Laurin and Andy met at a Cubs Game on the Fourth of July in Chicago and were engaged five years later in England, where Andy is from.  A few weeks later, they chose the Botanic Gardens for their ceremony and reception. Since Andy’s family was traveling from Great Britain, they knew they wanted a special place for the guests to enjoy this celebration.  Laurin and Andy also wanted to showcase the wonderful city they live in, so after the rehearsal took place at the Gardens, guests enjoyed a classic steak dinner at Gibson’s in Chicago.

The morning of the wedding, Laurin and her bridesmaids got their hair and make up done at Salon Buzz. After getting ready, Laurin headed up to the Botanic Gardens for the first look with Andy. Photos around the Gardens with their bridal party followed.

Laurin carried a romantic teardrop bouquet of peonies, garden roses, ranunculus, freesia and eucalyptus. This fresh garden bouquet looked beautiful with her Vera Wang gown. Andy and his father had traveled to Scotland to select the pattern for his custom kilt.

The bride, a designer, created all of her paper items and even customized signage that we placed around the Gardens.  Every element of her designs was carried through the reception and we completed this look with her floral.  Each of the long rectangle tables showcased a pair of tall summery fresh floral arrangements in shades of blush with textural accents and trailing greenery.  Surrounding the tall pieces was a collection of silver lanterns, silver compotes filled with coordinating floral and greenery and an abundance of candles.  The round tables were adorned with antique silver compotes filled with an array of soft floral and greenery for a fresh picked garden look.  Nicole at Fleur Couture added a lush garland with mixed foliage and a mixture of candles for the head table.  She also added silver lanterns around the lounge areas outside where guests could sit and relax while taking a break from dancing.  Style Matters kept the dance floor packed all night long.  Congrats to Laurin and Andy!!

Ceremony and Reception: The Chicago Botanic Garden
Catering: Culinary Landscape
Photography: Avery House
Ceremony Music: Artistrings
Wedding Cake: Elysia Root Cakes
DJ: Style Matters
Floral and Décor: Fleur Couture
Hair and Make Up: Salon Buzz
Dress: Vera Wang
Shoes: J Crew
Andy’s Kilt: Vintage family tartan of the Ewing Family
Invitation Suite: Designed by the bride, Laurin Ewing
Getting Ready Location: The Godfrey Hotel
Officiant: Tom Maluga
Transportation: VIP Valet Services