The day began as many typical fall days in Chicago do with clouds, rain and all fingers crossed for a complete 180. The ladies gathered at Colleen’s apartment in Old Town while Austin and the guys congregated at The Westin Michigan Avenue. Colleen and Austin planned to have a traditional Catholic Wedding Mass and did not plan to see each other prior to the ceremony.  Saving that special moment for the walk down the aisle is almost rare these days, which I just love.  Rachael from Rachael Osborn Photography spent the day with the group and took some incredible photos.

Morgan from Rare Bird Beauties was on site for makeup and Jen Beyers was in charge of hair. It took no time at all for the ladies to be completely immersed in bridal prep mode as the clouds slowly parted and made way for sunny skies.

By the time hair and makeup was complete and the Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co. had arrived the rain had ceased; our prayers had been answered! The ladies were stunning in classic navy. Flowers for Dreams did an amazing job creating white and ivory bouquets which were the perfect contrast to the dresses.  Colleen was beaming the moment she stepped into her gown. It was a dress she couldn’t help but swish side to side.  We could all imagine the magical dancing that was to come later in the evening.

Sunny skies and the sweetest flower girl welcomed Colleen and Austin as they entered the church. The ceremony was perfect in every way.  The beautiful backdrop of Our Lady of Mount Carmel created an ideal setting for Colleen and Austin to say “I do”.

Immediately following the ceremony, Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. was on site to take Colleen and Austin along with their bridal party around the city for pictures.  No one could have asked for better weather as the sun peeked through the clouds and kept all rain at bay.

Once photos were complete it was off to City View Loft to continue the celebration. The venue embodied just the right amount of urban feel along with rustic hints that were the perfect balance for Colleen and Austin. The skyline was crystal clear at dusk and everything (and everyone) was in place for an unforgettable evening.

As the night continued, Colleen and Austin were toasted by family and friends and had a wonderful dinner service courtesy of LM Catering and dessert thanks to Molly’s Cupcakes. You couldn’t help but feel the warmth in the room from all of the love this couple shared and received from their families. Laughs, tears, kisses and hugs filled the room.

Once dinner was complete Austin and his mom danced to “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd followed by Colleen and her dad swaying to “In My Life” by The Beatles.

It wasn’t long before Toast and Jam DJs had the entire room on the dance floor. The night was filled with dancing, laughs, smiles, and more dancing!  At the end of the night, M&M Limousine and Bus Service whisked our guests back to their hotels–everyone was sorry to see the night end.

We want to thank Colleen and Austin for being such a wonderful couple to work with and wish them all the best in life, love and happiness!