Real Wedding: Meagan + Matt

Yesterday, I posted about the Meagan and Matt’s wedding morning and the photos that the couple took around the city. Here is the second post of photos from the ceremony and the reception at Hotel Sax.
All photos by Agnes Malorny.
The intimate ceremony reflected the couple’s Catholic and Jewish backgrounds.

In lieu of a guest book, the couple had a wishing well.
A Wishing Well is much more personal that a book full of signatures!

The design of the ballroom was completely modern.
The tabletop had clean lines that reflected the design of the ballroom.

Let’s talk about chairs, shall we? Hotel Sax offers some modern black and white chairs.
It is a refreshing change from the typical options.

Petite cupcakes were brought out for the dessert course.
There was also a ton of tiny desserts. They were all delicious.*
*OK, I may have tried two. Three. Fine, I tried Four. What does it matter?
That is the beauty of a buffet. No one shall ever know the truth!


The band, Maggie Speaks, rocked out!

The dance floor was packed!

Thank you Meagan + Matt for including us on your beautiful day. It was so great to celebrate with the both of you. Congratulations!!

For other real wedding posts, click the tag Real Wedding.

Real Wedding: Meagan + Matt

In the middle of our engagement, one of my friends from college (and former roommate), Meagan, was engaged in my FAVORITE city in the States, New Orleans. Tres romantic! When they came back to Chicago, the planning began. Meagan and Matt wanted a modern wedding where everyone could have a great time. They succeeded. The wedding was centered around the celebration of the day. It was a beautiful celebration. I was so happy for the both of them!
Of course, Meagan needed a coordinator but I wasn’t available since I finally got to be a wedding guest. (I love attending weddings!) I suggested that she use Marilyn, who coordinated my wedding. Marilyn did a fabulous job!

Band: Maggie SpeaksBridesmaid Dresses: Vera Wang
Ceremony + Reception:
Hotel SaxDress: Monique Lluilier
Florist:
Anna Held
Hair:
Marianne Storkirk
Make-up:
Adriana Aude
Officiant: Chicago Weddings
Musicians:
Accolade Musicians
Photographer:
Agnes Malorny
Transportation:
Chicago Trolley

All photos by Agnes Malorny.

Meagan got ready in her suite with her bridesmaids. I loved this picture of her with her sisters!

Meagan took some gorgeous portraits. Agnes, the photographer, has a true talent for portraits. While I usually enjoy photos that are less posed, these portraits are stunning.


The groom, Matt, went for a modern looking tuxedo. I like the photo against the brick wall.


The bridal party headed out on a trolley to take some photos.


A fabulous bridge shot. Meagan was smart to bring black umbrellas. They bring out her black sash accent.


I am totally biased Chicago allows for some of the best architecture!


Meagan and Matt in the loop!


Meagan and Matt ham it up in front of the Board of Trade.


The entire bridal party looking fabulous! Meagan’s dress stands out with all of the black.


The couple heads back to the Hotel Sax to take some photos at the Crimson Lounge.


Photos of the ceremony and reception will be coming tomorrow!

Real Wedding: Julia + Brandon: Details

Julia and Brandon’s wedding was featured yesterday. Today’s post is all about the unique details.



All photos by Kelli Ward.




Julia wore two gardenias in her hair.


The bride’s family provided the cross, cup and plate used during the wedding ceremony.

Julia’s calla lily bouquet was simple yet stunning. It really complemented her dramatic gown. All flowers by Julia Rosa.


Julia designed elegant programs in the navy and dark pink color scheme.


The bridesmaids’ bouquets were made of green hypericum berries, steel grass, ti leaves and an artichoke.

Julia and Brandon gave Garrett’s Popcorn, a Chicago favorite, to guests. They created coordinating labels thanking everyone for coming.



The reception at Hotel Sax. The centerpiece includes moss, ti leaves and raspberry orchids. I love how the candlelight creates such an intimate feel to the space.

Real Wedding: Julia and Brandon

Julia and Brandon were married in August 2008 at the New Life Community Church in Lincoln Park. They held their reception at the Hotel Sax.



Julia’s mom, Barb, actually hired me as the coordinator. The bride and groom now live in Chicago and had a significant number of out of town guests. Barb and Julia were both very organized but were looking for someone to handle any last-minute details on the day of the wedding.



All photos by Kelli Ward.



Julia and Brandon shared a private moment before guests began arriving. Here they are seeing one another for the first time in the chapel.





This may be my favorite shot of the whole day. I love how it looks as if they are on the front steps of their new home, ready to start their life together.





Julia and her mom just before walking down the aisle. Mom was such a sweetheart!






The church was beautifully lit by the stained glass on a sunny day.




The beaming bridal party departing on a classic trolley.


Dancing to street musicians on Michigan Avenue.
Looks like they are having a great time!





Sharing their first dance as husband and wife to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

Look for another post tomorrow highlighting personal touches.