Christa + Nicholas’ University Club Wedding

Christa and Nicholas had a beautiful summer wedding that incorporated many of the best parts of the city. From their gorgeous ceremony to the lively reception at the University Club of Chicago, every part of the day showcased their love for each other. Their elegant celebration was full of fun and personal touches, all captured beautifully by Kassia Phoy Photography. 

Photographer: Kassia Phoy Photography 
Hair and Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago
Lighting: Frost Lighting

I had such a wonderful time working with this lovely couple and am so happy that I was able to be a part of planning their special day. 

Lauren + Tom, the reception

Yesterday, I blogged about Lauren and Tom’s morning and ceremony. Now, we are on to the reception which was held at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Chicago!

All photos by Bella Pictures.

After the ceremony, guests headed outside for the cocktail hour. The views were magnificent. The couple recreated a view of the skyline with this ice sculpture.

Guess where the bridesmaids were sitting? Below is a photo of their vibrant bouquets along with the small table arrangements for the cabaret tables.

When guests headed back to the second floor, they stopped to pick up their escort card. The cards had a picture of the Eiffel Tower as a nod to the couple’s honeymoon destination.

The head table was gorgeous. The couple opted for an ultra modern clear table with Ghost chairs. I adore Ghost chairs! I love the look! It may be my favorite Head Table to date!

The cake was made by the Hotel Baker. The cake topper featured the couple, and their adorable dog, Red. Lauren and I are friends on Facebook and I hear about this dog (and his crazy antics) all the time! I thought this was a cute way to include their non-attending pet.

The couple had a gobo with their monogram. The monogram was used throughout the reception.

The menus were so cute! I love that the couple included a nice note to all their guests.

Examples of the visually stunning place settings.


This is such a great picture of the head table, but the couple look awfully cute together!

Lauren and her Dad are super close. He was one of the most involved Father of the Groom’s that I have worked with to date. He knew every detail of the wedding!

After dinner, there was a dessert buffet. Actually, the term dessert buffet doesn’t do it justice. There was more desserts that I have EVER SEEN at a wedding. It was delicious!

And if that wasn’t enough, the couple also had a gelato bar.
The bar was made of ice and lit underneath.


Since there was more than enough dessert, the couple had to go containers with a slice of cake. The lid had a sticker with their monogram.

Congratulations Lauren and Tom! I hope that the both of you are enjoying your first year as Newlyweds!