Stephanie & Brian, Intercontinental Chicago

I first met Brian and Stephanie on a warm fall evening on their rooftop deck while we crossed our fingers that the first weekend in May would bring similar temperatures. Chicago weather cooperated for once and brought Brian and Stephanie a picture perfect day! Our journey together spanned just seven months, but quickly grew into a fantastic friendship filled with lots of laughter and creative planning!

Stephanie and Brian had a weekend full of celebration in Chicago with a family night out at River Shannon, rehearsal dinner at LuxBar and a Friday night official kick-off to the wedding at none other than Butch McGuire’s!

The wedding morning began with Stephanie, her bridesmaids, and close family getting pampered by Brian Sutherby and Richard Inocencio at The Intercontinental while Vanessa from averyhouse was capturing all of the pretty details and laughter from years of friendship. Meanwhile, Brian and his groomsmen were downstairs enjoying a custom burger bar at Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse.

Brian, Stephanie, and their wedding party took advantage of the gorgeous spring weather to capture photos around Michigan Avenue before heading to Fourth Presbyterian Church for their ceremony. Reverend John Vest led a touching ceremony full of sweet personal details as his final ceremony with the church. Just as Brian and Stephanie were pronounced as husband and wife, guests were surprised with a recessional lead by traditional BagPipes!

Guests were welcomed to cocktail hour with a gorgeous display of candles and vases filled with Bells of Ireland and Thistle amongst family wedding photos as a nod to the couple’s Irish and Scottish roots. The reception began in The Grand Ballroom to the sounds of The Party Faithful surrounded by lush floral by the talented Fleur. Cherry Blossoms, bold burgundy peonies, ivory dahlias, aubergine ranunculus, and lots of eucalyptus accentuated the ornate ballroom with a romantic flair that perfectly complemented Stephanie’s Kelly Faetanini gown and Brian’s emerald velvet jacket.

Guests dined on a fresh spring salad, followed by their choice of shortrib or arctic char with seasonal vegetables. After dinner, Stephanie and Brian and their family and friends danced the night away!

I was honored to be a part of Brian and Stephanie’s weekend and had the best time planning their wedding. Congratulations you two!

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