AELO Alumni | Sandi + Mike, 1/7/17

CERMONY: ST. VINCENT FERRER CHURCH | RECEPTION: SALVAGE ONE | CATERER: BEYOND EVENTS | PHOTOGRAPHER: INGRID BONNE PHOTOGRAPHY | VIDEO: ORANGE WEDDING FILMS | BAKERY: DOMINOES PASTRIES | FLORIST: GLORIA @ LINDA'S FLOWERS + BALLOONS | LIGHTING:

On a cold January afternoon, Sandi and Mike happily took their wedding vows to become husband and wife. Despite the chill outside, a major party heated up at Salvage One shortly afterward that was perfectly personalized and colorful. The bride's aunt provided the gorgeous florals, the groom handmade several amazing art pieces like a replica of the iconic Chicago Theatre sign, two gigantic sugar skull wood pieces and a "love" lettered sign that lit up and complimented Salvage One's eclectic atmosphere. The reception was moving as well with a touching moment of silence and prayer for Sandi's grandfather who had passed away just days before, an outstanding performance by their mariachi band and dancing galore. This wedding is one to remember!

AELO Alumni | Erin + Chase, 4/2/17

VENUE, DJ, ALL AROUND PERFECTION: OVATION CHICAGO | PHOTOGRAPHY: AARON EHRINGER | CAKE: DINKEL'S | CATERING: ANTIQUE TACO | STAFFING: MILLENIUM DECORATING | HAIR + MAKEUP: SARA JEAN STEVENS | FLOWERS: DESIGNS BY JANET | TRANSPORTATION: M&M LIMO

Hey, remember that absolutely gorgeous styled shoot we did back in 2016? Well, that beautiful couple tied the knot for real back in April! And they happen to be great friends of ours, so Carolyn got to be a bridesmaid while Lauren and Kaitlin ran the show. 

Erin and Chase aren't just models though...they are hilarious, kind, generous, and know how to party. It is such a great honor to be trusted with a friend's big day, and this was no exception. They had a lovely ceremony, performed by Erin's father, delicious food by Antique Taco, and a dance party that didn't stop until the lights were on. The biggest Cubs fans, the sweetest loves, the most beautiful of couples, it was an incredible day that we won't be forgetting any time soon!

Congratulations, E&C! We love you so much, and wish you the most happiness in the world! 

AELO Alumni | Sara + Nick, 11/5/16

VENUE: GREENHOUSE LOFT | PHOTOGRAPHY: RYAN MOORE PHOTO | CATERER: FIG CATERING | FLORIST: FLOWERS FOR DREAMS | HAIR + MAKEUP: DEBRA PETRIELLI | DJ: CAGE + AQUARIUM

What a completely stunning day. Not only was the weather absolutely gorgeous, just look at these two! Their clean, classic style was complemented perfectly by their humor and love for one another. Sara and Nick are a gorgeous, hilarious, sweet couple and we had an absolutely wonderful time coordinating for them! After a beautiful ceremony, their family and friends enjoyed FIG's delicious food, Greenhouse Loft's lovely courtyard, and Cody with Cage + Aquarium kept that dance floor ALIVE. It was perfect and we're so glad we got to be a part of it. 

Congratulations, Sara + Nick! You're the real Diehl's! 

AELO Alumni | Araba + Lamar, 10/14/16

VENUE: WOMEN'S CLUB OF EVANSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY: MAYDEN PHOTOGRAPHY | FLORIST: FLOWERS FOR DREAMS | HAIR + MAKEUP: NICOLE ROGERS MAKEUP | CATERING: CATERED BY DESIGN | DJ: JUSTIN, STYLE MATTERS DJS

What a day! What a couple! These two incredible people had such a beautiful day together, and we loved being a part of it. Araba, a Harvard grad, ROCKED that blush dress (and later her traditional Ghanaian dress), and Lamar was so full of love for her. There was not a dry eye in the house as their family and friends -- musicians and poets and artists all -- all participated in their touching ceremony. When Araba's sister sang "Unforgettable"? Forget it. The love in the room was palpable. 

It was such an incredible celebration, and one we count ourselves lucky to be a part of. Congratulations, Araba + Lamar! We know you are going to have a long, beautiful life together.

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AELO Alumni | Clare + David, 10/2/16

VENUE: A NEW LEAF | CATERER: FIG CATERING | PHOTOGRAPHY: FOREVER OCTOBER | CAKE: BAKING INSTITUTE

This special day for Clare and David was just beautiful.  The joining of these two families brought guests from all over the world including Ireland and Australia! A New Leaf was the perfect location for this couple.  It's unique look with amazing exposed brick and modern metal work throughout set the stage for the special day. It was evident that Clare and David were so ready to get married and begin this new journey. The love they had for each other just poured out into all of their family and friends. Their special vows to each other were heartfelt and brought tears to the room. Guests were able to enjoy the gorgeous and lush garden area on this beautiful fall day.  The S'mores bar was also a huge hit! Guests were able to choose a flavor of gourmet marshmallows and watch the chef melt it and place it between homemade graham crackers and gourmet chocolate.  They were to die for! The night ended with a ton of dancing and even more laughter and smiles.  We are so happy for you Clare and David! Here's to many years of happy marriage!