Local Love – Dominique & William at Stan Mansion
Dominique and William met at a friend’s rooftop Fourth of July party in 2013 and the rest is history. The couple loved spending time together, whether they were busy with activities or just hanging out. Dominique realized that William was consistently warm, honest, and a man of integrity, and she found she loved his family as her own, and she knew he was the perfect man for her. William said he knew he wanted to be with Dominique forever because, ” She was willing to choose to be the best person for me each day.” When it came time to plan their wedding, the pair wanted to marry in a place that felt like home to both of them. Chicago was an easy choice as it was the city where they met and fell in love.
When asked to describe her wedding day, Dominique gushed, “Our wedding day was not just a celebration of our love, it was a celebration of how blessed we are to be loved by an incredible village of friends and family.” In the spirit of the boundless love of their closest family and friends, the couple decided to label their bridal party as “anchors,” forgoing traditional titles and roles and choosing to have their anchors stand on their respective sides, regardless of gender. Dominique and William spent the day getting ready amid laughter and libation (champagne for the Bride, whiskey for the Groom), choosing not to see each other before the ceremony, but to have a first “chat” on either side of a door separating them from each other’s view.
The music and lighting at Stan Mansion set the soulful, warm atmosphere the couple desired. After exchanging the heartfelt vows they wrote for each other, they jumped the broom to honor their roots. Guests enjoyed great food, drinks, and music while they danced the night away. The couple distributed sunglasses with “Black Love Matters” etched on the sides as a fun, yet meaningful, party favor. William said his favorite part of their Big Day was the ceremony because, “It felt like a moment of peace in the middle of a busy week, especially between the anticipation of the wedding and the excitement of the reception.” Dominique especially loved walking down the aisle with her father and exchanging vows with her new husband. It was important to Dominique and William to share the joy and love they felt for each other with all of the important people in their community. As Dominique so aptly put it, “It was our day, our way and for that we will always be grateful.”
Vendor List:
Venue: Stan Mansion
Photography & Videography: Andrew Thomas Clifton of The Love Deluxe
Officiant: Anthony Davis
Event Planner: Wedicity Wedding Day Detailing
Wedding Rings: Helzberg Diamonds
Engagement Ring:Lester Lampert
Bride’s Gown: Lazaro via Bella Bianca Bridal Couture
Bride’s Shoes: Vince Camuto
Hair: Justin’s Salon Studio
Makeup: Tinaya Weems
Bride’s Other Jewelry: Nordstrom
Formalwear: Indochino
Groom’s Accessories: Michael Kors; Express
Stationery: Paperless Post
Floral & Décor: YJD Weddings and Special Events
Catering: Cocina Fusion
Entertainment: Chris Triche with Cage + Aquarium
Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes
Transportation: Ride in Bliss
