It has been four months since Carl, and I married on, September 23, 2017, at St. Margaret of Scotland in Chicago. Surprisingly, it should have been a cool Autumn day, but it turned out to be one of the hottest days of the year. I was consistently told throughout the planning process that there were going to be things that would happen that I could not control. As much as I like to plan everything down to the minute, the weather is definitely uncontrollable. However, our wedding day was absolutely beautiful, and we wouldn’t have changed a thing. We were surrounded by 140 of our friends and family, and we all had an amazing time.

Carl and I had a beautiful scripture ceremony accompanied by a musician and a soloist. After our church ceremony, guests continued to The Langham Chicago where we had a brunch reception. Our planner Desiree, of Dejanae Events, made sure every detail was executed. Desiree was amazing and made our vision a reality. The beauty of having an experienced team was that regardless of our strict timeline the execution of our wedding was flawless and nothing felt rushed. Several of our guests commented that they had never been to a wedding that was so much fun and had such amazing food. These comments were great to hear because those things were on my must-have list. That list included: a brunch reception with great food, a DJ that will fill the dance floor, beautiful flowers, stationery and an amazing wedding dress. It may seem like everything was on that list, but there were things I had to let go. I’m happy I removed several things because our wedding was perfect for us and exactly what we had envisioned.

When people ask me how is the married life? I blush from ear to ear. It has been exciting to create family traditions together, adventure to new places for date night and just enjoy each other without looking at a guest list. I remember weeks before our wedding I was advised by a friend to make sure I cherish each and every moment of our wedding day, to remain present even when things happen that were out of our control, and to create amazing memories. That is exactly what I did! When I look at pictures, I can tell you exactly what I was feeling and even thinking in that moment. Carl and I enjoyed our guests, and we had a blast at our wedding. We made sure to enjoy each other, dance and laugh like there was no tomorrow. Carl and I are forever grateful to our supportive parents, bridal party, friends, and family. A very special thank you goes to our vendors, but especially my “Bridal Dream Team” thank you for waking up at 4 am and not leaving my side.

You can read more about my journey to the altar {here}.

Vendor Collaboration

Ceremony Venue: St. Margaret of Scotland // Reception Venue: The Langham Chicago //  Wedding Planner: Desiree of Dejanae Events // Photography: Sandro of Rush Productions // Senior Catering Manager: Davina of The Langham Chicago // Florist: Juliet of Juliet Tan // Stationery: Nicole of Invitation Architects // Mirrors and Signage Calligraphy: Christy of Calligraphy by CT // Bridal Stylist: Selina of Vainglorious Brides // Bridal Salon: Dimitria Bridal Couture // Wedding Dress Designer: Lee Petra Grebenau // Hair Stylist: Brandi of B. Davis Hair Care // MUA: Bisi of Crystal Eyez