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
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
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
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
Natalie & Joe’s Romantic Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week . . .
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week there she needed to contact IT and met Joe. They got to know each other slowly through work and found that they connected on a lot of levels. Soon they were talking through their work breaks and having long conversations that they didn’t want to end.
When I first met Natalie and Joe I was struck by how connected and in-love they are. They drove separately to our Studio and met with a sweet smooch in our parking lot before Joe opened the door for Natalie. They held each other close throughout that first meeting and I was beyond excited to be a part of their wedding celebration! I loved getting to know Natalie and Joe better at their beautiful golden hour engagement session at Cantigny Park earlier this Summer. Conrad and I were both so happy to be there to celebrate their wedding in August at Chevy Chase Country Club!
Natalie looked radiant with her gorgeous red hair down (perfectly styled by the talented team at Every Kind of Beautiful) and her stunning drop-shoulder lace gown from Genevieve’s Bridal Couture. From the moment that Natalie and Joe saw each other at their First Look they didn’t take their eyes off each other for the rest of the day. It was a perfect day, we loved every moment and only wish we could do it all over again.
Congratulations, Natalie and Joe, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Joe’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
Imagination Designers
FLORIST
Blossom Me Up
HAIR & MAKEUP
Every Kind of Beautiful
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING DRESS
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Kaylee & Matt’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends . . .
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends at the festival. Kaylee and Matt had a blast together that day and decided to go together the next day even though their friends weren’t going. They talked nonstop for the next several weeks and were dating shortly after that. Throughout college, Kaylee and Matt dated long-distance and went to see each other whenever possible on weekends. Matt proposed to Kaylee at a lookout tower on a walk that had long been one of their favorites, and the rest is history!
Conrad loved getting to know Kaylee and Matt during their beautiful engagement session in Long Grove last winter. Conrad and Lindsay were both so excited to celebrate Kaylee and Matt’s wedding with them at one of our favorite venues, Chevy Chase Country Club. It was a beautiful (but windy!) day filled with sweet moments. One of our favorites was getting to know Kaylee’s grandfather a bit, he came up to Lindsay at the church to talk about how proud he is of Kaylee. He told Lindsay that he had retired to help babysit Kaylee and her siblings; then later at the reception Kaylee had a special dance with her grandfather and cousins, it was so sweet. Kaylee rocked tennis shoes all day to keep comfy and Matt joined her later at Chevy Chase with comfy kicks of his own, we love a couple who embraces their unique style at their wedding! All in all it was the perfect day, we are so happy that we could be a part of it!
Congratulations, Kaylee and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaylee and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Northwest Weddings
FLORIST
Sylvia’s Flowers
HAIR & MAKEUP
Rachel Esczuk
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
BRIDAL GOWN
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
WEDDING RINGS
Monson Jewelers
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Revelry
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Emily and Nick’s Gorgeous Makray Memorial Wedding
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but she’s FUN to be around and made our jobs easy. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but beyond that she’s FUN to be around. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection, they are naturally so caring and their affection for one another made their wedding day feel so enjoyable for me and Conrad. We knew from when Conrad got to know Emily and Nick at their pretty Winter engagement session in Long Grove that theirs was going to be an unforgettable wedding!
Emily and Nick bonded over video games early in their relationship and we saw glimmers of that early connection during their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club – it was pretty epic to hear video game music as the bride walked down the aisle! Emily floated down the aisle on her Dad’s arm – they have a special connection that we loved seeing throughout the day. Her Dad sung “Forever Young” and played guitar during the reception as his “toast,” it was so touching and beautiful. As dinner was served we took Emily and Nick outside on the 18th hole for some “sunset photos,” after practicing their first dance Emily joyfully ran back toward the building to get back to their reception. We love this adventurous and spirited couple and are so thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of their wedding day!
Congratulations, Emily and Nick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emily and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Summit Street Blooms
HAIR & MAKEUP
AW Artistry
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
Jamie & Patrick’s Perfect Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. . .
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. Patrick wanted to ask Jamie out but didn't want to ruin the friendship they had built. In August 2020, Jamie left to go to a new district to teach 3rd grade. Even though they were no longer working together, Jamie and Patrick remained close and soon he asked her to spend time together “just the two of us.”
Starting to date during Covid forced Jamie and Patrick (along with SO many of our Something Blue couples!) to be creative with how they spent time together. They went on many adventures that included walks and drive through Christmas lights. In April 2022 Patrick took Jamie on a scavenger hunt. Jamie's mom picked her up and gave her the first clue. Each clue was a memory from their relationship (first place we met, first date location, first kiss location, first place they said I love you). At each location was a friend of family member to give the next clue to Jamie. The final clue led to the picnic spot were they met after Jamie got a new job. When they left that day we thought we would never see each other again. So when Patrick proposed at this location, he shared that the last time they were there there they left thinking they wouldn't see each other again and when they left today they would leave being together forever.
Conrad first spent time with Jamie and Patrick at their engagement session at the beautiful Heritage Prairie Farm (our favorite venue!!) He loved spending time with these two, they share such a deep bond and are both filled with kindness and humility. As they explored the farm together they also got in plenty of time with local celebrity Carl (otherwise known as @badkittycarl) Conrad LOVES Carl (everyone’s favorite wedding crasher at Heritage Prairie Farm) but Patrick isn’t as sold on him – this bad kitty definitely jumped up onto Patrick during their engagement session! He then also proceeded to fully crash their wedding ceremony by wandering up and down the aisle during their vows looking for pets 😹
Jamie and Patrick’s wedding day could not have been more perfect. When we arrived, everyone was In great spirits – Jamie and her friends were relaxing together in the farmhouse as they finished hair and makeup, and Patrick and his buddies had a lot of fun opening their custom Cubs’ jerseys and beer bats (such an epic gift for the groomsmen!) When the time came for Jamie and Patrick to see one another they did their First Look right outside the farmhouse before sharing private vows with one another. We really love when couples choose to do this, it’s a beautiful and intimate moment and always clears the air for FUN for the rest of the day! Jamie and Patrick both shed tears when sharing with each other, it was an honor to be present in that moment.
After getting some photos with their (very fun!) wedding party, we moved under the tree out back for their ceremony. Guests sipped cold fresh lemonade and relaxed under paper parasols while Jamie and Patrick were pronounced husband and wife, and then the celebration could truly begin! We had the best time with Jamie and Patrick and their loved ones, it was a perfect day!
Congratulations, Jamie and Patrick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jamie and Patrick’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
VIDEOGRAPHER
I Do Video by Leo
WEDDING CAKE
Deerfield’s Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
R.C. Wahl Jewelers
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
Clare & Christian’s Unforgettable Rolling Green Wedding
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. . .
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. The date went well but Clare decided Christian was "too young" for her (he is 3 years younger). So she quickly “friendzoned” him thinking that the pandemic came at a great time (i.e. she wouldn't run into him). But Clare was sneaky and kept Christian in her back pocket. During the pandemic, she Snapchatted him almost every day and followed him on Instagram. Christian thought "what is this girl doing?". July had arrived and Clare asked Christian if he wanted to play on her beach volleyball team (since she didn't know a lot of other people who played volleyball in the city). The 2 of them started playing outdoor volleyball during the summer of 2020 and the flame of love was rekindled. After 2 weeks of late night post-volleyball Taco Bell runs and a couple of dates here and there, they officially started dating on August 15, 2020 when Christian asked Clare to be his girlfriend amidst the backdrop of a Lake Michigan sunset. After almost 2 years of dating, they were ready to commit their lives to each other officially before God. Christian wanted to surprise Clare with the proposal but she was ALWAYS looking out for it. For some reason she didn't suspect that he would propose to her in her hometown in Ohio, which worked out well for Christian. On May 30, 2022, with the help of Clare's siblings, Christian surprised Clare at Dawes Arboretum by getting down on one knee on a little bridge in the garden and asking her to be his wife. Clare's whole family was waiting for them at a winery nearby and they finished the night by playing a little pickup volleyball at Clare's brother's house, coming full circle. It was a beautiful day.
We knew that Clare and Christian shared a special bond after our first Zoom call with them. When their wedding day arrived, it was the perfect June weather to celebrate their love at our hometown country club Rolling Green. Clare was radiant thanks to the glam squad from Hairs 2 The Bride, and when she slipped into her gorgeous Martin Thornburg gown (with an epic overskirt!) Clare was beaming for the rest of the day.
When we arrived at Rolling Green the guys were having a great time getting ready in the clubhouse, but it wasn’t hard to pull Christian away for his “First Look” with his beautiful bride. Christian’s reaction to seeing Clare was so sweet, he loves her deeply and was by her side for the rest of the day. After some fun wedding party photos on the course it was time for Clare and Christian to exchange their wedding vows in front of their closest friends and family. They included a moving foot washing ceremony to display their commitment to one another and their love for Jesus. It was a beautiful and moving ceremony punctuated by newlywed bliss once they were pronounced husband and wife!
Following the ceremony Clare and Christian mingled with their guests and danced to some amazing live music (including Star Wars adaptions!) The energy was buzzing with joy throughout Clare and Christian’s reception, and once the dance floor opened the party didn’t stop. As the sun started to set we stole Clare and Christian away for a few golden hour photos of the newlyweds before saying goodbye, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Clare and Christian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Clare and Christian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Rolling Green Country Club
FLORIST
Town and Country Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hairs 2 The Bride
WEDDING GOWN
Martin Thornburg
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Annabella’s Chicago
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
David’s Bridal
MENSWEAR
Suit Shop
BRIDAL SHOES
Kailee P
Stacy & Nick’s Emotional Chevy Chase Wedding
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her . . .
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her in quiet simple ways. He would give up his seat and offer treats to Stacy, and once Duncan was born Nick continued to help Stacy as their friendship grew stronger. They became best friends and eventually started dating,
Stacy, Nick and Duncan all love playing board games together, in fact, Nick proposed to Stacy using a Boggle board with “willyoumarryme” hidden in the puzzle! Conrad loved getting to know Stacy, Nick and Duncan at their engagement session last Fall, this little family is beyond sweet together. When their wedding day finally arrived their playfulness and love for Duncan were on display through all the little details at Chevy Chase Country Club.
After Stacy got dressed she did the sweetest “first look” with Duncan, his response to seeing his Mom as a bride was beyond adorable. Once Stacy saw Nick the tears really started to flow, there were happy tears from both the bride and groom throughout the day. Nick wrote separate vows for Duncan that he shared during their ceremony, it was so beautiful and touching. After the ceremony Duncan asked Stacy and Nick why they were both crying so much, they had to explain that they were crying because they were just so happy.
Through it all it was just the most beautiful and emotional day, we were overjoyed to be there to celebrate with these three!
Congratulations, Stacy and Nick (and Duncan!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stacy and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
A Perfect Petal
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST
Appease Inc.
WEDDING RINGS
C.D. Peacock
WEDDING GOWN
Ashley and Justin Bride
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Brides by Young
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Calvin Klein
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
Megan & Mike’s Beautiful Arbory Chicago Wedding
Megan and Mike met at The Map Room in Bucktown, fell in love and got engaged in Tuscany (!) two and a half years later. We first connected with Megan and Mike after her cousin Casey’s wedding last summer . . .
Megan and Mike met at The Map Room in Bucktown, fell in love and got engaged in Tuscany (!) two and a half years later. We first connected with Megan and Mike after her cousin Casey’s wedding last summer, we were excited to reconnect with this sweet family this year!
Megan was glowing on her wedding day, she looked stunning – Megan is naturally gorgeous, but the team at Tamara Hair and Makeup did an amazing job (as always!) getting the girls ready for the big day. Once Megan was dressed in her beautiful Calla Blanche gown we made our way to the back alley at Trivoli Tavern for Megan and Mike’s first look. Mike’s reaction to seeing his bride was really sweet, he couldn’t take his eyes off her for the rest of the day!
After their first look we connected with the rest of the wedding party on the trolley and made our way to Olive Park for wedding party photos. It was a beautiful sunny day and we loved spending time with this fun group!! After taking plenty of pretty skyline pics we journeyed to the Wrigley Building for more wedding party photos (and some gorgeous shots of Megan in her veil) before setting in at The Arbory for the ceremony and reception. This was our first time shooting at The Arbory and we were completely blown away, we can’t wait to go back to this beautiful venue! We were blown away by the gorgeous florals by Stems Chicago, the hanging arch that they created for Megan and Mike’s ceremony was something we will never forget. The day-of coordination team at Vrinspirations made sure that every detail was carefully executed, it was the perfect day!
Congratulations, Megan and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Megan and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
The Arbory
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Vrinspirations
WEDDING FLORIST
Stems Chicago
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tamara Hair and Makeup
WEDDING GOWN
Calla Blanche
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Mira Couture
BRIDAL SHOES
Nina Neya
WEDDING RINGS
Norridge Jewelers
MENSWEAR
Suit Supply
Sharon & Jon’s Romantic Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Sharon and Jon’s love story started over eight years ago in San Jose, California. They met the year after graduating from college when they worked at the same elementary school for the education program “City Year”. . .
Sharon and Jon’s love story started over eight years ago in San Jose, California. They met the year after graduating from college when they worked at the same elementary school for the education program “City Year”. They got to know each other really well during the long hours working together and bonded over similar upbringings, shared values, and their dreams for the future. This eventually led Sharon and Jon to start dating and new adventures together.
Even early on Sharon and Jon knew what they had was special. Before their year in California was up they were in love. Sharon then made the big decision to move to the East Coast just to be with Jon, and they started a life together in New York City. They quickly realized life in the Big Apple wasn't for them, so they moved to Jon's hometown of Princeton, New Jersey. They then spent three wonderful years in Princeton which included many great times with Jon's family.
In 2017, they moved to Sharon's hometown Chicago (it's not truly her hometown since she's from the north suburbs, but everyone from the suburbs says it is) for Sharon to get her Masters in Special Education and for Jon to go to law school. Over our five years in Chicago, they built a beautiful life together. They both received our graduate degrees and began their careers. When they got engaged in January 2021 it felt like the most natural, obvious next step in their relationship.
When I met Sharon and Jon for their engagement session in Lincoln Park I was struck by how kind they are and how comfortable it was to spend time with them. I had such a lovely time with them on that sunny summer day in the city! Conrad and I had the best time celebrating these two on their wedding day at one of our favorite venues, we are so thankful for the opportunity to know Sharon and Jon and to have been part of their wedding day!
Congratulations, Sharon and Jon, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sharon and Jon’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Blue Daisy Floral Design
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Chyla
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven
Meredith and Okoye’s Romantic New Year’s Eve Wedding
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye . . .
I vividly remember the first picture I ever took of Meredith and Okoye. I was photographing the cocktail hour at her friend Catherine’s wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club and snapped this quick picture of Meredith and her boyfriend Okoye:
After I shot this I joked that they needed to call me when they got engaged. We got to know Meredith and Okoye over the years through mutual friends, and they kindly once modeled for a special styled shoot we did at Room 1520 in 2018. When Okoye popped the question last summer I was SO excited when Meredith reached out to ask if I would photograph their wedding!!
Meredith and Okoye chose the beautiful Hyatt Lodge in Oakbrook for their New Year’s Eve wedding. When we arrived it was SO great to reconnect with Meredith and her bridesmaids, anyone would envy this incredibly supportive girl-squad! I absolutely LOVED their reactions when they saw their gorgeous friend as a bride! First looks will always have a special place in our hearts, and the moment when Okoye saw Meredith on their wedding day was so incredibly sweet. After some quick (and chilly!) pictures outside of the Hyatt Lodge we traveled to Visitation Parish in Elmhurst for their traditional and emotional ceremony.
After making things official then the party kicked off, I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than celebrating a wedding with friends!! We settled back in at the Hyatt Lodge for a night of delicious food, drinks and dancing, it was the perfect night!
Congratulations, Meredith and Okoye, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Meredith and Okoye’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHER
Vanilla Video
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Danielle Kolb Events
VENUE
Hyatt Lodge Oakbrook Chicago
FLORALS
Pesche’s
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Pin Me Up Chicago
WEDDING GOWN
Van Der Velde
WEDDING SHOES
Loeffler Randall
WEDDING RINGS
Ed Schmelzle & Sons
WEDDING CAKE
Creative Cakes
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Hayley Paige
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo Elmhurst
Kaitlin & John’s Elegant Fall Concorde Wedding
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history . . .
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history!
Through the trials of life Kaitlin and John have been each other’s rocks. John supported Kaitlin during her father’s illness and eventual passing. That steadfast support was on full display on their wedding day at the beautiful Concorde Banquets in Kildeer. John was so excited to see Kaitlin – their “first look” was so sweet. And in spite of seeing his bride before their ceremony John still teared up when Kaitlin walked down the aisle with her Mom. After their emotional ceremony Kaitlin and John snuck outside together for some portraits and quiet moments together as husband and wife. It was a perfect day that we were honored to be a part of.
Congratulations, Kaitlin and John, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaitlin and John’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Brides by Young
Hair & Makeup
Elisa Artistry LLC
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Kate Whitcomb
Menswear
Jim's Formalwear
Florist
Twigs and Blooms
Wedding Rings
Bremer Jewelry
Desserts
Central Continental Bakery
DJ
Amp Event Professionals - Joe Fortuna
Videographer
Buller Media
Eileen & Darryl’s Beautiful Eaglewood Resort Wedding
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together . . .
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them downtown over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together. But I will never forget how Darryl looked at Eileen that day. He was SO sweetly excited any time I asked him to kiss his fiancée, his face lit up in those photos and it was really just the best thing.
We always meet with our couples about a month before their wedding day to go over their timelines and final details. When Eileen and Darryl came to the studio in September they shared the most amazing news with us – they are expecting a baby this Spring! Darryl was absolutely beaming with pride.
On their wedding day Darryl had THE sweetest reaction to seeing Eileen walk down the aisle. Then for the rest of the day he couldn’t keep his eyes off his beautiful wife. After we took our “goodnight photo” at Eaglewood Resort and hugged them goodbye Darryl thanked us for all the times we made him kiss Eileen that day! :) It was the perfect day, we loved celebrating with this adorable couple and can’t wait to meet Baby Bell!!
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Congratulations, Eileen and Darryl, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Eileen and Darryl’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Diana's Bridal - Skokie
Hair
Rhea Policarpio Etherheal Beauty Phone
Bridesmaid Dresses
Revelry
Florist
Karen - The Flower Studio
Wedding Rings
Ray from New Design Jewelry
Desserts
Oat Mill Bakery
Patrice & Kevin’s Gorgeous Cafe Brauer Chicago Wedding
Patrice and Kevin’s relationship was built upon a strong foundation of friendship. They first met in high school and loved spending time together with mutual friends. But it wasn’t long before they realized that there was something more . . .
Patrice and Kevin’s relationship was built upon a strong foundation of friendship. They first met in high school and loved spending time together with mutual friends. But it wasn’t long before they realized that there was something more there and that friendship blossomed into a beautiful relationship.
I met Patrice years ago at a shoot for a group of realtors. She immediately struck me as incredibly beautiful but also unassuming and kind-hearted. I was honored when she reached out after getting engaged to ask me to photograph her wedding.
After waiting a bit longer than expected thanks to Covid, we were all so excited when Patrice and Kevin’s wedding day arrived. We met Patrice and her bridesmaids at the beautiful Gold Coast Salon downtown where they were glammed up by the sweetest team of hair and makeup artists. From there we went to the stunning St. James Chapel on Rush, our absolute favorite church for a traditional ceremony in Chicago. After Patrice put on her gorgeous Haley Paige gown she had the sweetest “first look” moments with her niece and Dad before walking down the aisle to marry Kevin. Kevin was so sweet when he saw Patrice for the first time as a bride and he could not take his eyes off of her for the rest of the day!
Following their beautiful ceremony we went to some of our favorite spots in the city for photos. First we stopped at the Wrigley Building for wedding party photos before heading on the trolley to North Avenue Beach. As we got close to the lake and set up for a full wedding party picture a flock of geese took off flying TOO close to everyone’s heads, it was an absolutely hilarious moment!
We finished photos and settled in at the absolutely stunning Cafe Brauer at the Lincoln Park Zoo. It was a dream to shoot there, the space looked absolutely perfect thanks to the help and guidance of the amazing Michelle of NORA Events Chicago. After a delicious meal and some hilarious toasts the guests were treated to a rocking performance by Rod Tuffcurls and the Benchpress that had EVERYONE dancing. It was truly the perfect wedding, a day we won’t soon forget.
Congratulations, Patrice and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Patrice and Kevin’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue
Wedding Dress
Hayley Paige from Bella Bianca
Hair & Makeup
Ina Evtimov
Wedding Shoes
Jimmy Choo
Florist
Vale of Enna
Kaitlyn & Mark’s Emotional Westin Chicago Northwest Wedding
Kaitlyn and Mark walked a long but beautiful road to reach their wedding day. They started dating when they were still teens but always knew they would end up together. . .
Kaitlyn and Mark walked a long but beautiful road to reach their wedding day. They started dating when they were still teens but always knew they would end up together forever.
Sadly Kaitlyn’s Dad passed away from cancer when she was in elementary school, a loss that shaped her decision to pursue a career in the medical field. Her father’s presence was deeply felt throughout her wedding day. Kaitlyn, her Mom and her sister all wore matching bracelets to remember him, and there were touching tributes for her Dad at both the ceremony and reception.
Rain forced Kaitlyn and Mark’s Westin Chicago Northwest ceremony inside but it was still so incredibly beautiful. Mark’s reaction to watching Kaitlyn walk down the aisle was one of the sweetest we have ever seen. Mark’s Dad officiated the ceremony; once they said “I do” then the celebration really began!
After fighting the rain outside we took some fun photos in the lobby at the Westin. One of our favorite moments of the day was when Kaitlyn and Mark rode up and down the lobby elevator for an epic photo moment, they were happily dancing and kissing inside that elevator to cheers from below.
The tent at the Westin looked breathtaking thanks to Kaitlyn’s vision for the room, it was beautiful with all of the gold and burgundy details. After dinner Kaitlyn surprised her family with a special first dance with her Grandpa. He had always been a father-figure for Kaitlyn and was beaming with pride as he danced with his granddaughter. Kaitlyn had found her Grandma’s gold wedding shoes and slipped them on for that dance with her Grandpa. Her sweet gesture had the entire room in tears when her Grandma realized that Kaitlyn was wearing those shoes. It was the most emotional and beautiful day, we were so honored to be a part of it.
Congratulations, Kaitlyn and Mark, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaitlyn and Mark’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Videographer
Jay From With Love Productions
Wedding Dress
Stella York from Dianas bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses
Bill levkoff
Wedding Shoes
David's Bridal
Menswear
Mens Wearhouse
Florist
Town and Country Gardens
Wedding Rings
Jared's
Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery
April & Chris’ Beautiful Beverly Country Club Wedding
April and Chris met in 2014 through mutual friends and immediately hit it off. They say “opposites attract” and that is true for these two, but they are perfect for each other. She fell in love with his selflessness and loving personality . . .
April and Chris met in 2014 through mutual friends and immediately hit it off. They say “opposites attract” and that is true for these two, but they are perfect for each other. She fell in love with his selflessness and loving personality for those he cares about most. He fell in love with her sense of humor, easy going attitude and patience.
Last year I met April and Chris at Graue Mill for the perfect Fall engagement session. I had so much fun with these two and was really excited to celebrate their wedding this year! Ashley, Conrad and I all first went to April’s parents’ house for getting ready photos and thought that April looked absolutely stunning in her Essense of Australia wedding gown. After a sweet “first look” with her Dad we made the short trip to her childhood church for their wedding ceremony.
April and Chris were married at St. Christina Parish where many couples from April’s family have also celebrated their weddings, including her parents. In fact, April’s Uncle presided over their beautiful traditional ceremony! After they became husband and wife we were treated to THE most organized extended family photos ever, they had point-people ready with lists to make sure everyone knew just where to be! They made our jobs so easy!! But our favorite moment at the church was catching some photos of April and Chris in the beautiful glow of St. Christina’s stained glass windows, the rainbow light playing off of April’s veil was so incredibly beautiful.
After the ceremony we traveled to Lake Catherine for wedding party photos, what an amazing location! We would love to go back to Lake Catherine again, it really was the perfect backdrop for all of our group photos along with some quiet and beautiful moments with the newlyweds. From there we settled in at the Beverly Country Club for an unforgettable celebration.
Chris and April spent time mingling with their guests during cocktail hour, but we had to sneak them out onto the course for THE most gorgeous sunset we have ever seen. Conrad got some hilarious video footage of Chris’ famous “Lieutenant Dan” wave while we were on the course, April always cracks up when he does that!
The reception room at the Beverly smelled SO good thanks to the amazing donut wall created by Donut Dudes Chicago. Honestly I have never been so tempted by a dessert at a wedding! Once April and Chris were introduced they were treated to several emotional and hilarious toasts before settling into a delicious dinner. As the party continued guests were treated to a surprise performance by the Bagpipes and Drums of the Emerald Society of the Chicago Police Department. Everyone loved hearing their celebratory performance, it was the perfect ending to the perfect night!
Congratulations, April and Chris, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of April and Chris’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue
Wedding Dress
Essence of Australia from Something Blue Bridal Boutique
Hair
Mary Schleyer
Makeup
Becky Quijano
Bridesmaid Dresses
Bill Levkoff
Menswear
Men’s Warehouse
Florist
Redberry Floral
Desserts
Creative Cakes
DJ
Don’t Stop the Music Entertainment
Wedding Coordinator
Pam Lohman
Emily & Mark’s Perfect Rolling Green Country Club Wedding
Emily and Mark met at a wedding in 2016 (on the shuttle to the after party to be more precise). The bus driver wouldn't move because Mark was standing in the aisle so Emily offered her lap for him to sit. They then talked the rest of the night . . .
Emily and Mark met at a wedding in 2016 (on the shuttle to the after party to be more precise). The bus driver wouldn't move because Mark was standing in the aisle so Emily offered her lap for him to sit. They then talked the rest of the night and the rest is history.
When we met up with Emily and her bridesmaids at the hotel for getting ready photos, we knew we were in for a treat. The girls were all SO laid back and fun, we laughed and laughed as Emily put on her gorgeous Jenny Yoo gown. Emily rocked a pair of white Birks on her wedding day and gifted her groom with his own new pair, one of the many things these two share in common!
Emily arrived at Rolling Green Country Club and saw Mark right away, their First Look was so sweet. As we explored the grounds throughout the day it was clear how much Mark loves Emily, he honestly couldn’t take his eyes off her. After their emotional ceremony we settled in for a beautiful reception inside the club. And then Emily and Mark treated their guest so THE most delicious tacos ever for a late-night snack, it was the perfect ending to the perfect day!
Congratulations, Emily and Mark, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emily and Mark’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
SomethingSomething Blue PhotographyBlue Photography
Wedding Dress
Jenny Yoo from BHLDN
Hair
Emily Lauf
Makeup
Alyssa Lynn
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Birkenstock
Menswear
Suit Shop
Florist
Joanna From Donna’’s Garden Flower Shop
Desserts
Lovin Oven
DJ
T&R ProductT&R Productionsons
Wedding Coordinator
Nicki Padilla-Mack
Videographer
Something Blue Photography
Annette & Rocco’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Wedding
Annette and Rocco met on an online dating app and as they were talking she thought she recognized him from SOMEWHERE but could not pinpoint where. They later found out that Rocco was the brother of Annette's . . .
Annette and Rocco met on an online dating app and as they were talking she thought she recognized him from SOMEWHERE but could not pinpoint where. They later found out that Rocco was the brother of Annette's college best-friends ex-boyfriend and the brother of her other best friend. Got that??! They ended up dating for about 2 months before Rocco asked Annette to be officially be his girlfriend on Valentine's day, and the rest is history. Almost 5 years later Rocco finally proposed to Annette at a family trip in Disney World on New Years Eve. They went to take pictures in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom and as she turned to look at him to walk away he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.
After a Covid reschedule we were all so happy when Annette and Rocco’s wedding day finally arrived. Surrounded by lots of family and good friends in their wedding party, we celebrated with lots of shots and cheers throughout the day. Rocco couldn’t take his eyes off his beautiful bride, it was so sweet to see them both so happy together. After their emotional ceremony the party kicked off in the Grand Ballroom at Chevy Chase Country Club. They treated their guests to a gelato cart, walking tacos, and pizza as the dance floor continued to celebrate the newlyweds. It was the perfect day and we were honored to be a part of it!
Congratulations, Annette and Rocco, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Annette and Rocco’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Brides By Young
Hair & Makeup
Jaycie Ganek
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Kate Spade Keds
Menswear
Mens Warehouse - Vera Wang
Florist
Blue Daisy
Wedding Rings
Kay Jewelers, Neil Lane
Desserts
Lovin' Oven
Videographer
Vivid Visual