When Hanna and Michael reached out to me about planning a wedding in Chicago from their home in California, COVID still ravaged the world. I toured several venues with Hanna’s mom while Hanna and Michael joined in virtually from afar. They ultimately chose The Michigan Shores Club after falling in love with the old world detail and intricate carved woodworking throughout the private northshore club. It was also close to Hanna’s childhood church, St, Francis Xavier.

Hanna and Michael’s wedding at Michigan Shores Club was such a memorable day. The day started with the ladies getting ready at Hanna’s parents home while the gentlmen settled in at The Orrington Hotel. The hotel was close to their venue but also held some special sentimental significance as Michael’s grandparents held their wedding at this historic Evanston hotel.

Wedding Ceremony at St. Francis Xavier Church Wilmette

After a ceremony at Hanna’s childhood church, the newlyweds had a grand send-off in the most darling pink, vintage Thunderbird convertible. Despite the rains and the need to put up the top, Photography by Lauryn captured some of the most memborable photos of the day.

Wedding Reception at Michigan Shores Club

Hanna and Michael brought a modern touch to their tudor-like venue. Hanna selected bridesmaid dresses in a gorgeous fall colors. Their design tied in this color scheme with a pop of black. When I received a swatch of one of the dresses, I knew it would be an exact color match for one of F & S Linens incredible velvet napkins.

The carved wood banister at the club was graced by white roses, anemones and greenery. Florals by KH continued the theme throughout the club with pops of black taper candles accented by black acrylic signage from Calligraphy by CT and a black-and-white checkered dance floor.

The Entertainment

Hanna and Michael wanted a live band and I knew Matt Lewis & The Union would be a perfect fit. The band was fabulous and the guests thoroughly enjoyed the concert-like performance. A highlight of the night was the bride’s father, an accomplished pianist, joining the band on stage for a song. My personal favorite moment was watching Michael and Hanna dancing to the song “Home” by Mummford and Sons. One of their first dates was to a Mumford and Sons concert. Little did they know that one day they would be dancing to those same songs at their wedding.

The “A” Team

Planning : Lynne Kennedy with The Gilded Aisle Weddings 

Venue :  Michigan Shores Club

Photography : Photography by Lauryn

Cinema : Old North Film Company

Florals : Florals By KH

Linen : F & S Linens

Entertainment: Matt Lewis and The Union Band

Calligraphy: CT Calligraphy

Welcome Party: The Double Bubble