Capturing Lauren and Shane’s autumnal wedding day was a dream! Their Four Seasons Hotel Chicago wedding took place in late October, but the weather was beautiful. The day began in Lauren’s gorgeous childhood home where she readied with all her friends, sisters, and parents. They enjoyed champagne and savored the moment, even shedding a few tears throughout the morning.
Lauren is the baby girl of her family and the last of 4 daughters to get married within the past year and a half. I am sure this moment was very bittersweet for her parents. Seeing their faces light up with pure happiness at the sight of their daughter was so special. Getting ready in your childhood home is such a perfect way to kickstart your wedding day. Not to mention, Lauren was a gorgeous bride with her dark hair down in loose curls, and her simple, yet elegant wedding dress.
One thing that struck me about Lauren and Shane is that you could easily see how loved they are by their family and friends. The evidence was clear between the large guest count, the heartfelt speeches given by family and friends, and the sweet interactions witnessed throughout the day. Lauren and Shane’s thoughtfulness, friendly demeanor, loyalty, and kindness can be seen by anyone they come into contact with. Needless to say, I loved working with them and it warmed my heart to see their genuine love for each other and all those in attendance on display.
How Lauren and Shane Met
Before tying the knot, Lauren and Shane were friends first, having met at college where they both attended Holy Cross in NY. Eventually they decided to give a romantic relationship a shot and you can clearly see what a good choice that was as evidenced by their strong, loving bond. At the time they met, Lauren called the North Shore of Chicago home and Shane was from the east coast. Now, they both live in New York City together.
Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony took place at Faith, Hope, and Charity Catholic Church in Winnetka, Illinois. Their traditional ceremony was beautiful. I loved capturing the candid moments of the couple as they stole glances at each other during the ceremony and the emotion that filled the room as they exchanged vows and became Mr. and Mrs. Their faces walking out of the church radiated with pure happiness.
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago Wedding Reception
Everyone then made their way downtown to the iconic Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Chicago. This hotel is the picture of elegance and luxury sitting at the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood on the Magnificent Mile. The reception unfolded inside the grand ballroom, which was transformed with gorgeous jewel tones highlighting a fall color palette. The amazing and talented wedding planner, Megan from NSWE Events did a wonderful job coordinating all the details and creating an unforgettable evening for Lauren, Shane, and their guests.
The wedding bouquets featured deep red and burgundy flowers with pops of softer colors to bring balance. The colors and details combined with the beauty of the event space created a romantic atmosphere that welcomed everyone. The toasts were sincere, sentimental, and amusing at times, causing ripples of laughter to fill the room.
After the speeches and toasts, the newlyweds took to the checkered dance floor. It didn’t take long after that for the guests to join them as the band, Beat Mix Chicago cranked up the tunes. Everyone was ready to party and celebrate the new husband and wife – and celebrate we did!
Lauren and Shane, thank you so much for trusting me to capture your special day and all the heartfelt memories it entailed. Cheers to you both!
Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Alex Ferreri
Planning: NSWE Events
Venue + Catering: Four Seasons Chicago
Floral Design: Taylor & Co Event Design
Beauty: RC Beauty
Band: Beat Mix Chicago
Lighting + Dance Floor: Elegant Event Lighting
Photo Booth: Pixster Chicago
Rentals: Tablescapes | BBJ La Tavola
Cocktail Hour Ice Cubes: Nice Ice Company
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALEX FERRERI AND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES, INQUIRE HERE.
View more resources, timeless wedding day moments, and romantic engagements on the blog:
Butterfield Country Club Fall Wedding
How To Choose The Right Wedding Photographer
What To Do with Your Wedding Photos | Make the Most of Your Images
