park or lakeside. Many couples feel overwhelmed by so many possibilities. Where should you start?
Before you dive headfirst into looking at venues, you need to determine your budget and how many guests you plan to invite. This information can help you narrow down your choices. Another item to be mindful of is the distance your guests will need to travel between the ceremony location and the reception location if they are not being held at the same venue. Once you have those details nailed down, it’s time to start thinking about the type of venue for your big day.
If you are looking for a full-service, traditional location, hotels are a great option for almost any type of wedding celebration. A variety of hotels offer intimate nooks that can accommodate 20 guests, elegant ballrooms that can accommodate 400 guests as well as rooftop terraces boasting beautiful skyline views. You can have your ceremony on the rooftop and dance the night away in a ballroom full of expansive windows showcasing the beautiful city. Many hotels also offer all-inclusive wedding packages with in-house event specialists that can lead you through the entire planning process. Hotels are viewed as very versatile and can even host your rehearsal dinner on-site in their restaurant.
If you foresee inviting numerous out-of-town guests, holding your reception at a hotel can take the guesswork out of booking a room for their overnight stay. Some hotels can even supply a unique reservation link for your guests to book their rooms within a room block so that everyone will be placed near one another. As an added benefit, a hotel allows your guests the convenience of accessing their rooms throughout the celebration to change their high heels to flats, freshen up or easily get to their room safely if they have overindulged.
Country clubs, another classic venue, also offer may possibilities. You may think that you must be a member to rent their facilities, but country clubs are not as exclusive as many people think. Many country clubs are available to host events even if you are not a member. Similar to hotels, most country clubs offer many of the services you may need on site, such as an event planner, catering and a variety of linens.
Known for their golf courses and expansive grounds, country clubs are an ideal location for an outdoor event. Every savvy planner knows if you are planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, it is advisable to have a back-up plan in case of rain. Be sure to discuss your back up plan with your event coordinator ahead of time. Having the peace of mind that there is a space to move into if inclement weather strikes allows you to focus your thoughts on other things. Then there’s the golf! Your wedding party may enjoy playing 18 holes the morning of the ceremony or as a part of a pre-wedding celebration.
Browse Chicago area country clubs here.
Another popular choice for wedding celebrations, banquet halls offer fantastic possibilities for your big day. Because large-scale events are their niche, you can expect that the banquet hall staff is well-versed in making any size event go off without a hitch. With their custom kitchens designed to prepare meals for large events, all- inclusive packages and dedicated event planners, you can rest assured that the staff will show meticulous care with every aspect of your wedding.
If you plan on an extensive guest list, don’t forget to discuss your audiovisual needs with the banquet hall’s event planner. From microphones for your toasts and speeches to projectors for your picture montage, a banquet hall offers optional features that are sure to enhance your reception.
Browse Chicago area banquet halls here.
Planning a wedding can be stressful, so why not incorporate some well-deserved rest and relaxation into the equation? Holding your ceremony at a luxurious resort and spa may be just what you need. The final 48 hours leading up to your big day are likely to be a whirlwind of activity for you and your soon to be spouse. Be sure to take a moment to enjoy a little pampering at the spa.
Choosing a resort and spa as your wedding location can also take the guesswork out of how to fit in a trip to the salon to have that all important pre-wedding mani and pedi. And don’t forget about that massage. After the major undertaking of planning a wedding and making it to the finish line (aka the aisle), you deserve it!
Browse Chicago area hotels and resorts here.
Botanic gardens and pristine parks have always been popular wedding locations. You are almost guaranteed amazing wedding photos among the blossoming flowers in the spring, the lush greenery of the summer months or the magnificent array of colorful leaves found in the fall. Moreover, many gardens and parks offer both outdoor and indoor options for your nuptials, giving you a built-in back-up plan. Keep in mind that these spaces tend to be public property, so you will likely need to adhere to a noise ordinance, obtain a permit and your event may not feel entirely private. Therefore, be prepared for unexpected onlookers and casual passersby.
Chicagoans looking for the perfect setting to say “I do” are lucky to have ample choices when it comes to location types. Beyond all of the beautiful hotels, restaurants, museums and more that the city and surrounding areas have to offer, couples also have the option to host an event on the water with unobstructed views of the stunning skyline.
Envision sailing down the Chicago River as you and your guests sip champagne under the setting sun. Depending on the vessel you select, your guests may have the option to enjoy cocktail hour sitting on an open- air deck or in a climate-controlled salon. Either way, they’re sure to be treated to a fabulous meal, full-service bar and dancing the night away under the city stars with unparalleled views of the skyline.
If you would rather keep your feet firmly planted on dry land, numerous venues offer locations by the river or right on Lake Michigan. These boast spectacular water views at any time of the year. Whether the venue you choose has grand windows or a high- rise patio that overlooks the water, you can’t go wrong with this unique take on your special day.
Browse Chicago area waterfront venues here.
If a picturesque setting is on your must- have list, then be sure to explore the many opulent mansions located throughout Chicagoland. Where else would you find cascading staircases, expansive grounds, exotic gardens, historical backdrops, romantic chandeliers and elegant architecture all in one place? Mansions also offer some of the same amenities as hotels and country clubs. Most are likely to offer packages including a dedicated wedding specialist, full- service caterer and private suites for you and your wedding party to prepare for the big day.
Many mansions offer a versatility that will enable you to fulfill your dreams for your wedding, whether you wish to hold only your ceremony or reception on the property or to use it for both.
Most mansions also offer both indoor and outdoor site options. Keep in mind that Chicago weather can change in an instant. Be sure to have an alternate location set up inside if you have decided on an outdoor wedding. Another bonus of having your wedding at a mansion is that they typically only host one event per day. This means you have the grounds to yourselves for pictures and the staff completely focuses on the needs of you and your party.
Browse Chicago area historic venues here.
Art and culture abound in Chicago. Chicago offers many spectacular museums, art galleries and libraries to choose from. Although these locations may not be obvious choices for hosting a ceremony and reception, you should definitely consider them. These amazing buildings often feature exquisite art, unique architectural design, historical yet modern elegance and incredible natural light. These traits can make both your day and your pictures shine.
Getting married in a shabby chic barn or on a fabulous farm has grown in popularity over the years, and for good reason. Think rustic wood beams wrapped in twinkle lights, gorgeous landscapes with mature trees, a casual reception set around fire pits all while enjoying farm-to-table catering. Though these types of venues may not offer all-inclusive options, you can hire a wedding coordinator to assist you with all of the details. Plus, if you were planning to have your four-legged friend be a part of the big day, hosting your wedding in such a unique, animal friendly location means your pet could not only walk you down the aisle, but also join you at the head table.
Browse Chicago area barn/farm venues here.
Throughout your wedding planning, you are likely to consider restaurants for your bridal shower, bachelorette party and rehearsal dinner, but many couples may not think of a restaurant for the wedding celebration itself. Here is some food for thought: A restaurant can be a great location if you desire a smaller, more intimate wedding. In fact, restaurants commonly have unique event rooms that can be reserved for private parties. Also, depending on the time of day — or even time of year — you may have the option to rent out the entire restaurant.
While any venue you choose will undoubtedly offer delicious meals, most large kitchens are set up for catering. This limits the meal options they can offer your guests. Restaurants often provide a greater variety of menu options. A restaurant may even give you the option of having your guests order off the regular menu for an extra special meal option.
Hosting your wedding at a restaurant may have some extra meaning as well. Pick a restaurant that is sentimental to you and your partner. Maybe you met your future spouse during your semester abroad in Italy. Or maybe your first date was in Chinatown. Consider hosting your wedding celebration at a restaurant that has special meaning for you as a couple. This ties your celebration to the many adventures that brought you together and will keep you close for years to come. What a special celebration that will be!
Browse Chicago area restaurants here.
Today’s modern engaged couple may be looking for a location that is a little edgier or industrial. Lofts offer many benefits for your ceremony and reception needs. Many of these venues are converted mills, so they have expansive, wide-open spaces. Lofts are wide open spaces which can accommodate virtually anything you can imagine. A loft may easily accommodate all of your friends and family, plus a great dance floor. They are fully customizable, which requires a little extra effort, since you will bring in virtually every aspect of your wedding. Still, if you and your wedding planner are up to the task, a loft could be a great choice for you.
Though some lofts offer in-house catering, many do not. This provides you with the opportunity to select the caterer of your choice and have your wedding cake designed by your favorite bakery. As another benefit, lofts also provide unique photo opportunities. These wonderful spaces tend to have amazing steel beams, original wood or concrete floors, weathered brick walls and exposed ceilings. Work with your wedding coordinator and photographer to come up with some creative ideas to incorporate these urban features into your photographs.
Browse Chicago area lofts here.
Even though the coronavirus cancelled many plans and events, it did not cancel love. For couples that refuse to let a little pandemic get in the way, they are choosing to tie the knot on a smaller scale. An intimate event complete with a mini-mony is all you need to announce your unending love. Nearly any location throughout Chicagoland will work, even your backyard! You can turn the location into your dream wedding, just on a smaller scale. And, although the guest list is small, your beautiful backyard wedding doesn’t have to be. Intimate weddings can be big on details, dishes and devotion, of course. Each element can be finer, tastier and decided upon with greater attention to detail. The term “small but mighty” comes to mind to best describe these trendy weddings.
While most couples opt for one of the more traditional wedding locations mentioned earlier, there are always going to be those adventurous duos who want to treat their guests to something a little more unique. Luckily, Chicagoland can accommodate even the most eclectic desires. These couples may choose to say “I do” in a stunning wildlife habitat at a local zoo, standing on a glass ledge 1,300 feet above the city, on the playing field of a hometown sports stadium, on stage at an iconic Chicago theater or among the stars at the planetarium. Whatever you choose, Chicagoland offers an almost endless list of venue options for your wedding. For your perfect day, there is no limit to what you might imagine.
Written by E. Ce Miller | Photography Ashley Gaminas Photography
Your honeymoon has the potential to be one of the most, if not the most, memorable trips of your life. Get inspired from the following adventures, and take the time to plan a getaway that appeals to both you and your spouse — a trip that will create special and unique experiences you will cherish forever.
Tropical, beachside honeymoons are always in style. It’s the ideal setting to unwind from the stress, soak up some sun and concentrate on one another. Mexico’s vast array of all-inclusive hotels offer great value. If you’re in the mood for something more exotic, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Greece or the Caribbean may be more your speed.
If you prefer to stay domestic, you can relax by the ocean at one of the many beautiful beaches and lovely hotels Florida and California have to offer. If you are bored by the beach, consider activities like whale watching (great in Los Cabos, Mexico) or swimming with wild dolphins (Oahu, Hawaii).
Hit the open road and feel the wind in your hair. You don’t have to travel much past your backyard to be adventurous stateside. Lace up your hiking boots, venture to any of our 62 national parks and explore miles of scenic trails. If you prefer lake views over ocean panoramas, the Midwest is not only a hidden treasure of Small Town USA resorts, boating and outdoor adventure, but also offers beautiful, rustic cabins, waterfalls and nature.
Or, if you like wine and picturesque landscapes, the West Coast is for you. California’s gorgeous Wine Country includes more than 800 wineries in the northern San Francisco Bay area, which covers both Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. Book a comfortable stay at a nearby bed and breakfast after indulging in the offerings of one — or several — of the region’s wineries.
If it’s domestic culture you’re seeking, go eastbound to absorb the charms of our original 13 colonies and their historical cities, which are ripe with metropolitan life, upscale shopping, amazing seafood, museums and more. If you navigate further South, toward South Carolina and Florida, prepare to be inundated with majestic oaks, lush golf courses, sandy beaches and luxury amenities.
Get swept up in the history and old-world charm of Europe. You can’t go wrong with Paris, Rome, Venice or Prague, but there’s an abundance of hidden gems that also deserve some love. For the best of both worlds, try a river cruise that docks in large metropolis areas, while also letting you explore lesser known, but equally beautiful cities and towns.
Keep in mind, you don’t need money to make memories. If finances are an issue, plan a trip close to home. Spend a few days at a quaint, little inn or enjoy one of the many resort spas nearby. You have the rest of your lives to travel — what matters now is fully enjoying one another’s company.
Photography by TWA Photographic Artists
923 E. Golf Rd. | Arlington Heights, IL 847.262.5927 | belissimaevents.com
Celebrating its grand opening, Belissima Events produces unique events in Chicagoland. The multilingual planning and design firm specializes in weddings, parties and corporate events in English, French or Portuguese. Owner and senior event coordinator, Bijoux Diamvutu, takes care of all your planning needs, from selecting the best vendors and managing your budget to creating a custom timeline. Partial and à la carte packages are available, so you can focus on having a great time!
Kitoko Photography
233 S. Wacker Dr., 99th Fl. | Chicago, IL 312.875.9447 | theskydeck.com
Skydeck Chicago, perched atop the Willis Tower, offers an extraordinary destination to celebrate overlooking the city. Willis Tower’s renovations enhance the experience with the unveiling of Catalog and the new Universe sculpture framing the lobby. Skydeck provides a flexible wedding venue on the 99th floor with stunning 360-degree city views. Guests can access The Ledge on the 103rd floor, featuring glass-floor balconies extending out from the building, providing an unforgettable backdrop 1,353 feet in the air.
2401 W. Ohio St., #NE | Chicago, IL 832.613.4508 | fslinens.com
F&S Linens is an event rental company focused on enhancing experiences through thoughtfully designed specialty linens, chair ties, charger plates and napkin rings. The customized approach to customer service includes working closely with clients through consultations and tastings to bring the vision to life. With a presence at the heart of the events industry, the new boutique affords greater flexibility providing the same great service through a larger selection of products at an even faster pace.
Megan McCarthy Photography
16235 S. La Grange Rd. | Orland Park, IL 708.981.3608 | elementsbytheodyssey.com
Elements by The Odyssey, formally Elements Conference Center, boasts a completely customizable grand ballroom with neutral tones, a welcoming ambiance and spacious ceilings, guaranteeing the flexibility to create the event of your dreams. Experienced event specialists, banquet staff and culinary team have trained alongside the staff of The Odyssey to bring a new flair to the venue. Guests experience the finest in cuisine and hospitality while enjoying overnight accommodations at the adjoining Homewood Suites by Hilton.
TWA Photographic Artists
201 S. Ashland Ave. | Chicago, IL 312.421.4600 | epiphanychi.com
Epiphany Center for the Arts is Chicago’s most anticipated new arts, entertainment and events destination. The former 19th century church boasts historic architecture and modern spaces, spanning 42,000 square feet over multiple venues. Located on the artsy edge of Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, Epiphany is perfect for hosting single-destination weddings. The former church’s awe-inspiring rooms — historic, moody and modern — flow into a beautifully landscaped courtyard while Epiphany’s public events bring together the best talent.
Chicago, IL 586.350.3076 | nbmoderncalligraphy.com
Nerissa B. Modern Calligraphy is celebrating its first anniversary as a full- time business. The calligraphy and hand- lettering studio in downtown Chicago serves Chicagoland and beyond. Services include calligraphy for invitations and day-of-event details including place cards, seating charts, signage and more. The studio provides personalization through engraving and hot foiling, with Pernod Ricard and Grey Goose being client brands of note. Calligraphy is more than pretty penmanship. It is an expression of love, lettered.
Kristen Mendiola Photography
1480 Old Deerfield Rd., Unit 3, Highland Park, IL 224.707.0332 | misdosmagos.com
Known for its tamales and mole, Mis Dos Magos offers full-service catering packages that include staffing, bar, rentals, linens and much more! This new catering and retail product division of BellaRu Catering specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine using fourth-generation Martinez family recipes. Everything is made from scratch with the finest products from Mexico. Mis Dos Magos translates into “my two magicians,” which perfectly describes this catering company’s two chefs. The name is also a nod to Chef Nico and Chef Silvia’s mothers, both named Margarita.
6119 W. 147th St. | Oak Forest, IL 708.687.9323 | chicagogaelicpark.com
For over 30 years, Chicago Gaelic Park has offered the most beautiful facilities in the southwest suburbs, with three ballrooms to choose from. The elegant Emerald Room was recently renovated with a new private wedding suite, in addition to its crystal chandeliers, large oak bars, enormous dance floor and elevated stage. The Tara Room offers direct access to the outdoor patio, waterfall and a garden abundant with seasonal flowers. The Celtic Room is ideal for smaller events.
TWA Photographic Artists
Are you craving a long, traditional skirt, but want to spice it up with a little flirtation and fun? Tiers and ruffles can add movement and panache without weighing you down by achieving the volume of a princess gown, but without all of the extra material. Tiers are best paired with ballgown or A-line silhouettes, while ruffles look best with a full skirt or mermaid silhouette. No matter what you do, make sure to take an extra twirl on the dance floor. You owe it to the dress … and to your photographer.
GOWNS: Viktor & Rolf Mariage
It’s all in the details is spot on for this new trend walking down the aisle. While an open back is always beautiful, we love the idea of a design element trailing down your spine and elongating your figure. From illusion lace to jewelry and accessories, the trickle-down effect adds a sexy touch to your bridal look.
RIGHT Galia Lahav
Show the special men in your life you care enough to give them a bloom that won’t lose its blossom. Leather boutonnieres are a contemporary twist on the classic tradition. Pin this lovely leather beauty on the left lapel of all of the very important men in your lives to help them stand out on your big day.
Don’t give your spouse the cold shoulder. From the puffy sleeve to the poem sleeve, from satin to lace, statement arms hit the runway in a big way this year, often elaborating on and adding charm to contemporary, minimalist gowns. Pair it with a trendy one-shoulder neckline for an even more modern take.
Photography by Jasko Omerovic Photography
The city of Chicago is one of the most beautiful places to get married. Your photographer can create jaw-dropping imagery with the city’s gorgeous scenery and backgrounds. And as much as we love the classic wedding day photos, we also want to help you capture those unique settings that speak to you and your fiancé’s one-of-a-kind love. So, let’s create the perfect moment that will have your Instagram followers double-tapping every time.
Chicago may not be known for its beautiful nature-scapes, but hidden around our city are some extraordinary and lovely opportunities to incorporate Mother Nature. For instance, finding a hidden gem like Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary can transport you from Chicago’s busy streets to lush greenery and wildlife in the blink of an eye, all while keeping the Chicago skyline in the background. If you and your partner have a special connection to an outdoor location, make sure you snap a picture as a keepsake at that location. Not only does it make a great memory, but it can also help diversify the kinds of photos you decide to display in your album.
Lake Michigan creates a beautiful backdrop for any special pictures you have in mind for your big day. But don’t forget places like the Chicago River, with its many bridges, creating a wonderful opportunity to show off not only Chicago’s picturesque waterfronts, but also its gorgeous architecture within the same photograph. With so many access points throughout the city for these two bodies of water, it can seem like your pictures were worlds apart even though they were all within a few miles of each other.
While out and about in the city of Chicago, it’s hard to miss the colorful street art on bridges, stairwells and buildings. With so many pieces of unparalleled local street art on display, there’s sure to be a mural for every emotion and every couple!
A good place to start is with Logan Square’s “Greetings from Chicago” mural. Wall murals, along with the many interesting sculptures throughout the city, make it a breeze to add an artistic flair to your wedding photography. The infusion of color and excitement are sure to make photos that will be unique and totally original. Not only will they be cherished but they will also reflect your personality as a couple.
Adding an industrial ambiance to your pictures is among the easiest on this list. With so many iconic locations, such as right outside the Wrigley building, you can capture Chicago’s brilliant architecture while incorporating the Chicago River into the background. But if you are looking for something more rough-hewn, try using one of the many restored warehouses that are scattered throughout the city or areas below Chicago’s iconic L tracks.
Written by Kristen Castillo and Kelsey O’Shaughnessy-Podgorski | Photography by Carrie White Photography
Your wedding reception should be a well-timed event. From cocktail hour to dinner and dancing to cutting the cake, everything should run on a precise schedule, which means you need to know what to do and when to do it. This article will break down the reception basics and help you plan your party hour by hour.
Venue setup takes time and should be done well before the party starts. Your reception flowers and centerpieces should be in place at least an hour before the reception starts; the same goes for your wedding cake. Decorative elements like candles, chair covers and linens should be ready to go a day before the wedding. Banquet staff can arrange these elements for you. Then you and your planner can review the look and make any necessary changes the day of your wedding — or even after the rehearsal dinner if everything is in place. If you leave these details to the last minute, you’ll feel hurried and frustrated, especially if something doesn’t go as planned.
As with any event, you need to develop and write out a party plan. Make sure each person assigned to a job — from the bartender to the wait staff to the band leader — knows what’s expected of him or her. Write out the plan, review it with your vendors to foresee problems, and then test the plan with a dry run a week before the wedding or more. Part of this plan should involve having a backup in case something doesn’t go as expected.
Meet with your planner a few weeks prior to your big day, so you can map out the celebration hour by hour and area by area. You want to figure out where you and your spouse need to be at all times, plus review reception details like when dinner will be served and small nuances like which tables will get served first. If it helps you and the guests in your wedding party, type up an itinerary so everyone knows what to expect.
There’s a lot of fun to squeeze into a few hours, but that’s no reason to rush through your wedding reception. No one will have a good time if the event is too structured and everyone feels pressured to stay on schedule. Build some flexibility into your reception so you can let the good times happen naturally.
While you and your guests may want to boogie until the wee hours of the night, it’s not likely that your venue and catering staff feel the same. A typical wedding reception runs approximately five hours long and has a fairly structured schedule. Your band leader or DJ will serve as the master of ceremonies, or the MC, for the evening. He or she will keep your party moving along smoothly, so no one feels rushed and you don’t run into overtime fees.
Whether you’re looking at a mid- morning reception or an evening affair, here’s a general overview of how it can progress.
You said, “I do,” kissed and now it’s time for your guests to make their way to the reception. There may be some downtime between, but guests will generally arrive to a cocktail hour pretty quickly after the service. If the ceremony is held at the same venue as the reception, guests may simply venture to another part of the space to continue the festivities.
While the new couple, their attendants and their families are out taking glamour shots, it’s up to the MC to keep guests entertained. Light music in the background allows for socializing without that awkward silence. The MC can also advise guests to begin taking their seats about 10 or 15 minutes before the couple is scheduled to make their grand entrance.
After the MC guides guests to their seats, the band or DJ will change up the music to indicate that something big is about to happen. The MC will take the mic to start introducing the family and wedding party as they enter. The newlyweds will be announced last — to wild cheers from the crowd, of course. After this, the MC will request that guests take their seats.
This is a great opportunity to move right into your first dance. You have the spotlight, so you may as well use it! When the dance is over, the band or DJ will switch back to some pleasant background music to encourage chatter through dinner. Here’s your chance to start greeting your guests at each table.
A few minutes later, dinner will be served. At this point, take a break and grab a bite. You planned this meal for months! You deserve a few minutes to try it. Let the wedding party and family eat first — especially those who are making speeches. Toasts usually begin about 20 minutes after dinner is served.
Traditionally, toasts are started by the best man, followed by the maid of honor and then the parents’ speeches. If you and your new spouse would like to say a few words, this is a great time for that as well. Be sure to give your MC a list of everyone’s names so he or she can announce each person who will be speaking and their relationship to the couple. Bonus tip: Spelling the names out phonetically will drastically reduce the number of awkward pronunciations.
After the speeches wrap up, it’s time to hit the dance floor. If you decided not to do your first dance right after your grand entrance, now is the time. Typically, the father-daughter dance follows and then the mother-son dance. After that, your MC will invite guests to join the wedding party on the floor and the party starts.
Written by Emily Conley | Photography by Rachael Schirano Photography
There is no right way to plan a wedding. Seriously, the entire point of your big day is that it is a reflection of you, your partner and the love you share. While a traditional affair speaks to many couples, there’s no reason you can’t design a celebration that makes the two of you happy, no matter how quirky or outside the box it may seem.
We are seeing more and more couples opt for nontraditional wedding ceremonies, receptions or wedding day elements in an effort to personalize their celebration and truly showcase their personality as a couple. If you’re tempted to do something a little unexpected for your big day, we have some ideas (both big and small) for you right here.
Let’s start with perhaps the most dramatic nontraditional route you can take — eloping. Couples choose to elope for so many reasons and the popularity of this wedding day option is currently on the rise. Maybe you don’t want to spend your money on a typical wedding, or you can’t stand the thought of hundreds of eyes on you as you exchange your vows, or you want your wedding day to feel completely intimate and personal.
What’s great is there are no rules about how and why you decide to elope. Just like with planning a traditional wedding, you should choose what feels right for you and your partner. If you do decide to elope, there are dozens of ways to pull off this more intimate wedding day option. You can select a guest list of just you and your partner, parents and immediate family, or even add a small gathering of close friends.
Once you choose whom to include, you need to decide on a location. The courthouse is historically a popular option, and some cities and towns have city halls or courthouses with stunning architecture if that is important to you. You can also pick a location that is special to you and your partner — a rooftop where you had drinks on your first date, a waterfall you hiked to or a restaurant you both really love. There’s no need to travel to another city or country to pull off the perfect elopement, though that is always an option, too!
Couples who decide to elope should still consider including some elements of a more traditional wedding. At the very least, you should still hire a photographer to capture the event. You’ll want to have photos to share and look back on. You may also want to include a videographer if you want to share your special day with friends and family who may not be included in the event.
If you always dreamed of wearing a fancy white gown or a crisp tux, there’s no reason to not dress up just because you’re eloping. Go as fancy or as casual as you want! Other details you may want to consider include: a bouquet and boutonniere, a small wedding cake or sweet treat and a customized announcement to send out afterward. Some couples choose to celebrate with a small group of close loved ones after a private ceremony. Skipping the traditional big day does not mean you have to pass on everything — include the elements and traditions that feel right to you.
If a full-on elopement feels too dramatic, but you are still not digging the traditional wedding day experience, a destination wedding may be just the ticket. Destination weddings lend themselves to smaller affairs as you typically only ask your closest friends and family to spend the time and money required to travel. You may also choose this option for your big day if you want a more laidback, less formal vibe than a traditional wedding venue would provide. If you and your fiancé are from different states or countries, maybe a neutral location makes more sense so as not to unfairly burden one side of the family.
If you decide to host a destination wedding, consider sourcing some wedding vendors from your hometown and bring them with you. A hair and makeup artist who knows your hair and skin, and who can do a trial run with you before the wedding, is invaluable.
You may also want to consider hiring a photographer who is willing to travel with you. This affords you the opportunity to get to know one another during the engagement session, ensuring you feel more comfortable than you would if meeting someone on location the day of your wedding. You almost definitely need to buy your dress at home, well ahead of your wedding date, and be sure to talk to the boutique owner about any concerns with packaging your dress for shipping to your destination.
Benefits of a destination wedding are bountiful: gorgeous photos in exotic locations, a more intimate guest list, a relaxed party vibe and less stress if you book your wedding at a resort that offers a full-fledged wedding coordination package. However, a destination wedding doesn’t come without difficulties. Make sure you know exactly what the legal process is like for obtaining a marriage license if you are in another country, for instance. You may want to also consider staying for a night or two after your wedding, and then booking a separate honeymoon, so you aren’t surrounded by your wedding guests for the entirety of your newlywed vacation.
If you like to be in control of every single detail, a destination wedding could prove challenging, as you’ll likely have to leave a lot of the work up to the professionals on location and trust that it will be what you want when you arrive. If you are aware of these challenges ahead of time and tying the knot somewhere far from home sounds like your cup of tea, then a destination wedding may just be your dream come true.
For couples who want a more traditional wedding ceremony, but still want to customize their big day in a unique way, a nontraditional reception may be the perfect compromise. Instead of hosting an afternoon or evening reception like usual, couples could choose to have an early-morning ceremony followed by a brunch reception. Similarly, couples could choose to host a later ceremony with a cocktail reception to follow instead of a full dinner reception.
There are specific pros and cons to consider with these nontraditional reception options. A brunch reception is the perfect choice for the couple who wants to eat delicious food and spend time with their wedding guests, but doesn’t want a raucous party. Brunch doesn’t have to mean no alcohol (hello, mimosas and Bloody Marys!), but guests tend to be more subdued and less inclined to tear up the dance floor at 11 a.m. A brunch reception can be laidback or more formal, but you should generally stick with a semiformal dress code at most. An earlier celebration could also allow you to get into more popular venues that may be booked already.
With a cocktail reception, a couple foregoes a full dinner in favor of heavy hors d’oeuvres or passed appetizers. This type of reception can be held in the early afternoon or later evening. If you choose to host a cocktail reception during typical dinner hours (5 to 7 p.m.), you should let guests know on a details card or invitation, so they don’t expect a full dinner. Having food stations or passed apps instead of a plated meal can be a fun alternative to typical wedding food, giving you the opportunity to offer bite-size treats or unexpected fare like tacos or sliders. While some couples choose a cocktail reception as a way to save money, be aware that snack food costs can add up quickly and sometimes end up costing more than a regular dinner.
A cocktail reception is perfect for the couple who wants a less formal vibe. It’s generally easier to mix and mingle with guests when everyone isn’t seated at tables to eat. While standing cocktail tables are perfectly acceptable, make sure you do offer some seating options, especially for older guests and anyone whose feet are tired from standing in heels.
While some cultures throw multi-day wedding celebrations as per tradition, the Western or Christian wedding is typically a one-day affair. If you crave the intimacy of an elopement or destination wedding, but also want to celebrate with a larger group, a two- day wedding could be the answer. On the first day, exchange vows in a small ceremony with only your closest friends and family, and then follow up the next day with a larger reception to celebrate!
Or consider including all your guests in a weekend full of festivities. You could have a prewedding ceremony activity on Friday that incorporates a special interest that you and your partner share — kayaking, hiking, golfing, painting or ballroom dancing — and then have your wedding and reception on Saturday. By stretching your wedding celebration over several days, couples can personalize activities and share more time with their guests than just a few hours at a busy reception.
If you read through all of the alternative options above and none feel quite right, you may be interested in planning a more traditional wedding, while including a unique element or two. From wedding attendants to dessert, there are hundreds of ways to customize your wedding and add in a little unexpected flair. To customize your wedding ceremony, you can have a family member marry you for a personal touch. Some couples elect to have their grandmothers toss flowers in lieu of traditional flower girls, and the photos can be cherished for years. Want a unity symbol, but you’re not into the idea of lighting a candle? Switch it up and toast your new spouse with each other’s favorite beer or wine.
You can always use entertainment options to set your big day apart and leave your guests with an experience to remember. Hire a magician or tarot card reader to move between tables. A mariachi band could add a fun touch to cocktail hour. Enlist an Elvis impersonator to serenade guests at the reception or LED robots to spray guests with fog from the dance floor.
When it comes to food and beverages, a food truck reception instead of a typical plated meal or a beverage truck for specialty cocktails is a memorable option. Desserts are easily customizable, too, and there’s no need to even stick to sweets. Couples are opting to cut into things they love — pizza and cheese wheels are two popular choices — instead of traditional cakes. There’s also interactive s’mores bars, donut walls or French crêpes. You can always have a wedding cake and then bring in additional sweets to highlight your culture or favorite desserts.
Never forget that your wedding is a reflection of you and your partner. It’s important that you both feel like your big day is authentic and personal, even if that means flouting tradition or expectations. From solo elopements to an unexpected dessert, there are endless options for customizing your wedding. You just need to decide what feels right and follow your heart — especially if it leads to pizza at your reception, because who doesn’t love a little wedding pizza?