Illinois Weddings

Styles

Chicago Wedding from Invitations by Ajalon + Melissa Diep Photography

From Jacqui Cole Photography… Lauren and Tyler were not phased by the concept of a 4am wake-up call to capture their engagement photos! They just wanted their love to be captured in the best light, in the city where it flourished. Having met back in high school, Lauren and Tyler didn’t start dating until they were in college – always meeting at the half-way point, Chicago. This engagement session doesn’t need props, it showcases their love in the purest, simplest form. I love their relaxed and easy-going nature and can’t wait to capture their wedding day! Lauren & Tyler will be married in May 2014 in an outdoor ceremony in Crystal Lake, IL.

[dotted]

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Bride’s Shoes: Steve Madden | Location: North Avenue Beach, Chicago, Illinois

This wedding? It’s exactly the reason we adore traditional weddings. The reason we go a little crazy when we see a breathtaking church ceremony and a stunning ballroom reception. It’s the mix and mingling of beautiful details (I’m looking at you, fab paper goods from Invitations by Ajalon and lush florals from Pistil & Vine) with the kind of sophisticated vibe that sends us over the moon. In other words, it’s the perfect start to our pretty week here on SMP Illinois and you can see it all captured by Melissa Diep right here.

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Ballroom Weddings

Styles

Urban Loft Wedding Inspiration from Mandy Blair + Lauren Wave Weddings

From the Bride… Brian and I are hopeless romantics and we always joke about how we live in our own little fairytale. Brian actually proposed to me in front of the Water Tower with our family watching from above with a perfect view from Nomi restaurant. The Water Tower has a castle like design and Brian wanted the water tower to be our castle because in his own words “every fairytale needs a castle.” So naturally, I imagined our wedding at an old castle or estate, but we also wanted to have our wedding in downtown Chicago since that is where we met. After seeing the ballroom at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, I fell in love with it immediately. The Millennium Knickerbocker hotel is a historic landmark in Chicago and the Crystal Ballroom is absolutely stunning with 1920’s glamour. It has the original gold-gilded domed ceiling with huge chandeliers and an illuminated dance floor! This venue was exactly how we wanted to celebrate our big day – with a little bit of vintage glamour, romance, elegance, and a lot of fun and dancing!

We wanted our invitation to set the tone for our wedding day, but we also wanted it be simple, romantic, and elegant. I thought that the vintage lace motif on our invitation matched the antique feel of our venue and adding our custom monogram personalized it to our style. As far as colors go, we wanted the classic look of a black, white, and gold reception and we felt that the quarry, celadon, and navy blue colors would complement this look nicely. These colors were continued through the entire event.

I loved the arrangement of the head table on the white covered stage with a backdrop of our custom gobo monogram, green uplighting, and the gold chiavari chairs. I think these simple design elements blended well with the LED dance floor and enhanced the already beautiful ballroom without going over the top. I also loved the floral arrangements – our bridal bouquets were romantic, whimsical, and had the perfect amount of romantic elements. I wanted the centerpieces to have a clean, natural, and vintage look. We went with three different arrangements to add both height and depth. The first arrangement featured a sleek mercury glass stemmed hurricane with a pillar candle surrounded by a trio of mercury glass cups filled with hydrangea, open roses, touches of dusty miller, and queen anne’s lace. The second arrangement was elevated with a tall slender vase decked out with white ivory and pale blush flowers with cascading elements of the fresh jasmine vine. The last arrangement featured a low lush combination of whimsical garden inspired components designed in a simple silver container surrounded by mercury glass votive candles.

At the start of the reception, right after introductions, we performed the “Gangnam Style” dance with our bridal party. Since the reception venue was very formal and grand, we wanted to lighten up the mood and set the tone for the night. Our guests really enjoyed it and the dance floor was packed the whole night! We were a bit ahead of the trend with the “Gangnam Style” dance since it was just starting to become popular on You Tube, but shortly after our wedding it went worldwide and I’m so happy we decided to perform it at our wedding.

I know that it is easier said than done, but most importantly, don’t stress too much! Everything will come together in the end and even if it doesn’t, remember what you are planning for…you are going to marry the love of your life!

[dotted]

I grew up in Montana, and spent my life dreaming of marrying in a barn or in a breathtaking field smack-dab next to a lake. But for the last few years, every time I even begin to imagine saying “I do,” it’s in a seriously fab urban loft space. And the wedding of my dreams? Well, it’s a lot like this inspiration shoot created by Mandy Blair and Lauren Wave Weddings, aka, a crazy gorgeous day filled to the brim with glitter, vibrant colors and a whole lot of modern meets elegant pretty. See every last glorious detail in the full gallery.

And a crazy beautiful look behind the scenes from Autumn Tree Films to jump start your weekend…

Colors

Settings

Industrial

Styles

Casual Whimsical

From Lauren Wave Weddings… When I first walked into Mandy Blair’s gorgeous studio I thought, “we have to do a shoot here!” Not much later we took action and were knee-deep into DIY projects and inspiration boards. Working off of the bare brick, wood floors, and floor to ceiling windows in the loft, we dreamed up a shoot that worked with the space and was an inspiring mix of old and new, edgy and whimsical. The loft really was the inspiration for the shoot.

We wanted to incorporate color, glamour, and a lot of interesting elements. Our models, a couple who themselves are still soaking in the joy of newly wedded bliss (yay!) have a very modern look so we decided to play with that and worked in a dip dyed tulle skirt and sequin top for the bride and deep pinks and purples for the groom’s boutonniere and vintage ties. The sweetheart table was full of all sorts of magical little elements from a whimsical owl and custom dinner plates to the thistle and cabbage in the floral and the sparkle feather place cards. It was all topped off with little glass trinkets from a “Bottle of Whimsy” found at Anthropologie. The shoot ended at twilight in the back of an urban patio, under the stars. The sequin backdrop paired perfectly with the rawness of the patio space, helping capture the “end of the night love” feeling we wanted to convey.

[dotted]

Bloomington Wedding from Maggie Fortson Photography

I may have mentioned a time or two (or three or four) that I adore Winter weddings, but I think it’s most definitely something worth repeating. Because Winter weddings? Well, they are amazing… especially when they are as fabulous as this Bloomington affair captured beautifully by Maggie Fortson Photography. A vintage chic celebration chock-full of sophisticated blooms from Shari’s Enchanted Florist, it’s sweet DIY details meets vibrant purple hues meets one seriously stunning Amy Kuschel masterpiece. See every last moment in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Winter Weddings

Settings

Hotels + Resorts Weddings

Styles

A Chicago Engagement Shoot at Navy Pier from Nicodem Creative

From the Bride… James and I met in the January of 2009 while we were attending college at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, IL. He was a Sophomore and I was a Junior. We met during an exchange with his fraternity (Theta Chi) and my sorority (Alpha Gamma Delta). We knew within the first couple of weeks of dating there was something special happening between us. Sadly, James left the country to study abroad in Buenos Aries, Argentina for four months a little over one month into our budding relationship. Looking back, we are very grateful for that time apart because it forced us to really get to know each other and made our relationship grow and become so much stronger. We have had so many good memories getting to know each other and growing into the husband and wife we are today. We started looking at engagement rings back in December of 2011 and James proposed to me at sunset on the beach in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on April 18, 2012.

We had so much fun planning all of our pre-wedding and wedding festivities with the help of our amazing wedding planners at Simple Elegance Events and Weddings. We do not know what we would have done without them. They were life savers and made our day so special and as stress free as possible. I made all of the centerpieces and I made bracelets for all of my bridesmaids and our wedding singer. DIY bracelets were made using bracelet blanks and adhering vintage earrings and broaches to the blanks. As we started to plan for the wedding we did not know at first where we wanted to have it. We live in Chicago now and thought that we would do it in the city. Then James mentioned doing it back on campus at IWU and the decision was made. There was no more discussion. Of course, we should start our new life together as one at the place our relationship blossomed. We felt at home there. We loved our experience at IWU, plus it is gorgeous and we knew we could take some pretty amazing photographs on campus.

The day was magical. I wanted a more vintage glam experience and I think it turned out perfectly. The girls and I started getting ready early in the morning at T M Hair Design. We got our hair and make-up done while drank mimosas and ate bagels from Panera. The guys got ready at the Marriott Hotel (where we later had the reception). We had the most amazing photographer Maggie Fortson, who we worked with for our engagement photographs, and her second photographer Robb Davidson so we were so excited for our photos. After the girls and I got to the hotel to get dressed, James and I exchanged gifts . I received the most beautiful diamond earrings and he received a pretty snazzy Tissot watch and then we headed to my sorority house AGD for our first look.

Our first look was perfect, it was on the porch of my sorority and we were both so extremely overjoyed to see each other and could not believe that this was actually our wedding day. We had a ton of fun taking pictures outside and inside AGD and then it was off to the chapel to get married!! Evelyn Chapel on IWU campus is absolutely gorgeous. It is small and quaint and has perfect acoustics which made the ceremony something that everyone will remember. Our good friend Rachel, who has a voice of an angel, sang our processional and recessional and was also our wedding singer along with Susan (one of my bridesmaids) for our first dance. DIY: I made bead covered wooden Ls for the front doors of the Chapel and we tried to keep with the vintage theme by using antique trays for our bubbles and for our communion. The ceremony was everything I could have imagined, short, thoughtful, funny, and ended with a very unexpected dip during our first kiss as husband and wife. The pictures captured throughout the ceremony are fantastic. You can really get an idea of what the chapel looks like and i’m so glad Maggie and Robb captured photos of us praying with our Pastor Dave. I believe that a family that prays together will stay together and can get through whatever this crazy world throws at them.

After the ceremony we were whisked away to our campus library because they have a circular book room that James and I thought would be fun for photos and then we roamed though campus a little for more photos before enjoying sometime on our party bus before the reception. The reception turned out even better than I imagined it. Our wedding planners were amazing and took what I had made and my dream reception. DIY: I spent the 11 months before the wedding going to thrift shops and salvation armies for vases and gold picture frames for our centerpieces and picture frames. For the centerpieces I made mercury glass vases by using Kyroln looking glass spray. I put about 5 coats on each vase and then distressed them with a combo of vinegar and water on a paper towel to make then look antique. For the table numbers I used the gold picture frames and musical scrapbook paper and attached each number. I then glued purple bows to each frame to match our color theme. I also spray painted curly willow gold and then adhered gold glitter to them which I put into hand blown glass vases. The food at the Marriott was great and our cake, made by Sugar Mama’s Bakery, was to die for. Everyone was raving about it and people still talk about how good it was. I am looking forward to eating our top layer on our anniversary. We had so much fun dancing the night away with all of our friends and family. It was so special to be back where it had all began and to have all of our family, sorority, and fraternity brothers and sisters there that helped us and watched us grow throughout the years. I think it was special for all of us and a throw back and reunion to our college days which everyone enjoyed. We absolutely love being married and are looking forward to so many wonderful years together. We are truly blessed.

[dotted]

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

Amy Kuschel

2014

2013

The PEACE & LOVE Collection 2015

DECO to DISCO Collection 2016

View All Collections

In my three years of happy blogging here at SMP, I’ve loved many Chicago engagement sessions. Many, many Chicago engagement sessions. But this Navy Pier shoot captured perfectly by Nicodem Creative? I don’t think I’ve ever been this smitten. Maybe that has a little something to do with this beyond darling duo, who met while backpacking through Europe and spend their days traveling the globe whilst basking in their you-can’t-miss-it happiness. I adore them. And their gallery of breathtaking images? Outstanding. Join me there for so much more.

Colors

Settings

Outdoor Weddings

Styles

Boho Chic Newlyweds at Valentino Vineyards from Kristin La Voie Photography

From Nicodem Creative… In their own words, Anthony and Evelyn have a love defined by adventure. And when a couple begins to fall in love while backpacking through Europe, has their first date in front of the Eiffel Tower, gets engaged in San Francisco, and decides to have their wedding on a boat off the coast of Chicago, it isn’t hard to imagine why. Our session with the couple captured that wild, spontaneous spirit: from dancing on the deck of a boat moored alongside the whirling colors of life on Navy Pier, to the exotic gardens on the pier itself, to wading in the chilly lake water spread beneath the cityscape, we tried to keep up with Anthony and Evelyn, luggage in tow. There is a vibrancy in their pictures, an aliveness that is theirs, and we thoroughly enjoyed spending the day catching glimpses of it. Anthony and Evelyn will be married on June 9th, on the Spirit Boat Cruise in Chicago, and the real adventure will begin!

[dotted]

Photography: Nicodem Creative

When we first met this darling duo, they were celebrating their engagement with a whole lot of beachside pretty. Fast forward a year later and it’s time to happily bask in their Valentino Vineyard newlywed session captured by Kristin La Voie Photography, aka, the perfect start to the week with a gallery chock-full of light-filled images and a boho chic vibe that is all kinds of crazy amazing. From the stunning Mark & James gown to the pretty bouquet from Forget Me Knodt to that FAB Percy Handmade headpiece, it’s a Mr. and Mrs. session that is the definition of lovely. See it all in the full gallery.

Colors

Settings

Weddings in Wineries

Styles

Vintage

From Kristin La Voie… I have the loveliest New Mr. & Mrs. for you! Kelly and Luke, whose super adorbs beach engagement was featured on SMP, couldn’t wait to grace your pages again! This time, as a newly married couple, Kelly and Luke got dressed up one more time to be in front of my camera for a New Mr. & Mrs. session. This Boho chic theme was perfect at Valentino Vineyards in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Even though the vines were not blooming, the sunshine and love already provided more radiance than I could handle. LOVE everything about this session and my amazing couple!

[dotted]

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

Badgley Mischka

Spring 2014 Bridal

2014 Bridesmaids

Spring 2014 Accessories

View All Collections

Classic Chicago Wedding from Emilia Jane Photography

Traditional affairs? They rock. Rock in ways that are almost indescribable. Because stunning ceremonies, breathtaking ballroom receptions and glamourous details are kind of a lethal combination. Today’s shining example? An elegant gem of a day captured by Emilia Jane Photography, which just so happens to be boasting beautiful blooms from Bunches, a killer Paloma Blanca gown and a whole lot of old-world Chicago charm. Check out every beautiful moment in the full gallery. You’re about to be very smitten.

Colors

Settings

Eatery Religious Institution

Styles

Olympia Fields Barn Wedding from Katherine Salvatori Photography

From Emilia Jane… It was so wonderful to be a part of Jen and Nick’s classic Chicago wedding. It was such an honor to photograph their wedding and see their love in every glance between each other all day. Their authentic emotion is so touching. She looked stunning in her Paloma Blanca gown and I just love how all of their pieces came together.

From the Bride… It all started a few years ago when Nick and I both decided to go back to school (some would call it a transitional period in our lives), and get jobs working at a local Chicago bar. As luck would have it, we just so happened to work at the same one. We instantly clicked as friends, however we both had an inkling that there was something more to it from the start. After about two years of exploring the “friends zone” together, the opportunity struck on New Year’s Eve 2010 with a text from Nick to me saying “I hope you’re doing well, I haven’t forgotten about you!”

We spent a few weeks contemplating moving our relationship to the next step, and finally started dating on Super Bowl Sunday of 2011. We got engaged on June 15, 2012 atop the Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier and started planning our wedding for the following April!

For our wedding, we really wanted to keep an Old World Chicago theme throughout the day being that this is where our story started. From our invitations to the trolley with the wedding party to the many pictures taken around the Chicago area on our wedding day, I think we succeeded! We loved holding our wedding at Salvatore’s – it really helped tie in the Old World Chicago charm with a beautiful, intimate reception. We couldn’t be happier with how the day turned out!

[dotted]

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

Paloma Blanca

Fall 2015 Collection

Fall 2017 Collection

Spring 2017 Collection

Spring 2018 Collection

View All Collections

Barn weddings will always hold a special place in my heart. Maybe that’s because I grew up in Montana, where barns rest on each and every corner… or maybe it’s because they are just that darn beautiful. My guess? It’s a sweet combo of both that has me so head over heels, and this darling Sgt. Means Park wedding is a shining example. It’s beautiful DIY blooms meets a gorgeous Blue by Enzoani gown meets all kinds of crazy amazing images captured by Katherine Salvatori Photography. See them all in the full gallery.

Colors

Settings

Rustic Weddings

Styles

DIY Inspired Rustic

From Katherine Salvatori… I am so excited to share this wedding with you! Emily is a photographer, as well, and I knew when she hired my husband and me that we would have plenty of time for portraits and just an amazing day with the two of them. I adore farm weddings, and all of Emily’s DIY details came together perfectly, from the old-fashioned cameras used as centerpieces to the adorable coffee bags given as favors for guests. Please enjoy the pictures!

From the Bride… Noah and I met back in high school, over six years ago. Noah and his family had just moved to Illinois from Virginia and started going to church at Parkview Community. We both attended Olivet Nazarene University and throughout our years there, kept a close friendship. After graduating in December of 2011, I moved to Streator, Illinois and figured that I probably wouldn’t be talking to Noah much because of the distance that was now between us. Little did I know that God had other plans in the works. We had our official first date on February 9th, 2012 when Noah finally got the nerve to ask me out. Noah proposed at Starved Rock on August 13th, 2012.

I have always wanted to have a barn wedding even before it became the “trendy” thing to do. Our search for the perfect spot seemed almost impossible after we got engaged, because every spot was either already booked for the next two years, or was crazy expensive. Noah actually came across our venue one night and we got super excited that my dream barn wedding might actually work! Going along with the barn, we wanted a rustic feel to all of our details. A lot of DIY work went into every aspect of the wedding. The color inspiration came from a wedding featured on The Knot, and I then modified it to work better with a Spring wedding.

[dotted]

Fall Garden Wedding at Cuneo Mansion from Olivia Leigh Photographie

Fall is my absolute favorite season… and for a lot of reasons. The beautiful colors, the crisp, clean air, the falling leaves. But ranking high atop that list? Fall weddings. Because in my humble opinion, it just doesn’t get any better than a cozy meets romantic day set against a gorgeous Autumn backdrop. Need proof? Lay your eyes on this stunner from the always-amazing Olivia Leigh Photographie, which is like a literal fairytale come to life with beautiful blooms from Fleur Couture, an enchanting Elizabeth Fillmore gown and a mesmerizing Cuneo Mansion and Gardens setting. See every last stunning moment in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Garden Weddings Outdoor Weddings Weddings in Historical Venues

Styles

Vintage

From Olivia Leigh Photographie… Lindsay and Beau are a couple as sweet as they are gorgeous. They met in Chicago when they lived in the same apartment building and were married in the Fall of 2012 at the lovely Cuneo Mansion outside of Chicago. This gorgeous and historic home has stunning grounds and rooms filled with interesting historic details, and was the perfect setting for the slightly vintage-glamourous look the couple pulled together.

Lindsay looked like a silver screen age movie star in her flowing silk gown, and Beau looked dapper in his slim-fit suit. They had a ceremony on the lawn outside of the mansion (and also where the brunch and reception scenes from My Best Friend’s Wedding took place), at the height of Fall season, with magnificent oranges and golds all around them. Both part of small, close families, they did a champagne toast with just their parents after the ceremony, a sweet and unique touch. A reception followed indoors, where Lindsay and Beau cut their croquembouche and she changed into a very fitting retro-inspired getaway look. So cute and chic!

[dotted]

Wedding Photography: Olivia Leigh Photographie | Wedding Venue: Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, Loyala University, Chicago | Officiant: Kent Harrington | Floral Design: Nicole Pandola of Fleur Couture | Wedding Coordination: Lauren Knuepfer of LK Events | Catering: Bauer’s Catering | Wedding Cake: Oak Mill Bakery | Invitations: Kara Gordon of Magnificent Milestones | Venue Coordination: Zuzi Williams of Cuneo Mansion + Bauer’s Catering | Wedding Dress: Elizabeth Fillmore, via Belle Vie Bridal | Groom’s Attire: J.Crew | Entertainment: Amanda Hohmeier of Toast & Jam DJs

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Elizabeth Fillmore

Fall 2013

Fall 2014

ON - Going

Spring 2013

Spring 2014

View All Collections

Spring Love in Illinois from Evan Hunt Photo

Umm… these two are the sweetest duo EVER. Seriously. Read the groom’s beautiful (+ heartwarming) description below and you will see just what I mean. Because not only are his amazing words ranking high atop our list of tear-inducing, beyond touching moments, it’s also one of the happiest descriptions you will ever have the privilege to read. (Trust me.) And their darling e-session captured by Evan Hunt Photo? Seriously breathtaking. See every last love-filled moment in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Settings

Styles

Modern Chicago Engagement Shoot from Christopher|F Photography

From Evan Hunt… Brittney & Kyle’s love is strong. Both as individuals contain so much energy, joy, faith, and love it absolutely overflows to anyone they encounter in their lives. When they are together, their love not only overflows, but explodes like fireworks, covering everyone who’s fortunate enough to be near. These two are a perfect example of what love means.

From the Groom… I met Brittney while serving in the Junior High ministry at our church. I had just gotten back from working at the church’s summer camp in Michigan and came back for the start of a new school year. I saw Brittney for the first time at our initial leader meeting of the year and immediately thought she was cute – I kept taking quick glances in her direction, hoping she wouldn’t notice. As the year went on my desire for her began to grow more and more as I witnessed her love and passion as she served the kids and interacted with everyone in the ministry. I finally gathered the courage to ask her out to coffee, and although what was said in that moment varies on which one of us you ask, the response requires no interpretation.

I had hoped Brittney would be the one for me even before I first spoke to her. Her parents had given her the nickname “Birdie” growing up, and I think our story has a neat similarity to this name. In the months leading up to our first date, even though I was very, very attracted to her, I spent all of my time around her as an observer. I saw the way she acted, I saw the way she laughed, I saw the way she loved and served her students and her Lord. I was able to see her in her purest form, without any knowledge of my interest in her, and no desire in her to impress me. This is what convinced me that she was someone special, someone I could see spending the rest of my life with. Now that we’re together, sometimes Brittney will notice me simply looking at her, which I always love doing because her beauty captivates me each time I see her. When she notices, she’ll look at me with the cutest face and ask with a smile “What are you doing?” And my response, time and time again, is “Oh, just bird-watchin’.”

[dotted]

Photography: Evan Hunt Photo | Locations: Doug Lindberg Park, Palatine, Illinois + Harvest Bible Chapel, Rolling Meadows, Illinois

We have Christopher|F Photography to thank for our dose of style and sweetness this morning, and it is one beautiful dose. On a gorgeous day, in gorgeous Lincoln Park – each and every image in this gallery is well…gorgeous. It’s an engagement session with a little bit of spunk, and makes me excited to see what these two have up this sleeve for their big day. Until then, get lost in their e-sesh here.

Colors

Settings

Styles

Cantigny Park Engagement Shoot from Autumn and Melinda Photography

From Christopher|F Photography… Christine and Eric wanted to capture their engagement session in the beautiful Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago and what better place than the park itself and along the lake front. The light was beautiful as it peaked in and around the different structures we visited. Ending the evening out by the pier to capture the essence of the city as well as the love of the couple.

These two met in college at Iowa and came to Chicago a few years ago. They will be wed next year back home in Iowa!

[dotted]

Photography: Christopher|F Photography |Location: Chicago’s Lincoln Park + North Avenue Beach

Okay… so I am totally geeking out right now, but these two sweeties? They happen to have the same names as two of my all-time favorite literary characters (Rachel + Dexter), so, yeah. I am pretty happy. Also making me happy? Their beyond beautiful engagement session captured by Autumn and Melinda Photography, which is one serious, serious love-fest filled with tulips, sunny skies and image after image of one of the cutest duos you will ever lay your eyes upon. (Did I mention they were stunning?!?) See every last glorious moment in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Settings

Outdoor Weddings Park

Styles

Whimsical Midwest Wedding from Hannah Persson Photo

From Autumn and Melinda Photography… It was a beautiful Spring afternoon in the suburbs of Chicago. Our couple had chosen the Cantigny grounds to take advantage of the beauty. It couldn’t have been a more perfect place at the perfect time. The tulips were in full bloom, the trees were bursting with flowers and buds, the grass was a luscious green and everything was dancing in the breeze. The scene was perfectly set for Rachel and Dexter.

Dexter has known that Rachel was for him since the moment he saw her from afar in college and his feelings are apparent in every image. They moved through the gardens effortlessly together as if they were the only two people around. We started in the flower gardens moved through to the pond and tall grass, stopped at the formal gardens and museum and ended at the growing gardens just as the stars were starting to appear. For our couple, who is planning a laid-back outdoor wedding, it was a perfect precursor to the wedding. We are so excited to return in October for the wedding to see the stunning changing of the seasons.

[dotted]

Photography: Autumn and Melinda Photography | Location: Cantigny Park and Gardens, Wheaton, Illinois

Working at SMP means losing the ability to speak on a daily basis. Some of you might not know that, but it’s totally true. And although I’ve been known to be a bit wordy (ask my very patient friends or any member of my family), this sweet Sycamore soiree has left me at a serious loss for words. Maybe that’s because this is the kind of wedding that just tugs at your heart strings from the get-go with its beautiful nature-filled setting, DIY details and whimsical touches every which way you turn. It’s one magical moment after another captured by Hannah Persson Photo and you can see it all in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Outdoor Weddings Religious Institution

Settings

Styles

DIY Inspired Whimsical

From Hannah Persson Photo… This wedding really tops the charts. The magic and prettiness that took place that day played out like a movie. Even though the bride and groom originally wanted to elope, they realized what would be even better was to have a great big celebration party of their marriage and their love with their friends and family, and they are so happy they did, looking back now. The details were made entirely by family and friends of the bride. Lots of careful planning and budgeting was the trick to this beautiful creation. The adjectives running through the bride’s mind throughout the planning process were ethereal, fun, whimsical, savage, and luxe– a lot to work with. The big white balloons at the reception had a sort of magical quality about them and created a super intimate evening. It took the bride’s brothers a couple hours to blow up the balloons and then hang them from the ceiling. The confetti pieces on each table added to the fun aspect, and who doesn’t love chalkboard? A trend that is sure to be around for awhile. The cupcakes were cute as can be, and helped draw in the color scheme which was blushes, lavenders, and pinks- so nice to not have to stick with just one color!

The bride and groom wanted to get married in the outdoors because nature is something very important to the bride – she wanted the ceremony to take place in the tall prairie grasses of her home state, Illinois – so the nice touch of the prairie grasses in the pink painted wine bottles at each table helped to bring the outdoors in. The cut-out paper letters on the wall are lyrics from the couple’s favorite Bob Dylan Song – they added a really beautiful graphic element to the venue design.

This couple is super quirky and unique, so photographing them was a real joy, and I’ve never seen anyone happier about getting married. The bride was going back and forth about changing her last name, ultimately deciding to wait awhile, so they will be holding a name changing celebration ceremony in the months to come. I can’t wait to be there for it.

[dotted]

Spring Engagement Session in Chicago from Cristina G Photography

Sometimes all you need for a perfect engagement session is a stunning locale (Olive Milton Park), a beautiful Spring day and one adorable pup named Rocco. A pup that happens to be just as happy with a casual romp around the park as he is living it up in his finest tux. Throw in one seriously stunning duo and a bundle of drop-dead gorgeous images from Cristina G Photography and, well. That’s a whole lot of e-session happy. See it all right here in the full gallery.

Colors

Seasons

Settings

Outdoor Weddings Park

Styles

Yellow + Mint Wedding Inspiration from Kristin La Voie + Yellow Diamond Events

From Cristina G Photography… Perfect spring days in Chicago are rare and getting one of them for your engagement session even more so. But Josephine and Tim picked just the right time for some fun in the sun with their big/little guy Rocco by the lake. The couple is tying the knot this fall in the suburbs, so a few epic skyline shots of the city they live in were a must. Olive Milton Park is just the place to be for truly unique views of Chicago, the ferris wheel and trees in bloom. All they asked for were beautiful memories of an afternoon in the park. To me that meant full creative freedom to capture their love… and have a little fun with Rocco! He was truly the star of the session!

[dotted]

Photography: Cristina G Photography

After a long holiday weekend, getting back into the work week can prove to be a bit challenging. However, we have just the thing to put a little pep in your weekday step today – this stunning, inspiration-packed, pretty-fest from one talented lineup of vendors. Planned by Yellow Diamond Events and snapped up by Kristin La Voie Photography every gorgeous image sitting pretty in this gallery is perfectly pinable. And with florals from Forget Me Knodt and stationery from TamTam Design, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. Get to pinning here.

Colors

Seasons

Spring Weddings Summer Weddings

Settings

Styles

Chicago Engagement Shoot from Emilia Jane Photography

Our Yellow and Mint Inspiration Shoot, who’s concept was executed flawlessly by Eugenya of Yellow Diamond Events, is a feast for the eyes! The heart of Lincoln Park in the great city of Chicago was the perfect backdrop for this affair. Crafted from bold colors of yellow and mint green, our gorgeous girls were ready to rock bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses. The invitations from TamTam Design were the perfect combination of summer colors with a fun flair. The gorgeous florals by Janessa at Forget Me Knodt were spot on — made right in her brand new shop in the city! Kathy at Kasia’s Bridal chose the perfect gowns with beading, ruffles, and tons of pretty. Our models Sunny & Veronica definitely rocked it out!

[dotted]

I know we sing the praises of Chicago engagement sessions time and time again, but, honestly, it’s just something that needs repeating. This is a city skyline that is as breathtaking as they get… and you Windy City lovelies? Some of the chicest duos we’ve ever met. Need proof? Take a gander at this gorgeous session captured by Emilia Jane Photography, aka, an uber-stylish trip to Fulton’s on the River + The JParker and one image after another of two seriously stunning sweeties. See every last love-filled moment in the full gallery.

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Outdoor Weddings

Styles

Turnberry Country Club Wedding in Illinois from Kate Miller Photography

From Emilia Jane Photography… I am so excited for Amanda & Mike’s stylish wedding this May at the Chicago History Museum. Until then, we had so much fun with their engagement photos downtown at Fulton’s on the River and at the JParker rooftop at Hotel Lincoln. I just had to share Amanda’s effortless style!

[dotted]

You know why I love this wedding? Well, besides the fact that it happens to be drop-dead gorgeous, is sporting one of my favorite color combos (yellow + gray) and has a modern meets classic vibe that I just can’t get enough of? The special little details that went into every.single.moment. The beautiful blooms so expertly crafted by Colin Collett, the sweet DIYs crafted by devoted friends and family, the bright yellow parasols that rock in all kinds of ways… it’s a wedding lovers dream, really. And don’t even get me started on the gallery of images captured by Kate Miller Photography. Amazing. Join me there for all of the pretty.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Country Club

From the Bride… One of our favorite parts of the wedding was stopping at Emmett’s Brewery on our way to the reception to take pictures. The ivy on the walls and old look of the buildings made the pictures beautiful. Also, it gave the bridal party and us a chance to relax and enjoy a beverage and some appetizers. It’s great to plan ahead and find a cool place to take pictures at.

Some tips? I’d recommend finding someone you know to sew your veil. I asked my aunt to make mine. The fabric only cost about $10 and I loved it! Also, we asked my cousin, an architecture grad student, to design all our wedding stationery. If you know an artistic person, have them do the graphic design and then find a printer to save money. Ours turned out amazing!

[dotted]

Chicago Wedding from Erica Rose Photography

From the moment I laid my eyes on this crazy gorgeous Chicago wedding, I knew one thing for certain: this couple is awesome. Yep, they’re the kind of couple that throws a fun-filled party to celebrate their I do’s and leaves you talking about it for years (and years) after. They also happen to be the kind of couple that handcrafts amazing details and chooses a wonderful group of vendors to make it all happen. Think Salvage One, Toast & Jam and City Provisions. And the breathtaking gallery from Erica Rose Photography? Just as fabulous as them. Join me there to soak it all in.

Colors

Seasons

Spring Weddings Summer Weddings

Settings

Industrial

Styles

Vintage

From Erica Rose Photography… Chris and Carolyn are Chicagoans at heart. This city is where they met and where their relationship grew, so even after they were moved to Florida for work they knew that they wanted their wedding to be in Chicago. One thing that struck me about this wedding as being set apart from the pack was the intentionality with which Chris & Carolyn made every decision. The feel of their day was really created by who they are as a couple who loves the city, good food, and great dance parties…but most importantly of all their close relationships with friends and family. Thank goodness, they were celebrating a move back to the city in time for their wedding day!

Carolyn is incredibly creative and hand-designed much of their day, using a warm palette of rosy and gold tones… every detail was absolutely stunning! There was no better venue for these two than the eclectic flair of Salvage One, its not easy to get a Saturday during wedding season at this place… you’ve got to book early! One aspect of the wedding day that was really important to these two was to provide their guests with not only delicious, creative food, but also a local, green and sustainable option. City Provisions was the answer for them, and I heard several guests comment on how outstanding the meal was. I was a little taken aback by Chris’ amazing moves on the dance floor – don’t let the intimidating attorney front fool you, he’s got moves like you’ve never seen. Toast & Jam kept the dance floor packed the entire night.

[dotted]

Wedding Photography: Erica Rose Photography | Wedding Ceremony: St. Teresa | Wedding Reception: Salvage One | DJ: Toast & Jam | Caterer: City Provisions

Chicago Wedding from Jill Tiongco Photography

When we first spotted this lovely duo back in January (their uber-gorgeous engagement session is a definite must-see), we kind of knew their wedding would be stunning. And by “kind of knew,” I mean we absolutely, positively did. Because a couple this cute and this stylish? They know how to throw a breathtaking soiree. One complete with anemone-filled blooms from Andrew’s Garden, a fabulous tented reception and the world’s most gorgeous Rivini gown (a gown I think I need, you know… just in case). And the gallery filled to the brim with sweetly classic details captured by Jill Tiongco Photography? All kinds of amazing. Join me there for all of the pretty.

Colors

Settings

Ballroom Weddings Religious Institution

Styles

Chicago Wedding at Fulton’s on the River from Evan Hunt Photography

From Jill Tiongco Photography… Jackie didn’t miss a detail when planning her wedding. She figured out a way to make every single thing personal and unique and the result? a PERFECT wedding.

Something Old: A purse given to her by her Aunt Tricia that was made from her own wedding dress, worn on December 26th,1986.

Something Borrowed: A Pearl necklace that belonged to Mark’s paternal grandmother + a handkerchief that belonged to Jackie’s maternal great-grandmother. Jackie’s mom also carried this with her on her wedding day in 1980.

Something Blue: “I Do” rhinestones on the bottom of her shoes.

A few fun facts from the day… The Chalice and Patten used in the ceremony belonged to Jackie’s paternal grandparents for use in special occasions. “Ode to Joy” was also played at Jackie’s parents’ wedding. The Maid of Honor (1 of 4 sisters) had a MOH Kit made to be passed down to all the sisters when it’s their turn. The cake knife used during the reception belongs to Jackie’s maternal grandparents. The guest-book will be made from postcards that guests wrote wishes for Jackie + Mark… that Jackie’s sister will mail them throughout their first year of marriage. There were also photographs of the couple’s parents and grandparents displayed at the wedding from their own wedding days.

Jackie + Mark had two signature drinks “blushing bride” and “brown-eyed groom.” Table assignments were letters that represent all Jackie + Mark’s favorites things that start with that letter. They had a “fun facts” section noted in the program as well, that included traditions passed down as well as special items and songs incorporated into their wedding.

[dotted]

This wedding? This Bride? These images from Evan Hunt Photography? They all completely took my breath away. And I couldn’t be happier about it. It’s the type of feature where I find myself clicking through the gallery over and over, each time finding another reason to fall head over heels in love with every moment. It’s pure wedding magic unfolding right before my very eyes, and you can see what I mean right here.

Colors

Seasons

Ballroom Weddings Religious Institution

Settings

Styles