Intimate and Relaxed Fall Wedding in Chicago

Andrew and Rachel’s honest love for each other is as real as it could be. It was oozing from their wedding pictures. When their photographer, Kristine of Made to Be Mine, shared their sweet wedding with us, I knew I had to share it because their love is so endearing. Kristine did such an amazing job capturing all of their emotions, friendship, intimate moments, joy and thoughtful details. Congratulations you two love birds! Cheers to you both.

From Photographer:  Rachel and her girls started their day with delicious brunch treats at the reception spot, Room 1520. The most gloriously lit, romantic, white, unique space. It was a dream. The bride was the calmest, laughing and sipping champagne with her girls and lighting up the room with her infectious smile. When she put on her dress she danced around like a little toddler. She has such an innocence and grace about her, it was such a natural and genuine moment. Turning the corner to be swept up in the arms of her dearest friends, Rachel and her maids shared a sweet moment of hugs and laughs.

The Bride’s Favorite Moment: Our first look on Room 1520’s rooftop was one of our favorite memories of the day. Seeing Andrew’s grin, with the skyline in the background. It felt like the Heavens opened up when I saw his face and the wind pushing me towards him. And then immediately following, me freestyle rapping over Andrew beatboxing was hilarious and amazing, and very much, us.

From Photographer: We met up with the wedding party for a glorious time. I loved how the bridesmaids wore adorable tulle skirts and a top of their own choosing, it all came together flawlessly. The bouquets and boutonnieres featured perfect little anemones, thistle, and garden roses. The colors were so so perfect for that balmy November day. We had such forgiving weather considering the location of the Windy City, the sun came out for us and gave us beautiful light. After the group shots the ladies shared one of the most intimate moments, praying over Rachel. The light seemed to be pouring over them as a blessing from the heavens, it was so magical.

From the Bride: We enlisted many of our friends to add their special touches to the wedding. From the photography, to my hair, to the singing during the ceremony, to our reception emcee. Those were our people who’ve journeyed with us. So it was all the more powerful and lovely for them to contribute in that way.

From Photographer: Rachel and Andrew were married at their small church, Missio Dei, where they met and fell in love. We even went up to their special spot in the pews where they sit every Sunday.

From the Bride: The flowers were so important to me, and I wanted to give them extra life after the reception. So I acquired all of the vases for our florals so we could give them away to our guests at the end of the evening. My mom found all of our milk glass and amber compotes for our centerpieces. My friend Kat and I collected amber beer bottles and clear kombucha glasses. The tiny clear bud vases found me. 😉 And I was able to find mercury glass votives to add a little warmth to the vignettes.

The reception was a whirlwind. So much crying and laughing, amazing dance moves, and so so many donuts. Rachel and Andrew LOVE donuts. It was so intimate…Rachel and Andrew sat surrounded by their loved ones while their family members shared stories and sweet words. At the end, we were able to sneak away for a few more portraits in a cozy little Chicago alley. It was a perfect day and I’ll never forget it. I am so so thankful to Rachel and Andrew for letting me be a part of such an amazing couple’s story.

Advice from the Bride: All the cliche advice is true… As someone who cares about all of the details, I say try your best to make your special day truthful to who you and your fiancée are, but also hold it all openly because things will not be perfect. Try to be present because you’re marrying your person! And your favorite people are there to witness it and celebrate with you. So soak up every second. And, of course, prioritize hiring photographers and videographers you love. You will never regret having your day captured by people who know their craft and inspire you.

PHOTOGRAPHER Made to be Mine | VENUE Room 1520 | WEDDING PLANNING / INVITATIONS / PAPER SUITE Designed by the bride! | FLORAL DESIGN Fleur Inc. | VIDEOGRAPHER Amor in Motion | CEREMONY VENUE Missio Dei Chicago | CATERER Nikki Stern from Paramount Events | DJ / BAND Derek Fitting | DESSERT Stan’s Donuts | OFFICIANT Josh Taylor | WEDDING GOWN Sarah Seven | ATTIRE J. Crew | JEWELRY ENGAGEMENT RING BY Satomi Kawakita | HAIR STYLIST Devin Sutter of Red 7 Salon | MAKEUP Carly Pribich