An Intimate Micro Wedding at the Chicago History Museum

Working with planner Sara Reddick, and florist Kat Willrett was such a fun treat after recovering from a crazy 2020. I actually got Covid a couple of days before Christmas, so I literally quarantined for 2 weeks before this shoot. I was so excited to get to work with so many talented vendors and also be around people in general :)

From Sara Reddick: "The inspiration for this shoot came from the beautiful moments that intimate micro weddings provide couples and their guests, from the moments of togetherness to the opportunities to spoil loved ones we wanted to inspire. The design was centered around the Chicago History Museum, a staple of beauty in the heart of the city that allows for multiple opportunities for a timeless experience. We crafted a color palette full of red, purple and yellow hues that created a sense of new and elegant springtime possibilities.”

We wanted to exhibit creative and fresh inspiration throughout every element. We worked with the very talented Morgan Riley Design to create a stationery suite and corresponding paper goods that made a big statement full of bold colors and patterns. The entire line felt inspiring and provided the breath of fresh air we were searching for. The stationery is inventive with beautiful tones that bring the color palette to life.

Our ceremony was centered around the iconic architecture of the museum, highlighting oversized arrangements designed by Willrett Flower Co. that adorned the alter creating a focal piece of love.

We didn’t want to shy away from pattern play and the tablescape was the perfect opportunity to incorporate texture, dimension and creative pairings. LaTavola’s ‘Lacy’ linen in pearl offered the perfect neutral starting point while also providing the right amount of texture. The place settings featured Maison de Carine’s Oscar De La Renta coral dinnerware, "I knew they had to be the focal piece of the place settings as soon as I saw them, with their feminine floral patterns and endless texture. We incorporated plush velvet napkins in soft lilac that complemented the red tones perfectly. Gold flatware, cut crystal glassware and pomegranate salt and pepper cellars added just the right touch of whimsical detail and the place setting was topped off with elegant menu pockets and name cards in delicate calligraphy. We opted for gold opera chairs to elevate the overall feel of the table.” The table was beautifully completed with lush organic floral arrangements that felt as though they were blooming right then.

The welcome gift and lounge allow for small but meaningful moments couples can share with their guests. The welcome gift was full of thoughtful touches guests can indulge in, including champagne to be shared with two beautiful cut crystal coupes, a mini delectable cake to mimic the couples and a helpful guide to make the wedding weekend a joyful experience, all being topped off with a charming ‘welcome’ by calligrapher, Lively House and Home.

The cake, a monochromatic masterpiece by Toni Patisserie, featured three layers of delicate floral texture that popped against the arrangements encircling it.

Our bride wore two different Claire Pettibone looks, for the ceremony she donned a breathtaking full lace long sleeve gown that accentuated a feminine yet timeless look. This gown is called the Beverly gown. To celebrate the postnuptial festivities our bride changed into a stunning long sleeved lacy stunner called Santorini Gown.

Our hair and makeup team, Tricia Clarke Makeup, emphasized her natural curls with a romantic updo and highlighted her natural beauty with soft creamy pinks. Our groom wore a deep plum tuxedo from The Black Tux that perfectly complemented her elegant and sophisticated bridal looks.


Video: https://vimeo.com/509947619/12b6e5ee65

Design & Planning: Sara Elizabeth Weddings.
Floral Design: Willrett Flower Co.
Invitations: Morgan Riley Design
Calligraphy: Lively House & Home
Makeup & Hair: Tricia Clarke
Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone
Rentals: Elements Preserved
Rentals: Maison de Carine
Jeweler: Sturhahn Jewelers
Tux: The Black Tux
Videography:Anchored Films
Ring box: The Mrs Box
Cake: Toni Patisserie