It’s no secret that we’re all suckers for love stories around these parts. That’s why we love getting stories like this-from the surprise proposal all the way to the I Do’s. This sweet couple chose one fabulous, not to mention super fragrant, location for their big day and we’re head over heels for all the pretty images by Joshua Albanese Photography. Join us right here in the full gallery for even more!
From Joshua Albanese Photography… We love Roy and Kass, not just because they’re a great couple, but also because they have the distinction of being the first couple we have photographed from “Yes!” to “I Do!” Roy first contacted us when he was planning his surprise proposal to Kassidy – he had an elaborate plan devised and wanted us to help capture her reaction. Kass had no idea, and she was certainly surprised when Roy dropped to one knee in front of A New Leaf and offered her a stunning solitaire engagement ring from Tiffany. Joshua, posing as the typical Chicago tourist, captured everything from his post across the street.
Almost a year later, we all gathered again at A New Leaf to celebrate their marriage. We’re so glad Roy and Kass chose to hold their wedding and reception here – A New Leaf is quite possibly one of the coolest (and most fragrant) venues we’ve been to in downtown Chicago. They not only offer exotic arrangements and flowers by the stem, but there’s also a room with cacti and succulents, a wall packed with a rainbow of candles, and a second building where we found everything from driftwood and river stones to vintage tile. Nestled between the two buildings is a small courtyard filled with antique plant stands, small sitting areas, and seemingly a thousand terra cotta pots. We were a little sad to hear that they would be closing for 2013 for renovations, but we can’t wait to see the improvements they make!
Roy and Kass picked the Hotel Lincoln, just around the corner from A New Leaf, for their wedding preparations. The vibe at the Hotel Lincoln is a mix of eclectic and vintage 1950’s cool, making us feel like we were on a set of Mad Men. There were a number of great locations inside the hotel for photos, and we made sure to take advantage of the gallery wall on the staircase for Roy and Kass’s first look. The second floor featured an almost empty lobby full of period furniture that we also couldn’t resist. Despite the rain, Roy and Kass decided to do a quick photo walk to take photos at some of their favorite Chicago locations. Roy carried the 1950’s vibe through the photo shoot, channeling Gene Kelly in “Singin in the Rain” for what was my favorite image from the day. Back at A New Leaf, Roy and Kass’s closest friends and family gathered upstairs for the ceremony. Love, support and happiness filled the room, warming the wood floors and exposed brick walls. While we were upstairs witnessing Roy and Kass’s union, the team from Corky’s Catering was downstairs putting the final touches of yellow and gray to the reception décor. Bouchon Bakery provided the gorgeous tiered cake that featured delicate petals cascading down the sides.
We have heard nothing but great things about the DJ Roy and Kass selected, Toast and Jam. They are an all-girl company, and they spun some of the best sets we’ve ever heard at a wedding. We also loved the music direction Roy and Kass gave – can you still remember the lyrics to Salt n’ Pepa’s “Shoop” too? At the end of the night, Joshua still hadn’t gotten all of those terra cotta pots out of his head, so we stole Roy and Kass away for a few quick shots in the courtyard before we said our goodbyes.
Wedding Photography: Joshua Albanese Photography / Wedding Venue + Floral Design: A New Leaf in Chicago, Illinois / Catering: Corky’s Catering / Wedding Cake: Bouchon Bakery / Paper + Printing: Paper Source / DJ: Toast & Jam / Getting Ready Venue: Hotel Lincoln / Wedding Dress: Galina for David’s Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Hair + Makeup: Friends + DIY / Rings: Tiffany & Co. / Groom’s Tuxedo: Hugo Boss