Natalie & Joe’s Romantic Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week . . .
Natalie and Joe met while they were both working at the Des Plaines Public Library. He worked as a computer technician and she worked as a library assistant. It was Natalie’s first full time job and she was shy, but in her first week there she needed to contact IT and met Joe. They got to know each other slowly through work and found that they connected on a lot of levels. Soon they were talking through their work breaks and having long conversations that they didn’t want to end.
When I first met Natalie and Joe I was struck by how connected and in-love they are. They drove separately to our Studio and met with a sweet smooch in our parking lot before Joe opened the door for Natalie. They held each other close throughout that first meeting and I was beyond excited to be a part of their wedding celebration! I loved getting to know Natalie and Joe better at their beautiful golden hour engagement session at Cantigny Park earlier this Summer. Conrad and I were both so happy to be there to celebrate their wedding in August at Chevy Chase Country Club!
Natalie looked radiant with her gorgeous red hair down (perfectly styled by the talented team at Every Kind of Beautiful) and her stunning drop-shoulder lace gown from Genevieve’s Bridal Couture. From the moment that Natalie and Joe saw each other at their First Look they didn’t take their eyes off each other for the rest of the day. It was a perfect day, we loved every moment and only wish we could do it all over again.
Congratulations, Natalie and Joe, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Joe’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VIDEOGRAPHY
Imagination Designers
FLORIST
Blossom Me Up
HAIR & MAKEUP
Every Kind of Beautiful
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING DRESS
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Kaylee & Matt’s Beautiful Chevy Chase Country Club Wedding
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends . . .
Kaylee and Matt both went to Prospect High School, they were one school year apart and knew of each other for a while. They truly met for the first time at Lollapalooza in 2016. Kaylee went with her girlfriends and connected with Matt and his friends at the festival. Kaylee and Matt had a blast together that day and decided to go together the next day even though their friends weren’t going. They talked nonstop for the next several weeks and were dating shortly after that. Throughout college, Kaylee and Matt dated long-distance and went to see each other whenever possible on weekends. Matt proposed to Kaylee at a lookout tower on a walk that had long been one of their favorites, and the rest is history!
Conrad loved getting to know Kaylee and Matt during their beautiful engagement session in Long Grove last winter. Conrad and Lindsay were both so excited to celebrate Kaylee and Matt’s wedding with them at one of our favorite venues, Chevy Chase Country Club. It was a beautiful (but windy!) day filled with sweet moments. One of our favorites was getting to know Kaylee’s grandfather a bit, he came up to Lindsay at the church to talk about how proud he is of Kaylee. He told Lindsay that he had retired to help babysit Kaylee and her siblings; then later at the reception Kaylee had a special dance with her grandfather and cousins, it was so sweet. Kaylee rocked tennis shoes all day to keep comfy and Matt joined her later at Chevy Chase with comfy kicks of his own, we love a couple who embraces their unique style at their wedding! All in all it was the perfect day, we are so happy that we could be a part of it!
Congratulations, Kaylee and Matt, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Kaylee and Matt’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Northwest Weddings
FLORIST
Sylvia’s Flowers
HAIR & MAKEUP
Rachel Esczuk
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
BRIDAL GOWN
Genevieve's Bridal Couture
WEDDING RINGS
Monson Jewelers
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Revelry
MENSWEAR
Emanuele Tuxedo
Natalie & Jordan’s Perfect Makray Memorial Golf Club Wedding
Natalie and Jordan met on Hinge in June 2020, just after the world shut down and dating became extra complicated because of Covid. For their first date they got ice cream from the Culver’s drive-thru . . .
Natalie and Jordan met on Hinge in June 2020, just after the world shut down and dating became extra complicated because of Covid. For their first date they got ice cream from the Culver’s drive-thru and ate it together at his house. Natalie fell in love with Jordan when she realized how kind and family-oriented he is. Jordan makes her laugh all the time and feel beautiful at every moment.
Natalie and Jordan got engaged the day before she graduated with her master's degree. After popping the question, Jordan assembled their closest friends and family together to surprise Natalie at a restaurant. His thoughtfulness is just one more reason that Natalie adores him, and their love was on full display at their perfect Makray wedding.
When we arrived at Natalie’s parents’ house to capture the girls “getting ready,” everyone was in great spirits and Natalie was looking amazing. We all cried a little when Natalie saw her Dad for the first time in her wedding dress, his reaction was just the absolute best thing. When we got to Makray and met up with Jordan he was so ready to see his bride, their first look was pretty special too. The whole day was just perfect – from their fun-filled wedding party photos to their emotional vows, each moment was filled with love and joy.
Jordan’s sister is a singer and was an American Idol finalist, she gifted her brother and new sister-in-law with a stunning rendition of an Adele song during their first dance. We all had goosebumps while Grace sang for Natalie and Jordan, she is the real deal. Her voice resonated through that room and set the stage for an unforgettable night celebrating the newlyweds, it was a day we won’t soon forget.
Congratulations, Natalie and Jordan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Jordan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
DAY-OF COORDINATION
Something Blue
WEDDING FLORIST
Periwinkle Florals
HAIR & MAKEUP
Erika Alexis Beauty
BRIDAL GOWN
Madi Lane
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
WEDDING RINGS
Dalzell Jewelers
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
Emily and Nick’s Gorgeous Makray Memorial Wedding
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but she’s FUN to be around and made our jobs easy. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection
Emily is sort of our dream-bride – she’s gorgeous, which certainly makes our jobs easier, but beyond that she’s FUN to be around. Emily and Nick have a beautiful connection, they are naturally so caring and their affection for one another made their wedding day feel so enjoyable for me and Conrad. We knew from when Conrad got to know Emily and Nick at their pretty Winter engagement session in Long Grove that theirs was going to be an unforgettable wedding!
Emily and Nick bonded over video games early in their relationship and we saw glimmers of that early connection during their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club – it was pretty epic to hear video game music as the bride walked down the aisle! Emily floated down the aisle on her Dad’s arm – they have a special connection that we loved seeing throughout the day. Her Dad sung “Forever Young” and played guitar during the reception as his “toast,” it was so touching and beautiful. As dinner was served we took Emily and Nick outside on the 18th hole for some “sunset photos,” after practicing their first dance Emily joyfully ran back toward the building to get back to their reception. We love this adventurous and spirited couple and are so thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of their wedding day!
Congratulations, Emily and Nick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Emily and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Summit Street Blooms
HAIR & MAKEUP
AW Artistry
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
Jamie & Patrick’s Perfect Heritage Prairie Farm Wedding
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. . .
Jamie and Patrick are both teachers who met when they started new jobs in a new district. She taught second grade and he is a PE teacher. They met at a welcome party for their new principal. Over the next two years they became great friends. Patrick wanted to ask Jamie out but didn't want to ruin the friendship they had built. In August 2020, Jamie left to go to a new district to teach 3rd grade. Even though they were no longer working together, Jamie and Patrick remained close and soon he asked her to spend time together “just the two of us.”
Starting to date during Covid forced Jamie and Patrick (along with SO many of our Something Blue couples!) to be creative with how they spent time together. They went on many adventures that included walks and drive through Christmas lights. In April 2022 Patrick took Jamie on a scavenger hunt. Jamie's mom picked her up and gave her the first clue. Each clue was a memory from their relationship (first place we met, first date location, first kiss location, first place they said I love you). At each location was a friend of family member to give the next clue to Jamie. The final clue led to the picnic spot were they met after Jamie got a new job. When they left that day we thought we would never see each other again. So when Patrick proposed at this location, he shared that the last time they were there there they left thinking they wouldn't see each other again and when they left today they would leave being together forever.
Conrad first spent time with Jamie and Patrick at their engagement session at the beautiful Heritage Prairie Farm (our favorite venue!!) He loved spending time with these two, they share such a deep bond and are both filled with kindness and humility. As they explored the farm together they also got in plenty of time with local celebrity Carl (otherwise known as @badkittycarl) Conrad LOVES Carl (everyone’s favorite wedding crasher at Heritage Prairie Farm) but Patrick isn’t as sold on him – this bad kitty definitely jumped up onto Patrick during their engagement session! He then also proceeded to fully crash their wedding ceremony by wandering up and down the aisle during their vows looking for pets 😹
Jamie and Patrick’s wedding day could not have been more perfect. When we arrived, everyone was In great spirits – Jamie and her friends were relaxing together in the farmhouse as they finished hair and makeup, and Patrick and his buddies had a lot of fun opening their custom Cubs’ jerseys and beer bats (such an epic gift for the groomsmen!) When the time came for Jamie and Patrick to see one another they did their First Look right outside the farmhouse before sharing private vows with one another. We really love when couples choose to do this, it’s a beautiful and intimate moment and always clears the air for FUN for the rest of the day! Jamie and Patrick both shed tears when sharing with each other, it was an honor to be present in that moment.
After getting some photos with their (very fun!) wedding party, we moved under the tree out back for their ceremony. Guests sipped cold fresh lemonade and relaxed under paper parasols while Jamie and Patrick were pronounced husband and wife, and then the celebration could truly begin! We had the best time with Jamie and Patrick and their loved ones, it was a perfect day!
Congratulations, Jamie and Patrick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jamie and Patrick’s beautiful wedding photos click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
VIDEOGRAPHER
I Do Video by Leo
WEDDING CAKE
Deerfield’s Bakery
WEDDING RINGS
R.C. Wahl Jewelers
WEDDING GOWN
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Mens Wearhouse
Michele & Garreth’s Storybook Makray Golf Club Wedding
Michele and Garreth’s love story began five years ago. They first connected on Bumble and had their first date in January 2018. On their second date Garreth cooked his special Szechuan chicken for Michele at her apartment . . .
Michele and Garreth’s love story began five years ago. They first connected on Bumble and had their first date in January 2018. On their second date Garreth cooked his special Szechuan chicken for Michele at her apartment, much to the dismay of her 15 year old Yorkie Spike. Spike tolerated Garreth for a short while before pooping on the kitchen floor as he prepared the meal. From that moment a deep friendship was formed, and Michele and Garreth soon began falling in love.
Over the next few months they dated each other exclusively and began to introduce each other to friends and family. They both realized that something special was growing between them. Garreth comforted Michele when Spike sadly passed away, but as they say, when one door closes another one opens, and they adopted a new puppy, Beemer. He was a very young puppy when they brought him home and has proven to be the best dog either of them has ever known. Beemer is now four years old and brings joy to their home every day.
When Conrad first met Michele and Garreth he was struck by how in-love they are. They complement each other perfectly, the affection and friendship that connects them was on full display at their engagement session last Summer. Conrad and I were both so excited to photograph their wedding at Makray Memorial Golf Club – it was an absolutely gorgeous day filled with joy and love. Every detail was perfectly considered, and Michele looked stunning in her beautiful gown from our friends at Vanessa’s. But for all of the beauty of this day the moments that will stick with us were defined by the connection between Michele and Garreth. After her sons walked her down the aisle Garreth and Michele held each other close throughout their ceremony, and they did the same during their reception. Michele had told us “We are so very grateful to have found this kind of love at this point in our lives, The entire day is a blessing and sharing it all with the people we love the most is truly a gift.” We adore these two and are so thankful that we could be a part of this unforgettable day.
Congratulations, Michele and Garreth, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Michele and Garreth’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Makray Memorial Golf Club
FLORIST
Town & Country Gardens
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven
MAKEUP
Makeup by Mary
WEDDING GOWN
Watters Designs
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Vanessa’s
BRIDAL SHOES
Betsey Johnson
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Bari Jay
Cassidy & Brandon’s Magical Brix on the Fox Wedding
Cassidy and Brandon first met each other at a bar – she was working and they immediately clicked. Their connection was so powerful that their relationship quickly became serious – within four months they had moved in together, and after nine months they were engaged. . .
Cassidy and Brandon first met each other at a bar – she was working and they immediately clicked. Their connection was so powerful that their relationship quickly became serious – within four months they had moved in together, and after nine months they were engaged. Cassidy and Brandon’s strong connection was on full display on their wedding day at the Brix on the Fox.
As Cassidy was getting ready (along with her adorable dog) Brandon was working out the details before their ceremony. The excitement was building as guests arrived and we all prepared for Cassidy to walk down the aisle with her Dad. She looked absolutely gorgeous, and once Brandon saw his bride he didn’t take his eyes off of her for the rest of the night.
The weather was threatening so we decided to take wedding party and family photos inside. Both Cassidy and Brandon are twins, it was fun to see all of the twins at their wedding! During cocktail hour the sun finally peeked out even though it was still raining – Conrad and I knew to quickly get Cassidy and Brandon outside for photos before their reception started. When we crossed the street and moved toward the river we were treated to a stunning double rainbow! The light was gorgeous and made for the most perfect moment for the newlyweds!
Congratulations, Cassidy and Brandon, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Cassidy and Brandon’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHER
Something Blue
VENUE
The Brix
FLORIST
Bling in the Barn
HAIR & MAKEUP
Every Kind of Beautiful
WEDDING CAKE
The Little Things Cake Company
WEDDING RINGS
Mr. Marcos Jewelry
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Victoria
MENSWEAR
Lorenzo’s Formal Wear
Lisa & Kevin’s Pretty Wild Onion Brewery Wedding
Lisa and Kevin knew soon after they met that they would end up together. They share a love for books and culture and their strong connection carried them to the altar . . .
Lisa and Kevin knew soon after they met that they would end up together. They share a love for books and culture and their strong connection carried them to the altar at Wild Onion Brewery. Conrad loved getting to know Lisa and Kevin at their engagement session last Winter, we are ALWAYS big fans of couples who want to do their engagement sessions in libraries!!
When Lisa and Kevin’s wedding day arrived they did their “first look” at our neighborhood North School Park. From there we traveled to one of our favorite alleyways near Beverly Lanes in Arlington Heights for pictures with Lisa and Kevin’s wedding party. Then it was time for us to travel to the Wild Onion Brewery in Lake Barrington for Lisa and Kevin’s ceremony and reception. They chose to do a beautiful handfasting ceremony as a unity ritual, it was a lovely moment. Once Lisa and Kevin were pronounced husband and wife it was time to celebrate!
Lisa and Kevin had taken dance lessons and showed off their skills with an epic first dance. As the guests danced the night away we had so much fun taking photos and celebrating the newlyweds!
Congratulations, Lisa and Kevin, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Lisa and Kevin’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
WEDDING VENUE
Wild Onion Brewery
WEDDING GOWN
Kenneth Winston
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hairs2TheBride
WEDDING CAKE
Jarosch Bakery
Jenni & Dan’s Romantic Wilder Mansion Wedding
Jenni and Dan are both teachers, they were on the same middle school “team” and quickly became close friends. One day Dan asked Jenni to go bowling with him after work, after she reluctantly said yes . . .
Jenni and Dan are both teachers, they were on the same middle school “team” and quickly became close friends. One day Dan asked Jenni to go bowling with him after work, after she reluctantly said yes that game started a long streak of Dan beating Jenni at just about everything from bowling to mini golf (with the exception of volleyball!) Their strong and natural connection they have kept them close through the ups and downs of life. After 7 years of teaching together, approximately 700 of the same students taught and 5 years of dating Dan got down on one knee in downtown Chicago and asked Jenni to marry him. She enthusiastically said ‘yes!’ and their adventure toward becoming husband and wife began!
I got to know Jenni and Dan at their beautiful engagement session last Summer at Lake Katherine Nature Center. It was easy and fun to explore with Jenni and Dan, they share a quiet devotion to one another that is truly a joy to witness. Leading up to their wedding day, we asked Jenni and Dan to answer the question “what moment of your wedding day are you most looking forward to?” Their answer says so much about who these two are as a couple, they said “The little alone time we will have with one another to soak in the moment.”
When their wedding day arrived, we met up with Jenni and her bridesmaids at the gorgeous Wilder Mansion in Elmhurst. Christy and I joked that we could shoot at Wilder Mansion every single weekend and be thrilled, this beautiful historic home is filled with tons of natural light and one big empty room after another! It’s like a giant and gorgeous photo studio! Jenni looked radiant as she got ready for her “first look” with Dan – he was a little nervous but once he saw his gorgeous bride that all seemed to disappear.
Jenni and Dan exchanged private vows right after their first look (one of our favorite “new” traditions!) We had the best time taking pictures of Jenni and Dan and their wedding party at Wilder Mansion before and after their beautiful rose garden ceremony. Before long we loaded up and moved the celebration to Drury Lane where their guests were all waiting to start the party. We loved every moment of this romantic day, it was an honor to be alongside Jenni and Dan as they began their married lives together!
Congratulations, Jenni and Dan, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jenni and Dan’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Carousel Flowers by Shamrock
HAIR & MAKEUP
Patricia Fardon with Diem Angie Co.
WEDDING DRESS
Here Comes the Bride
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES
Azazie
ENGAGEMENT RING
Brilliant Earth
MENSWEAR
Black Lapel
Stephanie & Will’s Sweet Metropolis Ballroom Wedding
Stephanie and Will met through mutual friends – her good friend from college is his good friend from high school. A few years after graduating college, Will moved to Chicago for work and they connected for their first date at Corridor Brewery. . .
Stephanie and Will met through mutual friends – her good friend from college is his good friend from high school. A few years after graduating college, Will moved to Chicago for work and they connected for their first date at Corridor Brewery.
As they grew closer Stephanie and Will soon moved in together, and Will proposed in their first apartment after coming home from landing his dream job. We first connected with Stephanie and Will during the pandemic, and got to know them better at their pretty engagement session at the Lincoln Park Nature Walk downtown. Stephanie’s sweetness and Will’s dry sense of humor made an impression on me, and we were really excited to celebrate their wedding at the Metropolis Ballroom in June!
Looking back, Stephanie and Will’s wedding day was truly perfect – but just as Stephanie was about to put on her gorgeous wedding gown she was told that their florist had flaked and they didn’t have wedding flowers. No bouquets, no boutonnieres, no centerpieces. In the ten years we have been shooting weddings we have NEVER experienced anything like this! We kept our composure and quietly worked with the amazing Metropolis team to mobilize a local florist to pull off something last-minute. But in the meantime, we really had to start taking wedding party photos before we ran out of time before the ceremony. Stephanie took all of the chaos in stride, it was amazing. She took a sip of champagne and pulled her shoulders back before striding outside for photos. Stephanie rocked her dress pockets and high leg slit and made the best of things, nothing was going to stop her from enjoying her wedding day! It was one of the most bad-ass things we have ever seen from a bride!
By the time we had finished with photos around downtown Arlington Heights there were bouquets and boutonnieres ready thanks to the amazing and kind team at Purple Rose Floral in Mount Prospect. Those personal floral items really do make a difference and it was amazing how beautiful everything looked from Purple Rose even though they had absolutely zero advanced warning, we were SO grateful that they stepped in to help out!!
At the start of their reception Stephanie and Will gave a speech to thank their guests, and Stephanie had already planned to talk about how all of the details that go into a wedding day don’t really matter. Her words hit even harder after what had transpired during their wedding day – but in the end, all that mattered was that Stephanie and Will said “I do” and became husband and wife. It was a beautiful and perfect celebration of their love, we were truly honored to be a part of it!!
Congratulations, Stephanie and Will, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stephanie and Will’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Metropolis Ballroom
HAIR AND MAKEUP
The Bridal Beauty Team
FLORIST
Purple Rose Floral
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Genevieve’s Bridal Couture
WEDDING RINGS
Stanley Brown Jewelist
Clare & Christian’s Unforgettable Rolling Green Wedding
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. . .
Clare and Christian met playing pickup indoor volleyball in Chicago. They were both interested in each other right away. Their first date was axe throwing in West Loop on March 13, 2020, just before the “shelter-in-place” order went into effect. The date went well but Clare decided Christian was "too young" for her (he is 3 years younger). So she quickly “friendzoned” him thinking that the pandemic came at a great time (i.e. she wouldn't run into him). But Clare was sneaky and kept Christian in her back pocket. During the pandemic, she Snapchatted him almost every day and followed him on Instagram. Christian thought "what is this girl doing?". July had arrived and Clare asked Christian if he wanted to play on her beach volleyball team (since she didn't know a lot of other people who played volleyball in the city). The 2 of them started playing outdoor volleyball during the summer of 2020 and the flame of love was rekindled. After 2 weeks of late night post-volleyball Taco Bell runs and a couple of dates here and there, they officially started dating on August 15, 2020 when Christian asked Clare to be his girlfriend amidst the backdrop of a Lake Michigan sunset. After almost 2 years of dating, they were ready to commit their lives to each other officially before God. Christian wanted to surprise Clare with the proposal but she was ALWAYS looking out for it. For some reason she didn't suspect that he would propose to her in her hometown in Ohio, which worked out well for Christian. On May 30, 2022, with the help of Clare's siblings, Christian surprised Clare at Dawes Arboretum by getting down on one knee on a little bridge in the garden and asking her to be his wife. Clare's whole family was waiting for them at a winery nearby and they finished the night by playing a little pickup volleyball at Clare's brother's house, coming full circle. It was a beautiful day.
We knew that Clare and Christian shared a special bond after our first Zoom call with them. When their wedding day arrived, it was the perfect June weather to celebrate their love at our hometown country club Rolling Green. Clare was radiant thanks to the glam squad from Hairs 2 The Bride, and when she slipped into her gorgeous Martin Thornburg gown (with an epic overskirt!) Clare was beaming for the rest of the day.
When we arrived at Rolling Green the guys were having a great time getting ready in the clubhouse, but it wasn’t hard to pull Christian away for his “First Look” with his beautiful bride. Christian’s reaction to seeing Clare was so sweet, he loves her deeply and was by her side for the rest of the day. After some fun wedding party photos on the course it was time for Clare and Christian to exchange their wedding vows in front of their closest friends and family. They included a moving foot washing ceremony to display their commitment to one another and their love for Jesus. It was a beautiful and moving ceremony punctuated by newlywed bliss once they were pronounced husband and wife!
Following the ceremony Clare and Christian mingled with their guests and danced to some amazing live music (including Star Wars adaptions!) The energy was buzzing with joy throughout Clare and Christian’s reception, and once the dance floor opened the party didn’t stop. As the sun started to set we stole Clare and Christian away for a few golden hour photos of the newlyweds before saying goodbye, it was truly the perfect day!
Congratulations, Clare and Christian, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Clare and Christian’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Rolling Green Country Club
FLORIST
Town and Country Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
Hairs 2 The Bride
WEDDING GOWN
Martin Thornburg
WEDDING DRESS BOUTIQUE
Annabella’s Chicago
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
David’s Bridal
MENSWEAR
Suit Shop
BRIDAL SHOES
Kailee P
Stacy & Nick’s Emotional Chevy Chase Wedding
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her . . .
Stacy and Nick first met at work and grew close as part of a large group of new-hires. Stacy was pregnant at the time and from those early days of their friendship Nick cared for her in quiet simple ways. He would give up his seat and offer treats to Stacy, and once Duncan was born Nick continued to help Stacy as their friendship grew stronger. They became best friends and eventually started dating,
Stacy, Nick and Duncan all love playing board games together, in fact, Nick proposed to Stacy using a Boggle board with “willyoumarryme” hidden in the puzzle! Conrad loved getting to know Stacy, Nick and Duncan at their engagement session last Fall, this little family is beyond sweet together. When their wedding day finally arrived their playfulness and love for Duncan were on display through all the little details at Chevy Chase Country Club.
After Stacy got dressed she did the sweetest “first look” with Duncan, his response to seeing his Mom as a bride was beyond adorable. Once Stacy saw Nick the tears really started to flow, there were happy tears from both the bride and groom throughout the day. Nick wrote separate vows for Duncan that he shared during their ceremony, it was so beautiful and touching. After the ceremony Duncan asked Stacy and Nick why they were both crying so much, they had to explain that they were crying because they were just so happy.
Through it all it was just the most beautiful and emotional day, we were overjoyed to be there to celebrate with these three!
Congratulations, Stacy and Nick (and Duncan!), we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Stacy and Nick’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
A Perfect Petal
HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST
Appease Inc.
WEDDING RINGS
C.D. Peacock
WEDDING GOWN
Ashley and Justin Bride
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Brides by Young
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
MENSWEAR
Calvin Klein
WEDDING CAKE
Lovin’ Oven Cakery
Emily & Nick’s Intimate Concorde Banquets Wedding
Emily and Nick are OFFICIALLY our LAST Covid-couple! It’s worth noting because after years of re-schedules we are thrilled to say that we are now fully back to “normal” around here and so thankful! Emily and Nick were originally . . .
Emily and Nick are OFFICIALLY our LAST Covid-couple! It’s worth noting because after years of re-schedules we are thrilled to say that we are now fully back to “normal” around here and so thankful! Emily and Nick were originally supposed to get married in May of 2021, when the “shelter in place” hit the Spring before Emily called to let us know that they were going to hold off on their wedding until May of 2023. At the time we were certainly surprised that they would want to wait that long, but Emily’s foresight meant that they could have the wedding of their dreams without a worry about the pandemic.
As it turned out, good things come to those who wait. Emily and Nick’s wedding day was truly perfect, Christy and I were so thankful to be a part of it. And our friend Ashley was thrilled to be along as Emily and Nick’s day-of coordinator! Every detail at the gorgeous Concorde Banquets came together perfectly, we were especially in love with the stunning florals by our friends at Blooming Flowers. They always do such an amazing job, but the bouquets and arrangements for Emily and Nick’s wedding were particularly gorgeous!
Emily and Nick have such a sweet relationship, I don’t know if we have ever spent time with a groom who was so in love with his bride. Nick kept giving Emily so much affection and credit for every aspect of their wedding day, he even complimented her on choosing a wedding date with such gorgeous weather! These two are too cute together, it was a joy to be with them as they exchanged their emotional vows and became husband and wife! It was truly a perfect day that we won’t soon forget!
Congratulations, Emily and Nick, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & DAY-OF COORDINATION
Something Blue
VENUE
Concorde Banquets
VIDEOGRAPHY
Furla Photography & Videography
FLORIST
Blooming Flowers
WEDDING CAKE & SWEETS
Bittersweet Pastry Shop
OFFICIANT
Forever Incredible Ceremonies
Natalie & Tom’s Sweet Lincoln Farmstead Wedding
Natalie and Tom connected with us after their first photographer fell through, we feel so lucky to have met this amazing couple. These two are so in love and so easy going . . .
Natalie and Tom connected with us after their first photographer fell through, we feel so lucky to have met this amazing couple. These two are so in love and so easy going they made this day feel much more like a hangout with friends than work. When we arrived at the beautiful Lincoln Farmstead Natalie was relaxing with her girls in the bridal suite while Tom was enjoying the fresh air with his guys. I snapped some details pictures inside the barn (who knew a former livestock feed area could be so pretty?!) while Conrad took some getting ready pictures of the girls. Everyone was in great spirits and even offered to share donuts and mimosas with us!!
After Natalie slipped into her beautiful gown (I mean, how gorgeous did she look??!) she went to see Tom in front of the barn. Their First Look was beyond sweet, Tom was clearly overwhelmed to see his stunning bride and Natalie was all smiles. From that moment the two were inseparable for the rest of this perfect day!
We explored the property taking wedding party photos and finding one pretty spot after another, we had an amazing time photographing at this perfect venue! When the time came for the ceremony to begin the light had softened and the guests were all settled in their chairs behind the barn. Natalie and Tom exchanged their vows in front of their favorite people and it was time to start the party!
The barn looked AMAZING set for dinner, we were selfishly VERY excited to see that Sweet Baby Ray’s was catering the meal. I mean, donuts AND barbecue at the same wedding?? I told you we were lucky! It was the most perfect day, what an honor for us to be a part of it.
Congratulations, Natalie and Tom, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Natalie and Tom’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
Lincoln Farmstead
FLORIST
Countryside Flower Shop
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Meraki Artisan Design
CATERER
Sweet Baby Ray’s
WEDDING AND BRIDESMAID DRESSES
David’s Bridal
Jessica & Elie’s Romantic Bridge Lemont Wedding
Jessica and Elie met on Hinge and had their first date the day after Christmas in Wrigleyville. They quickly grew close as the COVID pandemic started and decided to quarantine together. . .
Jessica and Elie met on Hinge and had their first date the day after Christmas in Wrigleyville. They quickly grew close as the COVID pandemic started and decided to quarantine together. Jessica and Elie spent a lot of time trying to find ways to “date” despite being stuck at home.. They did at home sushi nights, movies at home, concerts at home, wine tastings at home, etc. They learned so much about each other during this time and fell in love quickly and deeply! Elie proposed 2 years after our first date and that night they celebrated with all of our family and friends at the Irish Oak bar where they had their first date.
We first met Jessica and Elie over Zoom, which made sense given the circumstances of their courtship. We were so happy when the day came for these two to make things official, it was a perfect Spring day filled with many beautiful moments. Jessica looked radiant as she slipped into her slim lace gown from Jasmine Bridal just before a sweet reveal with her bridesmaids. Once the girls were ready we traveled to Elie’s home church for their traditional Lebanese ceremony. Elie was beaming as Jessica came down the aisle to meet him at the altar, and from that moment the two were inseparable for the rest of the day.
After the ceremony we went with the wedding party to Lilacia Park in Lombard for photos. The park was quite crowded as it was a beautiful Spring day and the tulips and lilacs were in full bloom, but we found plenty of beautiful spots for photos with Jessica and Elie’s wonderful wedding party. One of our favorite moments of the day came when Jessica and Elie “Iced” their bridesmaids and groomsmen on the party bus after we finished photos, they disguised the drinks in gift packaging and had a great laugh as everyone chugged together on the party bus.
When we arrived at The Bridge in Lemont we took time for pictures of Jessica and Elie together. He works for the railway so we made sure to get a few (safely!) near the train tracks before everyone settled in for cocktail hour. The room at The Bridge looked absolutely gorgeous, we loved the aesthetic of the dark linens with tons of pretty candles and florals. Once the guests were seated we were treated to several thoughtful toasts and one of the most epic and romantic first dances we have ever seen. It was truly an unforgettable day, what an honor it was to be a part of Jessica and Elie’s wedding!
Congratulations, Jessica and Elie, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Jessica and Elie’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
The Bridge
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Liza Loret
FLORIST
Blush Blooms
VIDEOGRAPHER
Up the Ante Productions
BRIDAL HAIR
The Bridal Collective
BRIDAL MAKEUP
Kylie Jordan Artistry
WEDDING RINGS
Windy City Diamonds
WEDDING GOWN & BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Jasmine Bridal
MENSWEAR
Michael Kors
Megan & Mike’s Beautiful Arbory Chicago Wedding
Megan and Mike met at The Map Room in Bucktown, fell in love and got engaged in Tuscany (!) two and a half years later. We first connected with Megan and Mike after her cousin Casey’s wedding last summer . . .
Megan and Mike met at The Map Room in Bucktown, fell in love and got engaged in Tuscany (!) two and a half years later. We first connected with Megan and Mike after her cousin Casey’s wedding last summer, we were excited to reconnect with this sweet family this year!
Megan was glowing on her wedding day, she looked stunning – Megan is naturally gorgeous, but the team at Tamara Hair and Makeup did an amazing job (as always!) getting the girls ready for the big day. Once Megan was dressed in her beautiful Calla Blanche gown we made our way to the back alley at Trivoli Tavern for Megan and Mike’s first look. Mike’s reaction to seeing his bride was really sweet, he couldn’t take his eyes off her for the rest of the day!
After their first look we connected with the rest of the wedding party on the trolley and made our way to Olive Park for wedding party photos. It was a beautiful sunny day and we loved spending time with this fun group!! After taking plenty of pretty skyline pics we journeyed to the Wrigley Building for more wedding party photos (and some gorgeous shots of Megan in her veil) before setting in at The Arbory for the ceremony and reception. This was our first time shooting at The Arbory and we were completely blown away, we can’t wait to go back to this beautiful venue! We were blown away by the gorgeous florals by Stems Chicago, the hanging arch that they created for Megan and Mike’s ceremony was something we will never forget. The day-of coordination team at Vrinspirations made sure that every detail was carefully executed, it was the perfect day!
Congratulations, Megan and Mike, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Megan and Mike’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
VENUE
The Arbory
DAY-OF COORDINATOR
Vrinspirations
WEDDING FLORIST
Stems Chicago
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Tamara Hair and Makeup
WEDDING GOWN
Calla Blanche
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Mira Couture
BRIDAL SHOES
Nina Neya
WEDDING RINGS
Norridge Jewelers
MENSWEAR
Suit Supply
Ami & Conrad’s Proposal in Paris
I first met Ami in the Spring of 2019, I had just gotten out of the hospital and was using a walker while recovering from my onset of MS. Imagine a double-date with your boyfriend’s boss / best friend . . .
Conrad and I have worked together for ten years now, and in that time I have come to love him as a brother / business partner / best friend. I first met his girlfriend Ami in the Spring of 2019, I had just gotten out of the hospital and was using a walker while recovering from my onset of multiple sclerosis. Imagine a double-date with your boyfriend’s boss / best friend – an old married couple with four kids and two people in their early twenties who had just started dating. I was self-conscious about the double-date and deep-down convinced that no one could ever be “good enough” for my best friend.
After about five minutes I realized that Ami is absolutely perfect for my best friend.
I knew after that double-date that Conrad and Ami would get married some day. As I grew to know Ami better I would tell Conrad that if he messed anything up with her I was choosing to stick with her LOL. Over the years Conrad and Ami grew closer and moved in together, and before long Conrad was talking to me about proposing.
When Conrad first told me about the European trip he was planning with Ami I was overjoyed for my friend. He was so happy and excited to propose to Ami!! I had been wanting to take a girls’ trip with our fellow photographer Christy so this all seemed like the PERFECT trip – I was able to get away for a week to Paris with a girl friend AND photograph my best friend’s proposal, it was truly the trip of a lifetime!!
After lots of planning and scheming Christy and I worked out the perfect spot for Conrad to propose to Ami. We chose the quiet riverbank at the base of the Trocodero and hid there while Conrad and Ami made their way to the spot. I was hiding behind a garbage can (lol) and came out just a split-second too early (I blame the nerves! And Ami taking off her sunglasses at the last possible second!) and Ami saw me just before Conrad got down on one knee. But all in all it was still the perfect moment, and in the end my best friend got engaged!! We celebrated with cheese and wine and phone calls home, Ami’s ring looked perfect on her and Conrad was so happy to be engaged to this wonderful woman.
The next morning we met at Trocodero before the sun rose for an engagement session with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop. Ami wore a beautiful dress that Conrad had surprised her with, and Ami brought along Underbergs for good measure. It was a picture-perfect morning (punctuated by some incredibly cooperative pigeons who helped make for an amazing moment)! It was a trip that we will never forget, photographing in Paris was a dream come true. But even better was celebrating Ami and Conrad taking this next step together, we could not be happier for them!
We love you so much, Ami and Conrad, thank you for letting us share in this unforgettable adventure. We would joyfully go back to Europe with you ANY time!
To see all of Ami and Conrad’s gorgeous engagement photos, click here
Maya & Joe’s Unforgettable Chevy Chase Wedding
Maya and Joe are simply perfect for one another. Meeting them first over Zoom it was apparent that they are deeply in love, their smiles and care for one another radiated through the screen . . .
Maya and Joe are simply perfect for one another. Meeting them first over Zoom it was apparent that they are deeply in love, their smiles and care for one another radiated through the screen. We were so happy to meet them in person for their Spring wedding at Chevy Chase Country Club!
Maya looked gorgeous as she got ready alongside her family, it was beautiful to watch her reconnect with her sister from Venezuela who she had not seen for years. Joe was all smiles as he put the finishing touches on his classic white tux jacket in the bar outside the Grand Ballroom at Chevy Chase. After Maya was dressed in her gorgeous lace gown she went outside for her “first look” with Joe. The joy between these two was infectious, they were both beaming all day from the moment they first saw each other
As we were finishing family photos a band of impeccably dressed mariachis came to serenade us before the ceremony. The mariachi then led Maya into the ceremony in grand fashion, she was glowing as the guests looked on. Joe surprised Maya and everyone in attendance by reading his personal vows in both English and Spanish. Once they were pronounced husband and wife Maya and Joe joyfully walked back down the aisle surrounded by bubbles and music.
One of the highlights for us was watching Joe sing his heart out along with the mariachi during cocktail hour. We were impressed by how many of the songs he knew and how great his singing voice was!! Joe may just have a future in the mariachi industry!
After a gorgeous sunset we settled into the Grand Ballroom for a night of emotional toasts, delicious food and dancing. During the reception we were treated to an amazing flamenco performance (Maya used to be a flamenco dancer!) It was an unforgettable wedding, we were truly honored to be a part of it!!
Congratulations, Maya and Joe, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Maya and Joe’s beautiful wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Piscasaw Gardens
HAIR & MAKEUP
Elle Artistry
BRIDAL GOWN BOUTIQUE
Diana’s Bridal
McKenna & Kyle’s Memorable Metropolis Ballroom Spring Wedding
We first met McKenna and Kyle over Zoom during the pandemic but were so happy to meet them in person at our friends’ Nicolete and Terry’s wedding last November. McKenna created Nicolete’s gorgeous “getting ready” outfit . . .
We first met McKenna and Kyle over Zoom during the pandemic but were so happy to meet them in person at our friends’ Nicolete and Terry’s wedding last November. McKenna created Nicolete’s gorgeous “getting ready” outfit, we knew then that we could expect plenty of personalized and creative details at her wedding this Spring.
When the time came for us to meet McKenna and Kyle at the Metropolis Ballroom for their wedding we were so happy to be surrounded by a big wedding party again!! McKenna and Kyle first met in 2015 when they were both working for the Chicago Fire Soccer Club. After a year of being friends and going back and forth on Facebook messenger, McKenna made the move and told Kyle how she felt. They eventually went on their official first date in August 2016 and have been inseparable ever since. Kyle proposed to McKenna in the kitchen of their old apartment on their 5th year anniversary. Their wedding day was truly perfect – McKenna had thought of every beautiful detail! After McKenna got dressed in the beautiful Harmony Suite she had the sweetest “first look” with her bridesmaids and her Dad before heading into the Ballroom to see Kyle and exchange private vows. We truly love when couples exchange private vows, those quiet intimate moments are the heart and soul of a big joyful wedding day!
The sun came out just in time for us to head outside to the fountain for some wedding party and couples’ photos. It was a brisk but beautiful day!! We made time for a few epic veil shots before the chilly March wind got the better of us, but McKenna looked truly gorgeous even while braving the elements!
After the ceremony we were all ready to party to celebrate the newlyweds! We enjoyed a delicious meal and some heartfelt toasts to McKenna and Kyle before Tim from Ready Set Dance filled the dance floor and kept everyone going all night long! McKenna and Kyle surprised their guests with a t-shirt toss to honor their time with the Fire (with shirts that McKenna created, obvs) and McKenna showed off her splits just in time for us to say goodnight. It was an amazing day, we were so thankful to be a part of it!!
Congratulations, McKenna and Kyle, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of McKenna and Kyle’s gorgeous wedding photos, click here
VENDOR DETAILS
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Something Blue
FLORIST
Belles & Thistles
BRIDAL HAIR
Pin Me Up Chicago
MAKEUP
Denise Ferguson
WEDDING GOWN
Martina Liana
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
Bella Bianca
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Azazie
WEDDING CAKE
Jarosch Bakery
Michelle & Jarrett’s Emotional Vault 232 Wedding
We were heartbroken to hear the news when Michelle’s Dad’s health took a sharp turn for the worse. Michelle and her long-time love Jarrett decided to get married so that her Dad could be there with them. They only had a few days to pull together all the details . . .
Through our Something Blue families we have been continually blessed to build connections and relationships with some truly amazing people. Lindsay has always talked about how much she loves the Phillippi / Nadeau family, every session she has shot for Holly has brought her a lot of joy. We were heartbroken to hear the news when Holly’s Dad’s health took a sharp turn for the worse.
Holly’s sister Michelle and her long-time love Jarrett decided to get married so that her Dad could be there with them. They only had a few days to pull together all the details and bring their friends and family together to celebrate. But sadly, the universe had other plans and Michelle’s Dad passed away just days before his youngest daughter became a bride.
Lindsay and I were honestly a bit shocked when we found out that Michelle and Jarrett were still going ahead with their wedding plans. We met them in a blizzard in downtown Lake Zurich not fully knowing what to expect, and what unfolded was something we will never forget. Michelle looked amazing in her sparkly silver Anthropologie dress and Jarrett looked sharp in his blue suit and borrowed dress shoes (which got fully soaked in the wet snow!) After just moments with these two we were struck by their shared love for life and one another, being in Michelle and Jarrett’s presence filled us with light and joy.
There were many tears shed during Michelle and Jarrett’s wedding, it was truly one of the most emotional days we have ever been privileged to be a part of. Happiness mixed with grief, laughter and sorrow, we caught a glimpse of the full beauty of love and life through these two as they became husband and wife. It was an amazing day that we will never forget.
Congratulations, Michelle and Jarrett, we love you and wish you a lifetime of happiness together!
To see all of Michelle and Jarrett’s beautiful wedding photos, click here