St. Mark’s Episcopal and Langham Wedding–Katie and Charlie

I absolutely love small world stories, and the way Katie, Charlie, and I came to work together is a fun one.  I got an inquiry from a mother-of-the bride looking for help with her daughter’s wedding.  She had been referred to me by a family friend of hers who had been a bridesmaid in a wedding I did in 2010!  After a brief email exchange I asked her to fill out our form.  When I saw the last name of the groom, and where the ceremony was taking place I knew it could not be coincidence. Charlie is the cousin of one of my husband’s best friends, and Jeff was a groomsman in the wedding!  Within a week or so the deal was sealed and I was set to help out with coordinating details for this wonderful couple’s big day.

Wedding day morning started out with breakfast, mimosas, and beauty at the bride’s childhood home in Glen Ellyn.  Stylists from Salon Buzz were busy with hair styling while Lexi Christensen and her team worked on faces.  These girls were all so naturally beautiful, that we were way ahead of schedule by the time I arrived on the scene that morning.  Tony and Sharon from T&S Hughes Photography were on hand photographing all the preparations.

Katie slipped to a nook at the top of the stairs to put on her stunning gown with her mom and sister.  She looked breathtaking.

Meanwhile, Charlie and his groomsmen readied themselves for the big day.

The ceremony was located at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Glen Ellyn:  just a few minutes’ drive from the house.  When all were dressed and ready we gathered up belongings and loaded onto the Windy City Limo Bus.  The bouquets had been created  by Lalé Floral—a family friend of the bride’s–who had flown in from Colorado that week to prepare the gorgeous and organic arrangements.

All heads turned as we started the processional down the aisle.  The most adorable flower girl and ring bearer were the last to process before the beautiful bride.

Following the ceremony, the wedding party piled into the Limo Bus to depart for The Langham Chicago with a few quick photo stops along the way.

As guests began to arrive, the space looked absolutely stunning.  Cocktail hour was held in the Foyer and as everyone enjoyed delightful hors d’oeuvres and delicious cocktails from The Langham we finalized all the details in the ballroom. Inspired floral designs by Lalé graced each of the round tables as well as the magnificent kings table in the center of the room.  Lovely blush uplighting surrounded the room bringing warmth and glow to the chilly fall day.

More cupcakes provided the delicious dessert display that was waiting just off of the dance floor as the ballroom doors opened and welcomed friends and family into the ballroom.  Katie had chosen four different flavors, each decorated with different white toppings to differentiate them from one another.  Katie’s mom, as a surprise to her new son-in-law, also added a few more cupcakes with Charlie’s favorite Chicago sports team logos on top.

Once everyone was seated we heard wonderful toasts by Katie’s dad, Katie’s sister–the maid of honor, and Charlie’s best man.  The delicious meal created by the talented chefs at The Langham was accompanied by “Blushing Kate” rosé:  a wine from Katie’s aunt’s winery that was named for the bride!

Arlen Music’s Indigo Band was at the ready as dinner service wound down.  Katie and Charlie shared their first dance, followed by the Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances.  Then it was TIME TO DANCE!  I don’t think there was a moment of rest until the clock struck midnight.  What a fantastic party!

Katie and Charlie, it was an absolute pleasure helping to bring your big day together from start to finish.  Wishing you both much love and happiness!