Amanda & Marcus’ Joyful Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Amanda and Marcus we grew up 15 minutes apart from each other in Texas but never met. Fast forward many years and several moves later, they connected in Illinois through the dating app Coffee Meets Bagel. Their first date was supposed to be . . .
Amanda and Marcus we grew up 15 minutes apart from each other in Texas but never met. Fast forward many years and several moves later, they connected in Illinois through the dating app Coffee Meets Bagel. Their first date was supposed to be meeting for coffee, but turned into a spontaneous Home Depot run after discovering the coffee shop was closed. Amanda and Marcus discovered a shared mutual love for food, Jesus and motorcycle adventures and that their differences helped make them into better people. He knew it before she did, but eventually Amanda realized that Marcus needed to stick around for the long haul. Marcus proposed (during a trip to Texas) at the gazebo his parents got married in, with her sister there to take pictures.
When Amanda and Marcus first came to meet with us at our Studio, we immediately clicked and had the best time talking with this wonderful couple. Their love fills every room they enter, and their willingness to trust us as photographers made it so easy to work with them. We were so excited to photograph their wedding at Heritage Prairie Farm, one of our absolute favorite venues.
Heritage Prairie Farm is so beautiful, it’s truly the perfect place to get married. The grounds are gorgeous, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the food is outstanding. Every couple is treated as individuals, they fully customize and personalize your wedding menu for you. Amanda and Marcus made Spanish rice together early in their relationship but burned it; Spanish rice was on their delicious wedding dinner menu and the team at Heritage Prairie Farm set one single grain of burnt rice on Amanda and Marcus’ plate. That level of thoughtfulness is so uncommon and unique it only further endeared us to this amazing venue. We had the absolute best time celebrating Amanda and Marcus, it was a day that we wish we could relive over and over again.
Congratulations, Amanda and Marcus, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Amanda and Marcus’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE & CATERING
Heritage Prairie Farm
MUSIC
Bluewater Kings Band
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
WEDDING DRESS
Maggie Sottero
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
Liz & Mike’s Glamorous Morgan’s On Fulton Wedding
For Liz and Mike, Orlando is the spot where their friendship grew into a romance. In Orlando Liz and Mike developed a group of close-knit friends, but the two of them, using the guise of researching the local bar/cocktail scene . . .
For Liz and Mike, Orlando is the spot where their friendship grew into a romance. In Orlando Liz and Mike developed a group of close-knit friends, but the two of them, using the guise of researching the local bar/cocktail scene, began a series of informal meetings that soon morphed into dates. The relationship magically continued to grow when just after 3 months of dating, Liz moved to Seattle and a distance of 3,000 miles separated them.
For the next year Mike and Liz managed to spend one weekend per month together. They enjoyed hiking through the northwest woods and exploring the cuisine (oysters) of Seattle. Liz would fly to Orlando for some needed sunshine and a chance to kayak and explore the beaches with Mike. After the year of red-eye flights, Liz moved to Chicago where Mike and she reveled in the one hour time difference.
After almost two years of a long-distance relationship, Mike moved to Chicago, purchased a down coat, and began to fall in love with the city and life as a Midwesterner again. Long-distance became a thing of the past and the two couldn't be happier to share time together again. Mike and Liz found endless adventure in the many neighborhoods of Chicago and can often be found biking to a new spot for a bite to eat or a sight to see.
On a snowy day in Humboldt Park, just two blocks from their condo, Liz and Mike affirmed their compatibility by becoming engaged in January 2021.
Then this is where we come in – I first met Liz and Mike in Humboldt Park for their engagement session last fall. We explored the area where Mike proposed before ending up at Parson’s for some adorable photos AND a delicious chicken dinner. I remember talking to Conrad afterwards trying to explain just how much I LOVED spending that time with Liz and Mike – they are down to earth, relatable, fun, and just SO in love, I was truly so excited to celebrate their wedding with them.
When the day finally arrived for Liz and Mike’s wedding, Conrad and I were so happy to be there alongside Liz and Mike’s closest friends and families to celebrate their love. Liz looked absolutely STUNNING in her chic Alice and Ivory gown. After she finished getting ready at the Emily Hotel, we met with Mike in the gorgeous alleyway behind Trivoli Tavern. Liz and Mike’s First Look was one for the ages – they both wiped away happy tears when they saw each other for the first time on their wedding day. From there their wedding day was a big happy blur – we did photos in the alleyway with their favorite people before heading to the river for some beautiful shots near the Wrigley Building.
After we finished with photos we settled in at Morgan’s on Fulton for the most beautiful and moving candlelit ceremony. Liz’s sister-in-law officiated the ceremony which ended with a joyful pop of champagne. At last Liz and Mike were husband and wife and danced the night away on the rooftop to the sounds of the Bluewater Kings Band. It was one of our favorite weddings ever, our only hope is that these photographs fully convey just how beautiful this day truly was.
Congratulations, Liz and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Liz and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Morgan’s On Fulton
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Wedicity
FLORIST
Hedonia Flowers
CAKE
Vanille
MENSWEAR
Knots Standard
WEDDING DRESS
Alice in Ivory
MAKE-UP
Rare Bird Beauties
BAND
Blue Water Kings
Maggie & Justin’s Beautiful Independence Grove Wedding
As all love stories start out, Maggie was the one that I didn’t see coming. Justin had just moved back from Paris, France and was living in Wicker Park. His roommate was having a birthday celebration at Sushi O Sushi, and let me tell you it was starting out as an amazing night . . .
We send a questionnaire to all of our Something Blue couples before their wedding; this questionnaire helps organize information so that we can prepare for the wedding day and later put together a blog post. We ask our couples to share their “love story,” and Justin took the time to write a lovely and touching synopsis of his love story with his bride Maggie, it felt right to share his words here:
“As all love stories start out, she was the one that I didn’t see coming. I had just moved back from Paris, France and was living in Wicker Park. My roommate was having a birthday celebration at Sushi O Sushi, and let me tell you it was starting out as an amazing night. Unlimited sushi rolls AND sake bombs? What more could I want.
After getting spending a few hours coming up with ridiculous sake bomb chants, we decided to hit the town. I’m not sure if you’ve experienced Sushi O Sushi, but leaving there to go to another bar is what some might call “aggressive”. But we were in our 20s, so we lived for the nights. On our way to the next bar, there was someone trying to get my attention as I went past Hopsmith. I was pretty drunk, so I was content with continuing on my way. But wouldn’t you have it, Maggie made sure to get my attention.
A little background for those who don’t know, but Maggie and I met when we were in college at the University of Illinois. We became friends my junior year, and we kept in contact through the years after graduating. She even used my apartment in Paris with her friends on their Euro Trip, but I was off exploring Ireland with some friends when they were passing through so we hadn’t seen each other in person for a few years.
We started talking, exchanged numbers, and then went on to join our friends at different bars. Fast forward to a little later in the night, and I sent her a text asking if they were still at Hopsmith. Fast forward a little more, and we’re at the bar talking and dancing. Next thing I know, we were talking every day and making weekend plans with each other.
Date nights turned into travels to new destinations. New destinations turned into moving in together (a different new destination). Next came our amazing dog, Wayne. And finally, we said yes to forever while overlooking the beach in South Haven at sunset.
On a night where I was content with shouting “Sake, Sake, bomb!” I ran into the girl that I quickly realized I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. There’s plenty more to the story, but you’ll have to come to the wedding to find that out. And there’s one thing that I’m sure you’ll see: our love for each other has and keeps growing every day.”
We met Maggie and Justin in person for the first time on their wedding day. When we arrived at Maggie’s parent’s house she was just glowing, she looked so beautiful and happy even in her robe! After some “getting ready” photos with her bridesmaids, we left to make the long drive to St. Mary’s in Mundelein for the ceremony. Justin was so sweetly emotional when Maggie walked down the aisle, and he didn’t take his eyes off her for the rest of the day.
Once we settled in for the reception at Independence Grove it was clear that this was the perfect wedding. The light on the veranda outside Audubon Hall was radiant and golden during cocktail hour. We were treated to a gorgeous sunset before enjoying a delicious dinner paired with moving and funny toasts. And then as the dance floor opened and we said goodbye we left feeling so thankful to have been part of this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Maggie and Justin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Maggie and Justin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Pollys Petals
HAIR & MAKEUP
United Hairlines
WEDDING DRESS
Blue by Enzoani
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Davids Bridal
MENSWEAR
Vera Wang
WEDDING CAKE
Oak Mill Bakery
Sarah & Paul’s Intimate Backyard Wedding
The pandemic shifted the wedding industry in many ways, and while the last two years have been incredibly difficult there are beautiful things that came out of the trials we all faced together. We have truly loved the recent shift towards smaller, more intimate weddings . . .
The pandemic shifted the wedding industry in many ways, and while the last two years have been incredibly difficult there are beautiful things that came out of the trials we all faced together. We have truly loved the recent shift towards smaller, more intimate wedding celebrations. While a big party has its place, we love the quiet and joyful energy of a backyard wedding.
Christy met Sarah and Paul’ beautiful family at their Fall Mini Session last year. Sarah and Paul are deeply in love and are the best parents to Paul’s adorable son’s Greyson and Lincoln. I was so thankful and honored that they invited me to photograph their backyard wedding. Paul met me in Long Grove with his boys and we took some fun photos together while we waited for Sarah to arrive. Sarah looked so beautiful; after their sweet first look on the historic covered bridge the five of us had the best time exploring Long Grove and enjoying a lovely afternoon before their wedding ceremony.
Once we got back to Sarah and Paul’s house their closest friends and family were excitedly waiting for the wedding to begin. Their backyard looked so pretty set up with the white tent and thoughtful details, including a place set at the table for Sarah’s parents who had passed. Greyson carefully carried the rings into the ceremony while Lincoln sweetly walked Sarah down the aisle. After the emotional ceremony Sarah and Paul cut their cake and shared their first dance with the boys, it was just the perfect evening.
Congratulations, Sarah and Paul, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sarah and Paul’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Lake Zurich Florist
CAKE
Blawesome Cakes
Jess & Brad’s Perfect Metropolis Ballroom Wedding
Jess and Brad met over laser tag and arcade games – nothing really came out of that night other than some shared smiles and laughs. Fast forward to a few weeks later, Jess and Brad matched on Tinder! She had never been . . .
Jess and Brad met over laser tag and arcade games – nothing really came out of that night other than some shared smiles and laughs. Fast forward to a few weeks later, Jess and Brad matched on Tinder! She had never been on a Tinder date, but since they had already met, she figured why not give it a shot? They went on our first date at the Arlington Ale House (one of our favorite bars in Arlington Heights) and the rest is history!
After a couple years together Jess and Brad moved in together and welcomed their dog Leeroy to their family. Brad nervously worked up the courage to propose to Jess at the gorgeous LondonHouse in Chicago. While they both say they sort of blacked out, Jess ended up with a ring on her finger so he must have asked and she must have said yes!!
Talking with Jess and Brad leading up to their wedding day was always so relaxing and fun, we truly love this couple. They made our jobs easy by being consistently kind and down-to-earth. Jess looked radiant on her wedding day – her Essense of Australia gown fit her perfectly, it looked like it was made just for her. After some sweet getting ready moments with her girls in the Harmony Suite at the Metropolis, Jess shared an adorable first look with her Dad before heading into the Ballroom to see Brad for the first time on their wedding day. From that moment on the two of them were inseparable – each moment we spent together was filled with joy and laughter, it was truly the perfect wedding.
Congratulations, Jess and Brad, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jess and Brad’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Metropolis Ballroom
FLOWERS
Busy B's Floral
CAKE
Lauras Kakes
Danielle & Eddie’s Romantic Chevy Chase Wedding
Danielle and Eddie first met at Hersey High School where they were both athletes (go Huskies!) Danielle got up the courage to reach out to Eddie and they quickly became friends, but never really defined their relationship as she was getting ready to go off to college . . .
Danielle and Eddie first met at Hersey High School where they were both athletes (go Huskies!) Danielle got up the courage to reach out to Eddie and they quickly became friends, but never really defined their relationship as she was getting ready to go off to college. They stayed in contact and connected every summer at the same Subway where they would talk for HOURS. When Danielle was a senior in college these two made it official, and six years later Eddie proposed the day after Thanksgiving.
Like many of our other Covid-couples, Danielle and Eddie decided to start their family while they waited to celebrate their wedding. We were honored to be able to photograph both their Maternity and Newborn Sessions as they excitedly welcomed their adorable daughter Hazel to their family.
When the day finally came for Danielle and Eddie to exchange their vows at the beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club we were all ready to celebrate this awesome couple. There was so much JOY in the room when we arrived for getting ready photos at the Westin, and seeing sweet baby Hazel’s smile just made everything feel perfect.
Danielle wanted to surprise Eddie with a “first look” with Hazel in her adorable wedding outfit, it was the sweetest moment that set off a wave of emotions that carried throughout the day. When Eddie saw Danielle at their first look he had the best reaction, it is so apparent that he absolutely adores his beautiful bride. When we arrived at Chevy Chase for wedding party photos we were so happy to find their wedding party was up for anything, we asked them to climb out on the rocks over the water for a group shot and they did it without any grumbling and even struck some awesome poses while they were out there!
During the ceremony in the Devonshire Room Danielle and Eddie sealed their union with a fun whiskey “unity” shot, what better way to start the party??! This had to have been one of the most fun weddings we have shot in a long time, Danielle and Eddie truly have the best families and friends. We capped off the evening with a beautiful sunset over the water (Hazel was in a few sunset photos too!) before partying the night away. It was an unforgettable celebration that we were truly thankful to be a part of.
Congratulations, Danielle and Eddie (and Hazel!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Danielle and Eddie’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORALS
Twigs & Blooms
WEDDING RINGS
Blue Nile
Jen & Mike’s Makray Memorial Golf Club Wedding
Jen and Mike met on Match in January 2012 only to find out later that their sisters are friends! As they grew closer and realized how much they have in common they decided to move in together in the spring of 2016, and Mike proposed on . . .
Jen and Mike met on Match in January 2012 only to find out later that their sisters are friends! As they grew closer and realized how much they have in common they decided to move in together in the spring of 2016, and Mike proposed on St. Patrick’s Day in 2021 (fitting for two Irish souls!)
After a long wait, Jen and Mike’s wedding day was a beautiful celebration of their love. Mike brought along the gorgeous red ‘57 Chevy that he had lovingly restored with his father, who sadly passed away before Jen and Mike’s wedding. It was so touching having that beautiful car there as a representation of Mike’s relationship with his Dad.
Following their traditional Catholic ceremony at St. Francis de Sales Jen and Mike drove together to Makray Memorial Golf Club for the perfect party to celebrate. We were treated to delicious food followed by an amazing cake from Lovin Oven that had a sweet surprise, a recreation of the ‘57 Chevy along it’s base! Following a pretty sunset Jen and Mike’s guests danced the night away on a full dance floor thanks to our friend Ryan from Amp Event Professionals. It was a great celebration that we were thankful to be a part of!
Congratulations, Jen and Mike, we wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jen and Mike’s wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
DJ
AMP Event Professionals - Ryan Murphy
FLOWERS
Marry Me Floral
HAIR
Salon Coccole - Michelle Hart
MAKE-UP
Bomber Betty Custom Cosmetics - Jessica Sabin
CAKE
Lovin Oven
Ann & Kevin’s Romantic Chevy Chase Spring Wedding
Ann and Kevin had their first date at Southport Corridor (where we met for their engagement session last summer) after meeting on Bumble. They had a lot of fun exploring the city and getting to know each other before . . .
Ann and Kevin had their first date at Southport Corridor (where we met for their engagement session last summer) after meeting on Bumble. They had a lot of fun exploring the city and getting to know each other before the world shut down because of Covid. Ann and Kevin decided to move in together and the rest is history – during a Christmas movie marathon Kevin proposed to Ann and of course she said yes!!
When the day came for Ann and Kevin’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club there was a lot of excited energy above the Devonshire Room as Ann got ready with her Mom and bridesmaids. She wore her hair down with a clip that had been fashioned out of a piece of lace from her mother’s wedding dress. Ann and her Mom shared a sweet moment together as they pinned a picture of her Dad onto her bouquet – while he passed over a decade ago his presence was definitely felt throughout the day.
Ann and Kevin’s first look was incredibly sweet, the look on his face when he turned to see his bride was just perfect. They exchanged thoughtful gifts before joining their wedding party for pictures near the water. Our friends from Fabbrini Flowers and Amp Event Professionals helped make the Devonshire Room look gorgeous for Ann and Kevin’s ceremony.
After their emotional ceremony, the room was transformed for their reception. Ann is a teacher and each table had an adorable note with wedding advice, it was just the sweetest detail!! We had the best time celebrating with Ann and Kevin!
Congratulations, Ann and Kevin, we love you and and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Ann and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLOWERS
Fabrini Flowers
CAKE
Lovin Oven
WEDDING DRESS
Martina Lianna
RINGS
Blue Nile
Susan and Zach’s Love is Essential Wedding
In the Spring of 2020 our world came crashing to a halt when the threat of Covid-19 forced us to shelter in place. As wedding vendors, we watched helplessly as countless couples rescheduled their weddings . . .
In the Spring of 2020 our world came crashing to a halt when the threat of Covid-19 forced us to shelter in place. As wedding vendors, we watched helplessly as countless couples rescheduled their weddings and wondered when we would get back to doing what we love. A wave of support for essential workers took hold of us and we desperately wanted to do SOMETHING to give back to those who were selflessly giving of themselves to our community.
Inspired by the Gratitude Project, Conrad and I had the idea to give a FREE wedding to two deserving essential workers. Knowing this idea would be an enormous undertaking we enlisted the help of some of our favorite “friendors” and called Jenny of JPB Designs Wedding & Event Planning and Ken of Amp Event Professionals. Jenny and Ken’s enthusiastic response to Love is Essential laid the groundwork for what would become an 18+ month project to plan the perfect wedding for two deserving essential workers.
We met every week over Zoom to plan this wedding, and as our vendor team grew so did the love and excitement we all shared. After an extensive search and application process we chose Susan and Zach to be our Love is Essential couple. Susan and Zach both work at James A Lovell Federal Health Care Center where they serve our veteran population. They were forced to reschedule their wedding twice because of Covid and had all but given up hope that they would ever have the wedding they dreamed of having.
As we got to know Susan and Zach we fell in love with their humility and loving kindness. We could not have possibly found a more deserving and wonderful couple to gift this wedding to. It was such a joy to plan their dream wedding with our incredibly talented and generous vendor team at the absolutely gorgeous Old Post Office. For all of the hard work and investment of time and resources we would do it all over again in a heartbeat. We only hope that our photos and videos do justice to the beautiful scope of Love is Essential.
Love is Essential was featured on WGN, click here to watch the segment!
Congratulations, Susan and Zach (and Shiloh!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
And to every single individual who worked to make this unforgettable wedding possible. thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are in awe of your talent and generosity and so grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside you on this project.
To see all of Susan and Zach’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
PLANNING + COORDINATION
JPB Designs
VENUE
The Old Post Office
FLORALS
Vale of Enna
CATERING
Blue Plate Chicago
CEREMONY BAND
J Livi & The Party
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tricia Clarke
EVENT DECOR
Yanni Design Studio
LINENS
BBJ La Tavola
RENTALS
Tablescapes Chicago
INVITATIONS
Ink Love and Paper
STATIONERY
Simply Scripted Ink
CAKE
Defloured
DESSERTS
Vanille
BRIDAL DRESSER
The Wedding Dresser
BRIDES DRESS
The Altar
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Anthropologie
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Rebecca and Stef’s New Orleans Spring Wedding
Conrad and I have a soft spot for New Orleans, so we were thrilled when asked to photograph Rebecca and Stef’s wedding in New Orleans. We made a long weekend of it so we could get in some tourist time . . .
Conrad and I have a soft spot in our hearts for New Orleans. We went there with my husband Peter and his girlfriend Ami for a long weekend just before Covid shut the world down, it was SO much fun to explore together and indulge there! So we were thrilled when my fun-loving cousin Stef and his beautiful wife Rebecca asked us to photograph their wedding in New Orleans this Spring!
We made it a long weekend with my whole family, Conrad and Christy and arrived in New Orleans on Wednesday night. We spent Thursday exploring the French Quarter and met Stef for a delicious brunch at The Court of Two Sisters. We ate a thousand beignets and drank hurricanes on the street and did touristy things and just had the absolute best time.
When Saturday arrived the weather was absolutely PERFECT for Rebecca and Stef’s wedding at the Ormond Manor. We unloaded our rental car and met Rebecca and her beautiful bridesmaids upstairs at Ormond Manor to start the celebration. Getting ready photos with these girls was SO much fun!! But the mood on the other side of the house was even more celebratory where Stef was getting ready with his groomsmen.
After Rebecca slipped into her gorgeous fitted wedding dress she walked downstairs for an emotional “first look parade.” First she saw her bride-squad at the bottom of the stairs, her bridesmaids were all SO sweetly supportive and excited to see Rebecca as a bride! Then she went out front to see her Dad, a man who typically does not show much emotion but couldn’t hold it back when he saw his baby girl on her wedding day. Rebecca ended up out back where she gave Stef a playful little butt-squeeze for their first look, once they were together they didn’t leave each other’s side for the rest of the day.
The thing is, Rebecca and Stef are perfect for each other. They complement each other in every way, and love one another deeply. What a joy it is when we get to be a part of that kind of love story, whether it’s at home or on vacation!! We had the most amazing time celebrating Rebecca and Stef, hopefully the pictures speak for themselves, this really was the perfect day!
Congratulations, Rebecca and Stef, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Rebecca and Stef’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Ormond Manor
MENSWEAR
Johns Tuxedos
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
WEDDING RINGS
Roberson's Fine Jewelry
Pam and John’s Long-Awaited Celebration
Pam and John were married last March in front of their parents at their church Aurora. It was a lovely intimate celebration of their love, it was an honor for us to be there along with their parents. But after patiently waiting for the pandemic to run it’s course…
Pam and John were married last March in front of their parents at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Aurora. It was a lovely intimate celebration of their love, it was an honor for us to be there along with their parents (and other guests over Zoom!)
After patiently waiting for the pandemic to run it’s course, Pam and John were ready to PARTY with their guests. This March, Pam and John were finally able to fully celebrate their marriage along with their family and friends. It was SO worth the wait, we had the most wonderful time celebrating with everyone! We gathered together at Hoosier Grove Barn, a beautiful rustic space in Streamwood IL. Pam had chosen a new dress for the party, it was fun to photograph that dress while she finished getting ready with her bridesmaids. Pam and John’s first look was surprisingly so sweet and emotional (considering these two had already been married for a year!) We had the best time photographing these two and their loved ones, before the reception kicked off. After cutting their Nothing Bundt Cake and listening to emotional toasts in their honor Pam and John took to the dance floor and didn’t leave for the rest of the night. It was the perfect party, everyone had such an amazing time!!
Congratulations, Pam and John, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Pam and John’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Hoosier Grove Barn
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tricia Clarke Bridal
FLORIST
Fabbrini Flowers
DONUTS
BB Baby Donuts
Julie and Michael’s Perfect New Year’s Eve Wedding
Life is full of choices. Taking the second chance is harder than taking the first. Julie and Michael met on the dating app Hinge – they hit it off and planned to meet for sushi. But Julie let her overthinking get the best of her and cancelled the date. Michael was bummed but took it gracefully . . .
Life is full of choices. Taking the second chance is harder than taking the first. Julie and Michael met on the dating app Hinge – they hit it off and planned to meet for sushi. But Julie let her overthinking get the best of her and cancelled the date. Michael was bummed but took it gracefully by responding “let me know if you change your mind.” As fate would have it, almost a year later Julie and Michael matched on Tinder. This time around they actually made that first date happen. Something about Michael immediately felt familiar to Julie, and from the very beginning he gave her a sense of peace and comfort. The feeling was mutual, and soon the two became inseparable, bonding over music, nights out, great food, family, friends and travel. Michael helps Julie not take life too seriously, and is always looking for his next way to make her laugh. He appreciates her attention to detail and never-ending planning, and describes her as “beautiful inside and out.”
Julie’s attention to detail really paid off for their beautiful and unforgettable wedding day. She thought of everything for her and her bridesmaids to make their New Year’s Eve wedding extra special.. We had so much fun with this crew at the lovely Hyatt Lodge in Oakbrook – as the girls got ready they made time to sip champagne and pop plenty of confetti, the New Year’s Eve party started early and went strong all day and night!
We took Julie and Michael outside for their sweet and emotional first look on the bridge outside the Hyatt Lodge. After they saw each other they read beautiful letters to one another (one of our favorite “trends”) before connecting with their wedding party for photos. Julie and Michael and their friends were up for anything, they even let Conrad convince them to climb on some rocks for an epic wedding party photo reflecting over the water! Scroll all the way to the end to see how they rang in the New Year, it was truly the most perfect day!!
Congratulations, Julie and Michael, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Julie and Michael’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Hyatt Lodge Oakbrook
FLORALS
The bride’s Mom, Patricia Goosetree!! SO impressed!
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tamara Makeup and Hair Artistry
WEDDING GOWN
Pronovias Kimba
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Bridal Boutique of Naperville
BRIDAL SHOES
Keds
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Gentlemen’s Quarters
WEDDING RINGS
Azar
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
WEDDING BAND
One Night Band
Meredith and Okoye’s Romantic New Year’s Eve Wedding
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye . . .
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye:
After I shot this I joked that they needed to call me when they got engaged. We got to know Meredith and Okoye over the years through mutual friends, and they kindly once modeled for a special styled shoot we did at Room 1520 in 2018. When Okoye popped the question last summer I was SO excited when Meredith reached out to ask if I would photograph their wedding!!
Meredith and Okoye chose the beautiful Hyatt Lodge in Oakbrook for their New Year’s Eve wedding. When we arrived it was SO great to reconnect with Meredith and her bridesmaids, anyone would envy this incredibly supportive girl-squad! I absolutely LOVED their reactions when they saw their gorgeous friend as a bride! First looks will always have a special place in our hearts, and the moment when Okoye saw Meredith on their wedding day was so incredibly sweet. After some quick (and chilly!) pictures outside of the Hyatt Lodge we traveled to Visitation Parish in Elmhurst for their traditional and emotional ceremony.
After making things official then the party kicked off, I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than celebrating a wedding with friends!! We settled back in at the Hyatt Lodge for a night of delicious food, drinks and dancing, it was the perfect night!
Congratulations, Meredith and Okoye, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Meredith and Okoye’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHER
Vanilla Video
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Danielle Kolb Events
VENUE
Hyatt Lodge Oakbrook Chicago
FLORALS
Pesche’s
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Pin Me Up Chicago
WEDDING GOWN
Van Der Velde
WEDDING SHOES
Loeffler Randall
WEDDING RINGS
Ed Schmelzle & Sons
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Hayley Paige
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo Elmhurst
Abby and Andrew’s Intimate Garfield Conservatory Wedding
Abby and Andrew met in college, they were both Physics majors and found they had an undeniable chemistry ( ugh, sorry! xD ) As they grew closer together and moved forward forging their careers it quickly became apparent that their lives. . .
Abby and Andrew met in college, they were both Physics majors and found they had an undeniable chemistry ( ugh, sorry! xD ) As they grew closer together and moved forward forging their careers it quickly became apparent that their lives were intertwined and marriage was on the horizon. Together with their friends and family they celebrated their love at the beautiful Garfield Park Conservatory last December.
After we met Abby and Andrew for some portraits in the Conservatory, we were joined by their amazing friends. This crew came in and brought so much JOY to the celebration, if only every wedding party could be such an amazing hype-squad!! We loved being with all of these amazing people to celebrate Abby and Andrew’s love story, it was the most perfect day!
Congratulations, Abby and Andrew, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Abby and Andrew’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Garfield Park Conservatory
FLORIST
Hedonia Flowers
WEDDING CAKE
West Town Bakery
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Wedding Dress Shoppe Inc.
MENSWEAR
The Black Tux
WEDDING RINGS
Tiffany & Co.
Hannah & Matt’s Joyful Fall Makray Memorial Golf Club Wedding
Hannah and Matt were both in the Marching Illini throughout college. After every rehearsal, the band kids living at Newman would race back to the dining hall before it closed and crowd around 4-5 combined tables to eat together. . .
Hannah and Matt were both in the Marching Illini throughout college. After every rehearsal, the band kids living at Newman would race back to the dining hall before it closed and crowd around 4-5 combined tables to eat together. They met at one of these dinners in the fall of their freshman year. The meals continued into basketball season, during which they both participated in basketball band. They started dating at the end of their freshman year and have been together ever since!
On March 1, 2020, Hannah’s family attended the Indiana at Illinois basketball game. After the Illini beat the Hoosiers, Matt forced Hannah to go with him to "get a new sousa hat from the sousaphones." Very reluctantly, Hannah followed. When they got down to the band, Matt took Hannah onto the court, knelt down, and asked her to marry him. She said yes and the band helped them celebrate by playing Oskee Wow Wow.
We first met Hannah and Matt at her sister Sarah’s small Covid wedding last summer. We knew from celebrating with Sarah and Dean how important the University of Illinois is to their whole family, and expected plenty of U of I fun at both of these sisters’ 2021 wedding celebrations. Conrad and I both had the best time taking Hannah and Matt’s engagement photos last winter at her parents’ home outside of Lake Geneva – the fresh snow on the ground made that afternoon feel magical. One of our favorite moments from that day was when Matt lovingly warmed up Hannah’s hands after making snow angels together for an epic drone shot. These two are so sweet together, and a magical sprinkling of snow on their wedding day meant that we could recreate that moment at Makray Memorial Golf Club! Between the stunning fall colors, the meaningful ceremony at Holy Family and then the delicious meal and packed dance floor at Makray (they even had an indoor s’mores station!) this was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Hannah and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Hannah and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Premier Couture
Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal
Menswear
Calvin Klein
Florist
Fabbrini's Flowers
Wedding Rings
Lashbrook and Parade
Desserts
Lovin Oven
Videographer
Something Blue Photography
Michelle and Andrew’s Glam Chicago Riverwalk Engagement Session
Michelle and Andrew met through mutual friends in college. And while they didn’t attend the same school their connection grew stronger and their long-distance relationship soon became something more. Next summer . . .
Michelle and Andrew met through mutual friends in college. And while they didn’t attend the same school their connection grew stronger and their long-distance relationship soon became something more. Next summer these two will say “I do” at the River Forest Country Club, and after getting to know them both at this perfect engagement session I am SO excited to celebrate their love next year!!
To see all of Michelle and Andrew’s gorgeous engagement photos, click here
Laura and Kyle’s Chic Elements at Water Street Wedding
Laura and Kyle have been together since 2018 and have navigated highs and lows throughout their relationship. Kyle proposed to Laura under the Christmas tree outside of Hotel Indigo in downtown Naperville on the Riverwalk, so it was only fitting that we celebrated their wedding there the following fall . . .
Laura and Kyle have been together since 2018 and have navigated highs and lows throughout their relationship. Kyle proposed to Laura under the Christmas tree outside of Hotel Indigo in downtown Naperville on the Riverwalk, so it was only fitting that we celebrated their wedding there the following fall.
When we arrived at the Hotel Indigo we were SO happy to reunite with Laura’s two beautiful sisters-in-law, Liz and Jen. We photographed Liz’s wedding last fall and have had the opportunity to photograph Jen’s family several times over the years. These women are all just so strong and beautiful, it was just like reuniting with old friends to see everyone again at Laura and Kyle’s wedding!
Laura looked absolutely FLAWLESS and Kyle was so sweetly emotional when he saw his bride at their “first look.” It was a blustery November day so we explored the hotel for a while for photos before braving the elements (pun intended!) to take a few outside at the Riverwalk. After we were all blasted with wind, cold and a tiny bit of precipitation we made the short drive to the ceremony.
As soon as we arrived at St. Raphael’s in Naperville Laura put her veil on and had the sweetest moments with her Grandma. Their Catholic wedding ceremony was filled with beautiful traditions, and after their first kiss as husband and wife we all felt such a sense of elation!
We ended up back at the beautiful Elements at Water Street for an epic party to celebrate the newlyweds. The room looked gorgeous and everyone was so happy, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Laura and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Laura and Kyle’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Maggie Sottero from Here Comes the Bride
Hair & Makeup
Hannah Elizabeth
Bridesmaid Dresses
Sorella Vita
Menswear
Custom by Joseph Abboud
Florist
Floral Events
Wedding Rings
Roth Brothers
Desserts
DeEtta's Bakery
Wedding Coordinator
Jody Langbauer
Kaitlin & John’s Elegant Fall Concorde Wedding
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history . . .
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history!
Through the trials of life Kaitlin and John have been each other’s rocks. John supported Kaitlin during her father’s illness and eventual passing. That steadfast support was on full display on their wedding day at the beautiful Concorde Banquets in Kildeer. John was so excited to see Kaitlin – their “first look” was so sweet. And in spite of seeing his bride before their ceremony John still teared up when Kaitlin walked down the aisle with her Mom. After their emotional ceremony Kaitlin and John snuck outside together for some portraits and quiet moments together as husband and wife. It was a perfect day that we were honored to be a part of.
Congratulations, Kaitlin and John, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaitlin and John’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Brides by Young
Hair & Makeup
Elisa Artistry LLC
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Kate Whitcomb
Menswear
Jim's Formalwear
Florist
Twigs and Blooms
Wedding Rings
Bremer Jewelry
Desserts
Central Continental Bakery
DJ
Amp Event Professionals - Joe Fortuna
Videographer
Buller Media
Eileen & Darryl’s Beautiful Eaglewood Resort Wedding
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together . . .
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them downtown over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together. But I will never forget how Darryl looked at Eileen that day. He was SO sweetly excited any time I asked him to kiss his fiancée, his face lit up in those photos and it was really just the best thing.
We always meet with our couples about a month before their wedding day to go over their timelines and final details. When Eileen and Darryl came to the studio in September they shared the most amazing news with us – they are expecting a baby this Spring! Darryl was absolutely beaming with pride.
On their wedding day Darryl had THE sweetest reaction to seeing Eileen walk down the aisle. Then for the rest of the day he couldn’t keep his eyes off his beautiful wife. After we took our “goodnight photo” at Eaglewood Resort and hugged them goodbye Darryl thanked us for all the times we made him kiss Eileen that day! :) It was the perfect day, we loved celebrating with this adorable couple and can’t wait to meet Baby Bell!!
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Congratulations, Eileen and Darryl, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Eileen and Darryl’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Diana's Bridal - Skokie
Hair
Rhea Policarpio Etherheal Beauty Phone
Bridesmaid Dresses
Revelry
Florist
Karen - The Flower Studio
Wedding Rings
Ray from New Design Jewelry
Desserts
Oat Mill Bakery
Nicolle and Billy’s Elegant Chicago Engagement Session
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area . . .
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area. We first met at Union Station and explored that area together while getting to know each other better. From there we made a quick stop at the gorgeous Chicago Board of Trade before settling in at the Riverwalk. After first meeting on Zoom it was such fun to get to know Nicolle and Billy better during their engagement session, I can’t wait to celebrate their New Year’s Eve wedding with them next year!!
