Kevin & Jon’s Chic Marriott Marquis Wedding
Kevin and Jon met online and their love blossomed through taking walks, talking and listening, and sharing a love of TV shows. Jon proposed by reenacting David from Schitt's Creek lip syncing to “Simply the Best” . . .
Kevin and Jon met online and their love blossomed through taking walks, talking and listening, and sharing a love of TV shows. Jon proposed by reenacting David from Schitt's Creek lip syncing to “Simply the Best”
We first met Kevin way back in 2017 at his friends’ Andrea and Peter’s wedding. Kevin rocked a pink satin robe to get ready with Andrea and we fell in love with him then, it was such a joy to hear years later that he had found love and wanted us to be a part of his wedding. Conrad loved getting to know Kevin and Jon better at their beautiful engagement session last summer. It was incredibly hot that day but these two kept their cool and were such rockstars throughout the session at Cantigny Park.
On their wedding day, Kevin and Jon were really excited to spend time celebrating with their friends. It was raining most of the day but let up enough for us to do a lot of photos outside. After Kevin and Jon’s sweet first look we found a mural and underpass at Ping Tom Park that perfectly matched their suits. This park may be one of our new favorite places to shoot wedding party photos in the city! It was a lot of fun exploring with Kevin and Jon and their friends!
We returned to the Marriott Marquis for Kevin and Jon’s beautiful indoor ceremony. Following the emotional ceremony Kevin and Jon snuck away for a surprise outfit change right before they were introduced, no one knew it was coming! It was a perfect evening filled with wine and good times, we were so happy to have been a party of this wedding.
Congratulations, Kevin and Jon, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kevin and Jon’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
CAKE
Chicago Cake
FLOWERS
Andrew's Garden
Caroline & Hunter’s Elegant Kenilworth Assembly Hall Wedding
Caroline and Hunter met right before freshman year of college at an ice cream social hosted by the college football and volleyball teams. Little did they know then that their lives would be forever intertwined . . .
Caroline and Hunter met right before their freshman year of college at an ice cream social. The event was hosted by their college football and volleyball teams. Little did they know then that their lives would be forever intertwined.
After dating through college Caroline and Hunter got engaged in Lake Geneva, a place close to her heart as her grandparents lived there when she was growing up. They have since moved away from the Midwest but with family and friends here chose to get married in the Chicago area. We met Caroline and Hunter for the first time over Zoom and were so happy to meet them in person at their wedding at the beautiful Kenilworth Assembly Hall. Caroline looked amazing in her gorgeous Lee-Ann Belter gown, I think her wedding dress was my favorite one from this busy wedding season! Once Caroline and Hunter saw each other at their quietly emotional First Look we strolled the streets of Kenilworth for photos with their kind and supportive wedding party.
Once we finished photos at the Kenilworth train station we headed to the beautiful Kenilworth Union Church for their wedding ceremony. While it threatened to rain all day it held off and we snuck down to the lakefront for some pretty pictures of Caroline and Hunter alone. After their traditional ceremony we walked back to the assembly hall for their reception – it was a treat to hear so many thoughtful toasts and dance the night away with the newlyweds! We loved being part of this perfect day!
Congratulations, Caroline and Hunter, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Caroline and Hunter’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
CHURCH
Kenilworth Union Church
FLOWERS
Simply Flowers - Toni Lenzi
CAKE
Deerfield Bakery
Liz & Mike’s Glamorous Morgan’s On Fulton Wedding
For Liz and Mike, Orlando is the spot where their friendship grew into a romance. In Orlando Liz and Mike developed a group of close-knit friends, but the two of them, using the guise of researching the local bar/cocktail scene . . .
For Liz and Mike, Orlando is the spot where their friendship grew into a romance. In Orlando Liz and Mike developed a group of close-knit friends, but the two of them, using the guise of researching the local bar/cocktail scene, began a series of informal meetings that soon morphed into dates. The relationship magically continued to grow when just after 3 months of dating, Liz moved to Seattle and a distance of 3,000 miles separated them.
For the next year Mike and Liz managed to spend one weekend per month together. They enjoyed hiking through the northwest woods and exploring the cuisine (oysters) of Seattle. Liz would fly to Orlando for some needed sunshine and a chance to kayak and explore the beaches with Mike. After the year of red-eye flights, Liz moved to Chicago where Mike and she reveled in the one hour time difference.
After almost two years of a long-distance relationship, Mike moved to Chicago, purchased a down coat, and began to fall in love with the city and life as a Midwesterner again. Long-distance became a thing of the past and the two couldn't be happier to share time together again. Mike and Liz found endless adventure in the many neighborhoods of Chicago and can often be found biking to a new spot for a bite to eat or a sight to see.
On a snowy day in Humboldt Park, just two blocks from their condo, Liz and Mike affirmed their compatibility by becoming engaged in January 2021.
Then this is where we come in – I first met Liz and Mike in Humboldt Park for their engagement session last fall. We explored the area where Mike proposed before ending up at Parson’s for some adorable photos AND a delicious chicken dinner. I remember talking to Conrad afterwards trying to explain just how much I LOVED spending that time with Liz and Mike – they are down to earth, relatable, fun, and just SO in love, I was truly so excited to celebrate their wedding with them.
When the day finally arrived for Liz and Mike’s wedding, Conrad and I were so happy to be there alongside Liz and Mike’s closest friends and families to celebrate their love. Liz looked absolutely STUNNING in her chic Alice and Ivory gown. After she finished getting ready at the Emily Hotel, we met with Mike in the gorgeous alleyway behind Trivoli Tavern. Liz and Mike’s First Look was one for the ages – they both wiped away happy tears when they saw each other for the first time on their wedding day. From there their wedding day was a big happy blur – we did photos in the alleyway with their favorite people before heading to the river for some beautiful shots near the Wrigley Building.
After we finished with photos we settled in at Morgan’s on Fulton for the most beautiful and moving candlelit ceremony. Liz’s sister-in-law officiated the ceremony which ended with a joyful pop of champagne. At last Liz and Mike were husband and wife and danced the night away on the rooftop to the sounds of the Bluewater Kings Band. It was one of our favorite weddings ever, our only hope is that these photographs fully convey just how beautiful this day truly was.
Congratulations, Liz and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Liz and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Morgan’s On Fulton
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Wedicity
FLORIST
Hedonia Flowers
CAKE
Vanille
MENSWEAR
Knots Standard
WEDDING DRESS
Alice in Ivory
MAKE-UP
Rare Bird Beauties
BAND
Blue Water Kings
Maggie & Justin’s Beautiful Independence Grove Wedding
As all love stories start out, Maggie was the one that I didn’t see coming. Justin had just moved back from Paris, France and was living in Wicker Park. His roommate was having a birthday celebration at Sushi O Sushi, and let me tell you it was starting out as an amazing night . . .
We send a questionnaire to all of our Something Blue couples before their wedding; this questionnaire helps organize information so that we can prepare for the wedding day and later put together a blog post. We ask our couples to share their “love story,” and Justin took the time to write a lovely and touching synopsis of his love story with his bride Maggie, it felt right to share his words here:
“As all love stories start out, she was the one that I didn’t see coming. I had just moved back from Paris, France and was living in Wicker Park. My roommate was having a birthday celebration at Sushi O Sushi, and let me tell you it was starting out as an amazing night. Unlimited sushi rolls AND sake bombs? What more could I want.
After getting spending a few hours coming up with ridiculous sake bomb chants, we decided to hit the town. I’m not sure if you’ve experienced Sushi O Sushi, but leaving there to go to another bar is what some might call “aggressive”. But we were in our 20s, so we lived for the nights. On our way to the next bar, there was someone trying to get my attention as I went past Hopsmith. I was pretty drunk, so I was content with continuing on my way. But wouldn’t you have it, Maggie made sure to get my attention.
A little background for those who don’t know, but Maggie and I met when we were in college at the University of Illinois. We became friends my junior year, and we kept in contact through the years after graduating. She even used my apartment in Paris with her friends on their Euro Trip, but I was off exploring Ireland with some friends when they were passing through so we hadn’t seen each other in person for a few years.
We started talking, exchanged numbers, and then went on to join our friends at different bars. Fast forward to a little later in the night, and I sent her a text asking if they were still at Hopsmith. Fast forward a little more, and we’re at the bar talking and dancing. Next thing I know, we were talking every day and making weekend plans with each other.
Date nights turned into travels to new destinations. New destinations turned into moving in together (a different new destination). Next came our amazing dog, Wayne. And finally, we said yes to forever while overlooking the beach in South Haven at sunset.
On a night where I was content with shouting “Sake, Sake, bomb!” I ran into the girl that I quickly realized I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. There’s plenty more to the story, but you’ll have to come to the wedding to find that out. And there’s one thing that I’m sure you’ll see: our love for each other has and keeps growing every day.”
We met Maggie and Justin in person for the first time on their wedding day. When we arrived at Maggie’s parent’s house she was just glowing, she looked so beautiful and happy even in her robe! After some “getting ready” photos with her bridesmaids, we left to make the long drive to St. Mary’s in Mundelein for the ceremony. Justin was so sweetly emotional when Maggie walked down the aisle, and he didn’t take his eyes off her for the rest of the day.
Once we settled in for the reception at Independence Grove it was clear that this was the perfect wedding. The light on the veranda outside Audubon Hall was radiant and golden during cocktail hour. We were treated to a gorgeous sunset before enjoying a delicious dinner paired with moving and funny toasts. And then as the dance floor opened and we said goodbye we left feeling so thankful to have been part of this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Maggie and Justin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Maggie and Justin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Pollys Petals
HAIR & MAKEUP
United Hairlines
WEDDING DRESS
Blue by Enzoani
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Davids Bridal
MENSWEAR
Vera Wang
WEDDING CAKE
Oak Mill Bakery
Susan and Zach’s Love is Essential Wedding
In the Spring of 2020 our world came crashing to a halt when the threat of Covid-19 forced us to shelter in place. As wedding vendors, we watched helplessly as countless couples rescheduled their weddings . . .
In the Spring of 2020 our world came crashing to a halt when the threat of Covid-19 forced us to shelter in place. As wedding vendors, we watched helplessly as countless couples rescheduled their weddings and wondered when we would get back to doing what we love. A wave of support for essential workers took hold of us and we desperately wanted to do SOMETHING to give back to those who were selflessly giving of themselves to our community.
Inspired by the Gratitude Project, Conrad and I had the idea to give a FREE wedding to two deserving essential workers. Knowing this idea would be an enormous undertaking we enlisted the help of some of our favorite “friendors” and called Jenny of JPB Designs Wedding & Event Planning and Ken of Amp Event Professionals. Jenny and Ken’s enthusiastic response to Love is Essential laid the groundwork for what would become an 18+ month project to plan the perfect wedding for two deserving essential workers.
We met every week over Zoom to plan this wedding, and as our vendor team grew so did the love and excitement we all shared. After an extensive search and application process we chose Susan and Zach to be our Love is Essential couple. Susan and Zach both work at James A Lovell Federal Health Care Center where they serve our veteran population. They were forced to reschedule their wedding twice because of Covid and had all but given up hope that they would ever have the wedding they dreamed of having.
As we got to know Susan and Zach we fell in love with their humility and loving kindness. We could not have possibly found a more deserving and wonderful couple to gift this wedding to. It was such a joy to plan their dream wedding with our incredibly talented and generous vendor team at the absolutely gorgeous Old Post Office. For all of the hard work and investment of time and resources we would do it all over again in a heartbeat. We only hope that our photos and videos do justice to the beautiful scope of Love is Essential.
Love is Essential was featured on WGN, click here to watch the segment!
Congratulations, Susan and Zach (and Shiloh!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
And to every single individual who worked to make this unforgettable wedding possible. thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are in awe of your talent and generosity and so grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside you on this project.
To see all of Susan and Zach’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
PLANNING + COORDINATION
JPB Designs
VENUE
The Old Post Office
FLORALS
Vale of Enna
CATERING
Blue Plate Chicago
CEREMONY BAND
J Livi & The Party
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tricia Clarke
EVENT DECOR
Yanni Design Studio
LINENS
BBJ La Tavola
RENTALS
Tablescapes Chicago
INVITATIONS
Ink Love and Paper
STATIONERY
Simply Scripted Ink
CAKE
Defloured
DESSERTS
Vanille
BRIDAL DRESSER
The Wedding Dresser
BRIDES DRESS
The Altar
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Anthropologie
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Abby and Andrew’s Intimate Garfield Conservatory Wedding
Abby and Andrew met in college, they were both Physics majors and found they had an undeniable chemistry ( ugh, sorry! xD ) As they grew closer together and moved forward forging their careers it quickly became apparent that their lives. . .
Abby and Andrew met in college, they were both Physics majors and found they had an undeniable chemistry ( ugh, sorry! xD ) As they grew closer together and moved forward forging their careers it quickly became apparent that their lives were intertwined and marriage was on the horizon. Together with their friends and family they celebrated their love at the beautiful Garfield Park Conservatory last December.
After we met Abby and Andrew for some portraits in the Conservatory, we were joined by their amazing friends. This crew came in and brought so much JOY to the celebration, if only every wedding party could be such an amazing hype-squad!! We loved being with all of these amazing people to celebrate Abby and Andrew’s love story, it was the most perfect day!
Congratulations, Abby and Andrew, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Abby and Andrew’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Garfield Park Conservatory
FLORIST
Hedonia Flowers
WEDDING CAKE
West Town Bakery
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Wedding Dress Shoppe Inc.
MENSWEAR
The Black Tux
WEDDING RINGS
Tiffany & Co.
Stephanie & Devin’s Seville Vow Renewal (and Pregnancy Announcement!)
We were originally scheduled to photograph Stephanie and Devin’s wedding the summer of 2020, but like so many of our Something Blue couples their plans had to change in light of the pandemic. Stephanie and Devin tied the knot last summer in Arizona…
We were originally scheduled to photograph Stephanie and Devin’s wedding the summer of 2020, but like so many of our Something Blue couples their plans had to change in light of the pandemic. Stephanie and Devin tied the knot last summer in Arizona, and this July they returned back to Illinois to celebrate along with their family and friends at The Seville in Streamwood. We were excited to be a part of their celebration this year, but even more excited when we heard the news that Stephanie is expecting!! And that they planned to make the announcement during their reception! It was such an exciting and sweet moment when Stephanie pulled out her ultrasound pictures during dinner, the whole room went wild cheering for this sweet couple! It was a perfect day, we were so thankful to be a part of it!
Congratulations, Stephanie and Devin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stephanie and Devin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography:
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress:
Morilee From Here Comes the Bride
Hair:
Kristy Nickol
Makeup:
Deco Adamo
Bridesmaid Dresses:
The Dessy Group
Wedding Shoes:
Jewel Badgley Mischka
Menswear:
Calvin Klein
Floral:
Something Borrowed Blooms
Marissa & Nick (and Peyton’s!) Westin Chicago Northwest Vow Renewal
In April 2021, Marissa and Nick welcomed their beautiful baby girl Peyton. We were thankful to meet sweet Peyton at her Lifestyle Newborn Session at their home, she is just the sweetest baby girl! After her arrival Marissa and Nick knew their 2021 wedding plans would shift once more…
Marissa and Nick met through her cousin (and maid of honor) Danielle, but when they were first introduced Marissa wasn’t very fond of Nick. He persisted and kept asking her out. Once Marissa finally caved and agreed to go out with Nick she had THE best date ever, and the rest is history!
As Marissa and Nick planned their dream wedding they had no idea that Covid was coming and would change everything. While they had to postpone their celebration Marissa and Nick still chose to be married in 2020 in front of family at St. James in Arlington Heights. Their Catholic ceremony was a beautiful celebration of their love and the first step toward their future together as husband and wife.
In April 2021, Marissa and Nick welcomed their beautiful baby girl Peyton. We were thankful to meet sweet Peyton at her Lifestyle Newborn Session at their home, she is just the sweetest baby girl! After her arrival Marissa and Nick knew their 2021 wedding plans would shift once more, and they decided to baptize Peyton during their vow renewal ceremony. It was the first time that St. James Parish in Arlington Heights celebrated both a vow renewal AND a baptism during the same ceremony! It was a beautiful moment watching Marissa walk down the aisle in her wedding dress with Nick holding their daughter. He was beaming with pride; together they have created such an adorable and joyful family!
After the ceremony we converged at the Westin Chicago Northwest for a great big celebration. Marissa comes from a large and well-connected family, it was really fun to see a lot of people we knew at their reception! It was the perfect night celebrating an amazing couple!
Congratulations, Marissa and Nick (and Peyton!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Marissa and Nick’s beautiful vow renewal photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue
Church
St. James
Reception Venue
Westin Chicago Northwest
Wedding Flowers
Floral Harmonies
Band
Bluewater Kings
Wedding Cake
Lovin Oven Cakery
Hair and Makeup
Jaide and Co. Bridal Artistry
Wedding Dress
Martina Liana
Wedding Dress Boutique
Volle’s Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses
Kennedy Blue
Menswear
The Black Tux Nordstrom
Wedding Rings
R.C. Wahl Jewelers
Katie & Matt’s Brix on the Fox Celebration
This summer we celebrated weddings in a whole new way. The pandemic shook up our routine of big celebrations and led us to pause and see weddings differently. Last summer Katie and Matt were forced to…
This summer we celebrated weddings in a whole new way. The pandemic shook up our routine of big celebrations and led us to pause and see weddings differently. Last summer Katie and Matt were forced to put their big wedding celebration on hold and instead exchanged their vows at their church in front of only their families. Conrad was on hand to photograph the intimate celebration (and to meet their puppy Freedom after the ceremony!)
Conrad and I were both so happy to be welcomed back this summer to document Katie and Matt’s big party. Ashley came along to help me shoot photos while Conrad captured video throughout the day. We convened at Brix on the Fox and honestly had the best time with Katie and Matt’s friends and family. The day was so relaxed and everyone was so eager to celebrate with this awesome couple! And while we didn’t get to hang with Freedom this summer we were happy to see that he was at least well-represented on Matt’s socks and koozie. It was the perfect day filled with beautiful details and joyful moments.
Congratulations, Katie and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Katie and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Val and Brad’s Hotel Baker Family Affair
Val and Brad have been friends for a long time, and they found their friendship grew after they each navigated divorce after kids. They bonded and soon fell in love, but their amazing children also developed a beautiful connection with each other. As this family relationship grew stronger…
Val and Brad have been friends for a long time, and they found their friendship grew after they each navigated divorce after kids. They bonded and soon fell in love, but their amazing children also developed a beautiful connection with each other. As this family relationship grew stronger, Val’s daughters and Brad’s son REALLY wanted them to get married. Val and Brad’s kids were the driving force behind them deciding to get married, and they were SO excited when that day finally arrived.
Set against the charming backdrop of the Hotel Baker in St. Charles along the Fox River, Val and Brad’s wedding day was nothing short of perfect. Our friend Elyse of Two Sisters Events served as day-of coordinator to make sure everything went smoothly and created the most GORGEOUS bouquets and arrangements for the wedding. Val looked absolutely STUNNING in her form-fitting gown from Crystal Bride. It was such a sweet moment when her daughters helped her into her wedding dress!
Congratulations, Val and Brad, we wish you and your beautiful family a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Val and Brad’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
VENUE
Hotel Baker
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORALS & DAY-OF COORDINATION
Two Sisters Events
Amanda and Zach’s Intimate Backyard Wedding
Amanda and Zach always wanted to have a small, intimate backyard wedding. When so many couples were forced to go in that direction because of Covid, these two embraced the opportunity to plan the wedding of their dreams…
Amanda and Zach always wanted to have a small, intimate backyard wedding. When so many couples were forced to go in that direction because of Covid, these two embraced the opportunity to plan the wedding of their dreams. Zach is a firefighter and Amanda is a nurse, celebrating these two essential workers like this was so perfect. They invited only their closest family and friends, and Conrad got to go along to photograph this beautiful day (his friend’s Mom is the groom’s Aunt and officiated the ceremony).
Zach’s Mom helped pull together all of the pretty details to transform Zach and Amanda’s backyard for their wedding day. Their yard was the perfect backdrop for their joyful ceremony, once Amanda and Zach were declared husband and wife there was a lot of clapping and hugging to go around!
After some photos and a champagne toast, Zach pulled his motorcycle into the backyard for photos (another perk of getting married at home!) From their yard Conrad took them to downtown Bloomingdale for some golden-hour portraits against the town’s quaint backdrop before they headed back for a relaxing dinner. It was the perfect day for this amazing couple!
Congratulations, Amanda and Zach, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Amanda and Zach’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
Brittany and Eric’s Beautiful Mistwood Golf Club Wedding
Brittany and Eric met in high school and have been inseparable ever since. They welcomed their adorable son Joe in 2019 and worked to plan their beautiful Mistwood Golf Club wedding all while raising a baby during the pandemic.
Brittany and Eric met in high school and have been inseparable ever since. They welcomed their adorable son Joe in 2019 and worked to plan their beautiful Mistwood Golf Club wedding all while raising a baby during the pandemic.
When the big day finally arrived, Brittany was so peaceful and beautiful as she got ready with her squad of supportive family and girlfriends. Brittany rocked Converse along with her gorgeous ivory lace Essense of Australia gown, we love a bride who prioritizes comfort for a long wedding day!!
After we arrived at Mistwood in Romeoville, Brittany and Eric shared a sweet First Look just outside the club. Little Joe came along to see his Mommy and Daddy all dressed up, it was the most adorable moment! We had the best time celebrating this amazing family along with all of their guests!
Congratulations, Brittany and Eric, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Brittany and Eric’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY // VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
WEDDING FLOWERS
Floral Events
WEDDING GOWN
Essense of Australia
BRIDAL SHOES
Converse
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
MENSWEAR
Calvin Klein
Anna and Zach’s Romantic Spring Wedding
Over the last year we have celebrated weddings on a more intimate scale than we once did. Covid forced brides and grooms to scale back and rethink their original celebrations, and as wedding photographers and videographers we had to change gears along with our couples.
Over the last year we have celebrated weddings on a more intimate scale than we once did. Covid forced brides and grooms to scale back and rethink their original celebrations, and as wedding photographers and videographers we had to change gears along with our couples. We first met Anna and Zach over Zoom (something I had never heard of in the early part of 2020) and were excited for the opportunity to celebrate their wedding in April 2021.
When Anna and Zach’s big day arrived, we were excited to see a big wedding party ready to celebrate this sweet couple. Their day was filled with memorable moments, but our favorites took place during their beautiful ceremony at St. Celestine church. Zach tried not once but TWICE to kiss his bride at the wrong moment during the ceremony, it was such a funny and sweet testament to how much he loves Anna. When the time finally came for them to kiss and they were pronounced husband and wife then the party began!!
After the ceremony Anna and Zach joined their wedding party for photos at the Monument Park in Rosemont for photos before we settled in at Allegra for a night of celebrating. Our good friend Ken of Amp Event Professionals created the perfect atmosphere for Anna and Zach’s wedding by going above and beyond (like he always does!) and surprised them with an amazing video tribute from their friends and family who couldn’t attend the reception. Then during the first dances Ken had prepared amazing audio of Anna and Zach talking about the love they have each other and their parents. It was really beautiful to watch everyone become so emotional during these special dances!
Congratulations, Anna and Zach, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY // VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DJ // PHOTO BOOTH
Amp Event Professionals
VENUE
Allegra Banquets
WEDDING DRESS
Reddington Bridal
FLORIST
Quashtoff’s Flowers
JEWELER
Oak Park Jewelers
LaNece and Ben’s Magical Micro Wedding
LaNece and Ben fell into the swirling chaos and uncertainty of 2020 like so many of our Something Blue couples. Their wedding was originally scheduled for June, but of course the pandemic had other plans.
LaNece and Ben fell into the swirling chaos and uncertainty of 2020 like so many of our Something Blue couples. Their wedding was originally scheduled for June, but of course the pandemic had other plans. They rescheduled for 2021 but decided that they couldn’t wait to get married. LaNece and Ben eventually settled on a small, intimate wedding planned for their 8th dating anniversary.
They chose a beautiful Airbnb in Wrigleyville for their wedding, an airy and modern brownstone with a gorgeous rooftop that made for the perfect ceremony backdrop. Apple Creek Flowers created stunning fall florals to help decorate the brownstone and made LaNece the most dramatic bouquet. LaNece pinned two meaningful charms to her bouquet - a “Something Blue” charm with a photo of her younger brother who passed away in 2014 and a “Something Old” charm handed down from her great-grandmother. The pin represented the goddess Athena and was worn on her great-grandmother’s uniform in the Women’s Army Corps.
I met LaNece at the brownstone, I was taking photos outside of her dress and details when she arrived with her mom. Her makeup looked flawless thanks to Maria of BeauteLuxe and her Hair by Carrieann was just perfect. After LaNece slipped into her gorgeous Madison James gown her mom helped her put on the finishing touches out front before the ceremony began.
LaNece’s grandpa built a lovely arch for their ceremony, and Ben nervously waited there for his bride to arrive. Their ceremony was filled with thoughtful and personal touches, thanks in large part to their officiant, Debra of Vista Events, who took great care to ensure that LaNece and Ben’s wedding was unforgettable. With their mothers and grandparents looking on LaNece and Ben finally became husband and wife, it was an honor to be a part of this beautiful day.
Congratulations, LaNece and Ben, you are so loved! We wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of LaNece and Ben’s beautiful micro wedding photos, click here
Stefanie and Paul’s Elegant Micro Wedding Ceremony
I have so much love for the Madison family, my dear friend Catherine is one of TWELVE siblings and it’s been an honor to get to know them over the years. Conrad and I loved being part of her sister Mary Jo’s wedding a couple years ago, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to photograph another Madison wedding this October when Stefanie married her little brother Paul in an intimate ceremony at St. James in Arlington Heights.
I have so much love for the Madison family, my dear friend Catherine is one of TWELVE siblings and it’s been an honor to get to know them over the years. Conrad and I loved being part of her sister Mary Jo’s wedding a couple years ago, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to photograph another Madison wedding this October when Stefanie married her little brother Paul in an intimate ceremony at St. James in Arlington Heights. Stefanie was the kindest and most beautiful bride, her laid-back demeanor perfectly suited the quiet and unassuming vibe of their micro wedding. I met her at her childhood home in Arlington Heights, took a few pictures while she finished getting ready before she slipped into her awesome Michael Kors white wedding jumpsuit. I secretly hope that jumpsuits become more of a thing for our 2021 brides!!
After Stefanie was ready we stepped outside for a few quick family photos. Stefanie’s childhood friend and neighbor was also planning her own pandemic micro wedding, and she stepped in for a quick hug and a couple pictures before we left for St. James. It was THE sweetest moment!!
When we arrived at St. James I loved catching up with some of the Madisons, with twelve children and many grandchildren their family made this micro wedding ceremony feel pretty big!! Paul had tears in his eyes as Stefanie walked down the aisle, and after they were pronounced husband and wife these two were beaming from ear to ear. After a few more pictures at the church we went to my neighbors stunning backyard to take advantage of the fall colors and a cozy bonfire, it was the perfect day!
Congratulations, Stefanie and Paul, thank you for inviting me to share in this beautiful day! I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stefanie and Paul’s gorgeous micro wedding photos, click here
Liz and Mike’s Classic Chicago Celebration
Liz and Mike, like so many of our 2020 Something Blue couples, had to dramatically reconsider their wedding plans in the wake of the coronavirus. They changed venues and landed on the truly gorgeous Kimpton Gray Chicago and Boleo. Their intimate micro wedding was as beautiful as we could have imagined, it was truly a gorgeous and unforgettable day!
We have always loved photographing weddings at the Kimpton Gray, the symmetrical marble staircase is a photographer’s dream for beautiful photo opportunities. As Liz got ready with her bridesmaids and mom, Mike hung out with his guys in the billiards room downstairs. Then the time arrived for Liz and Mike’s first look, and it was so joyful when they connected, from that moment the two of them didn’t take their eyes off one another for the rest of the day.
After some wedding party photos in the Kimpton Gray’s gorgeous lobby, we walked to the Chicago Board of Trade for some classic Chicago portraits. From there Conrad and I ventured with Liz and Mike to the Chicago Theatre and the riverfront together. One of our favorite parts of every wedding day is when we have time with the couple alone; in those quiet moments focused on the love shared between two people we find we make our most beautiful photographs.
When we returned Liz shared THE sweetest moment with her grandmother in her hotel room before walking down the aisle to marry her best friend. Liz and Mike’s emotional ceremony was officiated by our friend Brad Hughes of Love Story Weddings, and as always he created the perfect wedding ceremony for this couple. Once things were official, Liz and Mike relaxed and enjoyed cocktails and appetizers with their closest family and friends at Boleo, the stunning rooftop bar nestled inside the Kimpton Gray. Then they moved onto dinner and toasts with a stop at their gorgeous cake adorned with hand-made sugar flowers from Alliance Bakery. The room looked amazing thanks in part to the florals and day-of coordination by Anthony Gowder Designs. And after the meal we returned to Boleo for an evening of (socially-distant) dancing and drinks, it was truly the most perfect and unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Liz and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Liz and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Nicole and Jesse’s Beautiful Micro Wedding
Nicole and Jesse had grand plans for their wedding celebration, but like so many were forced to scale back and reconsider when the pandemic settled in. They shifted gears and decided to celebrate in their front yard, and it truly was the sweetest and most intimate ceremony.
Conrad loved working with this laid-back in love couple when he shot their engagement photos last fall, and was so excited to see them again on their wedding day. In their kindness, they trusted Conrad to lead them to Wildwood Nature Center to take their wedding photos. Wildwood happens to be across the street from where Nicole went to elementary school! After their sweet first look at home with their adorable dog, Nicole and Jesse were up for anything as they adventured off the path at Wildwood to get the perfect shots. Punctuated by their beautiful florals created by Romance in Blooms this was THE perfect backdrop for their wedding photos!
After finishing at Wildwood Nature Center they returned to their home for an emotional wedding ceremony in their front yard. There wasn’t a dry eye present as Nicole and Jesse exchanged their vows in front of their (socially distant) guests. It was a beautiful day that Conrad was so thankful to be a part of.
Congratulations, Nicole and Jesse, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Nicole and Jesse’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
Sara and Pat’s Sweet and Simple Backyard Wedding
Sara and Pat hosted an intimate micro wedding in his parents’ backyard that was truly perfect - from their emotional first look to the surprise drive-by wedding parade through their cul-de-sac to a magical sparkler exit we loved being a part of this beautiful day!
Sara and Pat chose to turn their large wedding plans into a sweet and simple celebration in his parents’ backyard. Over the summer they bought their first home together across the street, so celebrating their wedding in the same cul-de-sac made perfect sense. They only invited immediate family and their closest friends, and it was truly the most perfect and beautiful day.
Sara looked radiant as she got ready along with her bridesmaids at her sister-in-law’s beautiful home. When we arrived at Pat’s mom’s house he was anxious for his first look with Sara, and they were both surprised to see him cry when he saw his bride. It was a rainy afternoon but we managed to squeeze in some beautiful bridal portraits before their ceremony. Under the little white tent, Sara and Pat exchanged vows in the most emotional and beautiful ceremony officiated by the amazing Melissa Wall. Melissa filled the ceremony with personal stories and meaningful moments, we all thought that she was close friends with Sara and Pat, I would absolutely recommend her to ANYONE looking for a caring officiant!
After the ceremony ended we heard honking coming from the street, when we ran to the front of the house we saw dozens of cars parading by to wish Sara and Pat well on their wedding day!! Joyful Covid parades have to be one of the best things to come out of 2020, right?! It was so sweet to see their friends and family drive by with signs, balloons and cards all while honking and cheering for the newlyweds.
Congratulations, Sara and Pat, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sara and Pat’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Caitlin and Griffin’s Moving Makray Wedding
Caitlin and Griffin planned their dream wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club well before the craziness of 2020 settled in. As their wedding day drew closer they knew they would have to limit their guest list to 50 people to stay within the acceptable range of events held in Illinois.
Caitlin and Griffin planned their dream wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club well before the craziness of 2020 settled in. As their wedding day drew closer they knew they would have to limit their guest list to 50 people to stay within the acceptable range of events held in Illinois. Being both very laid back and chill people, Caitlin and Griffin were able to scale back their celebration but still have a wedding that was completely centered on the love they share.
Choosing to follow tradition Caitlin and Griffin waited until their ceremony to see each other. But Caitlin did get in a sweet moment with her Dad when he saw his little girl for the first time as a bride. It was so moving when they saw each other, and just as sweet then when Caitlin’s Dad walked her down the long aisle to Griffin. After their emotional ceremony Caitlin and Griffin let loose toasting a beer together before heading out on the golf course for photos with just the two of them. They loved that time they had together, just exploring and being present in the first moments after they officially became husband and wife. This was a beautiful day that we were so thankful to be a part of.
Congratulations, Caitlin and Griffin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Caitlin and Griffin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
Jessica and Matt’s Beautiful Backyard Wedding
In the turmoil of 2020, Jessica and Matt decided an intimate backyard wedding suited them perfectly. They invited only their closest friends and family to their adorable new home in Barrington for the perfect outdoor celebration.
In the turmoil of 2020, Jessica and Matt decided that an intimate wedding suited them perfectly when faced with the decision to change their big plans. They recently bought a beautiful new home in Barrington and transformed their backyard for the most beautiful celebration over Labor Day weekend. Every pretty detail looked amazing, Jessica made everything look so beautiful (with help from the amazing florists at Aberdeen’s). But what really made this the perfect backyard wedding was the LOVE between these two. Jessica and Matt were clearly made for each other. They light up when they are near each other, and after their romantic ceremony (that her brother hilariously officiated) these two couldn’t keep their eyes off each other. It was such a joy to be part of this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Jessica and Matt, you are SO loved! I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jessica and Matt’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here