We’re totally loving the bits of vintage chic mixed with a dash of whimsy that give this floral filled fete such a unique look. The ladies at Bliss Weddings and Events truly outdid themselves with the design and planning and we can’t get enough of the ribbon-tied balloons and pretty mercury glass candlesticks. Each and every detail was snapped to perfection by Jeffrey and Julia Woods and if you want to see more, just click right here.
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From the bride… I have dreamed of my wedding day since I was a little girl; and I can say without hesitation that it was the most beautiful day of my life! September 17, 2011 began with as an unseasonably warm, sunny Chicago day, which kick started the festivities and eased my anxiety for our garden wedding. I was surrounded by my best friends and my mother, laughing and enjoying the primping process and each other! As my mom helped me into my dress and veil, I knew that this moment had become a reality, and I couldn’t wait to see my groom.
I met my fiancé Anthony in high school. I was a timid 14-year-old, and he was an overly-confident and very talkative upperclassman. We would cross paths socially for the next ten-plus years until finally the stars aligned, and we began to date! We were virtually inseparable and once our girls (Violet the basset hound and Whiskey the basenji mix) became friends, we knew that our lives were moving forward … together. Anthony proposed to me at Culver Academies where we first met, and I had no idea! I have never been so surprised in my entire life; it was a magical day that I will remember forever. The wedding planning was such a joy; I loved every minute of it! We wanted to incorporate elements that had personal meaning and represented us as a couple. Our wedding truly came together with the details, details, details! My father is from Turkey, so it was important for us to add in some Turkish trinkets and flair to honor my heritage. We had evil eyes tied to the programs, a lavender good luck toss to bless us as a couple, and of course some lamb skewers!!
We were married under a stunning pergola laden with roses and dahlias. My husband’s aunt acted as our officiant, and we decided to recite our own vows. I forgot about the rows of guests as I stood before Anthony — it was a moment that just became about us. And with a blink of an eye, we were cocktailing and celebrating our marriage with our lovely guests! As we entered the tent, we felt like we were in a dream. The smell of herbs and flowers set the tone, along with the vintage china, cut crystal and mismatched estate silverware. Every detail complemented the others, and the overall picture was pure perfection! Garlands of tissue paper flowers and cafe lights created a whimsical canopy over the dance floor, which was beyond gorgeous. The evening was filled with laughter, jazz and bubbling champagne. It was the most perfect day, surrounded by our family and friends, and I wouldn’t have changed one thing!
Wedding Photography: Jeffrey and Julia Woods / Flowers: Cornelia McNamara / Event Planning: Renny Penderson of Bliss Weddings and Events / Venue: Galleria Marchetti / Cake: Bittersweet / Wedding Dress + Ceremony Veil: Palazzo / Small Pouf Veil: Sara Gabriel / Shoes: Kate Spade / Groom’s Suit: J.Crew / Groomsmen Khakis + Navy Sport Coats: J.Crew / Bridesmaid Dresses: Lula Kate / Bridesmaid Shoes: Nina / DJ: Beep Media / Hair + Makeup: Gina and Agata of Beauty on Call