The day started out cold and rainy, but it did not hinder the mood. With Chicago covered in a blanket of grey clouds, the wedding party got ready with the energy of a sunny summer day in their suite at the Marriott. Mother nature gave them all the versions of Spring that Chicago weddings can experience.
Kirsten spent so much time curating the details that I started my day with as she got the finishing touches on her hair and makeup and put her dress on.
As we headed toward the end of getting ready time, the weather started to calm, and we knew by the time everyone had things together and the time came for photos that we would be able to enjoy some time outdoors. Until then, the light was diffused and the suite offered a good backdrop to get a few portraits made before the first look.
Kirsten and Mike decide that a first look moment was the best option for them and choose the staircase in the lobby of their hotel as the spot to make that happen. It was not as intimate as the moment usually is, but it was nice to have the support and love of their wedding party as they watched on. Mike caught some tears and there were endless smiles from everyone around.
The rain indeed did let up, and we headed out for photos, starting just around the corner from the hotel at Wrigley building with the river behind them and then moving over to Lasalle Street just so Mike and Kirsten could dance in the streets alone. Just as the sun came out to warm up the day - we took a short ride over to the Fulton Market for more photos in the streets with their best friends and closest family members.
We finished the photos with plenty of time for the wedding party to have a food break and hang out, so they were relaxed for the ceremony at The City Hall in Chicago in the West Loop Neighborhood. There were tears and smiles that will last them a lifetime.
Florist and the Hound did a spectacular job making the most magical floral installation for the ceremony backdrop that added so much texture and dimension along the art deco brick backdrop of the venue. That floral artistry continued onto the tables, with the greenery running down the middle of each one along with the warmth of candles giving the atmosphere to the spring Gatsy that the couple was hoping for.
With the atmosphere set and the night kept on track with the stellar team of planners from Events with Ambiance, the couple enjoyed the night with family and friends, dancing, drinking custom cocktails, and eating food that they loved.
The Vendor Team
Venue: City Hall Chicago
Planner: Events with Ambiance
Food: Catering by Michaels
Floral: Florist and the Hound
Music: Style Matters DJs
Photo Booth: Bookhipster
Beauty Team: Hair by Ramsay - Shannon O'Brien Weddings - Julia Simone Beauty
Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Transportation: Windy City Limo