After meeting on Hinge, Zach and Lauren knew it was “forever” from the very first date. They began traveling together, which only made them fall more in love with each other and the life they were building together. After Zach convinced Lauren to give skiing a second chance during a Colorado wedding she was photographing, it became one of their shared favorite pastimes (from bunnies to blues!). Because she is a wedding photographer, Lauren knew she didn’t want their wedding to be like anything she had shot before.  Captured by Fontana Lane, this wedding at Angel Fire Resort is a must-see for any bride wanting to break the mold.

Hosting a wedding experience

After considering the costs for a larger wedding, the couple’s vision was to pay for an experience and not an event. They spent a long time searching for the perfect place to host their family and closest friends, and Angel Fire Resort in New Mexico proved to be the most beautiful ski-in/ski-out option.  Zach and Lauren booked it blindly and planned a trip just to see it (and ski, of course!).  They were well on their way to hosting a wedding experience that felt more like a ski trip that they got married on rather than a wedding where people skied. 

Wedding party skiwear

Lauren and Zach asked their friends to be a part of their wedding party using cute little ski candles.  When the day arrived, bridesmaids exchanged dresses for ski suits in a neutral color palette, and the group opted for group photos on the slopes.  

Color palette: White and light blue

Zach and Lauren stood out in front of the neutral color palette in white and light blue. 

The deer were not paid actors

During the day of the wedding, the couple and their friends skied until the lifts closed, got ready for the ceremony, completed their gift exchange, and even were greeted by the cutest group of deer! 

Romantic candlelit ceremony

The ceremony took place in the evening so that Lauren could get full use out of the romantic candlelit atmosphere.  There was a minimal processional, and the couple stood alone at the altar, surrounded by white hydrangeas courtesy of Havilah Floral.  

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Nighttime ski shoot

After the ceremony, Lauren and Zach cut their cake from Cake Fetish, poured the champagne tower, and put their boots on to go skiing in their wedding attire.  The couple’s favorite photos from the day were these photos.  Their friends and family watched from the deck while couple had an absolute blast in the snow. 

After-the-fact advice from the bride

“We spent a lot of time being intentional with our details. For example, we made a date night out of crafting our welcome sign, and our guestbook was a custom vinyl with all of the songs that were sentimental to our relationship. With a degree in journalism, it was only right to participate in the newspaper trend also! It ended up being one of my favorite parts of the weekend and included our story, our community, and postcards from trips that we had been on together. My ultimate advice for brides is to do what you want. The people who really love you will show up for you – don’t give up your happiness on your day!”

The post How a wedding photographer bride designed her own vintage ski wedding appeared first on Weddingchicks.

From the historic estate venue to the pastel blue, sage, and ivory color palette this enchanting wedding exudes Southern charm. Kaitie Gill Weddings pulled out all of the stops when it came to planning this wedding including finding a florist that could take a floral installation the size of the dancefloor and make it levitate! Keep scrolling to read all about this couple and their beautiful day and to see even more of these lovely photos by Lela & Lyla.

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the vibe: southern elegance

The couple’s wedding day, captured beautifully by Lela & Lyla and Weaver Films, was more than just a celebration, it was the culmination of a love story that took its time to unfold. It was a masterful blend of Southern elegance and personal touches that told their story. The couple’s commitment to creating an unforgettable guest experience shone through in every detail. From the live wedding painter creating one-of-a-kind favors to the surprise appearance of disco dancers officially opening the dance floor, each element was carefully chosen to delight and entertain.

their love story

In a world where timing is everything, Madison and Chance’s love story proves that some connections are simply meant to be. Their paths first crossed in 2018, at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Though their initial meeting sparked an instant connection, with both recalling the magnetic moment their eyes met, it would take another year before their story truly began.

Their first date, a casual lunch at SQZBX, revealed what would become a cherished weekly tradition…their shared love of pizza! This simple pleasure would later make a meaningful appearance at their wedding celebration, perfectly embodying how the couple intertwines their everyday joy into life’s grandest moments.

When it came time to propose, Chance chose their family vacation at Garden City Beach for the perfect moment. His suggestion of a beach walk, something notably out of character, immediately caught Madison’s attention. As they strolled along the pier, a supposedly random photographer appeared, asking to take their photos. Madison could feel Chance’s heart racing as they posed, moments before he dropped to one knee and changed their lives forever.

the fashion

For the big day, Madison selected a stunning mermaid gown with a regal high neckline and capped sleeves accented with lace appliques. A row of ivory buttons cascaded down the low back adding a bit of spice to this timeless ensemble. Chance also took an elegant approach to his look for the day, sporting a classic black tuxedo. Later, Madison surprised everyone at the reception by arriving in an adorable strapless mini dress with a ruffled skirt and plunging neckline.

right back where they started

After a week of relentless rain, their wedding day dawned with brilliant sunshine. The Reserve at Hot Springs provided the perfect setting, mere minutes from where their story began at Oaklawn. The venue choice wasn’t just practical, it was poetically fitting for a couple whose relationship had come full circle. As Madison and Chance exchanged vows under the Hot Springs sky, surrounded by family, friends, and countless personal touches, it was clear that their timing had been perfect all along.

an enchanted forest reception

A breathtaking 12’x18′ rigging system draped with lush greenery and cascading roses, by Vase and Vine, created an enchanted forest feel above the dance floor, transforming their reception into a fairytale setting. In a nod to their weekly tradition and first date, the couple served late-night pizza from DeLuca’s, a detail that perfectly captured their laid-back approach to love and life. A unique “confessional” phone booth invited guests to share funny stories about the couple, while two photo booths captured the night’s joyful moments. It’s these thoughtful touches that transformed their wedding from a beautiful event into a deeply personal celebration.

The post This enchanting blue and ivory wedding exudes classic southern charm appeared first on Weddingchicks.

More and more couples are craving the intimacy of an elopement, the feeling that it’s not about the flowers or the destination, but just the two of you and your commitment to each other. But, just because you want to share that special moment with your one and only, doesn’t mean that you don’t want to celebrate finding the love of your life with all of your other favorite people. So what’s a modern couple to do? Pre-elope, of course!

Typically couples just go to the courthouse to pick up their marriage license but wait to sign it (aka make it official) until the big day. This couple had other ideas. They went to the courthouse dressed for the moment and brought Rajotte Photography along to document every last moment. Keep scrolling to see all of the snaps from their chic courthouse wedding in NYC and their post-elopement wedding in the Hamptons. 

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a pre-wedding elopement

the dress

For their outdoor fall wedding, the bride rocked a luxe form-fitting satin gown with bishop sleeves and a dramatic plunging neckline. She accessorized with modern pearl jewelry and pointed-toe pumps with pearl accents. 

a chill first look

a hamptons farm wedding

a touching gift

a warm fall color palette

sweet and simple

Small cakes, like this adorable heart-shaped one, are trending at the moment. Couples are putting the emphasis on guest experience and ditching the towering fondant cake for something more pared back and real. 

wedding photo trend spotlight

Rajotte Photography also did a great job capturing this wedding in a timeless way while still incorporating the current wedding photography trends. Right now, it’s all about blurred motion, flash, and contrast. 

The post Pre-eloping before your wedding…it’s a thing now! appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Bright jewel-toned florals and vintage elements came together for this whimsical outdoor soirée that looked like something straight out of wonderland. This couple trusted Cluster Events to bring their vision to life, and we’re positively swooning over this design! It manages to be both elegant and cozy at the same time. Keep scrolling to see more of these breathtaking photos by Cruzio Studios and to read all about the details that made this wedding so memorable. 

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worlds collide

getting ready

The ladies, clad in adorable robes and pajama sets, sipped champagne as they explored the grounds at Saddlerock Ranch. The bride then donned one of the prettiest off-the-shoulder lace ballgowns we’ve ever seen with a dramatic train and 3-D lace details. The bridesmaids wore lovely marigold satin dresses that brought in the warm tones of the wedding color palette. 

a moody jewel-toned color palette

a big bubble exit

Instead of a traditional petal or seed toss, this cool couple handed out bubble guns to their guests, and we have to say…we’re obsessed! It’s so fun and makes for a great photo, don’t you think?

vintage elements

a colorful outdoor reception

Roobarb Studio filled the outdoor reception space with artful arrangements that were bursting with color! There were hanging arrangements, arrangements on the tables, and even flowers on the floor. Tables were accented by mix-and-match colorful vintage-inspired glassware and brass details that complemented the theme beautifully. 

The post Bubble exits are the new petal toss in this jewel-tone wedding appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Inspired by Rennesaince paintings, Cluster Events designed a wedding for this couple that incorporated everything that makes the masterpieces so moving. From the deep moody color palette of rich plums, warm mahogany, and forest greens to gilded accents, and of course just the right lighting, each of these photos by Jenny Smith & Co is channeling the “Accidental Rennesaince” phenomenon. Although, can you really call it accidental if it’s perfectly curated? Keep reading to hear all about this beautiful day and to see even more of these breathtaking photos.

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a renaissance-inspired design

the stationery

Hand-pressed paper, torn silk, and rich burgundy and taupe set the tone of the day as soon as the invitations arrived. They carried the theme through with custom menus on the big day.

a custom dress from monique lhuillier

a moody ceremony

Gilded ceilings and dark wood floors reflected the flicker of candles and the lights from the chandeliers in the ceremony space. At the end of the aisle awaited an asymmetrical floral arch that incorporated every shade in this moody color palette.

a feathered sequin mini dress

When it was time to really get the party started, the bride slipped away and made her grand entrance in this adorable sequin mini dress with feather details.

a thoughtful seating chart

For this thoughtful seating chart, guests were asked to find an envelope with their name on it, inside there was a question just for them–some evoked good memories and some asked for advice. Nearby polaroid cameras were waiting for guests to leave a snapshot of them at the wedding along with their answers. We love an interactive seating chart and this one doubled as a guest book!

getting the right band

the signature cocktails were a hit

a sweet finish

In lieu of a champagne tower, this couple poured their guests a tower of espresso martinis! Then, the happy couple cut into a two-tiered buttercream cake with a rich red fruit filling.

The post Is this moody masterpiece a real wedding or an accidental renaissance appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Julia and John were college sweethearts who met at a Valentine’s Day social event – Julia remembers being charmed by John the moment he asked her where they should snag food afterward. Before they knew it, the couple was engaged at Mount Haleakalā in Hawaii. John proposed while they watched the sun crest over the clouds. Leaning into a groovy state of mind, Julia and John’s wedding boasted a vibrant feel only the countryside of Italy could deliver. Hosted at the Dievole Resort in Castelnuovo Berardenga, the 18th-century villa came with soaring views across the Chianti countryside. Keep scrolling to see how they brought their muted, 70’s inspired destination wedding to life, captured by The Genovese Studio and planned with the help of Giulia Alessandri.

Scalloped-edge envelopes

Scalloped-edge envelopes and peachy designs with 70’s inspired fonts set the subtly groovy tone from when the invitations by Chiaramada Studio arrived.  The rounded designs added the perfect amount of whimsy to the suite. 

Bridal style: Sparkling floral lace

Julia’s gown by Galia Lahav balanced extravagance and charm with a corseted bodice and delicate sparkling floral lace.

A warm, muted color palette

The couple’s groovy yet muted summer wedding embraced a warm color palette of bright florals in hot peach, baby pinks, and soft yellows.

Texture: Fluffy florals

On the lawn, surrounded by a stone wall terrace, the couple hosted their ceremony. They were surrounded by large trees and a view of the hillside as they stood beneath a joyful wedding arch made from fluffy florals by Luca Cozza.

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Countryside couple’s portraits

It’s easy to see why the couple’s photo reel together from The Genovese Studio was filled with countryside moments in the tall grasses and walking alongside rolling vineyards.

Preparing to leave in true Italian style

For their grand exit, the couple planned to ride off atop a Vespa, complete with a floral sash across the front that tied it in to the rest of their decor.

String lights: Day to night lighting

For the reception, the couple and Giulia Alessandri incorporated muted Mediterranean sunrise pinks and yellows to complement the string lights that were draped across the open-air dining space.  They were the perfect day to night lighting option!

An elevated nod to the 70’s

Guests dined outdoors, where wicker chairs, raffia table settings, and vintage-inspired signage gave an elevated nod to 70’s kitsch. Colorful tapered candles coordinated with the theme, while florals and citrus fruits lined the tables. 

Cold sparklers for the cake cutting

Capping off their evening, Julia and John cut their millefoglie wedding cake while sparkler fountains illuminated the moment.

The post A subtly groovy 70’s inspired wedding filled with Italian charm appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Kai and Skylar’s wedding at the Carondelet House in downtown Los Angeles artfully combined the vibrant energy of the city with the serene elegance of an English garden, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that echoed the charm of old-world Europe.

The wedding venue’s intrinsic architectural grace laid the foundation for a celebration that whisked guests away from the bustling streets of LA to a tranquil evening reminiscent of historic England. Adding to the unique ambiance, the couple arranged for eclectic seating with vintage sofas and armchairs, enhancing the intimate and cozy setting for their guests.

The event was beautifully orchestrated by Gabriela Pilar Events and captured in stunning detail by Purity Weddings.

Stunning Invites

Calligraphy by Michelle created a vintage wedding invite that perfectly reflected the tone of the event.

Unique Wedding Seating Idea

A standout feature of the event was the imaginative escort card display. Delicate Chinese lanterns hung from the branches of the courtyard’s lush tree, each bearing a guest’s name. The tassels elegantly indicated table assignments, seamlessly blending functionality with visual appeal.

English Garden Wedding Reception

The setting showcased long wooden tables adorned with soft chiffon ivory runners and neutral linen-cotton napkins, creating a sophisticated backdrop for the vibrant floral arrangements and elegantly designed menus. The chosen color palette of white, blush, peach, and dynamic red accents brought each table to life, evoking the richness of an English garden in full bloom.

Old World Elegance Wedding Inspo

The warmth of the celebration was further enhanced by an array of brass candlesticks, filled candles, and votive candles, creating a cozy, intimate glow. Exquisite floral designs transformed the urban venue into a serene English countryside, making Kai and Skylar’s wedding not just a union of their love but a celebration of fine art, European elegance, and the timeless beauty of an old-world garden.

Guest Interaction Idea

Photo Booth by Kelly added an element of fun and interaction to Kai and Skylar’s wedding, providing guests with a memorable and entertaining experience. The photo booth was elegantly designed to blend seamlessly with the event’s sophisticated ambiance, featuring a sparkly backdrops that complemented the overall theme. Guests enjoyed capturing candid moments and creating keepsakes to remember the joyous occasion.

Southern California Wedding Cake Designer

Teehan Cake Design crafted a breathtaking open cake adorned with cascading florals, adding a stunning centerpiece to the celebration. This artistic confection, perfectly complementing the theme of old-world European charm and garden elegance.

The post Los Angeles english garden wedding with traditional chinese touches appeared first on Weddingchicks.

This old-world estate editorial at Elkins Estate, Pennsylvania, was inspired by the Roaring 20’s period in France, with its classic gold-adorned European architectural style. For the shoot, elegant, striking, and intentional French-inspired vignettes collided with Great Gatsby-esque charm thanks to Anna Panutsa Portraits. Bold autumnal colors and vibrant lighting created a glamourous effect with a unique dramatic touch. This juxtaposition between historic and modern, chic and essentially European, instantly brought a feeling of uniquely cool nostalgia that’s an absolute must-see.

Invitations: A nod to European art history

Originally from Europe, and having spent most of her formative years in Paris, photographer Anna Panutsa Portraits dreamed up this editorial to pay homage to the country that shaped her through art. Leaving nothing on the table, Anna brought together exceptional vendors to create an estate wedding that was the epitome of elegance. The nod to fine art began with the invitation suite by Max & Maiden Ink, complete with delicate black ribbons, timeless calligraphy in shades of neutrals, and fine art imagery both in and outside of the envelopes. Uneven scalloped edges added an extra special touch of old-world inspiration.

Vintage summer wedding style

The groom wore a clean cream suit with matching tie to help fight off the summer heat, while the bride donned a fitted, asymmetrical wedding dress from Demure Bridal featuring vintage beading around the neck and a delicate button-back.  

Creating a grand (outdoor) entrance

RAM Floral created stunning, cascading floral arrangements in muted tones that climbed the banisters of the estate’s outdoor entrance and cascading down from above.  Keeping all tones muted and creating a foundation out of white and cream florals helped bring together the overall theme of the design. 

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A summer reception for the Gilded Age

Colorful florals stood out against a glittering gold and cream backdrop, complete with grand chandeliers, intricate detailing, and tall, tapered candles, thanks to MUSA Weddings.  A floral arrangement from the ceremony staircase sat elegantly on the floor at the end of the dining table, while low-profile centerpieces allowed for guests to easily converse.  Gold flatware provided continuity of the gold detailing throughout and added an extra bit of glam to the tablescape. 

The post An estate wedding with all the grandeur of Gatsby and the Gilded Age appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Château Ste-Agnès, dating back to 1846, seems to emerge straight out of a fairy tale. When Melanie Aubin, wedding designer & planner at Foudamour, came across the raspberry-colored wall of a room at Château Ste-Agnès on the web, inspiration struck for this wedding inspo editorial captured by Cagdas Yoldas Photography. She envisioned a heavy summer sky, an atmosphere filled with the scent of ripe fruits and grapes on the vines, a romantic and dramatic ambiance inspired by a still life painting. The creative journey was dedicated not only to capturing the essence of femininity, but also demonstrating that femininity can be defined in numerous ways. Through a palette of deep and rich colors, traditional artistry turned into a modern-day moody narrative that’s an absolute must-see.

Art-inspired envelopes

The stationery, crafted by White Willow Paper Co., blended old and current design elements with a color palette that evoked dark and dramatic tones of 18th-century paintings.

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A gown fit for a princess

From the boutique Dream It Yourself, the Huntleigh gown by Australian brand Jane Hill exuded confident femininity. This sultry, contemporary crepe wedding dress featured a gorgeous, fitted corset-structured bodice with a sweetheart neckline, a high slit, and a fit and flare silhouette. Its detachable train added a glamorous touch, perfect for a wedding in a castle! To complete the look, the designers opted for gloves – the ultimate accessory for the modern princess.

Overflowing florals

Exquisitely executed by Atelier Carmel, the floral arrangements took center stage in the decor. They were small works of art in themselves! In a sprawling palette of shades, they overflowed their chosen areas. We particularly loved the extra-large boutonniere on the model’s tuxedo!

A contemporary spin with black decor details

All the decor elements, sourced from Locations Chic, alternated between highly decorative and minimalistic, as the vendors aimed to create a Renaissance-inspired wedding firmly rooted in modernity. The decorative volute chargers and cut crystal glassware coexisted with delicate table napkins and sleek candle holders. The black chairs and cutlery also brought a contemporary touch to the whole setting.

Indulgence in cake form

When it came to indulgence, the cake made by Sonia at Émotions Gâteaux defined it! Four tiers of decorative elements reminiscent of the drapery of the finest fabrics, transparency, and texture made this cake an absolute gem.

The post A French fine art wedding in maroon and black at Château Ste-Agnès appeared first on Weddingchicks.

After meeting in high school and deciding that they were definitely not each other’s type, Heather and Chris said “I do” in 2022 with the goal of throwing the best party of their lives. Chris proposed with an elongated hexagon ring with a salt and pepper diamond from Point No Point Studio, designed with Heather’s help, and before long, they were planning their wedding at Warwick Allerton Chicago with the help of the coordinating team at Urban Allure Events who also helped them on the day of. The city of Chicago was inspiration enough, as the couple loved the architecture, art, history, and people. Cue a “fancy in the city” theme mixed with the perfect pairing of personality, and you have this couple’s wedding, all captured on camera by The Adamkovi.

Invitations with an edge

The design for Heather and Chris’s wedding day was inspired by the bride’s love of all things dark and vintage. On the invitations, the couple brought a bit of personality through a sprinkling of swear words, while the bride’s mother made the save the dates to look like vintage postcards of the hotel venue they had chosen. Each and every detail was incredibly intentional down to the all-black dress code that acted as the perfect compromise to implementing a black-tie dress code.

Choosing the perfect venue

Once bride Heather learned that the venue let couples take a picture in front of the stunning neon sign on the fire escape of the 23rd floor, she knew that she and Chris had to get married at The Warwick Allerton Chicago. Their ballroom was beautiful and looked like two completely different venues during the day versus at night. Their food was outstanding, which was important to the couple, and perfectly complemented their vibe of a fancy night out downtown!

Vintage style with contemporary accessories

As a nod to her mother-in-law, Heather wore a long-sleeved dress by Sarah Seven. While she wasn’t into the idea of wearing a veil, she opted instead to wear a superhero-inspired bridal cape for the ceremony, changing it up later in the night and swapping it out for classic tulle gloves.

Opt-in to burnt orange

Groom Chris wore a burnt orange tux from Nicholas Joseph that made him stand out in front of everyone else in all black. To add that special something, he had Grateful Dead lyrics embroidered into his tux.

Chicago-themed gift boxes

Anyone staying in the hotel received a Chicago-themed gift box, but one that was outside of the box! The boxes included Chicago specialties like Garretts popcorn, customized matchbooks with all black matches, Wrigley gum, canned old fashioneds (the couple’s favorite drink), giardiniera, vintage Chicago postcards, brownies from Sweet Mandy B’s, and a small bottle of Malört. The best part about the mini canned cocktails was that the brand was called Tip Top, and the name of the ballroom on the 23rd floor of the hotel was called The Tip Top Tap, so it all came full circle!

The ceremony: Vintage autumn vibes

For the ceremony, Biota Co-op created the floral arch of Heather’s dreams using autumnal-inspiration and a variety of colors.

Table magic for cocktail hour

For cocktail hour, not every guest was going to be drinking, so they couple had a magician, Benjamin Barnes, go around to do “table magic,” which originated in Chicago. While this was happening, harpist Dawn Bishop played all of the couple’s favorite early-2000’s pop and rap hits; however, instead of sticking around to enjoy cocktail hour, Heather and Chris ran all over the city taking pictures at specifically chosen locations.

Wedding portraits: A tour of Chicago

Locations for their photos included dangling off of the 23rd floor fire escape at night just to get the picture Heather wanted at the venue, the merry-go-round at the Lincoln Park Zoo, the couple’s favorite jazz club, an old theater near where they live, and other Chicago landmarks.

Mix-and-match custom vintage details

The hotel was willing to customize everything to go along with the bride’s vision, from adding mini hotdogs and pizza at the end of the night to creating a customized napkin fold. The tables were decorated with tall, autumnal florals, mismatched colored glasses, and gold cats as place holders, while guests enjoyed taking lots of candid (and blurry!) photos with the disposable cameras at each table.

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Pressed vinyl guest book

To honor the bride’s 89-year-old grandfather (their ring bearer that day), the bride and groom placed pictures of him and his wife, as well as the couple’s other grandparents on their guest book table. For their guest book, they opted for After the Tone – guests recorded messages on a vintage-inspired phone, and the recordings were sent to the couple after the wedding on both a pressed vinyl and digital copy.

Closing the bars down

After dinner, an absolute party of a band took over and the Naked Karate Girls tore the place down. The party continued at one of Chicago’s oldest piano bars/cigar lounges where they stayed and sang songs together with friends and family until the bar’s 4 a.m. closing time.

A “haunted” costume bar crawl

The next day, Heather and Chris booked a trolley to take their remaining guests on a tour of 4 “haunted” bars that were also Chicago staples. This costumed bar crawl (in honor of Halloween the next weekend) was one of the bride’s favorite parts of the weekend!

After-the-fact advice from the bride

“It sounds cliché, but it goes so fast, so give yourself time to reflect, even if it is a year later. Always remind each other that a wedding is more than a party, and a marriage is more than a piece of paper. Spend actual time with your partner on your wedding day because it is what you make it.”

One year later…

For their one-year anniversary, Heather bought a replica of her dress and shoes (both in black), and she and Chris went to a magic show, ate a (fresh) piece of cake from Vanille – the bakery that made their cake. They re-read their vows, drank at the hotel bar, looked at the disposable camera pictures, and Heather even wore the same perfume that she did on their wedding night. The couple enjoyed a complimentary night at the hotel in honor of their anniversary, so naturally they crashed a wedding there as well. It was the perfect celebration of the day these two best friends said “I do!”

The post Take a tour of Chicago at this Fall wedding that closed the bars down appeared first on Weddingchicks.