Katelyn and JJ are such an adorable couple and I had a blast planning their wedding with them. Just looking at these photos brings back so many memories; we had the best time!

JJ proposed to Katelyn on a winter night in Chicago, right before Thanksgiving. With a surprise proposal to Katelyn and a night spent celebrating with family and friends, JJ created the perfect evening for his soon to be bride. After listening to Katelyn and JJ tell their story, I knew this was going to be a wedding to remember.

Katelyn knew exactly what she wanted, which made the planning so much fun! Originally from Dallas, she wanted to incorporate a Southern flair to the day, but she also wanted to keep the look elegant and romantic. The Chicago History Museum was the perfect setting for their fall reception. Katelyn wanted to incorporate her love for purples, aubergines, and blush tones. Jessica at Heffernan Morgan created gorgeous centerpieces with aubergine dahlias, garden roses, hydrangeas and a mix of mercury glass to complete the look.

Magnificent Milestones designed the custom menu cards for the guests, along with her invites and all other day of items. We created a time line of events on the menu card so guests knew what to expect during their meal and between courses. Blue Plate served mini buttermilk waffles with fried chicken and braised mole chicken in tortilla cups along with several other southern hors d’oeuvre for cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed “KK’s” Sweet Tea Vodka Lemonades and “JJ’s” Crown and Dr. Pepper – favorite drinks of the bride and groom. The first course was a fried green tomato salad, followed by a choice of blackened chicken with grits or braised short ribs with macaroni and cheese. It was a delicious southern menu and guests loved it! The Sarlas Orchestra kept the guests dancing all night long. Katelyn and JJ’s wedding was incredible and we had an amazing team of vendors for the best couple!

Wedding Dress: Amsale
Bride’s Shoes: Valentino
Jewelry: The Left Bank Jewlery & Bridal Finery
Fur: Gift from the Groom, Vintage
Tux: Vera Wang
Bridesmaid Dresses: J Crew
Getting Ready Location: The Drake Hotel
Ceremony: St. Joseph Church
Reception: Chicago History Museum
Invitations, Day of Items: Magnificent Milestones
Catering: Blue Plate
Cake: More Cupcakes
Cupcakes: More Cupcakes
Hair: Beauty on Call
Make Up: Brian Sutherby
Photography: Chad Husar
Floral, Décor, Lighting: Heffernan Morgan
Transportation: VIP Valet Services
Band: Chris Sarlas Orchestra
Ceremony Musicians: Artistrings