Caroline & Drew’s Amazing Artifact Events Wedding
Caroline and Drew met the summer of 2016 at a nightclub in Chicago – they were reluctantly dragged there by their respective friends and started talking as it was clear . . .
Caroline and Drew met the summer of 2016 at a nightclub in Chicago – they were reluctantly dragged there by their respective friends and started talking as it was clear that neither of them wanted to be there. That night sparked a relationship that would forever change both of their lives. Caroline and Drew quickly engrained themselves in each other's lives – they met each other's friends right away, met each other's families within 6 months and were basically inseparable. They adopted a puppy named Penny in Fall of 2019 who very quickly became the center of their universe. They got engaged in November of 2020, they would say it was the only bright spot of the whole year. During the pandemic they would take long walks along the lake a couple times a week, both for their benefit and for Penny's. Drew picked out one of the best overlook spots along the lake and got down on one knee with Penny in one hand and the ring in the other and asked "will you marry us?"
I was lucky enough to visit Caroline and Drew (and Penny!) at home for the first part of their engagement session last summer. Caroline and Drew share such a natural love, it was plain to see from the moment I met them that they were made for each other. When it came time to celebrate their wedding this Fall we were all so happy to be a part of this beautiful day in our beloved hometown. Chicago has never looked better than it did for Caroline and Drew’s wedding day. We met at the gorgeous Hotel Zachary where Caroline got ready with an amazing view of Wrigley Field. Caroline looked INSANE in her sleek and modern Vagabond gown – judging from the reactions of both her bridesmaids and groom everyone agreed that she made an absolutely stunning bride. We traveled to Olive Park for wedding party photos and had so much fun with Caroline and Drew’s sweet and supportive friends.
When we arrived at Artifact Events everything was perfectly set for an unforgettable night. Caroline and Drew stole away some quiet moments together before their emotional ceremony, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as Caroline walked down the stairs to meet Drew at the altar. As Drew smashed the glass and they were pronounced husband and wife the crowd went wild and we didn’t look back for the rest of the night. It was the best party, a celebration worthy of this amazing couple.
Congratulations, Caroline and Drew, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Caroline and Drew’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Artifact Events
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Cheers Chicago Events
FLORIST
Lyssco Designs
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Rare Bird Beauties
WEDDING DRESS
Vagabond Bridal
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Dear Cleo
WEDDING RINGS
Ethan Lord
WEDDING DJ
Toast & Jam
WEDDING CAKE
ECBG
Kelly & Paul’s Pretty Seven Bridges Golf Club Wedding
Kelly and Paul met through their mutual friend whenKelly was invited to be on Paul's softball team. She declined that invitation because she was busy training for a marathon . . .
Kelly and Paul met through their mutual friend whenKelly was invited to be on Paul's softball team. She declined that invitation because she was busy training for a marathon and had a long work commute (an invitation she still regrets declining, but knows that timing is everything). It wasn't until 2018 when Kelly went out for her friend’s birthday dinner at Quartino, where Paul worked at the time, that they hit it off. All of the girls at dinner were saying how great Paul looked and that someone should date him, Kelly agreed and volunteered herself. The girls wasted no time and wrote Kelly's phone number on a comment card and on their way out told Paul to call her that night. Paul had poker plans with his friends and made the wise decision to wait until the next morning to text Kelly. It took almost 2 weeks for their schedules to align to go on a date but they quickly became a priority to one another despite opposite work schedules and were falling in love in no time!
Fast forward to 2021, Kelly and Paul started house-hunting in the suburbs. After a year of spending much more time at home because of the pandemic they were ready to get out of the city, have a little more living space and a yard for their dog, Turtle. Kelly started making a lot of jokes that a proposal better be coming soon now that they were buying a house. On June 27th, the 2nd to last time they woke up in their first apartment together, with a mattress on the floor and moving boxes everywhere, Paul snuggled Kelly and told her how much he loved her and asked her to marry him. He previously led her to believe the whole day would be spent packing but little did she know he had booked her a manicure appointment and with the help of friends planned a surprise engagement party that afternoon to celebrate. And they closed on their house the next day!
I loved getting to know Kelly and Paul during their engagement session last November, we had so much fun together. It was clear from that evening that Paul was over the moon for Kelly! We were so happy to find out that Kelly was pregnant when we met with them to go over the details for their big day!! Kelly was eight months pregnant for their wedding day but didn’t let that slow her down, she was on her feet and enjoying every second throughout the day! It was just the perfect celebration capped off by a romantic sparkler sendoff (with Kelly in a sparkly maternity mini!) We had so much fun being there for this unforgettable day!
Congratulations, Kelly and Paul, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kelly and Paul’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
The Local Petaler
BRIDAL HAIR
Courtney Mathias
BRIDAL MAKEUP
Nicole Wagner
WEDDING BAND
Deja Vu Band
WEDDING CAKE
De Etta’s Bakery
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
Jackie & Brian’s Beautiful Rolling Green Country Club Wedding
Jackie and Brian were set up on a blind date by a mutual friend. They met for drinks and bonded over Aurelio’s pizza and things just kept going from there! When . . .
Jackie and Brian were set up on a blind date by a mutual friend. They met for drinks and bonded over Aurelio’s pizza and things just kept going from there! When Conrad met Jackie and Brian at the museum campus downtown for their engagement session they made sure to bring along an Aurelio’s pizza to share! We just love when couples include those personal details in their engagement sessions!
Jackie and Brian are so cute together, he is totally smitten with her. Their wedding day was so beautiful and perfect – from the moment that Conrad and Lindsay arrived everything ran smoothly and everyone had such great energy. The bridesmaids looked SO good thanks to the talented Rosie Hunter Artistry, these girls rocked their rust colored bridesmaid dresses and were so supportive throughout the day. The florals by Blue Daisy Floral Design were stunning, absolutely perfect for this early-fall wedding. Our great friend Ken of Amp Event Professionals had the dance floor packed for the perfect party at the end of the night. It was such a great day, we are thankful to have been a part of it.
Congratulations, Jackie and Brian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jackie and Brian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Rolling Green Country Club
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Rosie Hunter Artistry
FLORIST
Blue Floral Daisy
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven
Jackie & Ian’s Adorable Arlington Heights Wedding
We love our hometown of Arlington Heights. Every time with get to shoot a wedding here we feel comfortable and joyful, celebrating at home is one of our favorite things. Jackie grew up in Arlington Heights . . .
We love our hometown of Arlington Heights. Every time with get to shoot a wedding here we feel comfortable and joyful, celebrating at home is one of our favorite things. Jackie grew up in Arlington Heights and her family loves it here, too.
Jackie met Ian in nursing school, and as they fell in love and it came time for Ian to propose he chose to do it right in downtown Arlington Heights on her family’s special bench in North School Park. When it came time to take Jackie and Ian’s engagement photos we stayed close to our homes and hearts and took their pictures in North School Park.
When Jackie and Ian’s wedding day finally arrived the sun was shining and there was so much excitement in the air. Christy and I had so much fun photographing this beautiful day! Jackie’s bridesmaids and Mom made her parents’ house extra pretty for their getting ready photos. We saw a number of fun paintings and art from New Orleans hanging in the house, we have SO much love for New Orleans (we could spend all of our time there, and were lucky enough to shoot a beautiful wedding in NOLA in the Spring!) Well, Jackie’s parents planned a SECOND LINE to walk her from their house to St. James, and can I just say this was one of the absolute highlights of our 2022 wedding season??! This brass band parade through my neighborhood was just the best thing, waving at neighbors while walking backwards taking pictures will be a memory I will always cherish. I already told my kids that we are doing a second line for their wedding when that day comes!!
Jackie looked so pretty in her grandma Pearl’s pearl tiara, what a sweet way to honor family with your “something old”! When she walked down the aisle to meet Ian at the alter he was visibly moved, it was such a perfect moment. After the ceremony we went back to North School Park for some photos, it was fun to be there and see friends taking pictures of their kids for homecoming!
When we arrived at The Metropolis Ballroom the space looked more gorgeous than ever thanks to the talented team at Eiffel Flowers. After some moving toasts we danced the night away to the AMAZING sounds of Standing Room Only, this band absolutely ROCKED! It was a day we will never forget.
Congratulations, Jackie and Ian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jackie and Ian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
The Eiffel Flower
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Birdy Grey
WEDDING BAND
Standing Room Only
WEDDING CAKE
Jarosch Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
Mitchell’s Jewelers
Emily & Matt’s Perfect Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Emily and Matt were introduced through a mutual friend – she was his first friend in Kindergarten and went to college with Emily. Every time Matt would come by Emily’s apartment in Wrigleyville they would talk for hours on end . . .
Emily and Matt were introduced through a mutual friend – she was his first friend in Kindergarten and went to college with Emily. While Emily and that friend were living together in Wrigleyville, Matt came over to their apartment and was always the last one to leave – they haven't stopped talking since then! Once Emily and Matt started dating, they quickly became a part of each other's families and friend groups. Emily says that she quickly knew he was the one and he made her feel completely herself.
Matt and Emily got engaged at Geneva National in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (one of our favorite wedding venues!!) When their wedding day arrived Conrad, Christy and I were so excited to be a part of their celebration. Conrad first got to know Emily and Matt at their beautiful engagement session at Cantigny last Fall. I remember Conrad telling me after their session that Emily and Matt are just perfect together. They quietly and joyfully complement one another. Emily is a planner and had thought of every detail for their wedding, of all the details pictures I have shot this year I think that Emily’s may be my favorite! I mean, how cute are her custom Vans??! And I was completely obsessed with the gorgeous florals that Flowers by KH created for Emily and Matt’s wedding, the bouquets and centerpieces were absolutely gorgeous. From their emotional first look to romantic first dance this was truly a perfect day filled with tears, giggles and radiant love; it was an honor to be a part of this day.
Congratulations, Emily and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emily and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Chevy Chase Country Club
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Exquisitely Designed Events
FLORIST
Flowers by KH
HAIR & MAKEUP
The Hitching Post
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Bella Bianca
WEDDING BAND
Bluewater Kings Band
WEDDING RINGS
Norridge Jewelers
WEDDING CAKE
Emily’s Home Kitchen
Kaylee & Michael’s Beautiful Makray Golf Club Wedding
Kaylee and Michael met at Purdue University during band camp auditions for the All-American Marching Band – by the second home game they were officially together. After dating all during college . . .
Kaylee and Michael met at Purdue University during band camp auditions for the All-American Marching Band – by the second home game they were officially together. After dating all during college their first jobs separated them – Kaylee went to Chicago and Michael ended up in Bloomington, Indiana. Kaylee relocated to Bloomington after 1 year of distance and they were finally living together. During the pandemic Kaylee worked for Indiana University from their apartment while Michael was instrumental in the production of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine.
After nearly nine years together Kaylee and Michael were so excited to finally celebrate their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club. Kaylee and her bridesmaids had such positive energy when we arrived for their “getting ready” photos – we love a good champagne pop to start the party!! Kaylee looked gorgeous in her Essense of Australia gown, and her bridesmaids’ reaction to seeing her as a bride was just the sweetest. After a goofy fake First Look with Kaylee and Michael’s shared bestie and officiant Eric, Kaylee and Michael shared the sweetest and most romantic First Look outside at Makray. Michael’s emotional reaction to seeing Kaylee in her wedding dress was just the best.
We had a lot of fun taking pictures with this wedding party on the course at Makray before heading back toward the building for their ceremony. There were many more tears to come during Kaylee and Michael’s beautiful ceremony, their hand-written vows seemed to make just about everyone cry. After the ceremony we moved upstairs for the perfect party, it was an unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Kaylee and Michael, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaylee and Michael’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Fabbrini Flowers
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Patty Maguire Hair and Makeup
WEDDING RINGS
Blue Nile
WEDDING DRESS
Brides by Young
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
David’s Bridal
MENSWEAR
Jos A Bank
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin Oven
Margret & Kyle’s Salvage One Wedding Anniversary Celebration
In August 2021 Margaret and Kyle hosted an intimate backyard wedding for their immediate families and closest friends. It was such a great night, a highlight for us amongst the small weddings we photographed . . .
In August 2021 Margaret and Kyle hosted an intimate backyard wedding for their immediate families and closest friends. It was such a great night, a highlight for us amongst the small weddings we photographed throughout the pandemic. Margaret and Kyle have a unique connection and an incredible support squad. That beautiful but unassuming summer night showed us that their friends and family mean the world to them.
We were truly excited to reconnect with these two for their anniversary celebration exactly one year later. When Margaret and Kyle came to our Studio to talk through the details for their big day we laughed so much and had the best time talking together (in fact, they helped us hatch a super fun idea for a Something Blue “wedding reunion” party bus tour next year!) Their long-awaited Salvage One wedding was absolutely perfect, we loved every moment spent celebrating this couple. From their sweet "First Look” in the south garden at The Art Institute (she surprised him by wearing a new dress, while his tux changed from green to burgundy) to their late-night twirls in front of Salvage One’s “CHICAGO” sign this was a day we will always remember. Now if only we could do it again to celebrate their second anniversary!!
Congratulations, Margaret and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Margaret and Kyle’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Salvage One
MENSWEAR
Black Tux
WEDDING RINGS
Ethan Lord
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