Weddings
“That’s Amore.” The words that defined Emily & Brandon’s wedding all started on a gorgeous terrace in Italy, as they enjoyed a glass of wine as a newly engaged couple. In that state of relaxation, taking it all in, they looked to the future together.
Honestly, if you could combine the whimsy, romance, and elegance of an Italian vista with the history, culture, and built environment of Chicago, that would describe their day. Old World meets New World. It was so important to Emily and Brandon to visit several locations, including the Adler Planetarium, the LaSalle bridge, the Lurie Gardens, the Lyric Opera building, and finally landing at the historic Warwick Allerton Hotel.
But the day would not be complete without a dance to “That’s Amore”, the continuation of the spirit of that perfect evening in Italy, and the friends and family that surround the day with love and support.
We were amazed by the Allerton’s new remodel, with golden details, warm lighting, and massive windows pouring in light while revealing the surrounding Chicago architecture along the Magnificent Mile. The gorgeous ballroom set the stage for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and following reception. The hotel, originally built in 1924 is now a Chicago Landmark. The classic “Tip-Top-Tap” neon sign is iconic – you can see it walking along Michigan Avenue! Emily and Brandon knew they wanted to brave the heights together for a photograph under the sign (you wouldn’t believe what it’s actually like up there)!. But one of our favorite moments was the view of the city from the outside of The Allerton. Completely breathtaking.
We hope you enjoy this Italy-meets-Chicago-meets…well, you know, the things that matter most… adventure with us. Congratulations, Emily and Brandon!
The Wedding Day Team
Venue: The Warwick Allerton Hotel | Printing: Minted | Bridal Gown: Watters | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: David’s Bridal | Groom, Groomsmen Clothing: The Groomsman Suit | Hair & Makeup: Blush & Burgundy | Floral: Flowers for Dreams | Caterer: The Warwick Allerton Hotel | Cake: Vanille Patisserie | DJ: Mike Staff Productions | Transportation: Windy City Limo
Weddings
It all starts with a stellar first look! Julie & Michael’s emotional moment set the tone for a warm, inviting wedding day at the Newberry Library. It was a day full of laughter, tears, and the kind of hugs you only get on a special occasion like this. One of the (many) reasons we love Newberry Library is the great mix of indoor and outdoor spots. Give us all of the classic architecture next to romantic gardens — it’s a photographer’s dream.
So much of wedding day success comes down to to the WHERE. With the Hilton, St. Vincent DePaul, and Newberry Library — Julie & Michael made all of the right choices! We talked to Julie a bit about what made her fall in love with these spaces, the perfect backdrops to a gorgeous day.
Without further ado — let’s dive right in! Enjoy!
Tell us about your connection to your ceremony venue…
St. Vincent DePaul Church is a beautiful Catholic Church in Lincoln Park. Julie, an alumnus of DePaul University for undergrad, attended church here throughout her college days. After deciding to get married through the Catholic Church, we selected St. Vincent DePaul because of Julie’s fond memories of the church community here in college and its lovely Lincoln Park setting.
And Newberry Library. What’s your favorite part?
When Michael and I decided on a Chicago wedding, we knew we wanted a venue that would show off the city’s beauty and life. We met in Chicago and both lived there for 6+ years and are excited to add our wedding to our list of memories in this place. We decided on the Newberry Library because of its beautiful event space and its location in the Gold Coast neighborhood. Michael and I both love the green space and architecture of the Newberry and its surroundings. Additionally, the Newberry Library itself has been a long standing part of Chicago’s history. It is an independent research library established in 1887; we are excited for our guests to visit this downtown landmark.
The Wedding Day Team
Getting Ready Venue: Hilton Garden Inn | Ceremony Venue: St. Vincent DePaul Church | Reception Venue: Newberry Library | Printing: Minted | Bridal Gown: Hayley Paige | Bridesmaid’s Clothing: Amasale | Hair: Pin Me Up Chicago | Floral: Blumgarten Floral | Caterer: Jordan’s Food of Distinction | DJ: Toast & Jam DJs | Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s | Transportation: Echo Limo
Weddings
One the best parts of the wedding day is that you get to share your story with all of your loved ones. You get to create little details that are unique to you, and show off the part of the city you love. For Catherine & Kristopher, it was a Chicago-centric day at St. Alphonsus Church and River Roast. But the Windy City love didn’t stop there! We hope you’re ready for the Lincoln Park skyline and Chicago River silhouettes!
According to Catherine, it was the architecture of these spaces that made the difference. All of the beautiful details at St. Alphonsus combined with the terrace view and exposed brick of River Roast — the perfect mix of class & romance!
We love the rich navy blues and soft pinks that accented the day, with just a hint of glitz and bling to make everything sparkle. Speaking of sparkle — Catherine & Kristopher’s smiles were the envy of the day!
Congrats, you two! Cheers to an instant Chicago classic wedding day!
The Wedding Day Team
Wedding Day Planner: Ohana Events | Ceremony Venue: St. Alphonsus | Reception Venue/Caterer: River Roast | DJ: Toast & Jam | Florist: Trablume | Photo Booth: Alfresco Photobooth | Hair Stylist: Emily Lauf | Makeup Artist: Melanie Larson | Bakery: Urban Icing | Trolley: Chicago Trolley & Double Decker | Getting Ready: Hyatt Place River North
Weddings
When we say that you can get fabulous engagement photos ANY time of year, THIS is what we’re talking about! Samantha & Markus made winter work, taking advantage of the natural backdrop and fully embracing the snow-kissed setting! A winter engagement session is not always buttoned-up. With proper planning, you can choose to cozy up indoors, or brave the day with an outdoors stroll. A fashionable coat is always photogenic — not the only option, though! If you and your significant other are ready to take the plunge, you can totally face the winter engagement photo challenge together. Take a deep breath, remove the coats, and grab each other’s hand — just go for it! We just need a few seconds to catch the perfect moment — plenty of time for the adrenaline to keep you warm!
And now back to the gorgeous couple! Markus & Samantha have such great personal style. From the grade-A accessorizing to the complementary colors of their outfits, these two know what they are doing! Their cream palette is such a nifty choice for the winter background, and it makes them look right at home in this winter wonderland. And Sam’s scarf, the nails, the lipstick — every color POPS! It draws us right in to every smile, every touch, and every laugh.
Join us in congratulating Samantha & Markus on a stylish, sophisticated session!
Take a look at more Gold Grid couples!
Weddings
I hope you all have your warm blankets, a mug of cocoa, and your best cuddle buddy! It’s time for a fabulous winter wedding!
Kylie & Matt have the kind of love we all dream about — that sort of “can’t stop, won’t stop” love! They take every opportunity to share with each other, and to make sure the other feels like the most important person in the world. From the love notes they exchanged at the beginning of this winter wedding day to the emotional vows (scroll for all of the feels!), these two spent the whole day saying I DO.
Winter in Chicago can be a challenge, but with the right amount of planning — there are magical possibilities! Get ready for Christmas lights, cute winter accessories, and a whole lot of genuine snuggle time! Kylie & Matt were so smart in their choices. They kept the schedule simple, making only a few stops between their hotel and ceremony venue (the cozy and endlessly charming Revolution Brewing). For the most part, everything was in one place. This allowed these two lovebirds to relax (as much as one can on the wedding day) and soak in every moment! And that is exactly what it’s all about!
Join us in congratulating Kylie & Matt for making winter look absolutely lovely! Cheers!
Kylie has excellent taste, and made sure everything matched her vision. Every detail was in place, down to the last rose-gold detail. Her dress, her bridesmaid gifts, her shoes — it all worked together in fab fashion! The handkerchiefs she gave her bridesmaids were hand sewn by Kylie herself! That’s just one of the unique details that makes this winter wedding one-of-a-kind!
So much of this wedding day was fun and heartfelt. We played it a bit by ear because…#ChicagoWeather! Luckily, it was a beautiful day and we decided to walk to Water Tower Place. We found some lovely photo opportunities along the way, showcasing Chicago as well as this chic bridal party. The cape, the wraps, the soft, romantic bouquets — yes!
Revolution Brewery is one of our ABSOLUTE FAVORITE places to photograph a wedding! It is perfect for intimate events, and has a cozy atmosphere that fit beautifully with this winter wedding. Also, the Revolution staff are so so helpful and thoughtful — and that’s exactly what you want on your wedding day!
Oh, these vows! Matt went first and there were very few dry eyes in the room (including our photographers Alissa & Vanessa ) as he got choked up during his vows to Kylie. Hankies at the ready, everyone!
Meet the Team:
Hotel: Hilton Mag Mile | Venue & Caterer: Revolution Brewing | DJ: Toast & Jam | Flowers: Steve’s Flower Market | Dress: Allure from House of Brides | Hair: Hair Salon Buzz | Make-up: beGlammed
