Texas Flair in the Heart of Chicago, The Ritz-Carlton

Molly and Cole initially reached out to us right after their engagement when all of the excitement was fresh in their minds. I took this opportunity to spend time getting to know them and their styles and families and history together so I could bring them to the most perfect venues to celebrate their wedding day. Knowing that Molly and Cole grew up on the North Shore and that Molly’s family has been in Chicago for many generations, I wanted to suggest a classic hotel to juxtapose the more rustic and industrial loft spaces she was originally drawn to. I asked Molly to visit one hotel just to see – and I will never forget the look on her face upon walking into The Ritz-Carlton Grand Ballroom. Her mother quickly recounted events from her youth under the very same chandelier and Molly got a sense of comfort and warmth that she was craving. It was an easy decision to make and we quickly moved forward with a summer wedding date!

Molly and Cole were planning from their home in Houston and their vision was heavily influenced by the Texas culture that surrounded them. Our challenge was to create a wedding look that incorporated the rustic garden look with the sophistication and glam that the Ritz ballroom is built on. Erin Sellers at Revel Décor took this challenge and ran with it to create a lush and stunning look that incorporated outdoor elements tailored to fit perfectly under the epic chandelier. Tall greenery heavy arrangements along the outer tables of the room gave the look of trees surrounding the room. We anchored the light and airy garden inspired floral designs with linens that had texture and shine to mimic the ceiling. The silver and champagne notes in the linens tied the whole look together.

With Molly’s family working in the music and entertainment industry, her father hand-picked his favorite musicians from across the country to create an all-star team of Howl at the Moon artists. The dance floor was packed the entire night with an energy like I’ve never seen before. The highlight was absolutely seeing Molly on stage rocking out with the band and seeing Cole just in awe of his best friend and wife.

I will never forget our journey together and will cherish it always. Very excited to celebrate with the family once again next year! XO, Allison