Desiree and Chaz’s Gorgeous Meson Sabika Wedding
Desiree and Chaz were high school sweethearts, and what’s even cuter is that Desiree’s Dad was the one to meet Chaz first. Her Dad was so impressed after meeting Chaz . . .
Desiree and Chaz were high school sweethearts, and what’s even cuter is that Desiree’s Dad was the one to meet Chaz first. Her Dad was so impressed after meeting Chaz through their high school’s robotics club that he was quite happy once he found out that Chaz was dating his daughter. Fast-forward several years and this loving and laid-back couple decided to spend forever together and we were lucky enough to be a part of their wedding celebration.
When we arrived at Desiree’s parents’ house we were happy to reconnect with her sister Brittany, we photographed her beautiful wedding in 2021. Desiree looked gorgeous and shared a sweet reveal with her bridesmaids before heading to the DuPage AME Church for the ceremony. Desiree carried a stunning bouquet by Floral Events down the aisle to meet Chaz, who was all smiles as he greeted his beautiful bride. Following their emotional ceremony we did a pretty bubble exit before heading out for photos at the Morton Arboretum. We had a lot of fun with Desiree and Chaz’s awesome wedding party taking photos at the Arboretum! But the highlight of the day was watching Desiree and Chaz together, their carefree connection made it so easy to be with them.
We ended up at Meson Sabika for a beautiful meal punctuated by some of the best wedding toasts we have ever heard. We will always remember the Dads’ speeches as being heartfelt, funny and poignant. After speeches the dance floor opened to kick off an epic party (including the best wedding desserts ever from Del Etta’s Bakery). It was an unforgettable day that we were honored to be a part of.
Congratulations, Desiree and Chaz, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Desiree and Chaz’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Meson Sabika
FLORIST
Floral Events
HAIR + MAKEUP
Jessica Quito
WEDDING DESSERTS
Del Etta’s Bakery
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Wolfsfelts
MENSWEAR
Indochino
Emma & Alex’s Picture-Perfect Fishermen’s Inn Wedding
Emma and Alex met in high school and their friendship continued to grow as they both moved on to the same college. They started dating and after seven years together they decided to make things official . . .
Emma and Alex met in high school and their friendship continued to grow as they both moved on to the same college. They started dating and after seven years together they decided to make things official and get married at the beautiful Fishermen’s Inn.
Conrad had the best time getting to know Emma and Alex at their engagement session this Summer, he came home raving about how much fun these two are together. We are still totally obsessed with their cool matching “Til Death” bomber jackets! These two are giggly and charming together, spending time with them is such a joy!
When the day arrived for Emma and Alex to tie the knot the weather and all the details were absolutely perfect at Fishermen’s Inn. Emma looked amazing in her gorgeous gown (with pockets!), and Alex cleaned up nicely complete with his grandfather’s cuff links and a Gucci bowtie that she gave him as a wedding gift. Alex was so happy to see her at their First Look that he slipped into using a funny “cowboy” voice. After their first look Emma and Alex’s adorable dogs Bella and Hazel stopped in for some photos, we just love when your fur babies come along to your wedding!! Emma and Alex then said “I do” with her uncle officiating before kicking off the most epic celebration, it truly was the perfect day!!
Congratulations, Emma and Alex, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emma and Alex’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Sara & Andy’s Romantic Boundary Ballroom Wedding
Sara and Andy met in 2015 when they were both working at the social work agency Thresholds downtown. Andy is a social worker and Sara was working there as an administrative assistant while going to grad school. They had crushes on each other . . .
Sara and Andy met in 2015 when they were both working at the social work agency Thresholds downtown. Andy is a social worker and Sara was working there as an administrative assistant while going to grad school. They had crushes on each other without realizing the other was interested, and ended up going on to separate jobs without connecting. Their friend group from that job stayed close though, and when the opportunity arose in late 2018, they pushed us toward each other again, figuratively and literally. Sara and Andy moved in together during COVID and survived working from home in their two bedroom apartment for two years. They got engaged on Christmas morning 2021 at Promontory Point, where they had gone on one of their favorite dates.
Books are a central theme for Sara and Andy’s relationship – they love sharing books with one another and chose to do part of their engagement session at their favorite bookstore downtown. They bonded over Jane Austin’s “Persuasion” and that book made an appearance both at their engagement session and on their wedding day. I loved getting to know Sara and Andy that day, and when our session was cut short by bad weather we had the opportunity to reconnect later that fall at Promontory Point for the rest of their session. Every time I was with Sara and Andy it was plain to see just how in-love these two are, Andy absolutely adores Sara and is just so sweet with her.
When the time came for Sara and Andy’s wedding we were all so excited to celebrate their love. Sara looked amazing in her beautiful Morilee By Madeline Gardner gown, and once they had their emotional first look Andy could not take his eyes off Sara for the rest of the day. We have hardly ever seen a groom who was more eager to compliment his bride, Andy could not stop looking at Sara and telling her how beautiful she was.
Sara and Andy chose to do their romantic first look at the Schiller Park Library so they could be surrounded by books on their wedding day. They also had beautiful literary details sprinkled throughout their wedding, including amazing paper flowers made by their friend and a truly epic book archway that set the stage for their wedding ceremony. Sara and Andy’s wedding day was just as romantic as the books the first bonded over, we were honored to be there to celebrate their love.
Congratulations, Sara and Andy, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sara and Andy’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Total Image
WEDDING CAKE
Sugar Fixe Pâtisserie
WEDDING RING
Noble Yates Fine Jewerly
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Indochino
Maria & Austin’s Sunny Kemper Lakes Wedding
Maria and Austin first met in English during their Sophomore year of high school. She struck up a conversation with him and they instantly became friends. That friendship blossomed and less than a year later they shared their first kiss in front of her parents’ home. . .
Maria and Austin first met in English during their Sophomore year of high school. She struck up a conversation with him and they instantly became friends. That friendship blossomed and less than a year later they shared their first kiss in front of her parents’ home. These high school sweethearts have been together for over fifteen years, and their sweet and sunny Kemper Lakes wedding day this September was worth those years of waiting.
Maria chose a joyful sunflower theme for their wedding and carried that through the details throughout the day. She hand-painted a sweet note for Austin that she gave him that morning retelling the story of their long romance. At the end of the letter Maria told Austin “you are the sunshine of my life,” a nod to the song they chose for their first dance together as husband and wife. It was a beautiful and emotional day that we were honored to be a part of.
Congratulations, Maria and Austin, we love oyu and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Maria and Austin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Kemper Lakes
FLORIST
Flowers Just For You
HAIR + MAKEUP
Polished Salon and Boutique
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
Melissa & Kevin’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Melissa and Kevin first connected on Bumble and met for their first date at Avanzare in Lombard. They talked all night and had a great time, and after that night they never stopped talking and wanted to spend time together. Melissa and Kevin were made for each other . . .
Melissa and Kevin first connected on Bumble and met for their first date at Avanzare in Lombard. They talked all night and had a great time, and after that night they never stopped talking and wanted to spend time together. Melissa and Kevin were made for each other, their powerful connection has been an inspiration to us since we first met them.
I loved getting to know Melissa and Kevin (and their cute dog Elsa!) at their engagement session last fall in Busse Woods. We started that session at Avanzare and it was such a treat to photograph these two at the spot where it all began. And it was a joy to see Kevin interacting with the owner and staff at Avanzare, he is so personable and gregarious literally everyone loves spending time with him! When their wedding day came along Christy and I were so happy to celebrate the love between Melissa and Kevin – from their traditional ceremony at Kevin’s home church to their amazing reception at Chevy Chase Country Club it was truly a perfect and unforgettable day!
Congratulations, Melissa and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Melissa and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Aberdeen’s Wedding Florist
MAKEUP
Drop By Gorgeous
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
Bianca & John
Bianca and John met through one of her cousins. They were going through the nursing program together at Loyola. John was the cute guy in her class that had no social media forcing Bianca and John to get to know each other the old-fashioned way. . .
Bianca and John met through one of her cousins. They were going through the nursing program together at Loyola. John was the cute guy in her class that had no social media forcing Bianca and John to get to know each other the old-fashioned way. The first time they hung out in a social setting was at her cousin’s birthday party. Bianca’s heel broke and John got a bloody nose that night proving they were both unable to play it cool.
From their first date Bianca thought the connection with John felt too good to be true. He was charming, sweet, and swept her off her feet from the very beginning. They disagreed on so many things and somehow it made her fall even more for him. Bianca and John dated for about 2 years before moving in together. John surprised Bianca with a romantic proposal in Las Vegas when they were there celebrating his 30th birthday. He set up a picture-perfect moment in front of the beautiful fountain at the Bellagio (and had all of their parents there as a surprise to celebrate with them!)
I had the best time getting to know Bianca and John at their engagement session in downtown Geneva last Fall. These two were truly made for one another, they complement each other perfectly and are just the loveliest couple. I was so happy for Christy to have the opportunity to photograph their wedding with me, it was a perfect day spent celebrating their love. There were so many unforgettable moments throughout the day, but you HAVE to scroll to the end of their gallery to see highlights from John and his Mom’s epic karaoke throw-down in lieu of a mother-son dance! It was beyond amazing, the perfect way to kick off the perfect party!!
Congratulations, Bianca and John, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Bianca and John’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
One Salon & Bridal Company
BB Artistry
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Margaux from I Do Weddings
VIDEOGRAPHY
Ruben Ramos
WEDDING BAND
Bluewater Kings Band\
DESSERTS
Sweet Temptations
WEDDING DRESS
Veiled by Cha Cha
MENSWEAR
The Modern Groom
Toni & Matt’s Romantic Eaglewood Resort Wedding
Toni and Matt met ten years ago at Michaels where they worked together. They were both getting out of relationships and bonded over that and were there for each other. . .
Toni and Matt met ten years ago at Michaels where they worked together. They were both getting out of relationships and bonded over that and were there for each other. Toni told us that she knew from the very beginning that one day she would love Matt. They lost touch after Matt left Michaels, but after a time they rekindled their friendship (on a day that Toni describes as “the best day” of her life). Matt had his first art show and Toni decided to show up, she stayed the entire time to support him and even helped him pack up his car and he asked her to hang out with him the very next day. Toni says, “that was the start of us”. After that day they were always together, they couldn’t live without each other. These two were made for each other, and it was only a matter of time before they made things official to spend the rest of their lives together.
When it came time for Toni and Matt’s engagement session it only made sense to take at least some of their photos at Michaels. Conrad loved spending time with these two on their home turf, it was such a fun day getting to know them better! Once their wedding arrived both Conrad and Lindsay were so excited to celebrate with Toni and Matt at the beautiful Eaglewood Resort in Itasca. Toni looked gorgeous in her dress from Here Comes the Bride while Matt looked so cool in his black on black menswear look. Matt had custom flasks made for his groomsmen that were really awesome, we love seeing thoughtful gifts for your wedding squad! Matt was really nervous that morning but calmed down a lot after he saw Toni at their sweet "First Look.”
As Conrad, Lindsay and Ryan captured wedding party photos and then more pictures of Toni and Matt together they all got to see that these two are better together. The best moments of the day were when it was just the two of them enjoying each other’s presence. Toni and Matt’s wedding day was filled with love and emotion, it was an honor to be a part of this moment in their lives.
Congratulations, Toni and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Toni and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
Wedding Video by RJO
VENUE
Eaglewood Resort
FLORIST
Phillip’s Flowers
HAIR & MAKEUP
Appease 2 U
DJ
Time of Your Life Entertainment
WEDDING CAKE
Delish Cakes
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Here Comes the Bride
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
Lauren and Kevin’s Perfect Royal Melbourne Wedding
Lauren and Kevin met on a dating app and she went into their first date thinking "there is no way I'm going to marry someone named Kevin anyway" since Kevin is also her brother's name – well, the joke was on Lauren . . .
Lauren and Kevin met on a dating app and she went into their first date thinking "there is no way I'm going to marry someone named Kevin anyway" since Kevin is also her brother's name – well, the joke was on Lauren . . . Within a few minutes of meeting Kevin she already knew she really liked him and was hoping they would go out again. Just two days after their first date, Kevin left the country for 2 weeks, which Lauren thought was his excuse to not see her again despite saying he wanted to. A very convenient way to ghost her! A few days before Kevin was supposed to fly back home he texted Lauren to see if she was still interested in a second date. They have been together ever since and the rest is history!!
Conrad loved getting to know Lauren and Kevin at their pretty Cantigny fall engagement session last year. It was clear from that day that these two are made for one another, and their love was on full display at their perfect Royal Melbourne wedding. Lauren and Kevin’s friends and family were all so kind and supportive, Conrad and Christy had a wonderful time photographing this wedding from start to finish. Every detail was perfectly considered thanks to the support of the amazing team at Love Story Weddings, Jelena is truly the best. After the ceremony the overcast sky cleared just enough for some beautiful sunset photos on the course, Jelena even stepped in to help hold lights for us! It was the most beautiful wedding, we wish we could relive this day over and over again!!
Congratulations, Lauren and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Lauren and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Royal Melbourne Country Club
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Love Story Weddings
MAKEUP
America Freese
WEDDING DRESS
Reddington Bridal
WEDDING CAKE
The Baking Institute
Madeline & Kevin’s Joyful Westin Chicago Northwest Wedding
Madeline and Kevin met their first week of college at the University of Illinois. They joined the same business club and quickly became friends. About two years later, it became clear they both had feelings for each other and Kevin worked up the courage . . .
Madeline and Kevin met their first week of college at the University of Illinois. They joined the same business club and quickly became friends. About two years later, it became clear they both had feelings for each other and Kevin worked up the courage to ask Madeline on a date over winter break of their junior year. Since then, Madeline and Kevin have been together – they graduated college, Kevin moved to San Francisco (and they did two years of long-distance) and they then moved into their first place together in Chicago in 2020. In April 2022, Kevin said they were going to dinner in Lincoln Park, where he dropped down to one knee and asked Madeline to marry him. They had a great celebration with close family that night and quickly set out to plan our wedding!
I first got to know Madeline and Kevin at their beautiful Fall engagement session in Lincoln Park last year. I was struck by how perfect Madeline and Kevin are for each other that lovely evening, and I was so excited to celebrate their wedding along with Conrad this Summer! When we arrive at the Westin Chicago Northwest in Itasca the mood was amazing in Madeline’s room, her bridesmaids and Mom were all so welcoming and sweet to us. Madeline looked SO. GOOD. in her sleek Caroline Herrera gown (she bought it off the rack at Second City Bride!) Once Madeline and Kevin did their first look the whole day just went so smoothly, these two made our jobs so easy!! The sunshine was bouncing between the buildings surrounding the Westin and gave us so many beautiful spots for photos, it was such a perfect day!!
Congratulations, Madeline and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Madeline and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Floral Expressions & Gifts
HAIR & MAKEUP
Zano’s Hair Salon
WEDDING CAKE
The Baking Institute
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Second City Bride
WEDDING RINGS
Ethan Lord
MENSWEAR
The Black Tux
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
David's Bridal
Natalie & Joe’s Romantic Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week . . .
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week there she needed to contact IT and met Joe. They got to know each other slowly through work and found that they connected on a lot of levels. Soon they were talking through their work breaks and having long conversations that they didn’t want to end.
When I first met Natalie and Joe I was struck by how connected and in-love they are. They drove separately to our Studio and met with a sweet smooch in our parking lot before Joe opened the door for Natalie. They held each other close throughout that first meeting and I was beyond excited to be a part of their wedding celebration! I loved getting to know Natalie and Joe better at their beautiful golden hour engagement session at Cantigny Park earlier this Summer. Conrad and I were both so happy to be there to celebrate their wedding in August at Chevy Chase Country Club!
Natalie looked radiant with her gorgeous red hair down (perfectly styled by the talented team at Every Kind of Beautiful) and her stunning drop-shoulder lace gown from Genevieve’s Bridal Couture. From the moment that Natalie and Joe saw each other at their First Look they didn’t take their eyes off each other for the rest of the day. It was a perfect day, we loved every moment and only wish we could do it all over again.
Congratulations, Natalie and Joe, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Joe’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
Imagination Designers
FLORIST
Blossom Me Up
HAIR & MAKEUP
Every Kind of Beautiful
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING DRESS
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Kaylee & Matt’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends . . .
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends at the festival. Kaylee and Matt had a blast together that day and decided to go together the next day even though their friends weren’t going. They talked nonstop for the next several weeks and were dating shortly after that. Throughout college, Kaylee and Matt dated long-distance and went to see each other whenever possible on weekends. Matt proposed to Kaylee at a lookout tower on a walk that had long been one of their favorites, and the rest is history!
Conrad loved getting to know Kaylee and Matt during their beautiful engagement session in Long Grove last winter. Conrad and Lindsay were both so excited to celebrate Kaylee and Matt’s wedding with them at one of our favorite venues, Chevy Chase Country Club. It was a beautiful (but windy!) day filled with sweet moments. One of our favorites was getting to know Kaylee’s grandfather a bit, he came up to Lindsay at the church to talk about how proud he is of Kaylee. He told Lindsay that he had retired to help babysit Kaylee and her siblings; then later at the reception Kaylee had a special dance with her grandfather and cousins, it was so sweet. Kaylee rocked tennis shoes all day to keep comfy and Matt joined her later at Chevy Chase with comfy kicks of his own, we love a couple who embraces their unique style at their wedding! All in all it was the perfect day, we are so happy that we could be a part of it!
Congratulations, Kaylee and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaylee and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Northwest Weddings
FLORIST
Sylvia’s Flowers
HAIR & MAKEUP
Rachel Esczuk
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
BRIDAL GOWN
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
WEDDING RINGS
Monson Jewelers
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Revelry
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Natalie & Jordan’s Perfect Makray Memorial Golf Club Wedding
Natalie and Jordan met on Hinge in June 2020, just after the world shut down and dating became extra complicated because of Covid. For their first date they got ice cream from the Culver’s drive-thru . . .
Natalie and Jordan met on Hinge in June 2020, just after the world shut down and dating became extra complicated because of Covid. For their first date they got ice cream from the Culver’s drive-thru and ate it together at his house. Natalie fell in love with Jordan when she realized how kind and family-oriented he is. Jordan makes her laugh all the time and feel beautiful at every moment.
Natalie and Jordan got engaged the day before she graduated with her master's degree. After popping the question, Jordan assembled their closest friends and family together to surprise Natalie at a restaurant. His thoughtfulness is just one more reason that Natalie adores him, and their love was on full display at their perfect Makray wedding.
When we arrived at Natalie’s parents’ house to capture the girls “getting ready,” everyone was in great spirits and Natalie was looking amazing. We all cried a little when Natalie saw her Dad for the first time in her wedding dress, his reaction was just the absolute best thing. When we got to Makray and met up with Jordan he was so ready to see his bride, their first look was pretty special too. The whole day was just perfect – from their fun-filled wedding party photos to their emotional vows, each moment was filled with love and joy.
Jordan’s sister is a singer and was an American Idol finalist, she gifted her brother and new sister-in-law with a stunning rendition of an Adele song during their first dance. We all had goosebumps while Grace sang for Natalie and Jordan, she is the real deal. Her voice resonated through that room and set the stage for an unforgettable night celebrating the newlyweds, it was a day we won’t soon forget.
Congratulations, Natalie and Jordan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Jordan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Something Blue
WEDDING FLORIST
Periwinkle Florals
HAIR & MAKEUP
Erika Alexis Beauty
BRIDAL GOWN
Madi Lane
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING RINGS
Dalzell Jewelers
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
Emily and Nick’s Gorgeous Makray Memorial Wedding
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but she’s FUN to be around and made our jobs easy. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but beyond that she’s FUN to be around. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection, they are naturally so caring and their affection for one another made their wedding day feel so enjoyable for me and Conrad. We knew from when Conrad got to know Emily and Nick at their pretty Winter engagement session in Long Grove that theirs was going to be an unforgettable wedding!
Emily and Nick bonded over video games early in their relationship and we saw glimmers of that early connection during their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club – it was pretty epic to hear video game music as the bride walked down the aisle! Emily floated down the aisle on her Dad’s arm – they have a special connection that we loved seeing throughout the day. Her Dad sung “Forever Young” and played guitar during the reception as his “toast,” it was so touching and beautiful. As dinner was served we took Emily and Nick outside on the 18th hole for some “sunset photos,” after practicing their first dance Emily joyfully ran back toward the building to get back to their reception. We love this adventurous and spirited couple and are so thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of their wedding day!
Congratulations, Emily and Nick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emily and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Summit Street Blooms
HAIR & MAKEUP
AW Artistry
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
Jamie & Patrick’s Perfect Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. . .
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. Patrick wanted to ask Jamie out but didn't want to ruin the friendship they had built. In August 2020, Jamie left to go to a new district to teach 3rd grade. Even though they were no longer working together, Jamie and Patrick remained close and soon he asked her to spend time together “just the two of us.”
Starting to date during Covid forced Jamie and Patrick (along with SO many of our Something Blue couples!) to be creative with how they spent time together. They went on many adventures that included walks and drive through Christmas lights. In April 2022 Patrick took Jamie on a scavenger hunt. Jamie's mom picked her up and gave her the first clue. Each clue was a memory from their relationship (first place we met, first date location, first kiss location, first place they said I love you). At each location was a friend of family member to give the next clue to Jamie. The final clue led to the picnic spot were they met after Jamie got a new job. When they left that day we thought we would never see each other again. So when Patrick proposed at this location, he shared that the last time they were there there they left thinking they wouldn't see each other again and when they left today they would leave being together forever.
Conrad first spent time with Jamie and Patrick at their engagement session at the beautiful Heritage Prairie Farm (our favorite venue!!) He loved spending time with these two, they share such a deep bond and are both filled with kindness and humility. As they explored the farm together they also got in plenty of time with local celebrity Carl (otherwise known as @badkittycarl) Conrad LOVES Carl (everyone’s favorite wedding crasher at Heritage Prairie Farm) but Patrick isn’t as sold on him – this bad kitty definitely jumped up onto Patrick during their engagement session! He then also proceeded to fully crash their wedding ceremony by wandering up and down the aisle during their vows looking for pets 😹
Jamie and Patrick’s wedding day could not have been more perfect. When we arrived, everyone was In great spirits – Jamie and her friends were relaxing together in the farmhouse as they finished hair and makeup, and Patrick and his buddies had a lot of fun opening their custom Cubs’ jerseys and beer bats (such an epic gift for the groomsmen!) When the time came for Jamie and Patrick to see one another they did their First Look right outside the farmhouse before sharing private vows with one another. We really love when couples choose to do this, it’s a beautiful and intimate moment and always clears the air for FUN for the rest of the day! Jamie and Patrick both shed tears when sharing with each other, it was an honor to be present in that moment.
After getting some photos with their (very fun!) wedding party, we moved under the tree out back for their ceremony. Guests sipped cold fresh lemonade and relaxed under paper parasols while Jamie and Patrick were pronounced husband and wife, and then the celebration could truly begin! We had the best time with Jamie and Patrick and their loved ones, it was a perfect day!
Congratulations, Jamie and Patrick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jamie and Patrick’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
VIDEOGRAPHER
I Do Video by Leo
WEDDING CAKE
Deerfield’s Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
R.C. Wahl Jewelers
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
Michele & Garreth’s Storybook Makray Golf Club Wedding
Michele and Garreth’s love story began five years ago. They first connected on Bumble and had their first date in January 2018. On their second date Garreth cooked his special Szechuan chicken for Michele at her apartment . . .
Michele and Garreth’s love story began five years ago. They first connected on Bumble and had their first date in January 2018. On their second date Garreth cooked his special Szechuan chicken for Michele at her apartment, much to the dismay of her 15 year old Yorkie Spike. Spike tolerated Garreth for a short while before pooping on the kitchen floor as he prepared the meal. From that moment a deep friendship was formed, and Michele and Garreth soon began falling in love.
Over the next few months they dated each other exclusively and began to introduce each other to friends and family. They both realized that something special was growing between them. Garreth comforted Michele when Spike sadly passed away, but as they say, when one door closes another one opens, and they adopted a new puppy, Beemer. He was a very young puppy when they brought him home and has proven to be the best dog either of them has ever known. Beemer is now four years old and brings joy to their home every day.
When Conrad first met Michele and Garreth he was struck by how in-love they are. They complement each other perfectly, the affection and friendship that connects them was on full display at their engagement session last Summer. Conrad and I were both so excited to photograph their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club – it was an absolutely gorgeous day filled with joy and love. Every detail was perfectly considered, and Michele looked stunning in her beautiful gown from our friends at Vanessa’s. But for all of the beauty of this day the moments that will stick with us were defined by the connection between Michele and Garreth. After her sons walked her down the aisle Garreth and Michele held each other close throughout their ceremony, and they did the same during their reception. Michele had told us “We are so very grateful to have found this kind of love at this point in our lives, The entire day is a blessing and sharing it all with the people we love the most is truly a gift.” We adore these two and are so thankful that we could be a part of this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Michele and Garreth, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Michele and Garreth’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
MAKEUP
Makeup by Mary
WEDDING GOWN
Watters Designs
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Vanessa’s
BRIDAL SHOES
Betsey Johnson
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Bari Jay
Cassidy & Brandon’s Magical Brix on the Fox Wedding
Cassidy and Brandon first met each other at a bar – she was working and they immediately clicked. Their connection was so powerful that their relationship quickly became serious – within four months they had moved in together, and after nine months they were engaged. . .
Cassidy and Brandon first met each other at a bar – she was working and they immediately clicked. Their connection was so powerful that their relationship quickly became serious – within four months they had moved in together, and after nine months they were engaged. Cassidy and Brandon’s strong connection was on full display on their wedding day at the Brix on the Fox.
As Cassidy was getting ready (along with her adorable dog) Brandon was working out the details before their ceremony. The excitement was building as guests arrived and we all prepared for Cassidy to walk down the aisle with her Dad. She looked absolutely gorgeous, and once Brandon saw his bride he didn’t take his eyes off of her for the rest of the night.
The weather was threatening so we decided to take wedding party and family photos inside. Both Cassidy and Brandon are twins, it was fun to see all of the twins at their wedding! During cocktail hour the sun finally peeked out even though it was still raining – Conrad and I knew to quickly get Cassidy and Brandon outside for photos before their reception started. When we crossed the street and moved toward the river we were treated to a stunning double rainbow! The light was gorgeous and made for the most perfect moment for the newlyweds!
Congratulations, Cassidy and Brandon, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Cassidy and Brandon’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHER
Something Blue
VENUE
The Brix
FLORIST
Bling in the Barn
HAIR & MAKEUP
Every Kind of Beautiful
WEDDING CAKE
The Little Things Cake Company
WEDDING RINGS
Mr. Marcos Jewelry
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Victoria
MENSWEAR
Lorenzo’s Formal Wear
Lisa & Kevin’s Pretty Wild Onion Brewery Wedding
Lisa and Kevin knew soon after they met that they would end up together. They share a love for books and culture and their strong connection carried them to the altar . . .
Lisa and Kevin knew soon after they met that they would end up together. They share a love for books and culture and their strong connection carried them to the altar at Wild Onion Brewery. Conrad loved getting to know Lisa and Kevin at their engagement session last Winter, we are ALWAYS big fans of couples who want to do their engagement sessions in libraries!!
When Lisa and Kevin’s wedding day arrived they did their “first look” at our neighborhood North School Park. From there we traveled to one of our favorite alleyways near Beverly Lanes in Arlington Heights for pictures with Lisa and Kevin’s wedding party. Then it was time for us to travel to the Wild Onion Brewery in Lake Barrington for Lisa and Kevin’s ceremony and reception. They chose to do a beautiful handfasting ceremony as a unity ritual, it was a lovely moment. Once Lisa and Kevin were pronounced husband and wife it was time to celebrate!
Lisa and Kevin had taken dance lessons and showed off their skills with an epic first dance. As the guests danced the night away we had so much fun taking photos and celebrating the newlyweds!
Congratulations, Lisa and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Lisa and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
WEDDING VENUE
Wild Onion Brewery
WEDDING GOWN
Kenneth Winston
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hairs2TheBride
WEDDING CAKE
Jarosch Bakery
Jenni & Dan’s Romantic Wilder Mansion Wedding
Jenni and Dan are both teachers, they were on the same middle school “team” and quickly became close friends. One day Dan asked Jenni to go bowling with him after work, after she reluctantly said yes . . .
Jenni and Dan are both teachers, they were on the same middle school “team” and quickly became close friends. One day Dan asked Jenni to go bowling with him after work, after she reluctantly said yes that game started a long streak of Dan beating Jenni at just about everything from bowling to mini golf (with the exception of volleyball!) Their strong and natural connection they have kept them close through the ups and downs of life. After 7 years of teaching together, approximately 700 of the same students taught and 5 years of dating Dan got down on one knee in downtown Chicago and asked Jenni to marry him. She enthusiastically said ‘yes!’ and their adventure toward becoming husband and wife began!
I got to know Jenni and Dan at their beautiful engagement session last Summer at Lake Katherine Nature Center. It was easy and fun to explore with Jenni and Dan, they share a quiet devotion to one another that is truly a joy to witness. Leading up to their wedding day, we asked Jenni and Dan to answer the question “what moment of your wedding day are you most looking forward to?” Their answer says so much about who these two are as a couple, they said “The little alone time we will have with one another to soak in the moment.”
When their wedding day arrived, we met up with Jenni and her bridesmaids at the gorgeous Wilder Mansion in Elmhurst. Christy and I joked that we could shoot at Wilder Mansion every single weekend and be thrilled, this beautiful historic home is filled with tons of natural light and one big empty room after another! It’s like a giant and gorgeous photo studio! Jenni looked radiant as she got ready for her “first look” with Dan – he was a little nervous but once he saw his gorgeous bride that all seemed to disappear.
Jenni and Dan exchanged private vows right after their first look (one of our favorite “new” traditions!) We had the best time taking pictures of Jenni and Dan and their wedding party at Wilder Mansion before and after their beautiful rose garden ceremony. Before long we loaded up and moved the celebration to Drury Lane where their guests were all waiting to start the party. We loved every moment of this romantic day, it was an honor to be alongside Jenni and Dan as they began their married lives together!
Congratulations, Jenni and Dan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jenni and Dan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Carousel Flowers by Shamrock
HAIR & MAKEUP
Patricia Fardon with Diem Angie Co.
WEDDING DRESS
Here Comes the Bride
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
ENGAGEMENT RING
Brilliant Earth
MENSWEAR
Black Lapel
Stephanie & Will’s Sweet Metropolis Ballroom Wedding
Stephanie and Will met through mutual friends – her good friend from college is his good friend from high school. A few years after graduating college, Will moved to Chicago for work and they connected for their first date at Corridor Brewery. . .
Stephanie and Will met through mutual friends – her good friend from college is his good friend from high school. A few years after graduating college, Will moved to Chicago for work and they connected for their first date at Corridor Brewery.
As they grew closer Stephanie and Will soon moved in together, and Will proposed in their first apartment after coming home from landing his dream job. We first connected with Stephanie and Will during the pandemic, and got to know them better at their pretty engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Walk downtown. Stephanie’s sweetness and Will’s dry sense of humor made an impression on me, and we were really excited to celebrate their wedding at the Metropolis Ballroom in June!
Looking back, Stephanie and Will’s wedding day was truly perfect – but just as Stephanie was about to put on her gorgeous wedding gown she was told that their florist had flaked and they didn’t have wedding flowers. No bouquets, no boutonnieres, no centerpieces. In the ten years we have been shooting weddings we have NEVER experienced anything like this! We kept our composure and quietly worked with the amazing Metropolis team to mobilize a local florist to pull off something last-minute. But in the meantime, we really had to start taking wedding party photos before we ran out of time before the ceremony. Stephanie took all of the chaos in stride, it was amazing. She took a sip of champagne and pulled her shoulders back before striding outside for photos. Stephanie rocked her dress pockets and high leg slit and made the best of things, nothing was going to stop her from enjoying her wedding day! It was one of the most bad-ass things we have ever seen from a bride!
By the time we had finished with photos around downtown Arlington Heights there were bouquets and boutonnieres ready thanks to the amazing and kind team at Purple Rose Floral in Mount Prospect. Those personal floral items really do make a difference and it was amazing how beautiful everything looked from Purple Rose even though they had absolutely zero advanced warning, we were SO grateful that they stepped in to help out!!
At the start of their reception Stephanie and Will gave a speech to thank their guests, and Stephanie had already planned to talk about how all of the details that go into a wedding day don’t really matter. Her words hit even harder after what had transpired during their wedding day – but in the end, all that mattered was that Stephanie and Will said “I do” and became husband and wife. It was a beautiful and perfect celebration of their love, we were truly honored to be a part of it!!
Congratulations, Stephanie and Will, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stephanie and Will’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Metropolis Ballroom
HAIR AND MAKEUP
The Bridal Beauty Team
FLORIST
Purple Rose Floral
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
WEDDING RINGS
Stanley Brown Jewelist
Clare & Christian’s Unforgettable Rolling Green Wedding
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. . .
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. The date went well but Clare decided Christian was "too young" for her (he is 3 years younger). So she quickly “friendzoned” him thinking that the pandemic came at a great time (i.e. she wouldn't run into him). But Clare was sneaky and kept Christian in her back pocket. During the pandemic, she Snapchatted him almost every day and followed him on Instagram. Christian thought "what is this girl doing?". July had arrived and Clare asked Christian if he wanted to play on her beach volleyball team (since she didn't know a lot of other people who played volleyball in the city). The 2 of them started playing outdoor volleyball during the summer of 2020 and the flame of love was rekindled. After 2 weeks of late night post-volleyball Taco Bell runs and a couple of dates here and there, they officially started dating on August 15, 2020 when Christian asked Clare to be his girlfriend amidst the backdrop of a Lake Michigan sunset. After almost 2 years of dating, they were ready to commit their lives to each other officially before God. Christian wanted to surprise Clare with the proposal but she was ALWAYS looking out for it. For some reason she didn't suspect that he would propose to her in her hometown in Ohio, which worked out well for Christian. On May 30, 2022, with the help of Clare's siblings, Christian surprised Clare at Dawes Arboretum by getting down on one knee on a little bridge in the garden and asking her to be his wife. Clare's whole family was waiting for them at a winery nearby and they finished the night by playing a little pickup volleyball at Clare's brother's house, coming full circle. It was a beautiful day.
We knew that Clare and Christian shared a special bond after our first Zoom call with them. When their wedding day arrived, it was the perfect June weather to celebrate their love at our hometown country club Rolling Green. Clare was radiant thanks to the glam squad from Hairs 2 The Bride, and when she slipped into her gorgeous Martin Thornburg gown (with an epic overskirt!) Clare was beaming for the rest of the day.
When we arrived at Rolling Green the guys were having a great time getting ready in the clubhouse, but it wasn’t hard to pull Christian away for his “First Look” with his beautiful bride. Christian’s reaction to seeing Clare was so sweet, he loves her deeply and was by her side for the rest of the day. After some fun wedding party photos on the course it was time for Clare and Christian to exchange their wedding vows in front of their closest friends and family. They included a moving foot washing ceremony to display their commitment to one another and their love for Jesus. It was a beautiful and moving ceremony punctuated by newlywed bliss once they were pronounced husband and wife!
Following the ceremony Clare and Christian mingled with their guests and danced to some amazing live music (including Star Wars adaptions!) The energy was buzzing with joy throughout Clare and Christian’s reception, and once the dance floor opened the party didn’t stop. As the sun started to set we stole Clare and Christian away for a few golden hour photos of the newlyweds before saying goodbye, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Clare and Christian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Clare and Christian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Rolling Green Country Club
FLORIST
Town and Country Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hairs 2 The Bride
WEDDING GOWN
Martin Thornburg
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Annabella’s Chicago
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
David’s Bridal
MENSWEAR
Suit Shop
BRIDAL SHOES
Kailee P