Sarah and Ruben are two physicians who were planning their wedding amidst their incredibly packed schedules. Sarah’s mom, Donna, was up for the task of helping but wanted to bring in a professional to support the process start to finish and I am so thrilled they chose Five Grain Events for the job.
The 15 months we spent working together on the ultimate celebration for this wonderful couple were truly a joy–start to finish. We developed a great rapport and I was truly sad to see the wedding weekend come to an end when it was all over.
Wedding day morning started in an impeccable Presidential Suite at the JW Marriott. TimTab and WM Films were each documenting all of the beautiful ladies in their matching pajama sets getting dolled up by Tamara Makeup + Hair Artistry. We spent a lot of time selecting the perfect invitation and day-of paper suite from Papier Girl in Glen Ellyn and it turned out splendidly.
Meanwhile, Ruben and his party were having a relaxed breakfast at the Kimpton Gray, probably wondering what they were supposed to do with all of the extra time on their hands – ha! Ruben and Sarah did each take a moment to read a note they had written to one another to mark the occasion.
Sarah’s dress was a show-stopper, and she truly looked like royalty with her floral appliqué ballgown and flowing auburn locks.
Ruben and the groomsmen soon joined the group at JW Marriott so that the couple could share their first look. Sarah was all-smiles glowing with happiness upon seeing her groom-to-be; and Ruben, his bride.
After a few quick group photos inside and out (thank goodness the gods of spring blessed us with a beautiful day!) the group got into their Aries Charter trolley and headed to Old St. Pat’s for the ceremony, while guests boarded large buses from Windy City Limo.
The lovely wedding service, presided over by Father Paul Novak and photographed by Gerber & Scarpelli, was full of joy and meaning for the two families. The color scheme of the bridesmaids’ gowns and floral selections was the perfect compliment to the interior decor of the church.
Following their Grand Exit, the wedding party went off for a few more photos before it was time for the reception to kick off at Rockwell on the River. Since there was a bit of a break between ceremony and reception, Sarah and Ruben hosted their guests at Metropolitan Brewery for a beer or two before the official cocktail hour began at Rockwell. VIP Valet ensured all guests arriving by car were well-taken care of.
Upon entry, guests were wowed by the gorgeous draped entry leading to the escort card table featuring a centerpiece of a tree! Life in Bloom also advised on some spectacular linen choices including a beautiful sage green-embroidered leaf pattern.
Paramount staff members were passing delightful bites and “Lunas” (specialty cocktails named after Ruben and Sarah’s dog), while a trio from Rendezvous Music serenaded the chattering attendees. After a chilly spring, everyone seemed to be relishing in warm evening on the terrace overlooking the Chicago River.
Guests were welcomed into the magazine-worthy dining area as Rendezvous played some upbeat tunes. The wedding party were announced in and cut their four-tier wedding cake from Bittersweet.
The multi-course menu was peppered with loving toasts (and a few jabs at Ruben) from the Father of the Bride, Matron of Honor, and Best Man–Ruben’s twin brother, Hari. After some words of gratitude to everyone for coming together to celebrate, Ruben and Sarah kicked off dancing. As ever, Rendezvous did not disappoint! The dance floor was packed start to finish! Those who needed a few minutes of rest, popped into the ShutterBooth Photo Booth, or delighted in Paramount’s epic dessert station (those salted caramel tarts–to die for!).
It was so much fun to watch this perfect recap by WM Films.
I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to spend a year with. Wishing you both a lifetime of joy and happiness: congrats!
