So, we're crushing hard on Karen & James' Chicago wedding.
This morning we shared their dreamy wedding film by Amor in Motion, and now we've got their beautiful pictures by T&S Hughes Photography, filled with happy smiles, gorgeous style, cool decor (and some pretty awesome views of Chicago!)
There's a lot to love about this wedding.
First up, is the fitting travel theme, just perfect for a couple who started their relationship as long-distance loves, between Australia and the US.
With chic navy globes, and map favours, all adorned with soft blooms and flickering candles, it's just the right touch of a theme while still keeping things stylish and romantic.
Then of course is the stunning style – we're kind of obsessed with Karen's floral hair slide, One Day gown, and super-pretty cover-up. Of course James is dashing too in his modern navy suit.
And finally the photography. Just like Amor in Motion with their dreamy wedding film this morning, T&S Hughes Photography captured this day to perfection, in their signature a modern, candid, and atmospheric way.
Get set to swoon…
Wedding Day Snapshot
Our Love Story
Karen and I met in Chicago in July 2010. I’m from Melbourne – where Karen and I now live – and I was visiting the city while on holiday.
I was only going to be in town for five days and we met on my first night in a bar called Bull & Bear.
We spent a lot of time together in the short time I was there and continued to talk after I returned home to Melbourne.
Our wedding in three words? Fun, moving, memorable.
The Inspiration
We had a travel theme – lots of world maps and globes on tables – and pastel colours – bridesmaids wore peach-coloured dresses.
Groomsmen wore navy suits, white shirts and pale blue checked ties.
The Venue
Room 1520 was a big, open warehouse in the West Loop area of Chicago. With a lot of guests travelling from Australia to attend the wedding, it was important that the venue was in a relatively central location.
It was also a blank canvas in a lot of respects, which allowed us to personalize the space.
The Ceremony
Our celebrant told the story of how we meet and the significance of meeting and falling in love with someone who lives on the other side of the world.
The Photography
Tony and Sharon are not only wonderful photographers but are our friends, too. They are terrific people and they were so easy to work with.
We not only ended up with great photos but we had a great experience working with them on the day.
The Decor & Details
World maps and a travel theme was the look we went for.
We travel a lot for holidays and to return to Chicago to visit family, so travel is integral to our lives.
The Refreshments
We had American craft beers and Australian wines, which was a nice way to acknowledge our backgrounds.
The Honeymoon
We spent three weeks in Thailand and Vietnam immediately after our wedding. It was a great combination of relaxation and immersing ourselves in different cultures.
Going on a honeymoon straight after the wedding was a perfect way to unwind together, reminisce about the day and take a breather before embarking on the rest of your lives together.
Advice for Other Couples
Don’t sweat over any minor details. Get the big stuff right (venue, food, drinks etc) and everything else will fade into the background.
Oh every last detail is just stunning! I do love a travel themed wedding, don't you?
Once again thanks so much to Karen and James, and of course T&S Hughes Photography for sharing this wonderful Chicago wedding.
Don't forget to check out their gorgeous wedding film by Amor in Motion too.
Be inspired by more Awesome Real Weddings.
