Maureen and Tim’s May wedding was the perfect start to our summer. Their day allowed all to delight in the city’s bursting excitement over warm days ahead and it overflowed with love and emotion for this amazing couple.

Maureen and the ladies enjoyed a quiet and relaxed morning at a nearby Airbnb having their hair done by a close friend Amber Sevey and makeup by the talented ladies of Flawless Beauty Chicago. Kimberly Rensburg Photography carefully captured each and every detail as the ladies eased into the exciting day ahead.

Tim got ready at the couple’s apartment surrounded by his groomsmen and most importantly, Riggs (Maureen and Tim’s beloved dog). The guys enjoyed a fresh shave by Jo Chicago and a quick cheers before it was time for Tim to head downstairs and meet Maureen for their much anticipated first look.

With boutonnieres beautifully constructed from paper maps and simple but elegant bouquets by Flora Chicago, Maureen and Tim took advantage of their amazing Southport neighborhood before hopping on the M&M Limo bus and stopping at another meaningful location, Windy City Strength and Conditioning.  Then it was on to Artifact Events for more amazing photos and some quiet time before their ceremony.

Maureen and Tim’s ceremony was the definition of intimate and personal. Maureen’s brother-in-law officiated, with beautifully touching stories about the couple and a sand ceremony that combined sand from each coast as a nod to their roots. Maureen and Tim both read aloud vows they wrote to one another.  There was not a dry eye in the house.

Bringing more personalization to their day, Maureen and Tim skipped the traditional floral centerpieces and instead carefully curated and sourced every piece of decor themselves, accentuating Artifact Events’s already unique feel and beautifully showcasing their love of travel and each other. Event Brilliance provided the string lights overhead adding to the romantic feel of the evening as the Hearty Boys delighted guests over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before moving them in for dinner.

The couple was announced into the room and stole a dance before family and friends shared touching toasts over dinner. To top the night off, guests were treated to an exquisite dessert spread by Hearty Boys, Stan’s Donuts and Garrett’s Popcorn, The always outstanding Toast and Jam then took over opening up the dance floor with special dances and keeping it packed and energized until the very last song of the night.

Maureen and Tim, it was an honor to be a part of your day! Thank you both for everything and congratulations again from the entire Five Grain Events team!

Maureen and Tim’s wedding was also featured on Party Slate.  Find that feature HERE!

Erin and Chase’s January wedding was one for the books. With extreme weather forecasted for that day, it was quite cold and snowy. But I think we all agreed, there were few places we would rather be snowed in than at the incredible University Club of Chicago, celebrating such a beautiful couple.

Erin started the day early with hair and makeup at the University Club of Chicago. Kate Johnson Artistry perfected each hairstyle accompanied by Glam by Stefanie’s amazing makeup applications. The ladies spent the morning enjoying brunch and some champagne, relaxing, and watching the snow fall over the city.

Chase, his best man (also his twin brother), and the rest of his groomsmen later arrived at the University Club in the Billiards Room, playing cards and enjoying some lunch. Katie Kett Photography and Robert Cawthorne Wedding Films arrived bright and early, capturing each and every special detail and moment.

While the men enjoyed their morning and the ladies finished hair and makeup, Erin moved to her suite to put on her dress and share a few special moments with her mother and sister before a first look with her grandmother, her father, and one last cheers with her bridesmaids.

It was officially go time and Erin and Chase decided to brave the snow and cold in order to take advantage of the University Club of Chicago’s amazing views off The Gallery for their first look. After a few quick moments alone and with beautifully bold florals by Fleur in hand, the couple moved around the club for photos with their wedding party before departing for their ceremony.

The group loaded onto their trolley from Way To Go Trolley and Bus and departed for Holy Family Church. The church was stunning, with pew decor by Fleur and custom programs and signage created by the couple themselves.

After the ceremony, the group quickly departed in order to take advantage of what daylight was left for some incredible photos around the city before returning to the University Club of Chicago for a few more gorgeous shots.

When the group arrived at the University Club, it had been transformed. Beautiful candlelight and lush greenery flanked the staircase of the lobby as guests entered, with more custom signage and gorgeous decor, candlelight, and a Spanish guitarist from Front of House in The Library where guests enjoyed cocktail hour.

But guests were really wowed when they finally moved up to Cathedral Hall for dinner. The always-impressive space looked elegant as ever with Fleur’s stunning centerpieces, dramatic head table, and inviting fireplace. The perfect final touch were chiavari chairs from Chicago Chair Rental Collection.

Guests took their seats and Erin and Chase were invited into the room, kicking off touching but hilarious toasts from family and a delightful dinner for all. Front Of House killed it, starting with special dances before officially opening the dance floor and keeping it packed until the very last song of the night.

Erin and Chase, thank you to you and your family for being so wonderful and starting our year off on such a perfect note! Wishing you all the best and congratulations again from all of us at Five Grain Events!