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.