So excited to share Jen and Mike’s Wedding day! We had such a great time taking portraits around downtown, and then near Ravenswood Event Center. The lovely blue sky matched Jen and Mike’s absolute glee and joy. What a gorgeous Autumn Wedding! Take a look at some photos, and read the perfect Q&A from the Bride and Groom!
Looking back, what were your favorite parts or moments of the Wedding day?
Jen: It was really emotional to see each other before the ceremony. We met on the Godfrey Rooftop, and it was such a gorgeous back-drop for our first look. Walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Mike’s expression was something I’ll always remember. Mike also read aloud a letter to me before our vows that had everyone crying, and I loved saying our vows to each other in front of all our friends and family.
Mike: Our first look and reading our letters to each other during the ceremony. Both of those were very emotional parts of the day. We also danced the entire reception, and it was a great party!
What was your favorite piece of fashion or accessory, and where did you get it?
Jen: Definitely my dress! It was Watters, and I found it at Wedding Belles in Barrington. I loved its unique floral details, scalloped hem, and combination of silk and lace.
Jen: Definitely my dress! It was Watters, and I found it at Wedding Belles in Barrington. I loved its unique floral details, scalloped hem, and combination of silk and lace.
Mike: I loved my Calvin Klein suit because I bought it and had it custom-fit to me. From what I understand, a lot of people noticed my watch as well, which is a Skagen.
What was the inspiration for your decor or styling?
We wanted to embrace the Fall and have a rustic, elegant feeling in the space. We included Jen’s favorite flowers – Sunflowers – so that was an easy choice. We also liked the idea of using candles throughout the reception space to warm it up and create a romantic glow.
Mention a funny moment here:
The best man, Mike’s brother, gave a hilarious speech that had everyone cracking up. We still laugh about all the jokes he made!
Any advice for future Brides and/or Grooms?
We had a long engagement, which helped us prioritize tasks more easily and book all of our first choices for vendors. On the wedding day, we highly recommend taking time to enjoy seeing other during a first look, and we also spent time alone after the ceremony and during cocktail hour. Taking time alone together helped the day slow down. We made sure to enjoy all of the special moments and then party on the dance floor to celebrate!
We had a long engagement, which helped us prioritize tasks more easily and book all of our first choices for vendors. On the wedding day, we highly recommend taking time to enjoy seeing other during a first look, and we also spent time alone after the ceremony and during cocktail hour. Taking time alone together helped the day slow down. We made sure to enjoy all of the special moments and then party on the dance floor to celebrate!
Did you go on Honeymoon? Tell us about it!
We went to St. Lucia and stayed at Sugar Beach Resort. We left the Monday after the wedding, and it was one of the best decisions we made! It was amazing to unwind, lay on the beach, and enjoy gourmet meals following all stress leading up to the wedding day. We also hiked, snorkeled, and toured the island to learn more about the culture. It was absolutely amazing and we cannot wait to go back.
We went to St. Lucia and stayed at Sugar Beach Resort. We left the Monday after the wedding, and it was one of the best decisions we made! It was amazing to unwind, lay on the beach, and enjoy gourmet meals following all stress leading up to the wedding day. We also hiked, snorkeled, and toured the island to learn more about the culture. It was absolutely amazing and we cannot wait to go back.
Other Wedding Pros:
2nd Photographer: Nicoletta R
Lighting/Gear Assistant: Brandy B
Host Hotel: The Godfrey
Ceremony and Reception: Ravenswood Event Center: the Atrium, the Industrial Ballroom
Day-Of Coordinator: An Event Less Ordinary
DJs: Toast & Jam, Kate & Rachel!
Florist: Blumgarten & Co.
Dessert: Sweet Mandy B’s
Make-up: Michelle Garcia
DJs: Toast & Jam, Kate & Rachel!
Florist: Blumgarten & Co.
Dessert: Sweet Mandy B’s
Make-up: Michelle Garcia
Hair: The Hair Loft
Transportation: Masters Transportation
