We loved helping LA-based couple, Alia and Dan celebrate their intimate and personalized wedding at the iconic Chicago Botanic Garden. They knew exactly what they wanted for the day, just needed a little help in pulling together the pieces since they were planning from the west coast and we were up for the job!
The morning of wedding day was super relaxed. Alia and Dan and their friends and family wandered in and out of the Crowne Plaza hotel room enjoying some breakfast while Emily Rae Hair perfected Alia’s boho-chic updo. Emily from EcoWilde dropped off a showstopper bridal bouquet and floral crown for Alia comprising the most perfect fall floral palette. Before long it was time to board the busses and head up north to meet their photographer, Sara Gardner for some pre-ceremony shots. Transportation to and from the Chicago Botanic Garden was provided by M&M Limousine, Chicago Motorcoach, and Signature Transportation Services.
Chicago Botanic Garden is truly endless when it comes to perfect photo backgrounds and the couple was lucky to be able take advantage to everything the sprawling property had to offer.
Despite chilly temperatures, Alia’s LA-based family were troopers and we were able to hold the ceremony and cocktail hour outdoors in the English Garden as planned. It was a meaningful ceremony officiated by two of the couple’s close friends (one of whom, coincidentally, did some assisting for Five Grain Events in years past–small world!!). Beautiful ceremony music was provided by the iconic Skinny Williams.
Guests moved into McGinley Pavilion for dinner and were greeted by so many special touches: hanging string lights from Elegant Event Lighting enhanced the magical feel and EcoWilde’s floral centerpieces brought pops of color throughout. All of the guest favors and paper products were created by Dan who is a talented artist!
Following a delicious dinner by Culinary Landscape – CBG’s in-house catering team, incredible toasts, and some special dances (shoutout to Alia and Dan’s first dance – Islands in the Stream – one of my favorites!) it was dance time! Okyne Medialab kept the energy up while guests danced their hearts out and enjoyed sweet treats from Deerfields Bakery and Do-Rite Donuts.
This was such a fun celebration to be a part of – congrats to Alia and Dan!
