While things may not have looked like the wedding they imagined back when we started working with Lisa & Michael and their parents, the celebration that took place this past March was nothing short of delightful. The love that surrounded this happy couple and their families was evident in every detail. Lisa’s mother, in particular, was excited to finally be celebrating this party they’d been planning for so long!

While Lisa and Michael were officially married on their original wedding date in Spring 2020,  they were eager to share their vows at Madonna della Strada, the chapel at their alma mater, Loyola University Chicago. Wedding day morning started with everyone getting ready at Lisa’s parents’ home. The ladies of Zano Salon ensured Lisa and her attendants all looked and felt beautiful. Thanks to Windy City Limo everyone made it to the church on time for their ceremony.

Madonna della Strada is perfectly placed on Loyola’s lakeside campus. The views are picture-perfect, and Michael and Lisa were lucky enough to have clear skies on their wedding day. Photographer Peter Wynn Thompson was on point for this gorgeous setting, and captured some truly memorable moments for the newlyweds

We are always delighted to work at MDS; the organ is magnificent, and the team organizing each event is cheerful, friendly, and oh-so-detailed.

Lisa and her father have one of those very sweet father-daughter relationships that melts your heart. It was such a special moment to watch them finally get to have the much-anticipated walk down the aisle!

Loyola has a special place in this family’s heart, so I know it was meaningful to them to be able to take these photos at the altar. With a fully vaccinated group, they were able to de-mask safely to have a memory to treasure forever.

After the church ceremony, the family made their way to Harry Caray’s in Rosemont for an intimate celebration. Lisa and Michael were definitely ready to let loose and have some fun now that the “official” task of the day was behind them.

They shared their first dance with the musical stylings of David Rothstein Music. David was such a pleasure to have onsite; his friendly demeanor and light-hearted jokes always make for a great evening for all the guests.

Lisa’s dad’s toast was perfect — a lovely combination of adoration for his daughter, welcoming Michael to the family, and sharing a more personal side of the evolution of their relationship.

Michael’s dad shared a few words as well; it was evident how overjoyed these two families were to come together and celebrate this special couple.

Michael’s best man Awais’s toast was one of the best we’ve heard! This is obviously a friendship that has withstood the test of time. It was beautifully prepared — thoughtful, funny, tear-inducing, and full of respect for Lisa and Michael’s relationship. Michael couldn’t have asked for a better friend to be by his side on this special day.

Lisa’s best friend and maid of honor has been a dear friend since they were young. We love hearing from a bridesmaid who has been by the bride’s side since childhood — it really helps the rest of the guests get a full sense of the person she’s become.

There were personal touches all throughout the decor. These wine bottles fit with fairy lights were created for one of Lisa’s showers, and were repurposed to bring a little extra warmth to the room.

Steve’s Flower Market did such a beautiful job incorporating the purple and blue hues into Lisa and Michael’s floral. The bouquets and centerpieces were stunning!

I’m a big fan of wedding videography; I think there’s something special about being able to go back years down the road to revisit your big day, and find yourself enjoying the details all over again. There’s an energy that sometimes you just can’t capture with photos alone! Luckily, Lisa and Michael had Leap Weddings to document their special day.

Congratulations, Lisa and Michael! It was such a pleasure to work with you both and your families to help you finally get to celebrate your union. We wish you all the best!