Mandy+Ken's Romantic Farm Wedding

The Proposal: Ken proposed to Mandy at her favorite place in the world, her family's cottage in Michigan. During this visit each night around sunset the couple would have some wine and cheese while circling around the lake in their Pontoon boat. This particular night Ken decided to drop anchor and pop the question and gave her a ring from Burdeen's Jewelry.

The Wedding: The entire wedding took place at Oak Hill Farm near Galena, IL.  Mandy planned her own wedding and designed the invitations, programs, and made almost all of her own details!  The Bride's father Thomas was in charge of videography, with hair and makeup done by Stone Drift Spa.

Mandy's gown was a lovely Maggie Sottero, with jewelry by Silver Chic, and sandals from DSW. The Bridesmaids wore dresses from Express, belts from Anthropologie, and jewelry made by Mandy. Ken and his Groomsmen wore suits from Men's Warehouse. 

The couple were wed at the base of an amazing hill at the edge of the forest. After the ceremony we took family portraits then we traveled around the grounds with just the bridal party for more photos. 

All the lovely rustic florals were by Stockton Floral. For the reception Ken's mother provided a delicious traditional korean dish to accompany the catering by Cindy's Catering, and cake by Sweetheart Bakery of Galena.

The receptions entertainment was by Lake Shore Vibe, and the guests were gifted favors of beer, that you guessed it, the couple brewed themselves! For the end of the night portraits, we utilized the natural elements already at the farm. Love the twinkle lights!

Congrats Mandy and Ken!

Katelyn+Alec's Art Institute of Chicago Engagement Session

We met Katelyn and Alec at the Art Institute of Chicago for their engagement session. From the bridge, and the south gardens, to inside the Institute, we had a great time with Katelyn and Alec. The couple is planning to wed in June of 2015 at Old St. Patrick's Church with a reception to follow at the University Club of Chicago. 

We can't wait for your wedding, congrats Katelyn and Alec!

Bridget+Owen's Classic Emerald and Gold Westin Wedding

The Proposal: Owen and Bridget went on a trip to Europe late June, 2013. The first country they visited was Ireland, and Bridget’s mom and sister came along. On day two of the trip, the group made their way west to Galway. While there, Owen asked Bridget to go on a “romantic walk” along the Galway River. That’s when she really knew something was up…

Most of Bridget’s friends knew, all of Owen’s friends knew, and most everyone in the family knew (Bridget’s mom and sister were waiting at the hotel room with Champagne, and Bridget’s friends were waiting to hear news in the States), but Bridget had no idea. Well maybe she had some idea, but only after Owen dragged her on that cold walk along the river, the ring burning a hole in his pocket. When he finally got down on one knee and popped the question, Bridget was at a loss for words. Luckily, she was able to pull it together and say YES! The couple spent a few more days in Ireland and then hopped on a plane to Paris to celebrate more.

The Wedding: Bridget started the day getting ready at The Westin, while Owen prepared at The Drake. Bridget's makeup was by Rachel Jordan, hairstyle by Kristin Creaney, gown from Wedding Belles, and heels from LK Bennett. She wore a tennis bracelet borrowed from her mother, and a necklace made from her late grandmother's engagement ring. The Bridesmaids wore J.Crew with accessories by Kate Spade. The Groom and Groomsmen wore Men's Warehouse.

We left the Westin and headed to the ceremony at Old St. Pat's. Bridget and Owen were finally married and we headed to the Board of Trade and Olive Park for some bridal party photographs. The classic reception was set up at the Westin, where we spent the rest of the evening. Florals by Maria's Floral Studio, cake by Oak Mill Bakery, catering in house by the Westin, and entertainment by Backthird Entertainment.  A great time was had by all! 

Congrats Bridget and Owen!