A Sweet Summer Wedding Chicago Surrounded by Unexpected Wildlife

The vision of the day was "The Mane Event". Being the first wedding reception to be held in Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo Lion's Den, the couple, along with their wedding design team, wanted to embrace the lion's home as a key role in their wedding day. Guests were surrounded by families of lions as they enjoyed cocktail hour and reception events. The design included a magnificent combination of elegance and uniqueness. As one of the largest wedding parties we have photographed to date, it was very important to the bride and groom that they were surrounded by all of their friends and that everyone had fun. "Our wedding day was everything we could have ever dreamed of. Sean’s uncle married us at St. Michael Catholic Church in Old Town and after, we celebrated at the Pepper Family Wildlife Center (Lion House) at Lincoln Park Zoo. I chose a Winnie Couture satin a-line gown adorned with lace details and exposed boning, coupled with a lace cathedral length veil. Our color palette of ivory and dark green harmonized with the incredible architecture of our venue and our blush and ivory floral arrangements, carefully crafted by Thistle & Plume. We chose a menu that encompassed some of our favorite foods, including a seared filet mignon and a blackberry mojito salmon. Vanille, one of our go-to local bakeries, created the most beautiful and delicious three-tiered wedding cake. We danced with our closest family and friends all night to Bluewater Kings Band, and were absolutely delighted that the lions decided to join the evening all night! Elle Taylor Photography captured each moment perfectly for us to remember forever, and Ohana Events turned each dream into a reality for us on the best day of our lives." - From the Bride

"Sean, knowing Christmastime is my absolute favorite time of the year, planned the most perfect holiday proposal. We went to dinner in Gold Coast at one of our favorite steakhouses, Gibson’s, and then went for a walk to see the Christmas tree at the Waldorf Astoria. As we approached the tree, he knelt down and reached for the hidden “present” engagement ring. Our entire family ran out to surprise and celebrate with us. Having everyone together in that moment meant the world to us. It will forever be one of my favorite memories!" - From the Bride

I chose a Winnie Couture satin a-line gown adorned with lace details and exposed boning, coupled with a lace cathedral length veil.

We chose a menu that encompassed some of our favorite foods, including a seared filet mignon and a blackberry mojito salmon. Vanille, one of our go-to local bakeries, created the most beautiful and delicious three-tiered wedding cake. The bar menu was complete with signature drinks to represent where the couple got engaged and their favorite things.

The wedding cake was a simple and classic white tiered wedding cake, complete by dotted detail and floral decor.