EMILY + JOHN | A VINTAGE FAIRYTALE

Talk about out of this world! Emily and John are so in love and everyone could see it right on their beaming faces. I think when two people really "find each other", something extraordinary is birthed. In their case? A secret garden with the most magical work by Bunches Floral. Everyone gathered at Salvage One and love and romance truly were in the air. Thankfully Blue Plate Catering and Sweet Mandy B's showed up to more than satisfy a hungry crowd; And Chicago Catz Entertainment and Simple Booth came to entertain - and did not disappoint! Oh, I forgot to mention. To honor John's side of the family, there was Chinese take-out as second-course meal! How cool is that? The whole event was a vintage fairytale. I consider myself lucky to call this "work" because at the end of the day, I get to participate in life-altering moments. Emily and John, your day was the dreamiest. 

Anne + Kevin | A Classic Winter Affair

Anne + Kevin wed on a snowy Saturday in January at the iconic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. If you haven't yet seen the ballrooms at the hotel, prepare yourself- they are beyond beautiful. We're talking intricate wood details, 19th century chandeliers, vintage stained glass-  classic Chicago glamour at it's finest. For Anne + Kevin's wedding, we lit the fireplaces and the team at Fleur added their  perfect touches of floral romance.  A close friend of the couple conducted a personal ceremony with their sisters standing in support.  Once it was time to celebrate, The Gold Coast All Stars filled the dance floor and the night concluded with a techno dance party and an abundance of Shake Shake hamburgers.  The entire day was joyous- even thinking back on it, I get a little emotional. You could feel the love and warmth surrounding Anne + Kevin- it was a truly special evening and a wedding I won't soon forget!  It's clear Anne + Kevin are beautiful people (see the all the STUNNING photos by Kina Wicks)- but their beauty is not skin-deep; they are gracious, kind, and the truest match for one another-  I'm honored I was a witness to their marriage.  Happy Anniversary Anne + Kevin! Wishing you another year of wedded bliss! 

Molly + Kevin | Romantic Spring Wedding

Last spring,  Molly + Kevin, two sweet souls, celebrated their marriage in Molly's family hometown of Lake Forest.  They wed at St. Mary's Catholic Church and celebrated in style at The Armour House. Molly's classic and soft vision was brought to life by the talented team at Fleur Inc. and guests danced all night with sounds from The Gold Coast Allstars.   I knew upon meeting Molly + Kevin they were a special pair -- not only beautiful but highly admired, loved, and supported by their (equally as lovely) family and friends. It was such a joy to be a part of the festivities. I can't exactly put into words what Avery House so beautifully captured in photographs. Molly + Kevin, happy first anniversary! 

THIS WINTER SEASON..

Spread a little love, spoil yourself + cozy up with the ones you love. 

OHHIO KNITWEAR

Hand knit merino wool blankets and scarves, the perfect thing to cozy up with as the temp drops! 

LUSH

If you're not a Lushie yet- you're seriously missing out. All products are ethical, natural, handmade (and smell delicious!). Rose Jam is my jam. 

TATINE APOTHECARY AND CANDLES

Tatine Candles are made in Chicago! They make candles with natural products inspired by their rock n' roll sense of style. 

APORTA SHOP

Handcrafted knitwear by Noelle Sharp in Chicago. Check out her website, so many good things. 

Bang Bang Pie

Bang Bang Pie is adorably charming and a forever Chicago favorite. It's the perfect afternoon treat or crowd pleasing addition to the holidays. 

Katherine Anne confections

My new indulgence- Gingerbread marshmallow in my Chai Tea Latte. Woah. 

Julie + Mark's Elegant and Botanical Wedding Celebration

Julie + Mark wed this past June and it was an affair to remember!  I had the pleasure of working closely with Julie and her parents to bring their 'organic elegance' wedding visions to life. The ceremony was at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Lakeview and the reception was held at Germania Place in Old Town.  We worked with Blumgarten & Co. who masterfully created natural and jaw dropping bouquets to accessorize the bride and bridesmaids and they transformed the ballroom with lush centerpieces and delicate details to sprinkle the room with natural romance. Family involvement was an important aspect of the wedding. To honor Julie's Brazilian heritage we offered a dessert display with special (and beautiful!) homemade Brazilian chocolates and Julie's brother serenaded guests with an incredible saxophone performance.  The Gentleman of Leisure rounded out the celebration with an epic party and full dance floor. Julie embodies beauty and grace, and she's met her match with Mark, dapper and charming. Their day reflected the two of them and their union perfectly; heartfelt, elegant, with a healthy dose of dancing. :)  

Photography: the truly talented Ann & Kam Photography & Cinema