A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Allison and Ian
Allison and Ian’s Chicago wedding brought together the enchantment of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the urban allure of the city. Set against the ivy-covered ceremony space of Ivy Room, their special day exuded whimsical elegance from start to finish.
Allison and Ian’s story began on a hot, sticky August night in New York. With humidity soaring, Allison seriously reconsidered making the trek across town to meet some guy from a dating app. By the time she made it to the crowded bar, all she could think about was air conditioning and a cold drink. Unfortunately, Ian had chosen a spot right in front of the kitchen’s roaring open fire. And yet, his charm was captivating enough to keep her there for hours.
After many more dates and memories, Ian took Allison back to where it all began: their first date spot. Except this time, it was right before Christmas, and he’d set up a display of candles surrounding a beautiful fire. He proposed with a ring containing stones from each of their grandmothers. When she tearfully accepted, he brought her inside, where all their family and friends were waiting to surprise them.
While their story began in New York, their wedding day was wholly Chicago. For their venue, they selected the greenery-drenched Ivy Room downtown. With a love for greenery and wildflowers, the Ivy Room provided the couple the perfect backdrop for this Midsummer Night’s Dream-esque affair.
As the ceremony and reception unfolded, thoughtful touches infused every aspect. Setting the tone, guests were welcomed into the venue with personalized newspaper-style programs featuring fun facts about the couple and details about the day. The couple arrived at the ceremony on a vintage trolley and then exchanged vows under whimsical outdoor lampposts. During their ceremony, both of their mothers shared wonderful readings. They loved this special touch because family is very important to them.
As guests gathered for the indoor reception, they were greeted by handwritten notes from the couple, expressing gratitude for their presence and reflecting on shared memories. These notes ensured every attendee felt valued and appreciated. For Allison and Ian, it was essential to create an atmosphere of intimacy and warmth despite the size of their guest list.
The evening continued to unfold with laughter and joy as friends and family indulged in a delectable spread of Milk Bar funfetti cake, Jeni’s ice cream and Stan’s donuts. The couple wanted to showcase their favorite things, and with most of their guests coming from New York City or Chicago, they wanted to pay homage to their favorite local foods. Additionally, music from Chicago Catz kept the party alive all night long, and the surprise delivery of mini espresso martinis on the dance floor certainly helped.
As they closed out the nice in the venue’s romantic courtyard, it was clear that their love story was just beginning its next magical chapter.
VENDORS
PHOTOGRAPHER Amanda Megan Miller
VENUE Ivy Room
FLORAL Stems Chicago
PLANNER Lola Event Productions
HAIR & MAKEUP Bianca Sansosti Artistry
BRIDE’S GOWN Louvienne from Lovely Bride NYC
ALTERATIONS Sew in Love NYC
GROOM’S FORMALWEAR Canali
WEDDING BANDS Diamond Club International
STATIONERY Steracle Press
CATERING Ivy Room
CAKE Milk Bar
ICE CREAM Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
SWEETS Stan’s Donuts
LIVE CEREMONY MUSIC J&S Duo
ENTERTAINMENT Chicago Catz
PRODUCTION Elegant Event Lighting
PHOTO BOOTH Elegant Sound and Lighting
LINENS & RENTALS BBJ La Tavola
TROLLEY Premier Trolley & Limo
