Local Love – Michelle & Benjamin at Wandering Tree Estate
Michelle and Benjamin’s love story began in a shared History class, at least for Benjamin. He distinctly remembers seeing Michelle in class and finally striking up the courage to ask her what she answered for a particular question after they finished a test. “I, allegedly, took a glance at him and turned back in my seat. Although, in my defense, it was an 8 am class and I was not a morning person,” Michelle shared. Michelle, for the record, does not recall this interaction. As fate would have it, they met (again) when their sorority and fraternity were paired up for Homecoming. Michelle started turning around more in History class, and the pair soon began dating. They soon realized they were imperfectly perfect for each other. Michelle is a realist and Benjamin is a dreamer and together they support and help each other. “We are complete opposites in most cases, but our imperfect puzzle pieces seem to be the perfect match,” Michelle said.
When it came time to tie the knot, Michelle and Benjamin knew they wanted an outdoor wedding near Chicago, to reflect Benjamin’s love of the outdoors and feel close to Michelle’s hometown. The flowers, trees, pond, and overall gorgeous setting of Wandering Tree Estate was the perfect setting for their garden wedding and reception. Their wedding day came with perfect weather— eighty degrees with a light breeze and brilliant sunshine. Michelle and her bridesmaids donned matching floral robes while they soaked up the sun and enjoyed some sweet time together getting ready in the bridal cottage on the estate. When it was time to exchange vows, Michelle met Benjamin under a beautifully-draped tree overlooking the sparkling pond. Once they were officially Mr. and Mrs., everyone moved to another garden on the property for a sun-splashed reception.
Michelle and Benjamin kept their décor simple to highlight the natural beauty all around them. They had floral-embellished garlands running down the middle of farm tables, where guests sat to enjoy their dinner. The couple also made sure to include their sweet Basset Hound in their celebration with a customized cake topper in his image atop their wedding cake. The dance floor stayed busy throughout the evening as guests enjoyed dancing in the warm summer air. Thanks to some wise advice the couple received before their Big Day— “Look around you. Take in the day. Take in the words you hear and the laughs you share. It flies by faster than you know,” they were both careful to soak in every moment and detail. Michelle and Benjamin agreed that they love looking back on how they felt, all the love and smiling that was part of their wedding, and appreciating the joyful celebration with each other, their friends, and their family.
Vendor List:
Venue: Wandering Tree Estate
Photography: Photography by Christian Sampson
Officiant: Pastor Chris Winkler
Event Planner: Arin Calamari of Big City Bride
Rings: McGivern’s Jewelry; Etsy
Bride’s Gown: Martina Liana via Volle’s Bridal Boutique
Hair & Makeup: Hannah Elisabeth Beauty
Bride’s Other Jewelry: Tiffany & Co.; Etsy
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Volle’s Bridal Boutique
Stationery: Design Studio Creations
Floral & Décor: Prairie Basket Florist
Catering: Wild Asparagus
Entertainment: White Lake Quartet; Monastero Entertainment
Cake & Sweets: Central Continental Bakery; Wild Asparagus
Transportation: Venue Valet USA; Beaver Creek Golf Carts
Security: Standard Force Protection, Inc.
Rentals & Lighting: Elegant Presentations
