Local Love – Jana & Matt at Gibsons Italia

Jana and Matt met in high school, but their relationship didn’t fully begin until they reconnected ten years later. While they would describe themselves as opposites, their personalities balance each other well. “We both feel that the other is a true partner in every aspect of our lives,” Jana shared.

Their Chicago wedding was a beautiful and elegant affair. They rented out all three floors of the stunning Gibsons Italia, right on the Chicago River with unbelievable views. Jana and Matt’s Big Day began on the roof of the venue where they were fortunate enough to exchange vows with the glass roof open, thanks to the perfect weather. Matt said his absolute favorite moment of their day was watching Jana walk down the aisle. Jana’s favorite moment was when the officiant pronounced them “man and wife.” She said she had been dreaming of that moment since they first got engaged!

After the ceremony, the rooftop area was flipped into the perfect Chicago cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed the views while snacking on passed apps and being entertained by a saxophone player. When it was time for dinner, everyone moved the main dining room for a delicious meal with the perfect Chicago skyline backdrop. Meaningful toasts were shared, with one big surprise thrown in. Jana’s sisters performed their speech as a personalized rap, “I Really Like Matt,” inspired by Cardi B’s “I Like It.”

Once dinner and toasts were completed, the party moved to the second floor’s bar, lounge and open patio. Everyone loved that the doors were open so they could dance inside and outside. Jana and Matt surprised everoyne with a choreographed first dance. “I really loved performing the
waltz on the patio while Matt whispered what our next move was going to be!” Jana said. The DJ played a fabulous playlist and kept the dance floor packed all night. Jana and Matt made sure their family was included in all of the planning along the way, so they could ensure everyone would have a wonderful time celebrating the couple’s love.

Number of Wedding Guests: 180

Vendor List:

Venue: Gibsons Italia

Photography: Bart Galbas Photography

Officiant: John Pontarelli

Bride’s Gown: Martina Liana via Bella Bianca Bridal Couture

Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Hair: Jennifer Noia of Salon Parlor

Makeup: Color Couture by Kristy

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids

Stationery: Brandi Walsh

Floral: Shamrock Garden Florist

Catering & Cake: Gibsons Italia

Entertainment: DJ Jose Giusti