Glamorous Winter Wedding at Chez

February 16, 2021

February 16, 2021

Dené and Chris had one wedding we will never forget, which took place in November of 2019 at both South Shore Cultural Center and Chez. The level of detail they had throughout their wedding day and decor was unforgettable and perfectly reflected the happy couple. We wanted to start by asking a few questions to the now-married couple, for a reflection on wedding day!

What was your favorite part of your wedding day?

What is “the entire day” for $1,000! It’s so hard to pick a favorite part because it was all so beautiful, down to the “small” moments of being able to hug my florist and caterer at the end of the night. I loved hopping in the vans to go to our first look. Deciding on my jewelry as I put on my dress. Being able to spend time with Chris throughout the day. There were so many favorite parts. I guess the best of them all is that I was able to truly experience those moments. The day went by quickly but it’s the small moments I remember more than anything, which make me happy.

What style/feel were you going for? What were your wedding colors? What was your favorite decor element for your reception?

I would say an “Intimate Affair” – I wanted as many candles as possible, dim lighting, and closeness. Chris and I love speakeasies, so we wanted our wedding to make feel exclusive and not as if we were in the middle of Chicago, but tucked away somewhere magical.
Our wedding colors were maroon, gold and white – which just so happen are my alma mater colors #GoRamblers!
Everything was so beautiful at our wedding it’s tough to choose. It’s between the stairs with flowers and candles, the mirrored bars, and our mirrored head table. Oh, and I just remembered our linen and plates, silverware and menus! This is tough! I plead the fifth.

Why did you choose the venue you got married at?

The ceremony was at South Shore Cultural Center – It’s a long story, but the story we’ll stick with during this lifetime is because the Obama’s got married there.
The reception was at Chez – We loved that it was next to a hotel and had the upscale loft feel. It is located in Streeterville, where I lived when me and Chris met, and many of our first dates were in that area. Our daughter was even born in Streeterville.

What was the hardest part of planning your wedding?

I wish this question were flipped on what was the easiest parts 🙂 Honestly, before I met Rachel at Ohana,, a lot of things seemed difficult. We struggled finding a venue, debated the time of our ceremony, couldn’t figure out catering, had trouble finding a bartender, saying yes to the dress was even an endless pursuit. It was all overly stressful! I think I waited too long to get an actual planner, and I should’ve started planning way sooner than I did.
The easiest part of planning my wedding was marrying Chris and hiring Rachel.

If you could share any advice to a couple who are planning their wedding, what would you say?

Live in the moment. Breathe in the air, really breathe it in, note what you smell, what you feel, and see. Really be in touch with all of your senses because those hours fly by.
Please, please, please get a good planner! Planners may be pricy, but they are worth every dime. For months, I was stressed beyond measure trying to figure out table assignments and arrangements and all types of stuff that makes the process not as memorable or enjoyable. A planner can help you manage the load and provide the opportunity of being able to breathe in your day!
My husband didn’t want to do a first look. He felt he wanted to see me for the first-time walking down the aisle. Thankfully, he gave in and we did the first look. I’m thankful because the pictures were amazing! We got to spend more time together and knock out bridal party pictures. As mentioned before, the day FLIES by so we really appreciated the extra time together and he still cried when I walked down the aisle 🙂 So I would advise to do a first look.
Best of luck!