Bridget and Ryan’s Wedding at The Rookery was organic, real, and unplanned – yet absolutely perfect in every way. The energy from the bride and groom was truly something out of a movie. They rolled with every punch and every weather adjustment, stayed connected with everyone, and didn’t let the small things get to them. Just minutes before their first look outside in the South Gardens of the Art Institute, it started to rain. Luckily, we decided before leaving the hotel to grab umbrellas, so we were able to pivot from outdoors to indoors and do the first look inside the Art Institute, which was an unforgettable moment between Bridget and Ryan. They truly trusted the vision and the process; when plans needed to change, they made the best of it, which made it all the more special.

The Rookery was the perfect backdrop for their wedding as well. It’s old-school Chicago architecture in the financial district, and it’s truly something special: the building’s history, the grand staircase, the balcony reception seating with exquisite views for guests, and the gorgeous high glass ceilings that create beautiful, soft light and so much more that create the perfect ambience and environment for such an elegant and romantic occasion.

One extremely memorable moment was how much Bridget was looking forward to her skillet cookie after her dress change—which was absolutely iconic. We ran into some timeline issues and our time was coming to an end earlier than we’d anticipated, but I knew how much Bridget wanted those skillet cookie photos. So the team and I waited until they were placed out, brought one over, and made sure she got the shot. It was safe to say she was very excited about it!

The vibes were very much garden glamour meets historic elegance, with a refined spring color palette—it’s giving European conservatory meets Chicago grand ballroom. It felt formal but not overly stuffy: timeless and refined, yet unique and intentional, and completely unforgettable.

Venue: The Rookery
Church: ICSJ Parish
Planner: Sustainable Soirees
Photography: Nichole Babiez Photography
Makeup: Pin Me Up Chicago
Hair: Pin Me Up Chicago
Florals: Anemone Chicago
DJ: Okyne Entertainment Group
Desserts: Jewell Events Catering
Catering: Jewell Events Catering
Drapery + Lighting: Art Imagination
Photobooth: Grin and Bear Booth
Dress: Grace Loves Lace
Suits: The Black Tux
Stationery: Minted Weddings
Tablecloth: Windy City Linen
Napkins: BBJ La Tavola
Transportation: Signature Transportation Group