Local Love – Amanda & Joe at The Westin Chicago Northwest

When Amanda and Joe signed up to attend the Guinness Book of World Records Largest Speed Dating Event in Chicago, neither had any intentions of finding their soulmate. They both attended with friends and were excited to be part of the record-breaking event! Joe noticed Amanda before the speed dating officially started, but due to an unfortunate “wasabi in the eye” experience, Amanda was in no position to make small talk. Against the odds, Amanda and Joe were actually paired together once the speed dating rounds began. After they were able to chat for a few minutes, Joe asked for Amanda’s number and planned a more official, and longer, first date.

Joe said he knew Amanda was the one for him because, “I feel most like me when I am with Amanda, I never have to hide anything because she loves me for who I am.” Amanda knew she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Joe because they shared a desire to continuously grow and learn. She loved how comfortable and authentic she felt when she was with him. When it came time to plan a wedding, the couple decided on a romantic New Year’s Eve soirée at The Westin Chicago Northwest.

The night before their Big Day, Amanda spent the night with her two best friends before getting ready at the hotel with her bridesmaids. She shared a sentimental first look with her dad, which was one of her favorite moments of the day, before riding with him to the ceremony in a classic Rolls Royce. Amanda had recently completed the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, so it was especially meaningful that the pair wed in a traditional Catholic ceremony. One of the memories that stood out the most for Joe was being so nervous during the ceremony that when the priest asked for the rings to bless, he almost handed him the wrong ones! The two were giddy and excited as they became husband and wife.

To celebrate their commitment, Amanda and Joe joined their guests at The Westin Chicago Northwest for a gold and white New Year’s Eve reception. They had overflowing white roses and orchids as centerpieces and plenty of sparkling gold accents throughout. Amanda and Joe enjoyed the meaningful toasts and first dances together and with their parents. Guests enjoyed a multi-tiered cake featuring several different flavors and plenty of late-night snacks to keep everyone energized until midnight. To ring in the New Year, Amanda and Joe arranged for a confetti cannon to shower everyone as the clock struck twelve. It was a truly magical way to celebrate their new life together.

Number of Wedding Guests: 175

Vendor List:

Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of the Wayside

Reception Venue: The Westin Chicago Northwest

Photography & Videography: RED Weddings

Officiant: Father Ed Fialkowski

Event Planner: Lillian Rose Events

Wedding Rings: Macy’s

Engagement Rings: Blue Nile

Bride’s Gown: Haley Paige via Bella Bianca Bridal Couture

Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka

Hair: Elle Salon

Makeup: Fabb 2 Go

Bride’s Other Jewelry: Family heirloom

Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse

Groom’s Accessories: Men’s Wearhouse

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Brideside

Stationery: Minted

Floral & Décor: VIP Events Décor

Entertainment: RED Weddings

Cake: Lovin Oven Cakery

Transportation: A Dynasty Classic Cars for Weddings; W-Limo