Holly & Mike’s Amazing Allure on the Lake NYE Wedding
New Year’s Eve weddings are some of our favorites, we truly love ending our year and kicking off a new one with our Something Blue couples!! We knew that Holly and Mike’s NYE wedding would be extra special after their amazing engagement session at . . .
New Year’s Eve weddings are some of our favorites, we truly love ending our year and kicking off a new one with our Something Blue couples!! We knew that Holly and Mike’s NYE wedding would be extra special after their amazing engagement session at the Lyric Theater in Blue Island. Holly and Mike have a special connection and are the kind of people who make you can immediately make you feel like close friends; we are so grateful for their genuine warmth and kindness!
Holly and Mike were introduced by their mutual friend who thought they would be a good match. They had their first date at Dog Haus in Lincoln Park and spent the evening talking and getting along splendidly. After that night they quickly became inseparable and soon had a shared catchphrase "well.. just one more…." Holly and Mike share a love of sports, travel and Taco Bell, and before long they both knew that they would be together forever.
Leading up to New Year’s Eve it had been painfully brown in the Chicago area, but that day flurries started to fall leading up to Holly and Mike’s wedding. The snow made our drive to Indiana that much more picturesque, and the beautiful Allure on the Lake looked so pretty as we arrived. Holly and her girls were cozy inside getting ready, Holly looked SO amazing thanks to the glam squad at Primp Studio. After a few fun shots with the girls and their cute disco ball champagne glasses Holly slipped into her gorgeous gown from Here Comes the Bride.
While Holly and her bridesmaids were getting ready, Mike and his guys were waiting across the way with their elderly dog (who was just THE sweetest!) Holly and Mike had their first look near the chic and spacious bar inside the reception space, with the snow falling and wind blowing we were really thankful for that beautiful area to take photos! After their sweet first look (where Holly playfully grabbed Mike’s butt!) they exchanged private vows near the windows, it was a beautiful and tender moment. From there we ventured outside so that Holly and Mike could add their “love lock” to the fence outside near the water. We love when both old and new traditions are incorporated into a wedding day!
We didn’t last long outside in the blowing snow while taking pictures, but we are happy to have taken some in the flurries. After coming inside we finished near the beautiful bar before heading in to the ceremony. Holly and Mike’s wedding ceremony was filled with touching moments, and before long they were officially husband and wife! Right after the ceremony a guest approached me to tell me to take a picture of the gift she had brought for Holly and Mike – it was a bottle of champagne from the “Condom” region in France. We both got a good laugh and I was delighted to later see this same guest up front for the New Year’s countdown, sipping champagne with her festive sunglasses on! It’s so much fun for us to celebrate with you and your guests, and this amazing wedding was one we will never forget!
Congratulations, Holly and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Holly and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Town & Country Florist
HAIR & MAKEUP
Primp Studio
BRIDAL DRESS BOUTIQUE
Here Comes the Bride
MENSWEAR
Formally Modern Tuxedo
Carlee & David’s Beautiful Independence Grove Wedding
Carlee and David met at work and connected through their shared appreciation for gaming. They hit it off and started seeing each other and fell in love with each other’s quirks and mutual loyalty to one another. . .
Carlee and David met at work and connected through their shared appreciation for gaming. They hit it off and started seeing each other and fell in love with each other’s quirks and mutual loyalty to one another. Carlee loves all things Disney and David chose to propose to her in front of Cinderella’s castle at Disney World, and their fairytale love story truly began.
Conrad loved getting to know Carlee and David at their beautiful Starved Rock engagement session last winter. They explored the gorgeous state park together with with their sweet dog Copper. Conrad, Lindsay and I were all excited to be part of Carlee and David’s winter wedding at Independence Grove! Carlee had created a lot of sweet thoughtful details that we loved discovering throughout the day, but the thing we were all most impressed by was the amazing programs she made inspired by a Disney park map. Carlee is thoughtful and a caring friend, we saw that in the way she considered her bridesmaids and family throughout the day.
The weather was particularly brisk when the time came for Carlee and David to do their first look near the water at Independence Grove. Carlee looked beautiful in her gown and fur stole and once she saw David the cold winter wind felt like it was replaced by the warmth of their love. We quickly took photos outside with their amazing wedding party before heading inside so that Carlee and David could exchange private vows before their ceremony. Following their emotional ceremony Carlee and David entered their reception in Mickey ears and dashed around the room to get photos with all of their guests. We then enjoyed a delicious meal before the dance floor opened, it was a perfect day!! We were honored to be there to celebrate these newlyweds!
Congratulations, Carlee and David, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Carlee and David’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Independence Grove
FLORIST
Locker’s Flowers
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Marien Mae
MENSWEAR
Men’s Warehouse
Jeanne and Kevin’s Emotional DiNolfo’s Wedding
Jeanne and Kevin’s love story may well be one of the most romantic we have ever had the honor of witnessing. With over sixteen years of friendship as their foundation, being alongside Jeanne and Kevin as they made things official and became husband and wife was an absolute joy. . .
Jeanne and Kevin’s love story may well be one of the most romantic we have ever had the honor of witnessing. With over sixteen years of friendship as their foundation, being alongside Jeanne and Kevin as they made things official and became husband and wife was an absolute joy.
Jeanne’s first memories of Kevin go back to their Sunday morning CCD class at St. Christina’s (the same church where they would get married 16+ years later!) where she said he was “one of the only well-behaved and respectful kids”. Kevin remembers meeting Jeanne in high school through mutual friends and valuing their friendship from the very beginning. Though they always shared affection with one another, Jeanne and Kevin’s friendship really solidified when she became pregnant with Thomas. Kevin left the door open and Jeanne felt comfortable enough to turn to him to be her sounding board. Where the father of Jeanne’s baby was absent, Kevin stepped in and was a friend to her through thick and thin. Kevin took Jeanne on her maternity ward tour, took her out for ice cream and to their senior prom. From the beginning, Jeanne would describe Kevin as “one of the best men” she knew, while Kevin knew from those early days that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Jeanne.
Jeanne and Kevin found themselves bonding more and more every day through laughs and tears. As years passed, they watched each other go in and out of relationships with others while secretly rooting for those other relationships would end so they could have a chance to be together. Kevin loved Jeanne and her son Tommy from the start, while Jeanne and Tommy always sensed that love from Kevin and felt at home with him. It was only a matter of time before Jeanne and Kevin ended up together, and their marriage officially made the three of them a family. As Kevin said, “Jeanne is my better half, Tommy my son, these things have always been in my heart.”
Conrad, Ashley and I were all so happy to come along for Jeanne and Kevin’s wedding. There were so many emotional moments throughout the day, but those moments with Tommy will stand out as our favorites to witness. Tommy’s reaction to seeing his Mom as a bride. Tommy’s pride as he stood alongside his Mom at the altar, his smile when taking pictures with the wedding party. His laugh when Jeanne picked up her teenage son “just to prove she can”. But perhaps our favorite moment of the day was when Tommy gave the most eloquent and heartfelt toast during their celebratory dinner at DiNolfo’s Banquets – there was not a dry eye in the room as Tommy confidently delivered THE best toast we have ever heard. It was truly a magical day filled with so much beauty and love, we will always cherish the memories of this perfect wedding.
Congratulations, Jeanne and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jeanne and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
DiNolfo’s Banquets
FLORIST
Fun At Parties Florals
MAKEUP
Denise Ferguson
RECEPTION BAND
Raise Your Glass
WEDDING GOWN
Sophia Tolli
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Eva's Bridal International
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES
Azazie
Moriah & Matt’s Romantic Hyatt Lodge Wedding
Moriah and Matt live together in Washington D.C. but her family is from the Chicago area. We had only connected with them over Zoom so we were so excited to meet them in person on their wedding day at The Hyatt Lodge . . .
Moriah and Matt live together in Washington D.C. but her family is from the Chicago area. We had only connected with them over Zoom so we were so excited to meet them in person on their wedding day at The Hyatt Lodge. Conrad and I were so warmly welcomed when we arrived at the Hyatt Lodge for “getting ready” photos, it felt like we were together with old friends! That’s just how Moriah and Matt are, they are so kind and can make anyone feel at home when spending time with them.
Moriah is very close with her family, it was so sweet to be with them all together throughout the day. She shared several emotional moments with her Mom and Dad while she was getting ready, we just love when our brides have a close relationship with their parents! Once she was dressed Moriah made her way outside for her First Look with Matt. Moriah and Matt shared private vows right after seeing one another, this is one of our favorite “new” wedding traditions! Watching Moriah and Matt from a distance while they shared their vows was our favorite moment from their wedding day, it was so clear that these two share a special bond.
After photos at the Hyatt Lodge we headed to St. Edna’s in Arlington Heights for their traditional Catholic wedding ceremony. It was a beautiful ceremony, and it was so fun to know two of the vocalists who shared their beautiful voices (one of our former brides Lisa and Christy’s Dad!) We loved being a part of this special day, what a joy it was to be alongside Moriah and Matt as they began their married lives together!
Congratulations, Moriah and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Moriah and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
RECEPTION VENUE
Hyatt Lodge
FLORIST
Southside Blooms
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
Sarah & Jarrod’s Perfect Gaelic Park Wedding
Sarah and Jarrod first met at a bar downtown after she attended a Shania Twain concert. They didn't hit it off right away, but separately told their mutual friend Kathryn that they thought the other was cute. From then on Kathryn did what she could to invite Sarah and Jarrod to the same events. . .
Sarah and Jarrod first met at a bar downtown after she attended a Shania Twain concert. They didn't hit it off right away, but separately told their mutual friend Kathryn that they thought the other was cute. From then on Kathryn did what she could to invite Sarah and Jarrod to the same events. After a handful of events these two were talking non-stop. Sarah and Jarrod did everything to keep their long-distance relationship going – whether it was Jarrod spending every weekend in Chicago or Sarah making the trip to Detroit. The rest is history.
Sarah and Jarrod got engaged near Saint Germain, Wisconsin. After a trip to a local brewery they went to Sarah's family cabin down the road. When they got to the cabin they went out onto the lake and looked back at the cabin. The next thing you know, Jarrod was down on one knee in the middle of the lake proposing. It was the perfect moment for this perfect couple!!
I loved getting to know Sarah and Jarrod at their engagement session last Summer. Sarah and Jarrod are both kind, laid-back and up for anything, they make doing this job SO easy. It was exciting to shoot their wedding with Conrad, we love when we have the opportunity to take pictures together on a wedding day! When we arrived at Sarah and Jarrod’s new home for “getting ready” photos with the girls everyone was in great spirits, especially Sarah, who looked radiant and was so welcoming to us. Once Sarah was dressed she shared a sweet moment with her Dad before we left for Lake Katherine for pictures. It was unseasonably warm for early November, we were so thankful for the sunshine while we spent time near the lake! Jarrod was sweetly emotional during their First Look, and from that moment on these two were smiley and inseparable for the rest of the day.
After pictures at Lake Katherine we made our way to Church of the Transfiguration for Sarah and Jarrod’s wedding ceremony. The sun streamed in through the overhead windows and beautifully lit the altar while Sarah and Jarrod exchanged their vows. Once they were officially married we made a quick stop at Plush Horse ice cream shop just down the road for a sweet treat to celebrate before landing at Gaelic Park for the reception. It truly was a perfect day, what an honor and joy it was to celebrate Sarah and Jarrod’s love and new life together!
Congratulations, Sarah and Jarrod, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sarah and Jarrod’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
RECEPTION VENUE
Gaelic Park
RECEPTION BAND
Felix and Fingers
HAIR & MAKEUP
Robert Kendal Salon
WEDDING CAKE
Trefzger's Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
Noral Jewelers
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Menguin
Shea & Matt’s Sweet Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Shea and Matt met their sophomore year of college – they had mutual friends and both played volleyball. They started dating that December and have been together ever since. . .
Shea and Matt met their sophomore year of college – they had mutual friends and both played volleyball. They started dating that December and have been together ever since.
Conrad and I were so excited to photograph Shea and Matt’s wedding at our favorite venue, Heritage Prairie Farm. We would shoot there every weekend if we could, it’s truly the perfect venue!! Endless gorgeous spots for photos, plenty of sweet farm kitties roaming the grounds AND the most amazing wedding food ever, it’s our favorite place for SO many reasons! Our Something Blue team had gotten to know Shea a bit earlier this year when she came by the Studio for a special bridal boudoir session to gift to Matt on their wedding day. Christy photographed her and then I put together an album of her favorite photos – she looked absolutely stunning and when Matt opened the album after their “First Look” you could tell he knew he is a lucky man!!
Shea and Matt have two cats and were drawn to Heritage Prairie Farm in part because of their many friendly farm kitties. It was a somewhat cat-centric wedding – Matt wore “Cat Dad” socks, their two signature drinks were inspired by their cats and the Heritage Prairie farm cats photo-bombed plenty of moments with the wedding party before the ceremony.
Shea is close with her Dad and Grandpa and set aside time to do a “First Look” with each of them before her ceremony. Her and her Dad have an inside connection with hedgehogs and both gifted each other with sweet little hedgehog pins for the big day. Shea also did a first look with her Grandpa on the front porch of the pretty farmhouse, it was one of the most special moments of the day. Her Grandpa then officiated Shea and Matt’s romantic ceremony in the barn while her Grandma did a reading.
It was a chilly last weekend in October and we were thankful for the cozy greenhouse where we could take wedding party photos and get a break from the cold wind. The team at Garvin Gardens created gorgeous florals and the team at Heritage Prairie Farm was amazing as always taking care of every detail. After cocktail hour we snuck away with Shea and Matt to take pictures on the grounds before sundown. We were then all treated to an amazing family-style dinner before dancing the night away. It was the perfect wedding, we were so honored and grateful to be there to celebrate with Shea and Matt!
Congratulations, Shea and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Shea and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Garvin Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
Montage Salon and Spa
WEDDING CAKE
ECBG Cake Studio
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Eva’s Bridal
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Birdy Grey
Hollie & Kyle’s Romantic Seville Wedding
Hollie and Kyle met through mutual friends in Milwaukee and fell in love over trips together in Lake Geneva. Kyle proposed to Hollie in Lake Geneva and they started planning their happily ever after together. . .
Hollie and Kyle met through mutual friends in Milwaukee and fell in love over trips together in Lake Geneva. Kyle proposed to Hollie in Lake Geneva and they started planning their happily ever after together.
Conrad loved getting to know Hollie and Kyle at their fall engagement session last year at Cantigny, These two are truly perfect together, it was such a treat to spend a beautiful fall evening with them. Fast-forward one year and Conrad and Lindsay were so excited to celebrate Hollie and Kyle’s wedding with them! Hollie is a die-hard Disney fan and planned a “classy Disney wedding” (as she described it) filled with thoughtful and pretty details throughout the day.
When Conrad and Lindsay arrived the girls were listening to “hard rock music so she wouldn’t cry;” Hollie and her fun squad of bridesmaids definitely set the stage for an amazing day! Hollie chose to rock a white pair of Nike Air Force Ones so she could be comfortable and trek anywhere for pictures. When Hollie saw her Dad for the first time in her wedding dress he told her “you can’t play soccer in that!” which was just about the cutest thing he could have told his little girl.
Kyle was emotional as Hollie walked down the aisle at St. Hubert’s to “You Got a Friend in Me.” After their beautiful traditional ceremony we went to Prairie Center for the Arts for photos – the Fall colors were at their peak and we took SO many gorgeous pictures there! From Prairie Center we landed at The Seville for the best party to celebrate this amazing couple. Our friend Ken from Amp Event Professionals set the stage for an unforgettable night – from the putt-putt setup to get the newlyweds to kiss to their emotional first dance and dances with their parents to Hollie and Kyle guest DJ-ing during dancing – it was a night we will never forget, what an honor to be alongside these two as they began their married lives together!
Congratulations, Hollie and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Hollie and Kyle’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
The Seville
FLORIST
Busy B’s Floral
HAIR & MAKEUP
Rosie Hunter
WEDDING CAKE
Baking Institute
WEDDING RINGS
Kessler Diamonds
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES
David’s Bridal
MENSWEAR
Men’s Wearhouse
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Here Comes the Bride
Bridget & Conor’s Sweet Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Bridget and Conor met after being set-up by his sister and her sister-in-law. Ann and Katie are best friends and neighbors and thought that Bridget and Conor would make a perfect match. They first connected at a backyard party . . .
Bridget and Conor met after being set-up by his sister and her sister-in-law. Ann and Katie are best friends and neighbors and thought that Bridget and Conor would make a perfect match. They first connected at a backyard party hosted by Bridget’s brother and started dating the Summer of 2020. They were engaged two years later at the gorgeous Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in Lincoln Park and started their journey to becoming husband and wife.
Leading up to Bridget and Conor’s wedding I had only connected with them over Zoom, I was excited to meet them in person on the big day! I arrived at the Westin North Shore for getting ready photos and was excited to finally spend time with Bridget! She looked absolutely gorgeous in her Martina Liana gown, and after the sweetest reveal with her bridesmaids we made time for portraits of Bridget on the balcony. The sun was shining and the Fall color was at it’s peak, it was a beautiful day!
When we arrived at St. James for Bridget and Conor’s traditional Catholic ceremony the excitement was palpable amongst their friends and family. Conor was a bit nervous but that surely melted away when he saw his gorgeous bride coming down the aisle. Following the ceremony we took family photos on the front steps of St. James – both Bridget and Conor have big families and it was such fun to see everyone together celebrating! From there we went to Lake Arlington for photos before landing at Chevy Chase for the evening.
Throughout the day Conor would joyfully sweep Bridget up in his arms, it was so sweet to see him carry her with the biggest smile on his face. These two were meant to be, they complement one another and truly make the perfect pair. One of our favorite moments from the day was Bridget and Conor’s beautiful choreographed first dance, it may have been one of the best first dances we have ever seen. Their wedding was an amazing day that we were truly honored to be a part of!
Congratulations, Bridget and Conor, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Bridget and Conor’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Lisa Enriquez with Simply Elegant
VIDEOGRAPHY
Rhys Video
FLORIST
Soiree
HAIR & MAKEUP
Appease
WEDDING BAND
Final Say
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Diana’s Bridal
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
The Black Tux
WEDDING RINGS
Monson Jewelers
Grace & Ian’s Perfect Glen Club Wedding
Grace and Ian met at their residence hall during their Freshman year at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. They quickly became friends and spent a lot of time together throughout their first two years of college. Grace and Ian officially started dating Junior year when Grace took the leap . . .
Grace and Ian met at their residence hall during their Freshman year at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. They quickly became friends and spent a lot of time together throughout their first two years of college. Grace and Ian officially started dating Junior year when Grace took the leap and grabbed Ian's hand during a football game. They walked home to Grace's apartment and spent the whole day laughing and talking and have been inseparable since. Ian chose to propose at the Terrace in Madison to honor where their love story first began.
When I first met Grace and Ian I was struck by how beautiful and joyful Grace is. She is truly a treasure, and her and Ian fit together perfectly. I loved getting to know this sweet couple (and their incredibly cute puppy!) at their engagement session last Fall. We had so much fun exploring together in spite of the unpleasant Chicago Fall weather! Fast-forward to their wedding day this October and sadly the midwest weather was not on our side again. But Grace, in her awesomeness, was up for anything and wanted to power through and still take photos outside at the Chicago Botanic Garden as planned!! After Grace and Ian did their first look at The Glen Club we made our way to the Botanic Garden – it was raining on the drive there but thankfully it let up just as we were parking. Grace bounded out of the party bus with a broad smile on her face, she was ready for anything and happy to drag Ian and the rest of their wedding party along for photos : ) It was blustery but so beautiful at the Botanic Garden, we would joyfully photograph there every weekend if we could! Grace looked radiant and Ian was so happy to be alongside his gorgeous bride, it was such a special afternoon.
After we finished photos at the Botanic Garden we went back to the Glen Club for Grace and Ian’s ceremony. Everything looked so beautiful thanks to the talented team at Flowers by Stem, these were some of the most gorgeous wedding florals we saw all year. Grace and Ian exchanged their vows under a magnificent chuppah that was later transformed into the prettiest head table for their reception. We snuck outside for a few more pictures of Grace and Ian once they were officially husband and wife, the grounds at the Glen Club are beautiful and we had a really dramatic sky thanks to that unpleasant midwest weather from earlier.
When it was time for the reception we were treated to emotional toasts from Grace’s Dad and sister. After a delicious meal and amazing cake from The Baking Institute (with THE most intricate sugar flowers!) we were surprised by an adorable choreographed first dance. Grace and Ian are just magical together, we loved being part of this unforgettable day!
Congratulations, Grace and Ian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Grace and Ian’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
WEDDING VENUE
The Glen Club
FLORIST
Flowers by Stem
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Valerie Burian
HAIR & MAKEUP
Beauty by Anne Krause
WEDDING CAKE
The Baking Institute
WEDDING RINGS
I Gorman Jewelers
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Diana’s Bridal
BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES
Azazie
Stacey & Brendan’s Beautiful Old Orchard Country Club Wedding
Stacey and Brendan met in the Summer of 2018 while both working at the Wrigley Rooftops. They had an instant connection and grew closer, when Covid hit they essentially moved in together and cemented their bond. They created so many memories . . .
Stacey and Brendan met in the Summer of 2018 while both working at the Wrigley Rooftops. They had an instant connection and grew closer, when Covid hit they essentially moved in together and cemented their bond. They created so many memories together in the Lincoln Square area when Brendan lived – when the time came he chose to propose to Stacey there and the next chapter in their love story began!
Brendan is a police officer in Chattanooga, so Stacey worked to plan their wedding remotely. Conrad and Lindsay first met Stacey and Brendan in person on their wedding day after talking with them over the phone and on Zoom leading up to their big day. Friends and family came from all over the world to celebrate Stacey and Brendan – her best friend flew in from New York and her Dad’s cousin came all the way from Germany to help with the centerpieces and other wedding details.
Throughout their wedding we were struck by how loyal and loving Stacey and Brendan are. They created hand-written notes for each of their guests and had the best time celebrating along with their friends and family. It was an honor for us to be alongside this loving couple as they started their lives together!
Congratulations, Stacey and Brendan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stacey and Brendan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
DS Wedding Studio
FLORIST
Accents by Jenny
BRIDAL HAIR
Corey Flood
BRIDAL MAKEUP
Glam and Glow by Mel
WEDDING CAKE
Central Continental Bakery
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
All About the Bride
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
WEDDING RINGS
Jared
MENSWEAR
Formally Modern Tuxedo
BRIDAL SHOES
Nina Shoes
Elise & Garret’s Sweet Seven Bridges Golf Club Wedding
Elise and Garret in summer of 2017 playing for a recreational soccer league in Chicago. Their first date was mini golfing and a drink at a bar on a Sunday afternoon. They officially started dating later that year and moved in together . . .
Elise and Garret met in the Summer of 2017 playing for a recreational soccer league in Chicago. Their first date was mini golfing and a drink at a bar, they officially started dating in September. As their love grew they moved in together in January of 2020. Garret proposed at the Naperville river walk; it was a rainy day but Elise still agreed to go on a walk with him that ended in a proposal!
Conrad and I were so happy to join Elise and Garret and their friends and family to celebrate their wedding this Fall. When we arrived at Elise’s parents’ home everyone was in great spirits and Elise looked absolutely beautiful. She had held onto a little receipt that Garret first wrote “Love You!” on, I love discovering special mementos when photographing details before a wedding!! After Elise got into her gorgeous gown she did the sweetest reveal with her bridesmaids just before an adorable “first look” with her Dad.
Once everyone was ready we went together to St. Mary’s Catholic church in Mokena. What a gorgeous church for a traditional wedding ceremony! Ashley joined us for the ceremony so that Conrad could capture video for Elise and Garret, she took some beautiful photos of the church. Garret seemed a bit nervous and fought back a few tears as the ceremony started but once he saw Elise walk down the aisle with her Dad he could not keep his eyes off her for the rest of the day.
After their ceremony we moved to the beautiful Seven Bridges Golf Club. We had the best time photographing Elise and Garret’s wedding party, everyone was so kind and in such great spirits! The weather was lovely, it was the perfect Fall day for a wedding at one of our favorite country clubs! We were honored to be alongside Elise and Garret as they started their married lives together!
Congratulations, Elise and Garret, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Elise and Garret’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Schultz Florist and Wedding Events
MAKEUP
Femme Beauty Lounge
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Bella Sposa
WEDDING CAKE
DeEFetta's Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
P. Martin Jewelers
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Warehouse
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