Jen and Matt have a lot of history together. They have seen each other through the formative years, lots of schooling, and now the launch of their careers. Sticking together as you embark on life’s adventures can create a wonderful foundation for a relationship, Jen and Matt have exactly that. Their bond is unbreakable, and with the support of their family and friends they will achieve greatness… this wedding was a perfect example! Beautiful details constructed by Jen and her mom, and so many amazing moments starring their various family members. Whether it was Jen’s brother shaking the rafters of the church with his awesome voice, or Matt’s dad tearing it up on the accordion at the reception, this wedding was wonderful.
Beautiful vintage necklace from her great-grandmother.
What’s better than one pair of Jimmy Choo shoes? Two pairs! (practical flats for the reception)
Everyone was getting ready…
Mother and daughter…
The guys were struggling with their bow-ties, it’s not as easy as it looks!
Matt was ready.
Matt was ready to meet Jen on the hotel balcony…
The grey chevron details were great.
Chicago…
C.H.I.C.A.G…
and O!
Time for the wedding!
Jen’s brother and his friend sang throughout the ceremony… it was magical, like you were frozen in time with your jaw on the floor good!
It should be noted that this was my favorite dress of 2012! I love the fabric and shape, and it looked perfect on Jen.
Room 1520 was looking good for the reception.
Jen and her mom made these labels for each and every glass.
Jen and Matt took a quick break on the rooftop to enjoy their signature cocktail…
Beer-garitas!
Father-daughter…
Then the party got wild!
Matt left the dance floor for a moment so his friends carried him back!
Things seemed pretty perfect, and then they got better! Jen’s brother and Matt’s dad took over the band…
Congratulations Jen and Matt, if your married life is even half as much fun as this day was, your love will last forever!
Second photographer: Jamie Hartley
Hair and makeup: Hair – Travis Ivan (Salon U) / Make up – Keia Drew (NARS)
Florist: 407 Ridge (Rebecca Hughes & Margie Heffinger)
Ceremony location: St. John’s Lutheran Church, Chicago
Reception location: Room 1520, Chicago
Event Planner: 407 Ridge (Rebecca Hughes & Margie Heffinger)
Officiant: Pastor Scott Bruzek
Cake: Cupcakes from Molly’s Cupcakes
Caterer: Pure Kitchen Catering
Dress: Justin Alexander from Weddings 826
Accessories: My necklace was originally a gift from my great grandfather to my great grandmother on their wedding day. Knowing how much I loved it, my grandma gave it to me when we got engaged. My earrings and bracelet were made by a jeweler in Iowa City to match the necklace. My ‘something blue’ clutch is Kate Spade and both pairs of shoes are Jimmy Choo.
DJ/Band: The Lisa Rene Band
First Dance: “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen
Father/daughter: “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
Mother/son: “In My Life” by The Beatles
Q&A with the bride:
What was the most memorable moment of your day?
Jen: Our ‘first look,’ walking out of the church and having all our friends and family cheering and blowing bubbles, the fabulous speeches, and when Matt’s dad and Jen’s brother surprised us and played the accordian/sang at the reception.
What was your favorite detail?
Jen: During the wedding planning process, people constantly told me not to worry about the little details because no one notices them. I would argue the opposite…it was all the little things we did that people commented on and are still talking about! The handmade invitations, menus, and programs, decorated bubble containers, mason jar beergarita glasses…we loved them all!
Funniest memory from your wedding day?
Jen: Looking across the room during the reception to hear the Northwestern soccer team chanting “hoist him” and then seeing Matt get lifted into the air.
Any advice for future brides/grooms?
Jen: Your wedding day will be the one day of your entire life where all your favorite people in the whole world are together in one room. Take it in and enjoy every second of it!
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Jen: Not a thing!
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Jen: We are both in graduate school, so we couldn’t go on the honeymoon right after the wedding. The we are headed to St. John!!!