Liz & Jeff’s Gothic, Cannabis-Friendly Wedding at Chicago Illuminating Company
On an October afternoon, Liz and Jeff lit up their love story with a gothic-inspired celebration at the Chicago Illuminating Company. Infused with moody vibes, rich autumn florals, and a touch of the unconventional, their wedding was a true reflection of their personalities — complete with a shared passion for cannabis.
Liz and Jeff first crossed paths while bartending at a music festival in 2019. There was an instant spark, but it wasn’t until months later that Liz made the first move, sliding into Jeff’s DMs with an invite to her birthday party. That night, Jeff asked her out, and by January 2020, they had their first official date. Weeks later, the world shut down due to COVID, turning their dates into long walks in the park. Nearly five years, a few dogs, and countless festival memories later, Jeff proposed to Liz at Riot Fest — their favorite Chicago music festival.
Beneath the glass atrium of the Chicago Illuminating Company, Liz and Jeff exchanged heartfelt vows in an intimate ceremony. Liz stunned in a black Jenny Yoo gown, her look completed with a black blusher veil and rose-stitched Dr. Martens boots. Jeff complemented her effortlessly cool vibe in a burgundy suit and classic Vans high-tops. Together, they laid the groundwork for a celebration that was equal parts edgy, romantic, and uniquely them.
After the ceremony, the atrium transformed into a chic, laid-back reception space. Draped sage-green velvet curtains, cozy lounge furniture, and lush autumn florals set the tone for a cozy night ahead. Guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, interactive food stations, and a cannabis bar, all while a DJ spun house music. Liz and Jeff skipped traditions like assigned seating and speeches, creating an atmosphere that felt more like an epic party than a formal affair.
As the weddings’ pièce de résistance, High Minded Events provided the ultimate cannabis bar experience. Guests rolled their own joints at a custom packing station, complete with personalized take-home tubes featuring the couple’s wedding date. The bar also featured “vapor on tap,” with Zencos offering smooth dabs on request and the Vapor Xhale for those looking to savor the full depth of the flower. “When we started planning our wedding, we knew we wanted to include a cannabis bar for our guests,” said Liz. “[High Minded Events’] budtenders were kind and caring, catering to each guest’s individual comfort level with ease.”
As the night unfolded, laughter filled the air, the dance floor stayed packed, and a light haze of celebration lingered. The night symbolized Liz and Jeff’s love story, but also the freedom to celebrate it exactly how they wanted.
Vendors
COORDINATOR Oak Avenue Events
FLORAL Marsh Marie Floral
BRIDE’S GOWN Jenny Yoo
GROOM’S FORMALWEAR The Black Tux
HAIR Courtney Friedericks with FUSE Salon and Spa
MAKEUP Lauren Gorka Aesthetics
DESSERT The Wee Bonnie Bakery
CATERING Entertaining Company
CANNABIS BAR High Minded Events
RENTALS Bowery & Bash
ENTERTAINMENT Official DJ LG
