It’s very hard to predict what the weather will be like when planning an early October wedding in Chicago. In some years we’ve had sunny days with 90 plus temps; other years it has been flurries!  Alex and Taylor had fallen in love with Hotel Baker’s Rose Garden as well as the Boat House and had their fingers crossed for the perfect fall day. The day of the rehearsal was exceptionally windy and quite chilly with temperatures in the fifties so we were anxious but still hopeful.  When wedding day arrived the bright skies accompanied by the crisp autumn air was exactly what Alex and Taylor had envisioned!

The morning kicked off with the ladies gathered in the Baker Suite at Hotel Baker for hair and makeup. Two Birds Photography arrived shortly thereafter to capture the bridal party getting ready.

The girls looked picture-perfect in their burgundy dresses as they helped Alex into her stunning sweetheart cut wedding gown.

Fab Flora arrived with luscious fall bouquets filled with roses, dahlias, berries, and ranunculus.  Alex’s wedding bouquet was adorned with a vintage charm featuring a photograph of her grandmother on her wedding day.

With flowers in hand (or on suit!), all were ready for the day to truly begin as Alex and Taylor prepared for their first look.  The moment was unforgettable and Hotel Baker’s Rose Garden created the perfect backdrop for this magical moment. Alex truly took Taylor’s breath away.

Now that the nerves had settled it was time to capture the day. The bridal party headed out around the Fox River and Hotel Baker for some fun photos.

The vintage charm of Hotel Baker truly couldn’t have played a more perfect part in the day!

Before we knew it, guests were arriving for the ceremony to begin.  All the couple had wished for in this perfect fall wedding day was coming to life just as they had pictured!

The ceremony was personal and sweet.  The two said “I do” and were off to celebrate with guests!

As friends and loved-ones sipped cocktails in the waterfront room overlooking the Fox River, final touches were being added to the Rainbow Room.  The tables were adorned with vintage mercury glass vases filled with luscious burgundy, ivory, blush, and eggplant-toned floral. The cake, too, was decked with stunning fall roses provided by Fab Flora.

As guests enjoyed their dinner, they toasted to the new couple and prepared for a night of dancing to come.

Once dinner was complete guests danced the night away to an upbeat playlist provided by Ruby Des Jardins of Toast and Jam DJs.  Even I was pulled onto the dance floor by the Father of the Groom (which I have to say was a first!) and joined in on the awesome dance party!

The day was truly beautiful in every way and the bride and groom were an absolute joy to work with.  I wish all the best in life, love, and happiness to Alex and Taylor!