Couple: Tessa and Michael
Venue: Chicago Intercontinental Hotel Wedding
Style: Old School Chicago hotel wedding

How you both met: Tessa: My friend, Krista, convinced me to go out with her and a couple other friends. We decided to go to Wicker Park, a neighborhood we didn’t frequently visit. Eventually we wound up at Fatpour. I saw Michael shortly after we walked in and thought he was so cute. We grabbed a table near his friends and I kept my eye on their group throughout the night. One of his friends walked over to our table and I was so excited about the prospect of being able to talk to Michael! I told Tommy I thought Michael was really cute and he said “We’re all out celebrating his birthday. You should go wish him a happy birthday”.

Now, I have never approached a boy in a bar, but I very bravely walked over to Michael and wished him a Happy Birthday. We immediately hit it off and talked about our families and football the rest of the night.

Your proposal: Michael: I convinced Tessa to go on a walk with me on a cold, overcast day in mid-May. I insisted on walking to Olive Park, where my two youngest sisters were hiding with cameras. When Tessa turned to look at the skyline, I dropped to a knee. My sisters captured it perfectly!

Style/Inspiration for your wedding: For our Chicago Intercontinental Hotel Wedding we wanted old school both elegant and a fairy tale style.

What you love about your dress: The sparkle! I love the neckline, the fit, and the back of the dress.

Vendors:

Second shooter: Sonce Landa
Preparation and Reception: Chicago Intercontinental Hotel
Ceremony: St. Vincent’s DePaul
Florist: Stemline Creative
Cake: Bittersweet Bakery
Wedding Dress Designer: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal
Makeup/Hair: Lexa’s Luxurious Looks
DJ/Band: Toast and Jam – Timothy Quinlan
Shoes: Kate Spade
Invitations: Wedding Bee