Jamie and Patrick’s Romantic Heritage Prairie Farm Engagement Session
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who love to spend quiet time together (having been a High School teacher in my 20s I can most certainly understand that!) So it was perfect for them to . . .
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who love to spend quiet time together (having been a High School teacher in my 20s I can most certainly understand that!) So it was perfect for them to do their engagement session on a peaceful Monday evening at their wedding venue. If you know us well you know we LOVE Heritage Prairie Farm, we could shoot weddings here every weekend and truly be happy. In fact, we are heading to the farm this Thursday for their annual Friendsgiving Farm Dinner! Conrad loved exploring the farm with Jamie and Patrick and getting to know them better – they cuddled and giggled and had such a great time together. And they even got to snuggle the farm’s resident kitty Carl (nothing makes Conrad happier than a good kitty snuggle!) We love these two and are so excited to celebrate their wedding at Heritage Prairie Farm next summer!
Here are some of our favorites from Jamie and Patrick’s romantic engagement session, to see their full gallery click here
Rebecca & Matt’s Perfect Hyatt Lodge Wedding
We have had a really beautiful and wonderful year for weddings, all of our Something Blue couples have been amazing throughout 2022. But looking back, one wedding really stands out as being just perfect. When we arrived at Rebecca’s suite . . .
We have had a really beautiful and wonderful year for weddings, all of our Something Blue couples have been amazing throughout 2022. But looking back, one wedding really stands out as being just perfect. When we arrived at Rebecca’s suite at The Hyatt Lodge in Oakbrook she was SO welcoming and joyful, her radiant positive energy made it so so easy for us to do our jobs. Rebecca was literally jumping for joy on her hotel bed while waiting to put on her absolutely STUNNING wedding dress, that’s the kind of bridal energy we can get on board with! Side note – we are pretty sure we heard a “crack” while doing bed-jumping photos with the girls AND the guys at this wedding, sending apologies along to the Hyatt Lodge!! We were smiling ear to ear before the day really even began, and it didn’t stop until we said goodnight to these amazing newlyweds.
Conrad was lucky enough to photograph Rebecca and Matt’s engagement session downtown last Fall. While Rebecca and Matt’s love was on full display during their engagement session, their adorable corgi Elsa sort of stole the show and was the real star that day. Spoiler alert, Elsa came along and also stole the show on Rebecca and Matt’s wedding day. Scroll all the way to the cocktail hour photos to see THE world’s cutest and best doggie ever! Looking back at these photos and moments from Rebecca and Matt’s wedding fills us with so much joy, if we could photograph this day over and over again we would. We love these two (three if you count Elsa!) and wish them a lifetime of happy and joyful days together!
Congratulations, Rebecca and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Rebecca and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Hyatt Lodge
FLORIST
Phillips Flowers
CAKE
Creative Cakes
Mackenzie & Killian’s Picture Perfect Chevy Chase Wedding
Mackenzie and Killian met in 7th grade, she was the first person to welcome him to his new school. They went to high school together but didn’t talk much as they had different friend groups and interests. During college, they reconnected . . .
Mackenzie and Killian met in 7th grade, she was the first person to welcome him to his new school. They went to high school together but didn’t talk much as they had different friend groups and interests. During college, they reconnected via Facebook while Killian was stationed in the Navy in Japan. After talking via video chat for a few months, Killian relocated back to the States and Mackenzie flew to meet up with him in person. They knew they had found something special and continued their long distance relationship for the next year. Mackenzie moved to New Jersey to be with Killian in 2020 during the pandemic. In May of 2021, one day after her birthday, Killian got down on one knee and proposed at the beach on Jersey Shore. Mackenzie’s mom was visiting from Illinois and was able to celebrate and witness the whole thing.
After first meeting over Zoom during the height of Covid, I was so happy to meet Mackenzie and Killian in person for their engagement session at Independence Grove early this Summer. I had a great time getting to know them that afternoon and was so excited to celebrate their wedding at Chevy Chase in August! Mackenzie looked beautiful and was so happy, Killian is more reserved but was clearly having a great time with his groomsmen as we took photos out on the course together. It was a beautiful day topped by a gorgeous sunset, we are always thankful for the opportunity to photograph weddings at Chevy Chase!
Congratulations, Mackenzie and Killian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Mackenzie and Killian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOTGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Sylvia's Amling's Flowers
HAIR & MAKUP
Beaute Luxe
Corinne & Jason’s Pretty St. James and Makray Wedding
Corinne and Jason met at karaoke night in Cincinnati, and while it took a while for their spark to ignite they found love and welcomed their daughter earlier this year. Jason and his brothers grew up playing golf at Makray Memorial Golf Club, which made it the perfect place to celebrate their marriage this summer. Conrad and Lindsay were happy to be there for this beautiful day! Following their traditional ceremony at St. James they made their way to Makray for photos before the reception. Jason managed to convince our friend Charlie (the head groundskeeper at Makray) to let them drive golf carts to his parents’ home that backs up to the course. After photos everyone moved upstairs for the party – the reception space was decorated to reflect Corinne and Jason’s love of travel, with the highlight being the beautiful cake made by the talented team at Lovin Oven. Jason’s last name is Mickey, so the newlyweds walked into their reception wearing mouse ears, it was so cute! It was a joy to be part of this beautiful day!
Congratulations, Corinne and Jason, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Corinne and Jason’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Sylvia's
MAKE-UP
Kate Johnson Artistry
Sarah & Gilberto’s Romantic Farmhouse Wedding
Sarah and Gilbert met while working together, but didn't exactly like each other at first. Out of the blue they started talking about traveling and their friendship took off. Gilbert introduced Sarah to a new world . . .
Sarah and Gilbert met while working together, but didn't exactly like each other at first. Out of the blue they started talking about traveling and their friendship took off. Gilbert introduced Sarah to a new world of different cuisines. He makes her laugh and challenges her every day. Gilbert fell in love with the size of Sarah’s heart and caring ways. He loves that she can bring out his cheesy and playful side.
Gilbert planned a proposal along with Sarah’s family; Sarah had dinner with her sister while Gilbert and her family set up the scene in their backyard. He definitely took her by surprise, Sarah only though it was weird that Gilbert had been cleaning the house every day during the week prior!
I was excited to meet Sarah and Gilbert in person at their engagement session, even though it was VERY cold that day!! Sarah’s Mom came along to help with their adorable dog Clifford (who cutely rocked an “I Do Too” bandana). I think we finished their session in under a half-hour and were completely frozen by the. time we were done! But Sarah and Gilberto’s love kept them warm, it was clear how deeply they care for each other.
On their wedding day, Ashley and I were really happy to shoot at the beautiful Farmhouse in Plainfield. It was the perfect venue for Sarah and Gilberto’s romantic day! Sarah had THE most amazing girl-squad hyping her throughout the day – we laughed and laughed with these bridesmaids while they slayed in their sexy rust dresses all while helping Sarah and keeping her laughing all day. And Gilberto’s crew of groomsmen was equally awesome, we were obsessed with the character mugs that he gave them as a token of his appreciation for their friendship. We see a lot of wedding parties but this group will always stand out to us – loyal and faithful friends who truly loved and supported the bride and groom AND made it fun and easy to do our jobs throughout the wedding! It was the perfect day, we were so thankful to be a part of it!
Congratulations, Sarah and Gilberto, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sarah and Gilberto’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
The Farmhouse
HAIR & MAKEUP
Kate K Beauty
WEDDING DRESS
Essense of Australia
Sharon & Ed’s Timeless Venuti’s Wedding
Sharon and Ed met the old fashioned way – over the internet – in an age when online dating has become the norm. I feel old saying that when we first started photographing . . .
Sharon and Ed met the old fashioned way – over the internet – in an age when online dating has become the norm. I feel old saying that when we first started photographing weddings it was unusual for our couples to have met online. But now, after shooting for over ten years, it’s more often than not that we learn our couples met through an online dating service. Life has a funny way of working itself out in ways you would never expect.
Sharon and Ed are absolutely perfect for each other. Their love is inspiring, being with them on their wedding day was such a joy. They love each other madly and deeply and with abandon. It was a joy for us to be a part of this timeless celebration.
Congratulations, Sharon and Ed, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sharon and Ed’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Venuti’s Banquets
DJ
The Total Package - Parker Greenlund
CAKE
Baking Institute
RINGS
Exquisite Jewelers
Lisa & Gavin’s Joyous Ravinia Green Country Club Wedding
Lisa and Gavin met through mutual friends who told them both over text that the knew someone for the other. Lisa wrote this sweet account of their relationship: “Gavin was described as being . . .
Lisa and Gavin met through mutual friends who told them both over text that the knew someone for the other. Lisa wrote this sweet account of their relationship:
“Gavin was described as being a sports fan (Reds, Colts, Pacers, Purdue), liking music, going to concerts, rescuing a golden mix doggie, being an actuary but fun, tall, and loving to play board games. Lisa replied she could handle a Reds fan even though the Cubs are better, he should be okay with her singing in the car even if the words are wrong the notes are always in tune, she can handle walking a dog, she prefers the Cubs, Bears, Bulls, and Illini but will be polite to other teams, has a big family and will likely choose fun over an extra shift as a Rush ICU nurse. Gavin promised he was only 80% as charming on the phone compared to text messages and so they met. Over the next 3 years they enjoyed meeting each other’s family and friends, going to games, concerts, botanic gardens, and adventures with Luke Pup. Dating through a pandemic added a new challenge to the 137 mile commute between Bloomington Illinois and Wrigleyville Chicago Illinois. In January 2021 Gavin took a new job with CNA after 21 years at State Farm and they bought a house they love in Palatine, Illinois. Gavin had a great plan for a proposal, but due to an accident the day before, Lisa was not going to be able to trek Starved Rock with a straight leg brace and crutches, even though she still wanted to go. Gavin turned out to be a great home nurse and once Lisa was up and walking he took her back to her beloved Wrigleyville for dinner. They went to the first place they went to for dinner in the city, Uncommon Ground, on a Saturday night. Gavin asked her if she could walk to Wrigley Field and Lisa took off on her crutches. It was a beautiful night out, no game; which made for a private proposal, and thankfully no names on the giant scoreboard!”
Conrad loved getting to know Lisa and Gavin at their engagement session last winter and was excited to photograph their wedding with Christy. They both have connections to Lisa and Gavin’s friends and family – Christy’s Dad sings in their church choir with Lisa while Conrad has connections from his childhood youth group. Once Lisa and Gavin’s wedding was over it was clear from seeing their pictures and hearing Conrad and Christy talk that this was a joyous day. After their beautiful and traditional ceremony at St. Edna Catholic Church Lisa and Gavin were showered in dried flowers as their happily exited the church (Gavin’s facial expression was hilarious!) Lisa then sweetly pinned a grape soda bottle cap onto Gavin’s lapel to reference “Up,” one of their favorite movies.
When they arrived at Ravinia Green Country Club everything was set for a perfect evening. The reception room looked so pretty and they were treated to the most amazing sunset, it was the perfect happy day!
Congratulations, Lisa and Gavin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Lisa and Gavin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
RECEPTION VENUE
Ravinia Green Country Club
FLOWERS
Joseph’s Florist
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven Cakery
Bianca & Jacob’s Glamorous Belvedere Events Wedding
Bianca and Jacob met during their freshman year at the University of Iowa where they became friends. Throughout the years they lost contact and reconnected during senior year when Jacob sent Bianca a picture of Lou Malnati’s pizza . . .
Bianca and Jacob met during their freshman year at the University of Iowa where they became friends. Throughout the years they lost contact and reconnected during senior year when Jacob sent Bianca a picture of pizza. Who would have thought that a picture of Lou Malnati’s pizza would have brought these two together? From that moment on Jacob and Bianca formed an instant connection. Soon after graduation, Jacob moved to Denver, Colorado for work and Bianca began graduate school in Charleson, Illinois. However, the distance did not stop them from pursuing their relationship. The long distance helped them grow stronger individually and together. They talked daily and were each other's support system throughout difficult and stressful times.
Jacob decided to move home to be closer to Bianca and the chemistry they established while being long distance would continue to flourish being closer together. At this point Bianca and Jacob were able to see how seamlessly they fit into each other's lives. The only downside was that they lived an hour away from each other and he would be called “the weekend boyfriend” to her family. As COVID began Bianca and Jacob were able to spend more time together and started to discuss and visualize a future together. COVID was an extremely difficult time for everyone, however, it helped to accelerate Bianca and Jacob’s relationship. From going on walks, exploring hobbies together, experiencing new things, and learning Italian they both recognized that their love was one that would last a lifetime. After three and a half years of dating, Jacob gathered their families on the beach in Miami and proposed. Bianca said yes even before Jacob asked to marry her.
I loved getting to know Bianca and Jacob at their engagement session last year. They are down to earth and fun to be around, and their love for one another is palpable. When their wedding day arrived we met Bianca’s family and friends at her parents’ beautiful home before heading to the gorgeous Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet. Jacob was so sweetly emotional when he read a letter from Bianca before their ceremony, and he cried when his stunning bride walked down the aisle. We loved spending time with these two throughout their wedding day, they are so kind and easy to be with. It was the perfect day and one that we wish we could relive over and over again.
Congratulations, Bianca and Jacob, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Bianca and Jacob’s wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
CHURCH
St. Raymond Nonnatus
RECEPTION VENUE
Belvedere Events & Banquets
FLOWERS
Blooming Flowers
MAKEUP
Makeup by Jaycie
Vicki & Brien’s Intimate Wednesday Wedding
We met Vicki years ago when she married her first husband, for all the love stories we share here sadly not all of them end in happily ever after. As we heard about the trauma that Vicki endured in that relationship . . .
We met Vicki years ago when she married her first husband, for all the love stories we share here sadly not all of them end in happily ever after. As we heard about the trauma that Vicki endured in that relationship we longed for her to find love again. We were overjoyed to hear that she found her soulmate in Brien and would be getting married again. When Vicki asked me and Conrad to come out on a Wednesday evening to photograph their traditional wedding ceremony at the beautiful Church of St. Patrick in Wadsworth we were honored to be there. It was the most peaceful and love-filled evening, the perfect start to new love and a lifetime of happiness together.
Congratulations, Vicki and Brien, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Vicki and Brien’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
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
Danielle & Dan’s Perfect Geneva National Wedding
Danielle and Dan knew each other in high school, but didn’t start dating until 15 years later when they matched on Bumble. They quickly fell in love and soon Dan knew he wanted to propose . . .
Danielle and Dan knew each other in high school, but didn’t start dating until 15 years later when they matched on Bumble. They quickly fell in love and soon Dan knew he wanted to propose – he chose to pop the question at Gianni’s Cafe in Palatine (one of their favorite date night spots), and after Danielle said “YES!” they met their friends at Tap House to celebrate.
When I first met Danielle and Dan over Zoom I was so comfortable talking with them, they are just so easy to talk to, easy to get along with. They have a way of making everyone feel like close friends. Conrad bonded with Danielle and Dan over their Palatine connection, it’s always fun when we get to know our neighbors!! When I got to meet Danielle and Dan in person for their engagement session it was just fun to take their pictures, they are very in love and very comfortable with one another. They brought along their adorable dog that night and we were treated to a perfect sunset.
Their wedding day was truly perfect, it was a joy for me and Conrad and Lindsay to drive to Lake Geneva to be a part of this celebration. We love shooting at Geneva National, it’s such a beautiful venue. Danielle looked radiant as she got ready with her girls, and when she saw her Dad I’m pretty sure everyone was crying. Her Dad was super emotional ALL day, he kept his sunglasses on to hide his tears.
After Danielle and Dan’s beautiful lakeside ceremony we moved inside for an epic party. Our good friends the Etters were there to celebrate (they are local influencers and huge advocates for Palatine, AND happen to be Danielle and Dan’s neighbors and close friends!) We were treated to another beautiful sunset, before dancing the night away to SODA’s amazing set. We snuck a few Jeni’s Ice Creams before heading back home, it was truly the most perfect day.
Congratulations, Danielle and Dan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Danielle and Dan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Style on Site
FLOWERS
Fabbrini's
Wedding Band
SODA
CAKE & DESSERTS
Gooseberries
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Haley & Dominic’s Fairytale Meridian Wedding
On May 3rd, 1997, Haley and Dominic stood up in a wedding as ring bearer and flower girl. The bride was Dominic’s cousin and Haley’s godmother. They walked down the aisle, danced, and played together the entire night . . .
In 1997, Haley and Dominic stood up in a wedding as ring bearer and flower girl. The bride was Dominic’s cousin and Haley’s godmother. They walked down the aisle, danced, and played together the entire night. After the wedding, Haley and Dominic never heard from one another again.
Fifteen years later, they both moved to the University of Illinois – they had opposite majors, lived in different dorms, and had no mutual friends. However, one month later, they met by happenstance at a bus stop outside of the dining hall. Immediately, Haley knew this boy looked familiar, while Dominic was clueless. As they rode the bus, they talked non-stop, but there was no mention of that wedding from their childhood until it dawned on Haley. She eagerly pulled out her phone and showed Dominic a picture of two adorable kids at the wedding. Dominic was amazed that the ring bearer “looked just like him”. While laughing hysterically, Haley explained that the kids in the picture were them, hence the uncanny resemblance. With his thoughts racing, Dominic did what any red-blooded 18-year-old college boy would do and frantically called his father to confirm that they were “definitely NOT related”. They talked into the night and before Dominic left, they exchanged numbers and promised to see each other again soon. After that night, Haley and Dominic were together constantly, and finally just before Thanksgiving 2012, they officially started dating.
Fast forward a decade and it was finally time for Haley and Dominic to celebrate their own wedding. We had the absolute best time with these two – from their pre-wedding meeting throughout their entire wedding day they kept us laughing, we love spending time with these two!! Dominic is hilarious, he would say “Burt Reynolds” when it was time to pose for a picture. And Haley is one of those uniquely beautiful people who is just bursting with joy. After their traditional wedding ceremony at St. Zachary (the same church where they met as children!) we recreated some of the hilariously awkward pictures from that wedding in 1997. Then we headed to Meridian Banquets for a beautiful reception, it was all just a perfect fairytale!!
Congratulations, Haley and Dominic, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Haley and Dominic’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
RECEPTION VENUE
Meridian Banquets
WEDDING DRESS
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
MENSWEAR
Vera Wang
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Hairs 2 the Bride
FLOWERS
Albert Belmonte
Megan & Matt’s Gorgeous Cantigny Wedding
Megan and Matt met in high school worked together at a restaurant. They reconnected their junior year of college and loved going to visit each other at their separate schools. Once they graduated they decided to move in together . . .
Megan and Matt met in high school worked together at a restaurant. They reconnected their junior year of college and loved going to visit each other at their separate schools. Once they graduated they decided to move in together and a couple of years later Matt proposed to Megan after a fun day of golfing on the 18th hole at Klein Creek.
Megan was carefree and joyful on their wedding day. She spent the day laughing, and after finishing photos she took her shoes off and went barefoot for the rest of the evening! It was so sweet watching Megan and Matt snuggle and smile with each other after their ceremony, they clearly love each other very much and had such a great time being together. When Conrad and Lindsay finished with their posed photos Matt yelled “LET’S GOOOOO” – he was so excited to go celebrate with his family and friends!
Megan surrounded herself with the best bridesmaids, the girls spent a lot of the day singing and celebrating. During their reception at the beautiful Cantigny Park, Megan’s sister gave a touching speech before the dance floor opened. It was the perfect night, we were so happy to have been a part of it!
Congratulations, Megan and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Megan and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Cantigny
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Sarah Tjaden
WEDDING BOUTIQUE
Gilded Rose Atelier
DESSERT
DeEtta's Bakery
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
Samantha & Brandon’s Romantic Independence Grove Wedding
Samantha and Brandon met when they were both attending Buffalo Grove High School. They both tried out for cheerleading and were put into the same group together. After a year of being friends, he asked her to go to homecoming with him . . .
Samantha and Brandon met when they were both attending Buffalo Grove High School (Conrad and Christy’s alma mater!) They both tried out for cheerleading and were put into the same group together. After a year of being friends, he asked her to go to homecoming with him. In 2019 they went on a trip together to Florida. Brandon planned a day spent doing their favorite things and at the end of the day before dinner he proposed!
On their wedding day, Christy and I had so much fun hanging out with Samantha and Brandon and their incredible friends. The guys had stocked up on little Nerf guns and were having tons of fun using them at the hotel before the ceremony. After a little bit of rain we drove to St. Mary’s church in Buffalo Grove, Samantha’s church since childhood. Samantha did a quick and adorable reveal with the groomsmen before the ceremony, it was so sweet to see how happy the guys all were to see her as a bride. When it was time for Samantha to walk down the aisle, Brandon wiped tears away as the “flower guys” preceded his beautiful bride.
It was a beautiful and emotional ceremony with two beautiful songs sung by Samantha’s Dad and her twin brother. After the ceremony we left for Independence Grove. The Nerf guns came back out when we explored the gorgeous grounds of Independence Grove taking photos of the wedding party. We were all laughing and laughing together, it was just the best being with this crew!! When the time came to settle into the beautiful Audubon Hall for dinner and dancing Samantha was excited for her kids’ meal, some delicious looking chicken tenders and fries!! The food at Independence Grove is always amazing BUT we have to admit those chicken tenders looked SOO good! We were treated to a stunning sunset over the water before the guests danced the night away, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Samantha and Brandon, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Samantha and Brandon’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLOWERS
Town and Country Gardens
DJ
Sounds Abound- Gary Hipperson
MAKE-UP
Hairs 2 the Bride
Casey & Brett’s Funky & Fun Providence Vineyard Wedding
Casey and Brett met in a nightclub when she saw him using sign language to talk with a friend. She had just started an ASL class and thought it would be fun to go talk to him and get some practice with her new sign language skills . . .
Casey and Brett met in a nightclub when she saw him using sign language to talk with a friend. She had just started an ASL class and thought it would be fun to go talk to him and get some practice with her new sign language skills. Needless to say they hit it off and found their love grew even though they had a long-distance relationship for a year and a half.
Sweets are important to this sweet couple, as is the city of Chicago. Conrad loved getting to know Casey and Brett at their downtown Chicago engagement session at Jojo’s Shake Bar last summer and was so excited to celebrate their wedding this year!
Casey (along with her bestie Leah, our friend from The Old Post Office who helped pull off the gorgeous Love is Essential wedding) put so much thought into planning the perfect wedding. Set against the stunning Providence Vineyard every fun and funky detail was on full display. Casey looked stunning with her hair down and accented by a gorgeous floral crown, while Brett’s fit was truly unforgettable, his floral jacket and beige slacks (and little man-braids!) will forever be one of our favorite groom looks!
From the moment that Casey and Brett shared a beautiful and emotional first look outside in the vineyard this wedding was simply filled with joy. Conrad and Lindsay loved being part of this fun and unique wedding! After taking photos everyone moved inside for the ceremony, everyone was tearing up when Casey and Brett shared their vows in sign language.
When the time came to celebrate at the reception, Casey and Brett’s love of sugary treats was on full display. Casey and Brett came in and kicked off the reception with a celebratory champagne toast, choosing fun over traditional. Our friend Ken of Amp Event Professionals helped to make the experience even more memorable for Brett by adding extra bass and using smoke cannons and dry ice during the reception to amplify the experience for Brett and his deaf friends. It was the most unforgettable and perfect day, we are so thankful to have been a part of it!
Congratulations, Casey and Brett, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Casey and Brett’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Providence Vineyard
DAY-OF COORDINATION
You Name It Events
FLORALS
Town and Country Gardens
HAIR
Kaedi Leamon
MAKEUP
Joey Claeyssen
VIDEOGRAPHER
Lauren Ashley Studios
Amanda & Marcus’ Joyful Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Amanda and Marcus we grew up 15 minutes apart from each other in Texas but never met. Fast forward many years and several moves later, they connected in Illinois through the dating app Coffee Meets Bagel. Their first date was supposed to be . . .
Amanda and Marcus we grew up 15 minutes apart from each other in Texas but never met. Fast forward many years and several moves later, they connected in Illinois through the dating app Coffee Meets Bagel. Their first date was supposed to be meeting for coffee, but turned into a spontaneous Home Depot run after discovering the coffee shop was closed. Amanda and Marcus discovered a shared mutual love for food, Jesus and motorcycle adventures and that their differences helped make them into better people. He knew it before she did, but eventually Amanda realized that Marcus needed to stick around for the long haul. Marcus proposed (during a trip to Texas) at the gazebo his parents got married in, with her sister there to take pictures.
When Amanda and Marcus first came to meet with us at our Studio, we immediately clicked and had the best time talking with this wonderful couple. Their love fills every room they enter, and their willingness to trust us as photographers made it so easy to work with them. We were so excited to photograph their wedding at Heritage Prairie Farm, one of our absolute favorite venues.
Heritage Prairie Farm is so beautiful, it’s truly the perfect place to get married. The grounds are gorgeous, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the food is outstanding. Every couple is treated as individuals, they fully customize and personalize your wedding menu for you. Amanda and Marcus made Spanish rice together early in their relationship but burned it; Spanish rice was on their delicious wedding dinner menu and the team at Heritage Prairie Farm set one single grain of burnt rice on Amanda and Marcus’ plate. That level of thoughtfulness is so uncommon and unique it only further endeared us to this amazing venue. We had the absolute best time celebrating Amanda and Marcus, it was a day that we wish we could relive over and over again.
Congratulations, Amanda and Marcus, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Amanda and Marcus’ beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE & CATERING
Heritage Prairie Farm
MUSIC
Bluewater Kings Band
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
WEDDING DRESS
Maggie Sottero
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
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
Sarah & Paul’s Intimate Backyard Wedding
The pandemic shifted the wedding industry in many ways, and while the last two years have been incredibly difficult there are beautiful things that came out of the trials we all faced together. We have truly loved the recent shift towards smaller, more intimate weddings . . .
The pandemic shifted the wedding industry in many ways, and while the last two years have been incredibly difficult there are beautiful things that came out of the trials we all faced together. We have truly loved the recent shift towards smaller, more intimate wedding celebrations. While a big party has its place, we love the quiet and joyful energy of a backyard wedding.
Christy met Sarah and Paul’ beautiful family at their Fall Mini Session last year. Sarah and Paul are deeply in love and are the best parents to Paul’s adorable son’s Greyson and Lincoln. I was so thankful and honored that they invited me to photograph their backyard wedding. Paul met me in Long Grove with his boys and we took some fun photos together while we waited for Sarah to arrive. Sarah looked so beautiful; after their sweet first look on the historic covered bridge the five of us had the best time exploring Long Grove and enjoying a lovely afternoon before their wedding ceremony.
Once we got back to Sarah and Paul’s house their closest friends and family were excitedly waiting for the wedding to begin. Their backyard looked so pretty set up with the white tent and thoughtful details, including a place set at the table for Sarah’s parents who had passed. Greyson carefully carried the rings into the ceremony while Lincoln sweetly walked Sarah down the aisle. After the emotional ceremony Sarah and Paul cut their cake and shared their first dance with the boys, it was just the perfect evening.
Congratulations, Sarah and Paul, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Sarah and Paul’s beautiful backyard wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Lake Zurich Florist
CAKE
Blawesome Cakes