West Loop Wedding at Herbarium – Sarah & Jonathan

Sarah and Jonathan’s fall West Loop wedding at Herbarium was a most unique celebration. From the artisan favors crafted by their families, to the DIY origami invitation, every detail was intentional. One of my favorite details was Sarah’s custom manicure! It perfectly matched the venue’s wallpaper. How cool is that?!

Similarly, Sarah and Jon borrowed taxidermy dioramas from the Field Museum. Yes, you read that correctly! If you didn’t know, items from the Harris Learning Collection are regularly available for rent. Butterflies made a lovely backdrop for their dessert table.

Herbarium was the perfect space to host their intimate West Loop wedding reception. In fact, Bad Hunter happens to be Sarah’s favorite Chicago restaurant! Most importantly, Sarah and Jon wanted to share a delicious meal and memorable evening with their guests. I’d say they got their wish! Guests danced the night away while the newlyweds couldn’t keep their eyes off each other. In all, the day was truly a pleasure to be a part of.

CONGRATULATIONS, Sarah & Jon! I loved seeing this day come together, thanks again for having me at your Herbarium wedding! All my best to you both!!

Vendor Team

Hotel: The Robey Chicago/Church: Wicker Park Lutheran/Venue: The Herbarium at Bad Hunter/Bride’s Dress: BHLDN, customized by Julia Needlman/Bride’s shoes: Irregular Choice/Salon: Twisted Scissors/Hairpiece: A Bit of Love/Bride’s makeup: DIY/Earrings: J. Crew/Groom’s suit: Adrian Park/Groom’s shoes: Fluevog/Bride’s rings: Mineralogy/Groom’s ring: Jewelry by Johan/Manicurist: Astrowifey/Florist: Pollen/Catering: Herbarium/Taxidermy dioramas: The Field Museum/DJ: Nicole Yalaz/Lighting design: A Posh Production

Bride and groom's first dance under string lights at intimate Bad Hunter Herbarium wedding

Intimate Chicago Restaurant Wedding at The Bristol – Rachel & Mike

Rachel and Mike’s Chicago restaurant wedding at The Bristol was planned in a mere nine weeks. It’s true! Mike proposed on Mother’s Day of this year, and these two were so excited to wed they just couldn’t wait! They wanted their celebration to include those closest to them, as well as delicious food and a cocktail-centric reception. The Bristol was the perfect choice!

We stopped for portraits at Wrigley Field (a must for them), Salvage One (my happy place!) and some favorite Bucktown murals before heading to the ceremony. One thing I loved about this wedding was how family-focused the entire day was. Mike and Rachel made sure that each parent, sibling, and niece played a role in their wedding day, reflecting the importance of family in their lives. Not to mention, they even allowed time for a cameo appearance by their adorable Goldendoodle, Maisie!

I had a blast getting to know Rachel and Mike and photographing their wedding this summer. I’m also completely in awe of their dedication and love for one another! Seriously – in nine weeks, these two planned a wedding, a honeymoon, moved in together, got married, and vacationed in Paris. Whew! I guess it’s true what they say: when you’re in love, anything is possible 🙂

CONGRATS again, Rachel and Mike!! All the best to you both in your future together!

Vendor Team

Venue: The Bristol/Bride’s dress: BHLDN/Bride’s shoes: Bella Belle (Maisie!)/Hair: Teezd Hair Salon/Makeup Artist: Outer Beauty/Groom’s suit: SuitSupply/Rings: Blue Nile/Florist and decorator: Ivy Leaf Studio/Signage: groom’s father/Caterer: The Bristol/Cake: Alliance Bakery

Chicago bride and groom with LOVE wall in Wicker Park before their Bristol restaurant wedding