I could tear up just thinking about this beautiful Chicago wedding and these kind, warm souls. I met Natalie and Ed for the first time at their Lurie Garden engagement session back in May. Up until then, I had only heard the cheerful, effervescent tone in Natalie’s voice. Upon meeting Natalie she was just as sparkling and charming in real life, and a perfect match for Ed.
I walked onto the University of Chicago campus Saturday afternoon and was instantly in awe. The campus is bursting with stunning architecture surrounded by lush greenery, ivy, and Summer in full bloom. I literally ran into the couple who were casually walking towards the chapel, all smiles, relaxed. Natalie looked like an absolute vision in her Maggie Soterro dress. I told her she had a Katherine Hepburn essence about her, especially on her wedding day. Classy, elegant, and just absolutely gorgeous. Ed was calm and clearly ready to seal the deal with his girl. Both were excited to see all their planning from afar (the two live in California) come to life.
Natalie’s grandparents got married at the University of Chicago, and she was especially close to her Grandmother, Jane. Jane passed in 2010 and Natalie thought this would be a wonderful way to include her in the special Chicago wedding day. Ed attended business school at the University of Chicago. Him and Natalie were dating when Ed was applying to grad schools and it was a very happy day for the both of them when they found out that it was going to be Booth School of Business. The ceremony was held at the beautiful Bond Chapel. Both Ed and Natalie’s Mom did readings, the gentleman who introduced the two also married them, and chuckles were spread across the chapel when, after Natalies heartfelt vows, Ed proclaimed, “I should have gone first”.
If I could describe the reception at Loft on Lake in one word, it would be warm. A mix of East and West coast as well as Midwest friends and family ate, drank, and didn’t stop smiling the entire night. It was so clear how loved this couple is by so many. My favorite part of the day was the speeches. I’ve heard a lot of wedding speeches over the years. Some people have the gift, and well, some people don’t. Natalie’s Mom, Ed’s Mom and Dad, Natalie’s sister and Ed’s two older sisters all spoke directly from the heart. They perfectly intertwined memories from childhood, loving characteristics of the two, and special insights about what a special relationship Natalie and Ed have as partners in life. It was just beautiful.
You couldn’t tear Natalie away from the dance floor and I have several action shots that I just adore of her. I couldn’t be more thrilled to see two wonderful people find each other and get to spend forever together. Congratulations Natalie and Ed. All my love!
Vendor • L O V E
Ceremony // University of Chicago Bond Chapel • @uchicago
Venue // Loft on Lake • @loftonlake ⠀
Dress // Maggie Soterro • @maggiesotterodesigns • @emeraldcitygowns⠀
Bridesmaid Dresses // Azazie • @iheartazazie ⠀
Shoes // Badgley Mischka • @badgleymischkabride⠀
Florals // Ashland and Addison Events • @ashaddevents⠀
Hair // James Rosko • @jamesroskohair ⠀
Makeup // Neon Avenue Chicago @neonavechicago • @julesfleming7⠀
Entertainment // KC DJ Unlimited • @kcdjunlimited⠀
Catering // Maison Cuisine • @maisoncuisinechicago⠀
comments +