LOVE. Love, love this Chicago wedding seen through the lens of Olivia Leigh Photographie. Somehow, this classic American affair with touches of Indian tradition has taken full advantage of all Chicago has to offer. I squeal, you squeal, we all squeal for the beach of Lake Michigan, the skyscrapers on Michigan Avenue, the fabulous Indian couple. And for the wedding. A perfect 10 from Bliss Weddings & Events, we just can’t get enough of this one. Good thing there is more over at Bliss’ blog!
So much more fabulous-ness in the gallery!
After a year and a half of being friends, both of us fell in love. Not wanting to upset the family friendship in any way, we kept it a little secret until we knew it was serious. We dated for just under a year when Cherian proposed on July 3rd in the Signature Room on the 96th floor of the John Hancock skyscraper with a clear view of the spectacular fireworks. I was in absolute shock, but completely thrilled and of course replied with a yes!
As we are both from South Indian families, we wanted to incorporate traditional elements into an American wedding. The church ceremony incorporated two specific ceremonies. The most memorable part was that both my father’s childhood priest and the priest that married Cherian’s parents performed the Indian ceremonies. The Mathrakodi or “Presentation of the Sari” is usually rich silk and brocaded with silver and gold thread. It is a gift from the groom to the bride and is the symbolism that the husband will shelter and care for his wife.
Being in the design field, I have always loved the traditional and intricate Indian floral designs. Along with the help of my best friend and graphic designer, Carmen, we created the pookalam that would be the theme for the wedding. A symmetrical floral motif with clean lines and detail provided the perfect element to add to the simple, clean and modern approach we had for the event. I had them constructed as center pieces for the tables.
Our wedding weekend was truly unforgettable! Having family and friends from all over the world in attendance and the most beautiful 75 degrees, sunny weekend was all we could have ever hoped for – everything else was just extra! From the rehearsal evening with all the arriving guests to the farewell brunch on Sunday, it was filled of so much excitement, love, and joy!
Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie / Event Coordination: Renny Pedersen at Bliss Weddings & Events / Floral & Lighting Design: Event Creative / Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Badgley Mischka / Ceremony: Saint Vincent de Paul / Reception & Catering: The Drake / DJ: Beep Media