Patrice & Kevin’s Gorgeous Cafe Brauer Chicago Wedding

Patrice and Kevin’s relationship was built upon a strong foundation of friendship. They first met in high school and loved spending time together with mutual friends. But it wasn’t long before they realized that there was something more there and that friendship blossomed into a beautiful relationship.

I met Patrice years ago at a shoot for a group of realtors. She immediately struck me as incredibly beautiful but also unassuming and kind-hearted. I was honored when she reached out after getting engaged to ask me to photograph her wedding.

After waiting a bit longer than expected thanks to Covid, we were all so excited when Patrice and Kevin’s wedding day arrived. We met Patrice and her bridesmaids at the beautiful Gold Coast Salon downtown where they were glammed up by the sweetest team of hair and makeup artists. From there we went to the stunning St. James Chapel on Rush, our absolute favorite church for a traditional ceremony in Chicago. After Patrice put on her gorgeous Haley Paige gown she had the sweetest “first look” moments with her niece and Dad before walking down the aisle to marry Kevin. Kevin was so sweet when he saw Patrice for the first time as a bride and he could not take his eyes off of her for the rest of the day!

Following their beautiful ceremony we went to some of our favorite spots in the city for photos. First we stopped at the Wrigley Building for wedding party photos before heading on the trolley to North Avenue Beach. As we got close to the lake and set up for a full wedding party picture a flock of geese took off flying TOO close to everyone’s heads, it was an absolutely hilarious moment!

We finished photos and settled in at the absolutely stunning Cafe Brauer at the Lincoln Park Zoo. It was a dream to shoot there, the space looked absolutely perfect thanks to the help and guidance of the amazing Michelle of NORA Events Chicago. After a delicious meal and some hilarious toasts the guests were treated to a rocking performance by Rod Tuffcurls and the Benchpress that had EVERYONE dancing. It was truly the perfect wedding, a day we won’t soon forget.

Congratulations, Patrice and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Patrice and Kevin’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue

Wedding Dress
Hayley Paige from Bella Bianca

Hair & Makeup
Ina Evtimov

Wedding Shoes
Jimmy Choo

Menswear
Ted Baker & Black Tux

Florist
Vale of Enna

Band
Rod Tuffcurls and the Benchpress

Alicia and Aaron’s Perfect Micro Wedding

Alicia and Aaron are both essential workers who met while working on the same floor at Amita Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora. As they worked together they grew closer and found they had a lot in common, and soon those shared experiences blossomed into love. When the pandemic hit their jobs shifted but they were still working in the same hospital. And when they decided to get married they both felt that a small wedding would suit them quite nicely.

I was honored to be asked to photograph Alicia and Aaron’s micro wedding at the Batavia Riverwalk on the Fox River. It was an absolutely GORGEOUS fall day, the weather could not have been more perfect for this wonderful couple. After exchanging their vows over the water Alicia and Aaron shared their first dance as husband and wife in front of their closest family and friends. We explored the Riverwalk a bit for photos before heading for a quick photo op at their hospital. Afterwards we settled in at the Turf Room in Aurora. It was the most intimate and beautiful celebration, I was so thankful to be a part of it.

Kaitlyn & Mark’s Emotional Westin Chicago Northwest Wedding

Kaitlyn and Mark walked a long but beautiful road to reach their wedding day. They started dating when they were still teens but always knew they would end up together forever.

Sadly Kaitlyn’s Dad passed away from cancer when she was in elementary school, a loss that shaped her decision to pursue a career in the medical field. Her father’s presence was deeply felt throughout her wedding day. Kaitlyn, her Mom and her sister all wore matching bracelets to remember him, and there were touching tributes for her Dad at both the ceremony and reception.

Rain forced Kaitlyn and Mark’s Westin Chicago Northwest ceremony inside but it was still so incredibly beautiful. Mark’s reaction to watching Kaitlyn walk down the aisle was one of the sweetest we have ever seen. Mark’s Dad officiated the ceremony; once they said “I do” then the celebration really began!

After fighting the rain outside we took some fun photos in the lobby at the Westin. One of our favorite moments of the day was when Kaitlyn and Mark rode up and down the lobby elevator for an epic photo moment, they were happily dancing and kissing inside that elevator to cheers from below.

The tent at the Westin looked breathtaking thanks to Kaitlyn’s vision for the room, it was beautiful with all of the gold and burgundy details. After dinner Kaitlyn surprised her family with a special first dance with her Grandpa. He had always been a father-figure for Kaitlyn and was beaming with pride as he danced with his granddaughter. Kaitlyn had found her Grandma’s gold wedding shoes and slipped them on for that dance with her Grandpa. Her sweet gesture had the entire room in tears when her Grandma realized that Kaitlyn was wearing those shoes. It was the most emotional and beautiful day, we were so honored to be a part of it.

Congratulations, Kaitlyn and Mark, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Kaitlyn and Mark’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Videographer
Jay From With Love Productions

Wedding Dress
Stella York from Dianas bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses
Bill levkoff

Wedding Shoes
David's Bridal

Menswear
Mens Wearhouse

Florist
Town and Country Gardens

Wedding Rings
Jared's

Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery

DJ
Josh from An Enchanted Evening

April & Chris’ Beautiful Beverly Country Club Wedding

April and Chris met in 2014 through mutual friends and immediately hit it off. They say “opposites attract” and that is true for these two, but they are perfect for each other. She fell in love with his selflessness and loving personality for those he cares about most. He fell in love with her sense of humor, easy going attitude and patience.

Last year I met April and Chris at Graue Mill for the perfect Fall engagement session. I had so much fun with these two and was really excited to celebrate their wedding this year! Ashley, Conrad and I all first went to April’s parents’ house for getting ready photos and thought that April looked absolutely stunning in her Essense of Australia wedding gown. After a sweet “first look” with her Dad we made the short trip to her childhood church for their wedding ceremony.

April and Chris were married at St. Christina Parish where many couples from April’s family have also celebrated their weddings, including her parents. In fact, April’s Uncle presided over their beautiful traditional ceremony! After they became husband and wife we were treated to THE most organized extended family photos ever, they had point-people ready with lists to make sure everyone knew just where to be! They made our jobs so easy!! But our favorite moment at the church was catching some photos of April and Chris in the beautiful glow of St. Christina’s stained glass windows, the rainbow light playing off of April’s veil was so incredibly beautiful.

After the ceremony we traveled to Lake Catherine for wedding party photos, what an amazing location! We would love to go back to Lake Catherine again, it really was the perfect backdrop for all of our group photos along with some quiet and beautiful moments with the newlyweds. From there we settled in at the Beverly Country Club for an unforgettable celebration.

Chris and April spent time mingling with their guests during cocktail hour, but we had to sneak them out onto the course for THE most gorgeous sunset we have ever seen. Conrad got some hilarious video footage of Chris’ famous “Lieutenant Dan” wave while we were on the course, April always cracks up when he does that!

The reception room at the Beverly smelled SO good thanks to the amazing donut wall created by Donut Dudes Chicago. Honestly I have never been so tempted by a dessert at a wedding! Once April and Chris were introduced they were treated to several emotional and hilarious toasts before settling into a delicious dinner. As the party continued guests were treated to a surprise performance by the Bagpipes and Drums of the Emerald Society of the Chicago Police Department. Everyone loved hearing their celebratory performance, it was the perfect ending to the perfect night!

Congratulations, April and Chris, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of April and Chris’ beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue

Wedding Dress
Essence of Australia from Something Blue Bridal Boutique

Hair
Mary Schleyer

Makeup
Becky Quijano

Bridesmaid Dresses
Bill Levkoff

Menswear
Men’s Warehouse

Florist
Redberry Floral

Desserts
Creative Cakes

DJ
Don’t Stop the Music Entertainment

Wedding Coordinator
Pam Lohman

Emily & Mark’s Perfect Rolling Green Country Club Wedding

Emily and Mark met at a wedding in 2016 (on the shuttle to the after party to be more precise). The bus driver wouldn't move because Mark was standing in the aisle so Emily offered her lap for him to sit. They then talked the rest of the night and the rest is history.

When we met up with Emily and her bridesmaids at the hotel for getting ready photos, we knew we were in for a treat. The girls were all SO laid back and fun, we laughed and laughed as Emily put on her gorgeous Jenny Yoo gown. Emily rocked a pair of white Birks on her wedding day and gifted her groom with his own new pair, one of the many things these two share in common!

Emily arrived at Rolling Green Country Club and saw Mark right away, their First Look was so sweet. As we explored the grounds throughout the day it was clear how much Mark loves Emily, he honestly couldn’t take his eyes off her. After their emotional ceremony we settled in for a beautiful reception inside the club. And then Emily and Mark treated their guest so THE most delicious tacos ever for a late-night snack, it was the perfect ending to the perfect day!

Congratulations, Emily and Mark, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Emily and Mark’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography
SomethingSomething Blue PhotographyBlue Photography

Wedding Dress
Jenny Yoo from BHLDN

Hair
Emily Lauf

Makeup
Alyssa Lynn

Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie

Wedding Shoes
Birkenstock

Menswear
Suit Shop

Florist
Joanna From Donna’’s Garden Flower Shop

Desserts
Lovin Oven

DJ
T&R ProductT&R Productionsons

Wedding Coordinator
Nicki Padilla-Mack

Videographer
Something Blue Photography

Annette & Rocco’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Wedding

Annette and Rocco met on an online dating app and as they were talking she thought she recognized him from SOMEWHERE but could not pinpoint where. They later found out that Rocco was the brother of Annette's college best-friends ex-boyfriend and the brother of her other best friend. Got that??! They ended up dating for about 2 months before Rocco asked Annette to be officially be his girlfriend on Valentine's day, and the rest is history. Almost 5 years later Rocco finally proposed to Annette at a family trip in Disney World on New Years Eve. They went to take pictures in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom and as she turned to look at him to walk away he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

After a Covid reschedule we were all so happy when Annette and Rocco’s wedding day finally arrived. Surrounded by lots of family and good friends in their wedding party, we celebrated with lots of shots and cheers throughout the day. Rocco couldn’t take his eyes off his beautiful bride, it was so sweet to see them both so happy together. After their emotional ceremony the party kicked off in the Grand Ballroom at Chevy Chase Country Club. They treated their guests to a gelato cart, walking tacos, and pizza as the dance floor continued to celebrate the newlyweds. It was the perfect day and we were honored to be a part of it!

Congratulations, Annette and Rocco, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Annette and Rocco’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Brides By Young

Hair & Makeup
Jaycie Ganek
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie

Wedding Shoes
Kate Spade Keds

Menswear
Mens Warehouse - Vera Wang

Florist
Blue Daisy

Wedding Rings
Kay Jewelers, Neil Lane

Desserts
Lovin' Oven

DJ
Spinnin' Discs

Videographer
Vivid Visual

Taylor & Alex’s Gorgeous Chevy Chase Wedding Reception

We were first introduced to Taylor and Alex by our good friend Ken from Amp Event Professionals. Taylor is Ken’s sister in law and has a heart of gold. Taylor and Alex originally planned to get married in August of 2020, but Covid had other plans for their lives. Not wanting to wait that long, Taylor and Alex exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony last summer with their closest family and friends in attendance. It was one of my favorite Covid weddings, there was so much emotion and beauty in that courtyard ceremony at Taylor’s home church.

Ashley and I were so excited when it was finally time for Taylor and Alex to properly celebrate their marriage this October at Chevy Chase Country Club. It was unseasonably hot for October 1st and Taylor struggled a bit in the heat, but after we got her cooled down the rest of their day was really perfect. We loved celebrating with Taylor and Alex and their loved ones, and at the end of the night we toasted to their lives together with their adorable and delicious home-brewed beer! It was a perfect night with the perfect couple, we wish we could photograph Taylor and Alex every year!

Congratulations, Taylor and Alex, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Taylor and Alex’s beautiful wedding reception photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Stella York

Hair
Every Kind of Beautiful in Lake Zurich Dawn McKee

Makeup
Every Kind of Beautiful in Lake Zurich Anna Milanzi

Bridesmaid Dresses

Wedding Shoes

Menswear
Men's Wearhouse

Florist
Blooming Flowers

Wedding Rings
Neil Lane

Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery

DJ
Amp Event Professionals

Wedding Coordinator
Kimberly Merwin

Videographer
Tom Munaco

Sarah and Dean’s Long-Awaited Makray Wedding Reception

Sarah and Dean met at the University of Illinois (her parents and sister also fell in love at U of I, and, fun fact, I met my husband there too!) Their original wedding date was scheduled for 4/18/2020, making Sarah and Dean one of our first “Covid couples.” In the end, When the Shelter in Place order was issued, Sarah and Dean moved their Spring ‘20 Makray Memorial Golf Club wedding to December – at the time we all assumed that we would be in the clear by then. Well, of course the pandemic had other plans for all of us. As things became more complicated Sarah and Dean decided to get married at Holy Family in Inverness and celebrate a very small micro wedding in her parents’ backyard. They then rescheduled their Makray reception for September 11, 2021.

After riding the emotional roller coaster of planning and replanning their wedding, Sarah and Dean were very ready to FINALLY celebrate with their friends and family this fall. We were happy to see Sarah and Dean (and their immediate families) again, and it was so great to finally meet all of their friends and family! Following a beautiful vow renewal ceremony at Holy Family we to Makray for pictures and their long-awaited celebration. There were plenty of nods to the U of I throughout the day – the navy bridesmaids’ dresses with orange sprinkled throughout their beautiful bouquets, an emotional rendition of the Alma Mater during dinner, and of course, masks with the U of I logo on them. It was a perfect day and one we won’t soon forget.

Congratulations, Sarah and Dean, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Sarah and Dean’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue

FLORIST
The Flower Studio

BRIDAL GOWN
Enchanting by Mon Cheri

BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
All About the Gown

WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven

BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
David’s Bridal

DJ
Sounds Abound

Jess & James’ Gorgeous Independence Grove Wedding

Jess and James met on the first day of their Freshman year at Stevenson High School. They were introduced by a mutual friend while riding the bus to school – little did they know that bus ride was the beginning of an epic journey. Over the next several years, they maintained their friendship and were completely oblivious to the signs of compatibility between them. Friends pointed out the chemistry often, but James and Jess always insisted they were just close friends.

That all changed their senior year of high school. They officially began dating, much to the excitement of their families and close friends, and attended their senior Prom together. They were eager to begin their futures at Texas Christian University and Indiana University for college, but were unsure of what that meant for their newfound relationship.

Thousands of video calls, visits when possible, phone calls, love letters, care packages, and text messages later... college graduation was upon them. James had accepted an offer in Mansfield, Texas and Jess had accepted an offer in Chicago. They were not thrilled about the ongoing long distance, but they were confident they would find the best solution together.

After 8 months of being apart, Jess quit her job, packed up her belongings, and drove to Texas to move in with James. Since moving in together, their journey together has blossomed and grown in ways they could not have imagined. Conrad was on hand to photograph James’ romantic and snowy proposal to Jess, she was completely surprised by the thoughtful moment that he had planned for her.

They got married on the hottest day of the summer, but it was the most perfect day to celebrate their love. After their “first look” Jess and James exchanged private vows (our FAVORITE wedding “trend”). James showed Jess that he carries a picture of her from when she was little, it was the sweetest moment. From that emotional first look to their ceremony (officiated by our friend Brad of Love Story Weddings) to their amazing Independence Grove reception this was a wedding we won’t forget.

Congratulations, Jess and James, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Jess and James’ beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Patsy's

Hair
Kennedy

Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazi

Wedding Shoes
Keds

Menswear
The Black Tux

Florist
Polly's Petals

Wedding Rings
Rahl Jeweler

Desserts
Oak Mill Bakery

DJ
Shav from Music in Motion

Videographer
Something Blue Photography

Tessa & Piotr’s Emotional Seven Bridges Golf Club Wedding

Tessa and Piotr first met the day they moved into Simpson Hall at Loyola University Chicago in 2007. They were friends for a few months until Piotr came to a family friend's wedding with Tessa as his “plus one.” They have been together ever since, dating since they were 18 and navigating a lot of life together – starting their careers, Piotr’s med school residency, and losing loved ones – and through it all they always knew that they would be together forever.

When their wedding day came, Tessa was missing her Mom who sadly passed away in 2014. Surrounded by the love of her bridesmaids she got ready and included some beautiful mementos so that she would feel her Mom’s presence on her wedding day. This green ring Tessa wore was made with some of her Mom’s ashes; her heart locket and bouquet charm (a thoughtful gift from her maid of honor) both held pictures of her Mom.

The weather on their wedding day was iffy and we spent a lot of time checking the radar throughout the day. It was drizzling when the time came for Tessa to first see her Dad and then Piotr, but we managed to do their first looks on the covered back patio of Seven Bridges. Golf Club. Tessa’s Dad was so emotional when he saw his daughter as a bride, and told her that the weather was very much like the weather had been when he married her Mom. There were just so many emotions throughout the day but I will always remember hearing this beautiful conversation.

After their First Look, Tessa and Piotr quietly exchanged private vows at their ceremony site. This was such a beautiful moment. We love when couples choose to exchange private vows, it’s always so meaningful and emotional. Throughout the day the rain came and went, it even rained through the sunshine during the ceremony! But nothing could dampen the joy and love that Tessa and Piotr share; this day was a perfect and beautiful celebration of their lives together.

Congratulations, Tessa and Piotr, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Tessa and Piotr’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Oleg Cassini

Hair
Kim Piech

Makeup
Andriana from Michael D Anthony's Salon

Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal

Wedding Shoes
Nina Shoes

Menswear
Men's Wearhouse

Florist
Shamrock Florist Lombard

Wedding Rings
Clean Origin-Tessa's engagement & wedding band

Desserts
DeEtta's Bakery

DJ
DJs For You

Reception Coordinator
Roisin Daly

Videographer
Something Blue Photography

Danielle & Peter’s Pretty River Forest Country Club Wedding

Danielle and Peter met their sophomore year at Illinois State University; their roommates were dating and this friendship quickly blossomed into something more. They went ice skating on their first date; years later when Peter wanted to propose he invited Danielle to go ice skating with him again but she turned down the invitation, leaving poor Peter to wait another week to pop the question!

I loved getting to know Danielle and Peter (and their adorable dog Archie) at their engagement session in Lincoln Park last summer. They are just so kind and relatable, and clearly made for one another.

On their wedding day, Danielle got ready with her bridesmaids at her childhood home. As a surprise, the girls all wrote sweet notes on the bottom of Danielle’s bridal shoes, loving words to carry her through her wedding day. Danielle’s Dad walked her down the block to St. Raymond’s for their traditional Catholic ceremony. After they were pronounced husband and wife Danielle and Peter exited to rousing cheers from their family and friends and were greeted outside by Archie, the goodest boy who was SO happy for his Mom and Dad!

When we arrived at River Forest Country Club everyone was ready to celebrate the newlyweds! After a delicious meal EVERYONE got up and danced along with the amazing Wedding Banned, honestly THE best wedding band EVER! It was a perfect night for the perfect couple, we were so happy to be a part of this wedding!

Congratulations, Danielle and Peter, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Danielle and Peter’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
David's Bridal

Hair & Makeup
Jack Alexander Hair Salon & Spa

Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal

Wedding Shoes
David's Bridal

Menswear
Mens Wearhouse: Vera Wang

Florist
Laura LaTragna (Family Friend)

Wedding Rings
Mary Tuttle (Grooms Mom)

Desserts
River Forest Country Club

DJ
Wedding Banned

Reception Coordinator
Marsela Dine

Jaleesa and Josh’s Intimate Courthouse Celebration

We first met Jalessa and Josh at Michelle and Eric’s Marriott Lincolnshire wedding earlier this summer. When Conrad got the call to photograph this sweet couple at their intimate courthouse wedding in Sycamore, IL he was SO excited to celebrate with them! After a quiet but emotional ceremony in the courthouse Jaleesa and Josh met their friends outside for some pictures, it was really just the perfect morning!!

Margaret & Kyle’s Beautiful Backyard Wedding

Margaret and Kyle both grew up in St. Charles and met in high school. They became friends and had high school crushes on each other (they had their first kiss in the basement of their friend’s parent’s house!) but never dated. They stayed close throughout college and started officially started dating after they both graduated. Since then they have had many adventures together – they love traveling (taking trips to US National Parks, Mexico, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Canada, etc.), hiking, camping, Halloween parties and hanging with their friends and family!

As the pandemic wore on Margaret and Kyle decided to get married in front of their very closest friends and family in Margaret’s picturesque backyard on the Fox River. Their backyard wedding was intimate and beautiful thanks to lots of hard work leading up to the big day; both of their Dads put in a lot of hours to help make Margaret’s backyard look perfect (and poison ivy free!) Margaret created the bouquets herself with flowers from Costco and their friends pitched in to help set up everything before the ceremony.

When we arrived at Margaret’s one thing was very very clear – this couple is surrounded by love and joy. Their friends and family made this wedding one that we won’t forget. We can’t wait for their big celebration next summer at Salvage One, if it’s anything like this intimate gathering we know it will be an absolutely perfect event!

Congratulations, Margaret and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Margaret and Kyle’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography

Hair
Jenni Lutz

Wedding Shoes
Express

Florist
Costco

Wedding Rings
Ethan Lord

Desserts
Costco

Jenny & Steve’s Gorgeous Heritage Prairie Farm Summer Wedding

Jenny and Steve met in 7th grade gym class. Jenny said Steve looked like a Ken doll. He invited her to a movie and she stood him up, and their paths didn’t cross again until 2018 when Jenny followed Steve on Instagram. Within hours Steve sent Jenny a DM, asked her out a few days later, and the rest is history.

We had THE most amazing time at Jenny and Steve’s wedding. Heritage Prairie Farm is our new FAVORITE venue, it’s absolutely perfect there. From the quaint separate bride and grooms cottages for getting ready photos to the gorgeous grounds to the absolutely DELICIOUS food (Jenny and Steve are vegan, and their vegan wedding dinner was quite possibly the BEST wedding food we have ever tasted!) this unforgettable wedding will always be one of our favorites. We truly loved celebrating this awesome couple at this gorgeous venue.

Congratulations, Jenny and Steve, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Jenny and Steve’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography + Videography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Watters Seeley by BHLDN

Bridesmaid Dresses
Jenny Yoo

Menswear
Joseph Abboud

Wedding Shoes
Essex Lane

Florist
Blooming Flowers

Wedding Rings
Ancona Jewelers

Desserts
Chef Brett from Heritage Prairie Farm

DJ
DJ David from MDM Entertainment

Krista & Blake’s Romantic Arrowhead Golf Club Wedding

We first met Blake as he was preparing to propose to Krista. He planned the perfect moment for when he got down on one knee at the Naperville Riverwalk. Of course she said yes, it was so incredibly sweet to be there celebrating their proposal along with the people who love Krista and Blake the most!

Conrad shot Krista and Blake’s proposal and was so excited to see them again for their Busse Woods engagement session. They happened to be there as a big bouncy house event was going on and Conrad took some super fun pictures of them bouncing together to finish their shoot! We loved seeing that some of those happy bouncing pictures ended up on Krista and Blake’s Change the Date card, talk about making the best of a difficult situation!

When their wedding day finally arrived, Krista looked radiant in her beautiful gown from Here Comes the Bride. She did the sweetest first look with her grandfather before heading out to see Blake before their ceremony. After their first look, Krista and Blake’s Australian Shepherds Odin and Wally arrived in their coordinating doggy tuxes, they were totally the highlight of the day! Odin and Wally were such good boys in their little tuxedos, posing and smiling and having the best time celebrating their Mom and Dad’s wedding. It was the perfect day for the perfect couple, we were so happy to be there!

Congratulations, Krista and Blake, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Krista and Blake’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Here Comes the Bride

Wedding Shoes
Steve Madden

Kristal & Chris’ Lovely Kemper Lakes Wedding

Kristal and Chris met online, and after one amazing first date they have been together ever since! Their shared love of traveling took them to Turks and Caicos before the pandemic hit, where Chris proposed to Kristal at night on a private beach (swoon!)

I loved getting to know this sweet couple at their winter engagement session downtown at the Museum Campus. They are kind and genuine and share a beautiful love for one another.

We were so excited to celebrate Kristal and Chris’ wedding day at Kemper Lakes Golf Club. From Kristal’s sweet first look both with her Dad and her groom to their emotional lakeside ceremony to their romantic first dance it was truly the perfect day.

Congratulations, Kristal and Chris, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Kristal and Chris’ beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Davids Bridal

Hair
Kathryn Wereminksi from Forbici Salon

Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie

Wedding Shoes
Betsey Johnson

Menswear
Men’s Warehouse

Florist
Jau-Ling Chou

Wedding Rings
Reuven Gitter

Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery

DJ
Amp Event Professionals

Wedding Coordinator
Eugenia from Bring The Party Events

Michelle & Eric’s Beautiful Marriott Lincolnshire Resort Wedding

Michelle and Eric grew up on the same street in Lake Zurich, their lives separated by only few houses and years in school. Their paths didn’t cross until they happened to both attend the same wedding in November 2017. Eric was a groomsman while Michelle was invited as a last-minute guest. When Michelle arrived alone at the wedding Eric’s parents kindly invited her to sit with them. And the rest, as they say, is history.

As their relationship and their love grew, Michelle and Eric developed a strong foundation and knew they were soulmates. Through their shared qualities of faith, balance, and support they had for one another, they knew they could be together forever. Two years after they first met Eric proposed to Michelle (while they were out with their friends celebrating their anniversary!) and together they began planning their future.

I was struck by how relatable and kind Michelle and Eric both are when we first met. Their shared love for each other and their families is something that has left an indelible mark on me. We started Michelle and Eric’s engagement session in their parents’ neighborhood, taking pictures to mark their paths finally crossing. I met their parents that night and could feel the powerful love they have for their children.

When Michelle and Eric’s wedding finally arrived, every detail had been carefully considered. As Michelle finished her hair and makeup I took photos of her beautiful mother helping her gorgeous gown from Bon Bon Belle. Little did any of us know that the next night Michelle’s Mom would tragically pass away.

The day was perfect; Michelle was whisked away to their ceremony at St. Francis de Sales in a Rolls Royce with her Dad, just like he had done with her Mom on their wedding day. After an emotional ceremony and beautiful bubble exit. Michelle and Eric returned in the Rolls to the Marriott Lincolnshire for an unforgettable celebration. We loved every minute of this beautiful wedding, but were especially happy to see Michelle and Eric’s adorable dogs show up outside the Lakeside Pavilion for some photos before the reception!

Just 36 hours after Michelle and Eric’s wedding I got an unbelievable phone call from Michelle – her Mom had passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday night. Michelle and Eric had flown to Hawaii for their honeymoon only to turn back around to start making preparations for her mother’s funeral. They said their goodbyes to her in the same church they were married in just one week earlier. Three months later I’m still in shock. Michelle’s beautiful Mom was fully present at her daughter’s wedding, earnestly working to make sure every detail was perfect. And on the dance floor she let loose and was having the best time celebrating with their family and friends. Her tragic passing is such a powerful reminder that life is precious, and the everlasting memories of the people we love most can best be preserved in photos and videos. How humbling to know that we took the last photographs and videos of Michelle’s mother. It’s an honor to know you and your families and to make these images for you.

Congratulations, Michelle and Eric, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Michelle and Eric’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Essence of Australia from Bon Bon Belle Bridal

Makeup
Jaccquesxmakeup@gmail.com

Hair
Jordyn Pawlowic

Bridesmaid Dresses
Sorella Vita by Essence of Australia

Wedding Shoes
Badgley Mischka

Menswear
Men's Warehouse

Florist
JH Events and Flowers

Wedding Rings
Custom Design from Diamonds on Wabash

Wedding Cake
Lovin Oven

DJ
Corey Sanford - Talent City Artists

Wedding Coordinator
Christine Donovan

Videography
Something Blue Photography

Cassidy & Brad’s Wedding Reception

Cassidy and Brad met online and went on their first date at Arlington Ale House. Last summer Cassidy and Brad got married in front of their closest family and friends at St. James in Arlington Heights. Conrad was there to photograph their sweet backyard celebration in 2020 and was happy to see them again this year to be a part of their long-awaited celebration!

Cassidy wanted their 2021 event to be a relaxing celebration, they had patiently waited so long for the chance to party with their family and friends! After she got ready at home with Brad sweetly helping her, they loaded up onto a gorgeous white trolley with their wedding party and headed back to St. James. Cassidy and Brad renewed their vows and were able to take some mask-free photos at St. James before heading out to Recreation Park to capture pics of their wedding party in downtown Arlington Heights. Finally everyone made their way to The Metropolis Ballroom for a perfect wedding reception – it was the best day, a great reminder that good things come to those who wait!

Congratulations, Cassidy and Brad, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Cassidy and Brad’s vow renewal pictures, click here

VENDOR DETAILS:

Photography
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress
Bri’Zan Couture

Hair
Kimberly May

Makeup
Autumn Gammel

Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie

Wedding Shoes
Kelly & Kate

Menswear
Mens Warehouse

Florist
Soukal Floral

Wedding Rings
Mike Gale, Gale Jewelers

Desserts
Oak Mill Bakery

DJ
Ring of Music

Venue Coordinator
Shawna McGarry

Videographer
Bella Tiamo

Stephanie & Devin’s Seville Vow Renewal (and Pregnancy Announcement!)

We were originally scheduled to photograph Stephanie and Devin’s wedding the summer of 2020, but like so many of our Something Blue couples their plans had to change in light of the pandemic. Stephanie and Devin tied the knot last summer in Arizona, and this July they returned back to Illinois to celebrate along with their family and friends at The Seville in Streamwood. We were excited to be a part of their celebration this year, but even more excited when we heard the news that Stephanie is expecting!! And that they planned to make the announcement during their reception! It was such an exciting and sweet moment when Stephanie pulled out her ultrasound pictures during dinner, the whole room went wild cheering for this sweet couple! It was a perfect day, we were so thankful to be a part of it!

Congratulations, Stephanie and Devin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Stephanie and Devin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS

Photography:
Something Blue Photography

Wedding Dress:
Morilee From Here Comes the Bride

Hair:
Kristy Nickol

Makeup:
Deco Adamo

Bridesmaid Dresses:
The Dessy Group

Wedding Shoes:
Jewel Badgley Mischka

Menswear:
Calvin Klein

Floral:
Something Borrowed Blooms

DJ:
Mickey from Time of Your Life Entertainment

Marissa & Nick (and Peyton’s!) Westin Chicago Northwest Vow Renewal

Marissa and Nick met through her cousin (and maid of honor) Danielle, but when they were first introduced Marissa wasn’t very fond of Nick. He persisted and kept asking her out. Once Marissa finally caved and agreed to go out with Nick she had THE best date ever, and the rest is history!

As Marissa and Nick planned their dream wedding they had no idea that Covid was coming and would change everything. While they had to postpone their celebration Marissa and Nick still chose to be married in 2020 in front of family at St. James in Arlington Heights. Their Catholic ceremony was a beautiful celebration of their love and the first step toward their future together as husband and wife.

In April 2021, Marissa and Nick welcomed their beautiful baby girl Peyton. We were thankful to meet sweet Peyton at her Lifestyle Newborn Session at their home, she is just the sweetest baby girl! After her arrival Marissa and Nick knew their 2021 wedding plans would shift once more, and they decided to baptize Peyton during their vow renewal ceremony. It was the first time that St. James Parish in Arlington Heights celebrated both a vow renewal AND a baptism during the same ceremony! It was a beautiful moment watching Marissa walk down the aisle in her wedding dress with Nick holding their daughter. He was beaming with pride; together they have created such an adorable and joyful family!

After the ceremony we converged at the Westin Chicago Northwest for a great big celebration. Marissa comes from a large and well-connected family, it was really fun to see a lot of people we knew at their reception! It was the perfect night celebrating an amazing couple!

Congratulations, Marissa and Nick (and Peyton!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

To see all of Marissa and Nick’s beautiful vow renewal photos, click here

VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue

Church
St. James

Reception Venue
Westin Chicago Northwest

Wedding Flowers
Floral Harmonies

Band
Bluewater Kings

Wedding Cake
Lovin Oven Cakery

Hair and Makeup
Jaide and Co. Bridal Artistry

Wedding Dress
Martina Liana

Wedding Dress Boutique
Volle’s Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses
Kennedy Blue

Menswear
The Black Tux Nordstrom

Wedding Rings
R.C. Wahl Jewelers