Local Love – Emily & Matthew at Arrowhead Golf Club
Emily and Matthew met through mutual friends while attending North Central College. They bonded over their love of s’mores at a bonfire and then shared a first date at a Cubs game. They spent the entire seven hours of the game chatting and laughing and the rest was history!
The couple wed on a cold December day and embraced the inspiration of a winter romance throughout their entire Big Day. Emily and her bridesmaids wore cozy socks and warm robes while getting their hair and makeup done. The girls wore deep wine colored bridesmaids’ dresses that enhanced the romantic vibes of the day, and all of the girls carried stunning bouquets of white roses and other flowers.
Emily and Matthew braved the frigid temperatures to share their first look on the golf course and take photos with their bridal parties. They stayed warm under personalized blankets (a gift from the bride) and with plenty of handwarmers. After photos, the couple exchanged vows in a candle-studded, romantic ceremony. They used Matt’s parents’ unity candle in a custom holder engraved with Matt’s late grandparents’ names. The candle actually wouldn’t light during the ceremony, which ended up being a welcome, light-hearted moment that broke the ice and made everyone laugh. Emily also treasured the moment Matt put her grandmother’s wedding ring on her finger. “It was incredibly special to have my grandmother there with me and to witness the love that the rings stood for,” Emily shared.
After the cermony, the couple joined their guests for a cocktail hour and reception. They opened the dance floor with their parents and siblings all dancing to “Still the One,” and everyone enjoyed dancing the rest of the night away! Matt played football at the couple’s college, so they broke out their school flag to take a photo with all their college friends in attendance after learning that their school had won their semi-final game during the wedding ceremony. Matt also channeled his football skills with an NFL-style garter toss!
Emily and Matt knew their wedding day would fly by, so they intentionally took time out throughout the celebration to step back and appreciate all of the love, joy, and support in the room. Emily said, “It was so surreal to see all the people we love come together and to celebrate us.” The newlyweds exited their dream wedding with a romantic sparkler send off, ready to take on their new life as husband and wife!
Number of Wedding Guests: 160
Vendor List:
Venue: Arrowhead Golf Club
Photography: Julia Maruyama Photography
Videography: Nevaeh Films
Officiant: Gary Ireland
Event Planner: Plum & Ivy Events
Rings: Hitched; family heirloom
Bride’s Gown:Maggie Sottero via Bri’Zan Couture
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Hair & Makeup: Kate Johnson Artistry Bridal Team
Bride’s Other Jewelry: Olive + Piper
Formalwear: The Black Tux
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Alfred Sung
Stationery: Etsy; Prints of Love
Floral: Shamrock Garden Florists
Catering: Arrowhead Golf Club
Entertainment: Sounds Abound Entertainment
Cake & Sweets: Two Wild Seeds
