There’s something incredibly charming and nostalgic about a heritage-inspired wedding. Celebrating the elegance of a bygone era and embracing the charm of timeless tradition, this style embraces subtle opulence and careful curation. Thoughtful, intentional elements are woven into every detail to create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that makes every moment feel like a cherished memory in the making.

“Heritage Romance” Handpicked by… Malia Hollander, Owner & Principal Planner at Wildflower Weddings & Events

Cover Photos by M.W. Collective & TWA Photographic Artists

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COVER PHOTOS BY Studio Zwerveling, Nicodem Creative, Lisa Blume Photography, Anamaria Vieriu Photography, Karly Ellis Photography, Kearney Rae Photo

From what you hold down aisle to the makings of your tablescapes, your florals sets the mood for your celebration. With fresh takes on bouquets to bold new blooms, these floral trends are all the rage for 2025 and 2026. (more…)

COVER PHOTOS BY Kate Scott Photography, Nichole Babiez Photography,  Alex Ferreri,  Alana Lindenfeld Photography, Karlie Dru Photography, Cailynn Wolfgang Photo

Looking to dress up your day in unforgettable ways? From playful touches to statement textiles, these fresh decor trends are taking weddings to the next level. (more…)

Planned by Sarah Kathleen Events, this Designers’ Challenge team fluttered into Providence Vineyard with a butterfly-inspired vision as vibrant as it was whimsical. Surrounded by 30 acres of rolling grapevines, Alana Jordan Photography, Delish Cakes, Dish & Décor Vintage Rental, LullaBelle Design, Sarah Kathleen Events and Shamrock Garden Florist transformed the white-washed venue into an orange, pink and turquoise vision.

The inspiration came to Sarah Rodriguez of Sarah Kathleen Events while vacationing in Hawaii, where she witnessed two monarch butterflies flitting along the coastline. Their vivid wings and graceful flight against the turquoise sea became the heart of this design concept. Channeling that same sense of wonder, the team wove in wing motifs, fluttery textures and saturated hues pulled from nature’s most enchanting moments.

With citrus tones, layered paper details and garden blooms, the space struck a perfect balance of playful and polished. This Designers’ Challenge is proof that even one fleeting moment of beauty can inspire something extraordinary.

Fun colors are also a great way of bringing personality into a design. Don’t be afraid to shy away from “traditional” wedding colors in lieu of something more vibrant!

– Sarah Rodriguez, Sarah Kathleen Events

The Team

PLANNER Sarah Kathleen Events
FLORAL Shamrock Garden Florist
CAKE Delish Cakes
STATIONERY LullaBelle Design
TABLETOP RENTALS Dish & Décor Vintage Rental
VENUE Providence Vineyard
PHOTOGRAPHY Alana Jordan Photography

Front Row (Left to Right): Holly Clark, Sarah Kathleen Events; Kelly Berge, Providence Vineyard; Sarah Rodriguez, Sarah Kathleen Events; Erin Manning, LullaBelle Design; Cody Trevoy, Shamrock Garden Florist

Back Row (Left to Right): Alana Harmon, Alana Jordan Photography; Natalie Trevoy, Shamrock Garden Florist; Alicia Eisenmann, Delish Cakes; Janet Mathews, Dish & Décor Vintage Rental; Kristina VanOchten, Dish & Décor Vintage Rental

VOTE NOW!

Headed by Capstone Occasions, this Designers’ Challenge team brought a zesty, sun-soaked vision to life inside the light-filled architecture of Pella Signature. In a setting that felt as flavorful and sensory as the cuisine itself, Yuri K Photography captured the artistic visions of Capstone Occasions, Creative Cakes, Dish & Décor Vintage Rental, Floral Expressions and Gifts and MAXE Designs.

With its all-glass structure, retractable rooftop and live interior trees, the Mediterranean restaurant served as both muse and canvas. Inspired by the natural brightness of citrus fruits and the venue’s ethos as a culinary hub for artisans, this design embraced texture, light and color with intention. Dried and candied citrus slices appeared playfully throughout the tablescapes and cake, while sleek black accents echoed the modern lines of the space.

From the whimsical guest chart hand-delivering cocktails to the sculptural serpentine table, every detail strikes a balance between organic warmth and architectural edge. Ultimately, this Designers’ Challenge feels like a step into the sun — showcasing connection, joy and the art of celebration itself.

Instead of imposing a look onto the space, we wanted to create something that felt like an extension of it.

– Tia Lasswell, Capstone Occasions

The Team

PLANNER Capstone Occasions
FLORAL Floral Expressions and Gifts
CAKE Creative Cakes
STATIONERY MAXE Designs
RENTALS Tablescapes
TABLETOP RENTALS Dish & Décor Vintage Rental
LIGHTING Luxe Productions
VENUE Pella Signature
PHOTOGRAPHY Yuri K Photography

Seated (Left to Right): Molly Axe, MAXE Designs; Tia Lasswell, Capstone Occasions; Megan Dell’Aringa, Floral Expressions and Gifts; Becky Palermo, Creative Cakes

Standing (Left to Right): Oliver Veleski, Pella Signature; Kim Strakeljahn, Capstone Occasions; Janet Mathews, Dish & Décor Vintage Rental; Iurie Calmatui, Yuri K Photography

Not Pictured: Fran Leon, Creative Cakes; Ashley Spitzer-Fahrenwald, Creative Cakes; Jordan Chance, Luxe Productions; Samuel Rubio, Tablescapes

VOTE NOW!

If you are looking for a way to elevate your casual family gathering, this is the vibe for you. This elegant yet cozy aesthetic will leave your guests in awe. With all of the amenities of a luxury event, but the comfort and nostalgia of your own backyard, nothing brings friends and family together like a night filled with food, music and bonfires.

“Glamping Getaway” Handpicked by … BreAnn Gray, Owner & Lead Coordinator, Grayter Events

Cover Photos by Katy Carl Photography, Bradley Moss, & Courtney Rudicel

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Vendors

LOCATION The St. Regis Chicago
PHOTOGRAPHY Berlez
VIDEOGRAPHY Aspen Avenue
STYLING Alexandra Dillard
HAIR & MAKEUP Glam Atelier (artists Klaudia Donovan, Kaley Lukancic, Eunice Moreno and Dina Kyles)
NAILS Legendary Spa
FLORAL & DESIGN Urban Allure Events, Flowers by Coll
JEWELRY Rolland’s Jewelers
GOWNS Bri’Zan Couture, The Crystal Bride, Kathryn’s Bridal, Dimitra’s Bridal Couture, Grace + Ivory, Volle’s Bridal & Boutique, Yuliia Lobachova
MENSWEAR Generation Tux
SHOES Bella Belle Shoes, Kailee P.
CONTENT CREATOR Unveil the Day
CAKE Delish Cakes
PASTRIES & SWEETS Vanille Chicago
PET ATTENDANT Wags of Love
RENTALS Dish & Décor Vintage Rentals
MODELS Malena Adams, Rune Model Management; LaDonya Williams, The Rock Agency; Saxon Harrar
ANIMAL MODELS Ace (@acethebengall), Lily (@lily_the_standardpoodle)

WRITTEN BY Catherine Chlipala, Feeling Pretty Inc. | PHOTO BY Jenna Nielsen Photography

OK, you know to book your appointment and bring an inspiration picture or two. Maybe get a spray tan or wax that upper lip, if that’s your thing. But beyond the basics, there are a few less obvious tips that are just as important for a successful session.

Preparing for your trial — or preview, as I prefer to call it — actually starts a good amount of time before your appointment. I’m sure you’ve been Pinning and saving inspiration for a while, but now that some of your wedding details are ironed out, it’s a great time to go back through and start envisioning what will really look best on you. Here’s some tips on how to make the most of your beauty preview: (more…)

WRITTEN BY Alexandra Euler, A.C.E. Styling | COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Alana Lindenfeld Photography, Bradley Moss, Cristina G Photo, Kent Drake Photography, Cailynn Wolfgang Photography, Dabble Me This

Alright, girlfriend, let’s talk about wedding guest fashion. You got the invite (yay!), now comes the big question — what are you wearing?!

Because let’s be real, showing up in the wrong outfit is basically a crime in the world of wedding fashion. Too casual? Yikes. Too over-the-top? Sweetie, it’s not your wedding. Accidentally wear white? We need to have a serious talk.

As your go-to stylist (yes, I’m here for everyone, not just brides!), I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re the Mother of the Bride, the Glamma of the Groom, the Maid of Honor or just a guest who wants to slay without stealing the spotlight, let’s make sure you look just right for any wedding scenario. So let’s break it down: (more…)

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY Winterlyn Stebner, Winterlyn Photography

Your wedding day is an exquisite celebration — a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with refined details, emotional moments and timeless elegance. Naturally, you want every photograph to reflect not only the beauty of the day but the essence of your love story. Yet, for many couples, the idea of being in front of the camera for hours can feel daunting. Rest assured, you don’t need to be a model to look good! Confidence in front of the camera is something anyone can achieve with the right guidance. These seven tips will help you feel calm and relaxed on your wedding day, so your photos will reflect the elegance and sophistication of the occasion. (more…)

COVER PHOTO BY  Fox + Ivory

Whether you’re taking a breather from the boogying or planning a celebration for guests with two left feet, wedding entertainment doesn’t have to begin and end with the dance floor. From live art to interactive performances, today’s weddings are full of creative ways to keep the party alive. These ideas are perfect for sparking conversation, filling reception lulls, and giving your celebration that unforgettable “something extra.”

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Feature Photo of City Cruises Live

This summer’s New To The Scene highlights our favorite additions to the Chicagoland scene, from the recently opened businesses to sparkling new renovations. Stay in the loop and check out these fresh picks!

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COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jaymi Nichole Visuals, King & Opal, Ashlyn Henry, Cailynn Wolfgang Photo, Maura Black Photography

How you get to and from your wedding is part of the experience! Whether you’re into timeless charm or party-starting fun, these stylish transportation picks get you there in a way that suits your vibe. (more…)

WRITTEN BY Anna Novak, Kathryn’s Bridal | Cover Photos by Kailee Marie Photography & Ebby L Photography

If you’re a bride-to-be, one of the most exciting shopping experiences of your life is often the day you begin the search for your wedding dress. It’s likely the most expensive garment you’ll ever purchase, one that symbolizes your love, reflects your style and will be captured in photos you and your partner will treasure forever.

A bridal gown is unlike any other piece of clothing. The construction, fabrics and details are often unfamiliar, especially for first-time shoppers. To simplify the process, we’re breaking down some of the most common terms you’ll hear (or read) when shopping for a wedding dress. Communication is key when it comes to finding your dream gown, so let’s get fluent in fashion. (more…)

Chicago’s storied past and vibrant future came together at this dreamy styled shoot at the Chicago History Museum. Curated by Sonia Bartzis Events and Winterlyn Photography, the scene reimagines timeless romance through a modern lens. A soft palette of peach, coral, ivory and lavender was grounded with moody charcoal velvet linens, creating a rich contrast against the venue’s historic stained glass windows and Georgian-style architecture. From stolen kisses at the sweetheart table to a cake blooming from a floral meadow, every detail celebrates the fusion of classic beauty, unexpected color and contemporary charm.

From the Planner …

We leaned into color, texture and feeling to design a moment that embodied vibrant and modern romance, yet felt timeless and entirely new.

– Sonia Bartzis, owner, Sonia Bartzis Events

Vendor List

PHOTOGRAPHER: Winterlyn Photography
VENUE: Chicago History Museum
PLANNER: Sonia Bartzis Events
FLORAL: Cresco Stems
TABLETOP RENTALS: Tablescapes Event Rentals
STATIONERY: Emery Ann Design
GOWN: Grace + Ivory
FORMALWEAR: SuitShop
HAIR: Glam Hair By Joanna
MAKEUP: Perla Larios Makeup
JEWELRY: Plum Diamonds
CAKE: ECBG Cake Studio
CONTENT CREATOR: Bonitos Recuerdos
MODELS: Guissell and Juan Velazquez