Today’s Chicago wedding is every bit as meaningful as it is gorgeous. Samantha and Michael set out to plan an intimate wedding that was unique to them and their relationship. Celebrating without Samantha’s parents, it was especially important to incorporate aspects of their families into the wedding as much as possible. Samantha wore her mother’s wedding gown and Michael’s great-grandmother’s veil. Their venue, Bridgeport Art Center, provided a perfectly eclectic setting, complete with exposed brick and a lofty warmth. With the help of Clementine Custom Events and A Stem Above, Samantha and Michael’s vintage eclectic look was beautifully achieved, complete with simple wooden touches, pops of color in flowers and greenery, and even glowing lanterns hanging over the dance floor. We can’t wait for you to see all that Two Birds Photography captured, and to hear more from Samantha about her wedding planning experience!
What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?
Our wedding planner, Melissa Samek of Clementine Custom Events, took all the stress out of the wedding planning process. She understood exactly what our vision was for the wedding and recommended specific vendors that could make that vision a reality. Our families were also incredibly supportive, in particular my aunt! I incorporated some DIY into the wedding decorations and she was always willing to lend a hand or a paintbrush!
What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?
We needed to surround ourselves with people who were easygoing. The planning process and the wedding itself were so laid back and stress-free because we had the best vendors to back us up. If there were any hiccups on the day of the wedding, we were completely unaware because our wedding planner, Melissa Samek (Clementine Custom Events), took care of everything! And we have to give a huge shout out to our photographers, Two Birds Photography, who put us at ease in front of the camera and captured the most genuine, beautiful pictures.
What was your inspiration for your wedding details and/or design?
We wanted the wedding to have a rustic and vintage feel to it. After all, I was wearing my mom’s lace wedding dress from the 70’s, so that vintage touch was at the center of it all. It was fun working with the florist, A Stem Above, to incorporate the pieces we had collected as a couple (like antique oil lamps, lanterns, and thrift store picture frames) into the wedding design. They understood our vision right from the start and just ran with it! I also made my own chalkboard signs that were found throughout the reception space, so it gave the night a personal touch.
What was your favorite thing about your wedding?
Wearing my mom’s wedding dress. Hands down. My parents have both passed away, so it was very emotional and special to be able to wear that dress and feel their presence even more. I also loved that we had family wedding photos on display to honor our family members, those who were celebrating with us that day and those who were there in spirit.
What is your best piece of advice for other brides?
On the day of the wedding, don’t worry if something doesn’t go exactly as you envisioned. Remember to reflect on what that day is all about. In the end, it won’t matter if your flower arrangements aren’t perfect. You have a new partner in life! Just enjoy your celebration!
Vendors who made it all happen…
Photographer: Two Birds Photography // Event Planner: Clementine Custom Events // Floral & Event Designer: A Stem Above // Musicians: Belle Musique // Reception Venue: Bridgeport Art Center // Caterer: Catered by Design // Cinema and Video: Cinaesthetic Films // Dress Store: Dame Couture // Beauty: Faces By Ricki // Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Formally Modern Tuxedo // Makeup Artist: Magnificent Brides // Invitation Designer: Minted.com // Cake Designer: Oak Mill Bakery // Officiant: Rev it Up! // DJ: Toast & Jam
Lauren
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