Laura and Kyle’s Chic Elements at Water Street Wedding
Laura and Kyle have been together since 2018 and have navigated highs and lows throughout their relationship. Kyle proposed to Laura under the Christmas tree outside of Hotel Indigo in downtown Naperville on the Riverwalk, so it was only fitting that we celebrated their wedding there the following fall . . .
Laura and Kyle have been together since 2018 and have navigated highs and lows throughout their relationship. Kyle proposed to Laura under the Christmas tree outside of Hotel Indigo in downtown Naperville on the Riverwalk, so it was only fitting that we celebrated their wedding there the following fall.
When we arrived at the Hotel Indigo we were SO happy to reunite with Laura’s two beautiful sisters-in-law, Liz and Jen. We photographed Liz’s wedding last fall and have had the opportunity to photograph Jen’s family several times over the years. These women are all just so strong and beautiful, it was just like reuniting with old friends to see everyone again at Laura and Kyle’s wedding!
Laura looked absolutely FLAWLESS and Kyle was so sweetly emotional when he saw his bride at their “first look.” It was a blustery November day so we explored the hotel for a while for photos before braving the elements (pun intended!) to take a few outside at the Riverwalk. After we were all blasted with wind, cold and a tiny bit of precipitation we made the short drive to the ceremony.
As soon as we arrived at St. Raphael’s in Naperville Laura put her veil on and had the sweetest moments with her Grandma. Their Catholic wedding ceremony was filled with beautiful traditions, and after their first kiss as husband and wife we all felt such a sense of elation!
We ended up back at the beautiful Elements at Water Street for an epic party to celebrate the newlyweds. The room looked gorgeous and everyone was so happy, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Laura and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Laura and Kyle’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Maggie Sottero from Here Comes the Bride
Hair & Makeup
Hannah Elizabeth
Bridesmaid Dresses
Sorella Vita
Menswear
Custom by Joseph Abboud
Florist
Floral Events
Wedding Rings
Roth Brothers
Desserts
DeEtta's Bakery
Wedding Coordinator
Jody Langbauer
Kaitlin & John’s Elegant Fall Concorde Wedding
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history . . .
Kaitlin and John met at work, it took about a year before they realized they were interested in each other. She took a leap of faith and asked him to join her at an event – he said yes and the rest is history!
Through the trials of life Kaitlin and John have been each other’s rocks. John supported Kaitlin during her father’s illness and eventual passing. That steadfast support was on full display on their wedding day at the beautiful Concorde Banquets in Kildeer. John was so excited to see Kaitlin – their “first look” was so sweet. And in spite of seeing his bride before their ceremony John still teared up when Kaitlin walked down the aisle with her Mom. After their emotional ceremony Kaitlin and John snuck outside together for some portraits and quiet moments together as husband and wife. It was a perfect day that we were honored to be a part of.
Congratulations, Kaitlin and John, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaitlin and John’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Brides by Young
Hair & Makeup
Elisa Artistry LLC
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Kate Whitcomb
Menswear
Jim's Formalwear
Florist
Twigs and Blooms
Wedding Rings
Bremer Jewelry
Desserts
Central Continental Bakery
DJ
Amp Event Professionals - Joe Fortuna
Videographer
Buller Media
Eileen & Darryl’s Beautiful Eaglewood Resort Wedding
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together . . .
Eileen and Darryl are so incredibly sweet together. When I met them downtown over the summer for their engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Conservatory we had the best time laughing and exploring together. But I will never forget how Darryl looked at Eileen that day. He was SO sweetly excited any time I asked him to kiss his fiancée, his face lit up in those photos and it was really just the best thing.
We always meet with our couples about a month before their wedding day to go over their timelines and final details. When Eileen and Darryl came to the studio in September they shared the most amazing news with us – they are expecting a baby this Spring! Darryl was absolutely beaming with pride.
On their wedding day Darryl had THE sweetest reaction to seeing Eileen walk down the aisle. Then for the rest of the day he couldn’t keep his eyes off his beautiful wife. After we took our “goodnight photo” at Eaglewood Resort and hugged them goodbye Darryl thanked us for all the times we made him kiss Eileen that day! :) It was the perfect day, we loved celebrating with this adorable couple and can’t wait to meet Baby Bell!!
.
Congratulations, Eileen and Darryl, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Eileen and Darryl’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography & Videography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Diana's Bridal - Skokie
Hair
Rhea Policarpio Etherheal Beauty Phone
Bridesmaid Dresses
Revelry
Florist
Karen - The Flower Studio
Wedding Rings
Ray from New Design Jewelry
Desserts
Oat Mill Bakery
Nicolle and Billy’s Elegant Chicago Engagement Session
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area . . .
Billy proposed to Nicolle at the rooftop bar at London House overlooking the Chicago Riverwalk. It was only fitting that we circled back and did their elegant engagement session in that same area. We first met at Union Station and explored that area together while getting to know each other better. From there we made a quick stop at the gorgeous Chicago Board of Trade before settling in at the Riverwalk. After first meeting on Zoom it was such fun to get to know Nicolle and Billy better during their engagement session, I can’t wait to celebrate their New Year’s Eve wedding with them next year!!
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
Alicia and Aaron’s Perfect Micro Wedding
Alicia and Aaron are both essential workers who met while working on the same floor at Amita Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora. As they worked together they grew closer and found they had a lot in common, and soon those shared experiences blossomed into love. . .
Alicia and Aaron are both essential workers who met while working on the same floor at Amita Health Mercy Medical Center in Aurora. As they worked together they grew closer and found they had a lot in common, and soon those shared experiences blossomed into love. When the pandemic hit their jobs shifted but they were still working in the same hospital. And when they decided to get married they both felt that a small wedding would suit them quite nicely.
I was honored to be asked to photograph Alicia and Aaron’s micro wedding at the Batavia Riverwalk on the Fox River. It was an absolutely GORGEOUS fall day, the weather could not have been more perfect for this wonderful couple. After exchanging their vows over the water Alicia and Aaron shared their first dance as husband and wife in front of their closest family and friends. We explored the Riverwalk a bit for photos before heading for a quick photo op at their hospital. Afterwards we settled in at the Turf Room in Aurora. It was the most intimate and beautiful celebration, I was so thankful to be a part of it.
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
Taylor & Alex’s Gorgeous Chevy Chase Wedding Reception
Taylor and Alex originally planned to get married in August of 2020, but Covid had other plans for their lives. Not wanting to wait that long, Taylor and Alex exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony last summer . . .
We were first introduced to Taylor and Alex by our good friend Ken from Amp Event Professionals. Taylor is Ken’s sister in law and has a heart of gold. Taylor and Alex originally planned to get married in August of 2020, but Covid had other plans for their lives. Not wanting to wait that long, Taylor and Alex exchanged their vows in an intimate ceremony last summer with their closest family and friends in attendance. It was one of my favorite Covid weddings, there was so much emotion and beauty in that courtyard ceremony at Taylor’s home church.
Ashley and I were so excited when it was finally time for Taylor and Alex to properly celebrate their marriage this October at Chevy Chase Country Club. It was unseasonably hot for October 1st and Taylor struggled a bit in the heat, but after we got her cooled down the rest of their day was really perfect. We loved celebrating with Taylor and Alex and their loved ones, and at the end of the night we toasted to their lives together with their adorable and delicious home-brewed beer! It was a perfect night with the perfect couple, we wish we could photograph Taylor and Alex every year!
Congratulations, Taylor and Alex, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Taylor and Alex’s beautiful wedding reception photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Stella York
Hair
Every Kind of Beautiful in Lake Zurich Dawn McKee
Makeup
Every Kind of Beautiful in Lake Zurich Anna Milanzi
Bridesmaid Dresses
Wedding Shoes
Menswear
Men's Wearhouse
Florist
Blooming Flowers
Wedding Rings
Neil Lane
Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery
Wedding Coordinator
Kimberly Merwin
Videographer
Tom Munaco
Sarah and Dean’s Long-Awaited Makray Wedding Reception
Sarah and Dean met at the University of Illinois (her parents and sister also fell in love at U of I, and, fun fact, I met my husband there too!) Their original wedding date was scheduled for 4/18/2020, making Sarah and Dean one of our first “Covid couples”. . .
Sarah and Dean met at the University of Illinois (her parents and sister also fell in love at U of I, and, fun fact, I met my husband there too!) Their original wedding date was scheduled for 4/18/2020, making Sarah and Dean one of our first “Covid couples.” In the end, When the Shelter in Place order was issued, Sarah and Dean moved their Spring ‘20 Makray Memorial Golf Club wedding to December – at the time we all assumed that we would be in the clear by then. Well, of course the pandemic had other plans for all of us. As things became more complicated Sarah and Dean decided to get married at Holy Family in Inverness and celebrate a very small micro wedding in her parents’ backyard. They then rescheduled their Makray reception for September 11, 2021.
After riding the emotional roller coaster of planning and replanning their wedding, Sarah and Dean were very ready to FINALLY celebrate with their friends and family this fall. We were happy to see Sarah and Dean (and their immediate families) again, and it was so great to finally meet all of their friends and family! Following a beautiful vow renewal ceremony at Holy Family we to Makray for pictures and their long-awaited celebration. There were plenty of nods to the U of I throughout the day – the navy bridesmaids’ dresses with orange sprinkled throughout their beautiful bouquets, an emotional rendition of the Alma Mater during dinner, and of course, masks with the U of I logo on them. It was a perfect day and one we won’t soon forget.
Congratulations, Sarah and Dean, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sarah and Dean’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
The Flower Studio
BRIDAL GOWN
Enchanting by Mon Cheri
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
All About the Gown
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
David’s Bridal
Jess & James’ Gorgeous Independence Grove Wedding
Jess and James met on the first day of their Freshman year at Stevenson High School. They were introduced by a mutual friend while riding the bus to school – little did they know that bus ride was the beginning of an epic journey. . .
Jess and James met on the first day of their Freshman year at Stevenson High School. They were introduced by a mutual friend while riding the bus to school – little did they know that bus ride was the beginning of an epic journey. Over the next several years, they maintained their friendship and were completely oblivious to the signs of compatibility between them. Friends pointed out the chemistry often, but James and Jess always insisted they were just close friends.
That all changed their senior year of high school. They officially began dating, much to the excitement of their families and close friends, and attended their senior Prom together. They were eager to begin their futures at Texas Christian University and Indiana University for college, but were unsure of what that meant for their newfound relationship.
Thousands of video calls, visits when possible, phone calls, love letters, care packages, and text messages later... college graduation was upon them. James had accepted an offer in Mansfield, Texas and Jess had accepted an offer in Chicago. They were not thrilled about the ongoing long distance, but they were confident they would find the best solution together.
After 8 months of being apart, Jess quit her job, packed up her belongings, and drove to Texas to move in with James. Since moving in together, their journey together has blossomed and grown in ways they could not have imagined. Conrad was on hand to photograph James’ romantic and snowy proposal to Jess, she was completely surprised by the thoughtful moment that he had planned for her.
They got married on the hottest day of the summer, but it was the most perfect day to celebrate their love. After their “first look” Jess and James exchanged private vows (our FAVORITE wedding “trend”). James showed Jess that he carries a picture of her from when she was little, it was the sweetest moment. From that emotional first look to their ceremony (officiated by our friend Brad of Love Story Weddings) to their amazing Independence Grove reception this was a wedding we won’t forget.
Congratulations, Jess and James, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jess and James’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Patsy's
Hair
Kennedy
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazi
Wedding Shoes
Keds
Menswear
The Black Tux
Florist
Polly's Petals
Wedding Rings
Rahl Jeweler
Desserts
Oak Mill Bakery
Videographer
Something Blue Photography
Tessa & Piotr’s Emotional Seven Bridges Golf Club Wedding
Tessa and Piotr first met the day they moved into Simpson Hall at Loyola University Chicago in 2007. They were friends for a few months until Piotr came to a family friend's wedding with Tessa as his “plus one.” They have been together ever since, dating since they were 18 and navigating a lot of life together – starting their careers, Piotr’s med school residency, and losing loved ones – and through it all they always knew that they would be together forever.
When their wedding day came, Tessa was missing her Mom who sadly passed away in 2014. Surrounded by the love of her bridesmaids she got ready and included some beautiful mementos so that she would feel her Mom’s presence on her wedding day. This green ring Tessa wore was made with some of her Mom’s ashes; her heart locket and bouquet charm (a thoughtful gift from her maid of honor) both held pictures of her Mom.
The weather on their wedding day was iffy and we spent a lot of time checking the radar throughout the day. It was drizzling when the time came for Tessa to first see her Dad and then Piotr, but we managed to do their first looks on the covered back patio of Seven Bridges. Golf Club. Tessa’s Dad was so emotional when he saw his daughter as a bride, and told her that the weather was very much like the weather had been when he married her Mom. There were just so many emotions throughout the day but I will always remember hearing this beautiful conversation.
After their First Look, Tessa and Piotr quietly exchanged private vows at their ceremony site. This was such a beautiful moment. We love when couples choose to exchange private vows, it’s always so meaningful and emotional. Throughout the day the rain came and went, it even rained through the sunshine during the ceremony! But nothing could dampen the joy and love that Tessa and Piotr share; this day was a perfect and beautiful celebration of their lives together.
Congratulations, Tessa and Piotr, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Tessa and Piotr’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Oleg Cassini
Hair
Kim Piech
Makeup
Andriana from Michael D Anthony's Salon
Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal
Wedding Shoes
Nina Shoes
Menswear
Men's Wearhouse
Florist
Shamrock Florist Lombard
Wedding Rings
Clean Origin-Tessa's engagement & wedding band
Desserts
DeEtta's Bakery
Reception Coordinator
Roisin Daly
Videographer
Something Blue Photography
Danielle & Peter’s Pretty River Forest Country Club Wedding
Danielle and Peter met their sophomore year at Illinois State University; their roommates were dating and this friendship quickly blossomed into something more. They went ice skating on their first date; years later when Peter wanted to propose . . .
Danielle and Peter met their sophomore year at Illinois State University; their roommates were dating and this friendship quickly blossomed into something more. They went ice skating on their first date; years later when Peter wanted to propose he invited Danielle to go ice skating with him again but she turned down the invitation, leaving poor Peter to wait another week to pop the question!
I loved getting to know Danielle and Peter (and their adorable dog Archie) at their engagement session in Lincoln Park last summer. They are just so kind and relatable, and clearly made for one another.
On their wedding day, Danielle got ready with her bridesmaids at her childhood home. As a surprise, the girls all wrote sweet notes on the bottom of Danielle’s bridal shoes, loving words to carry her through her wedding day. Danielle’s Dad walked her down the block to St. Raymond’s for their traditional Catholic ceremony. After they were pronounced husband and wife Danielle and Peter exited to rousing cheers from their family and friends and were greeted outside by Archie, the goodest boy who was SO happy for his Mom and Dad!
When we arrived at River Forest Country Club everyone was ready to celebrate the newlyweds! After a delicious meal EVERYONE got up and danced along with the amazing Wedding Banned, honestly THE best wedding band EVER! It was a perfect night for the perfect couple, we were so happy to be a part of this wedding!
Congratulations, Danielle and Peter, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Danielle and Peter’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
David's Bridal
Hair & Makeup
Jack Alexander Hair Salon & Spa
Bridesmaid Dresses
David's Bridal
Wedding Shoes
David's Bridal
Menswear
Mens Wearhouse: Vera Wang
Florist
Laura LaTragna (Family Friend)
Wedding Rings
Mary Tuttle (Grooms Mom)
Desserts
River Forest Country Club
Reception Coordinator
Marsela Dine
Jaleesa and Josh’s Intimate Courthouse Celebration
We first met Jalessa and Josh at another Something Blue wedding earlier this summer, when Conrad got the call to meet these two at the courthouse to photograph their wedding he was thrilled…
We first met Jalessa and Josh at Michelle and Eric’s Marriott Lincolnshire wedding earlier this summer. When Conrad got the call to photograph this sweet couple at their intimate courthouse wedding in Sycamore, IL he was SO excited to celebrate with them! After a quiet but emotional ceremony in the courthouse Jaleesa and Josh met their friends outside for some pictures, it was really just the perfect morning!!
Margaret & Kyle’s Beautiful Backyard Wedding
Margaret and Kyle both grew up in St. Charles and met in high school. They became friends and had high school crushes on each other (they had their first kiss in the basement of their friend’s parent’s house!) but never dated. . .
Margaret and Kyle both grew up in St. Charles and met in high school. They became friends and had high school crushes on each other (they had their first kiss in the basement of their friend’s parent’s house!) but never dated. They stayed close throughout college and started officially started dating after they both graduated. Since then they have had many adventures together – they love traveling (taking trips to US National Parks, Mexico, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Canada, etc.), hiking, camping, Halloween parties and hanging with their friends and family!
As the pandemic wore on Margaret and Kyle decided to get married in front of their very closest friends and family in Margaret’s picturesque backyard on the Fox River. Their backyard wedding was intimate and beautiful thanks to lots of hard work leading up to the big day; both of their Dads put in a lot of hours to help make Margaret’s backyard look perfect (and poison ivy free!) Margaret created the bouquets herself with flowers from Costco and their friends pitched in to help set up everything before the ceremony.
When we arrived at Margaret’s one thing was very very clear – this couple is surrounded by love and joy. Their friends and family made this wedding one that we won’t forget. We can’t wait for their big celebration next summer at Salvage One, if it’s anything like this intimate gathering we know it will be an absolutely perfect event!
Congratulations, Margaret and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Margaret and Kyle’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Hair
Jenni Lutz
Wedding Shoes
Express
Florist
Costco
Wedding Rings
Ethan Lord
Desserts
Costco
Jenny & Steve’s Gorgeous Heritage Prairie Farm Summer Wedding
Jenny and Steve first met in 7th grade gym class. She told him he looked like a Ken doll, he asked her to a movie (she stood him up). Their paths didn’t cross again until 2018 . . .
Jenny and Steve met in 7th grade gym class. Jenny said Steve looked like a Ken doll. He invited her to a movie and she stood him up, and their paths didn’t cross again until 2018 when Jenny followed Steve on Instagram. Within hours Steve sent Jenny a DM, asked her out a few days later, and the rest is history.
We had THE most amazing time at Jenny and Steve’s wedding. Heritage Prairie Farm is our new FAVORITE venue, it’s absolutely perfect there. From the quaint separate bride and grooms cottages for getting ready photos to the gorgeous grounds to the absolutely DELICIOUS food (Jenny and Steve are vegan, and their vegan wedding dinner was quite possibly the BEST wedding food we have ever tasted!) this unforgettable wedding will always be one of our favorites. We truly loved celebrating this awesome couple at this gorgeous venue.
Congratulations, Jenny and Steve, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jenny and Steve’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography + Videography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Watters Seeley by BHLDN
Bridesmaid Dresses
Jenny Yoo
Menswear
Joseph Abboud
Wedding Shoes
Essex Lane
Florist
Blooming Flowers
Wedding Rings
Ancona Jewelers
Desserts
Chef Brett from Heritage Prairie Farm
Krista & Blake’s Romantic Arrowhead Golf Club Wedding
We first met Blake as he was preparing to propose to Krista. He planned the perfect moment for when he got down on one knee at the Naperville Riverwalk. Of course she said yes. . .
We first met Blake as he was preparing to propose to Krista. He planned the perfect moment for when he got down on one knee at the Naperville Riverwalk. Of course she said yes, it was so incredibly sweet to be there celebrating their proposal along with the people who love Krista and Blake the most!
Conrad shot Krista and Blake’s proposal and was so excited to see them again for their Busse Woods engagement session. They happened to be there as a big bouncy house event was going on and Conrad took some super fun pictures of them bouncing together to finish their shoot! We loved seeing that some of those happy bouncing pictures ended up on Krista and Blake’s Change the Date card, talk about making the best of a difficult situation!
When their wedding day finally arrived, Krista looked radiant in her beautiful gown from Here Comes the Bride. She did the sweetest first look with her grandfather before heading out to see Blake before their ceremony. After their first look, Krista and Blake’s Australian Shepherds Odin and Wally arrived in their coordinating doggy tuxes, they were totally the highlight of the day! Odin and Wally were such good boys in their little tuxedos, posing and smiling and having the best time celebrating their Mom and Dad’s wedding. It was the perfect day for the perfect couple, we were so happy to be there!
Congratulations, Krista and Blake, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Krista and Blake’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Here Comes the Bride
Wedding Shoes
Steve Madden
Kristal & Chris’ Lovely Kemper Lakes Wedding
Kristal and Chris met online, and after one amazing first date they have been together ever since! Their shared love of traveling took them to Turks and Caicos before the pandemic hit, where Chris proposed…
Kristal and Chris met online, and after one amazing first date they have been together ever since! Their shared love of traveling took them to Turks and Caicos before the pandemic hit, where Chris proposed to Kristal at night on a private beach (swoon!)
I loved getting to know this sweet couple at their winter engagement session downtown at the Museum Campus. They are kind and genuine and share a beautiful love for one another.
We were so excited to celebrate Kristal and Chris’ wedding day at Kemper Lakes Golf Club. From Kristal’s sweet first look both with her Dad and her groom to their emotional lakeside ceremony to their romantic first dance it was truly the perfect day.
Congratulations, Kristal and Chris, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kristal and Chris’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
Photography
Something Blue Photography
Wedding Dress
Davids Bridal
Hair
Kathryn Wereminksi from Forbici Salon
Bridesmaid Dresses
Azazie
Wedding Shoes
Betsey Johnson
Menswear
Men’s Warehouse
Florist
Jau-Ling Chou
Wedding Rings
Reuven Gitter
Desserts
Lovin Oven Cakery
Wedding Coordinator
Eugenia from Bring The Party Events