Chicago Athletic Association Hotel Wedding with English Traditions – Lucinda & Mark
Lucinda and Mark’s Chicago Athletic Association Hotel wedding this year was one for the books! These two have a love story that couldn’t have been written more perfectly. In their words:
“The year Lucinda and Mark met they were miles apart — 5,440 miles apart to be exact. Both were riding out the tail end of a global panini, eager to make a move. Lucinda was in London and Mark was in Los Angeles... By the fall, both found themselves in Chicago.”
That fall, a dating app brought them together and Mark agreed “to play Tour Guide to the new Brit in town.” Shortly after, these two found themselves traveling the world together and falling in love! Lucinda and Mark got engaged at the Art Institute of Chicago on a crisp winter evening, and of course we had to return for their engagement session this spring.
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
The day began at the hotel with Lucinda and Mark getting ready separately. Mark and his party got to take fun photos throughout the hotel – including my personal fave, the Cherry Circle Room! Lucinda’s party got ready in the bridal suite and then made our way to the White City Ballroom for photos before the first look. We had a chance to tour a few iconic photo locations nearby, and before long it was time for the ceremony to begin!
Lucinda and Mark exchanged vows that evening surrounded by loved ones in the Madison Ballroom at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. A family member officiated their ceremony, which also included special musical performances by their friends. After they said I Do, the Newlyweds were ALL smiles and ready to celebrate!
English Wedding Traditions
Many guests traveled from the United Kingdom to celebrate with Lucinda and Mark, and some of my favorite details from this day were the English wedding traditions. Specifically, the Groom’s speech, British telephone and card box, and the table of British baked goods! The sweets were handmade by Lucinda’s friend Colin of Wee Bonnie Bakery, a Scottish bakery which happens to be based here in Chicago. I highly recommend checking out the shop – especially if you’re looking for a unique holiday gift idea!
Lucinda and Mark: Thank you again for having us in July! Your wedding day was a blast to capture, wishing you all the happiness in the world 🙂
Vendor Team
Venue: Chicago Athletic Association Hotel / Planner: Naturally Yours Events / Bride’s dress: BHLDN / Bride’s shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Groom’s suit: Ralph Lauren / Florist: Flowers for Dreams / Hair & Makeup: Beauty by Ann Krause / Stationery: Steracle Press / Bride’s rings: Fontana Jeweler / Groom’s ring: The Amber Shop UK / Live Band: Funktastic Productions / Cake: Cake Chicago / Dessert: Wee Bonnie Bakery / Videographer: Amy Lynn for EMP / Second Photographer: Alexis
