Local Love – Kirstie & Dale at The Westin Chicago Northwest
Kirstie and Dale met as high school students. Their love grew over the years until before they knew it, they were planning a wedding. Kirstie realized Dale was the perfect guy for her on NYE 2012 when she saw how fun-loving he was. They celebrated the New Year with plenty of dancing and celebrating, and still enjoy dancing to good music today. Since they are both from the Chicago suburbs, it was easy to land on the city for their Big Day. Kirstie said they both knew they wanted to get married where it felt like home. “It would feel strange getting married anywhere else,” she added.
As a wedding photographer herself, Kirstie had seen plenty of weddings to know exactly what she did and did not want for their own wedding. The Westin Chicago Northwest was the perfect venue as it had the draped-tent reception space Kirstie had dreamt of since she was little. The pair kept the space neutral and added champagne bridesmaid dresses, gold accents, and navy formalwear for the groomsmen to add a nice contrast.
One of the most memorable parts of their wedding day was the “first look” they had at the high school where they met. A nervous Kirstie walked into the high school gym where Dale had played basketball and said, “Having him turn to look at me for the first time was something I’ll never forget!” They really enjoyed the opportunity to spend time taking photos, hanging out, and enjoying the early part of the day before the ceremony officially began. When it came time for the wedding to begin, Kirstie burst into tears once everyone had walked down the aisle, leaving just her and her dad to walk toward her soon-to-be husband. She confided, “There’s nothing to prepare you for the feeling of walking down the aisle to marry the love of your life.”
At the reception, guests enjoyed a selfie station with props and “his and hers” custom drinks. A highlight for Kirstie and Dale was the heartfelt speeches from their Maids of Honor and Best Men. The speeches really highlighted how every person in the room was supporting their new life together, and it was touching to hear others describe Kirstie and Dale’s relationship from their own perspectives. After such a hectic and exciting day, how did Kirstie manage to stay calm and enjoy the moment? She revealed her bride-to-be secret– get a ninety-minute massage the day before for instant stress relief!
Vendor List:
Venue: The Westin Chicago Northwest
Photography & Videography: KayBee Photos
Officiant: Erik Andrews
Rings: Oliverio Jewelers
Bride’s Gown: Essense of Australia via Bella Sposa
Bride’s Shoes: David’s Bridal
Hair: Wendy Bussie of LuBussie Salon
Makeup: Cassandra Hutchinson
Formalwear: Diamond Formalwear
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bri’Zan Couture
Floral: Flowers by Design by Reyna
Décor: Boho Blush
Catering: The Westin Chicago Northwest
Entertainment: Double B Entertainment
Cake: Lovin Oven Cakery
Transportation: Elite Chicago Limo
