“I’ve loved you for a thousand years, and I’ll love you for a thousand more…”
Sally and Jesse are the proof that soul mates exist. When around them you feel something bubbling inside, the tickle of a tear at the corner of your eye, and the warmth of a smile. They love with all that they have and all that they are. From the giant, bend-you-backward, kiss when pronounced man and wife, to the all-out dance-till-you-drop party, these two don’t do things on a small scale. It’s all or nothing, and that’s exactly how they feel about each other… all love! I feel lucky to have been there and extra lucky to know these two!
The fabulous Nika was making Sally extra beautiful (and right after delivering twins, congrats Nika!).
One of the best gifts I have ever seen… Sally gave each of her bridesmaids a bracelet engraved with the longitude and latitude of where they met or a special place from their relationship.
Gorgeous!
A little nip to start things off, why not?
Even Jesse’s mom was ready to unwind!
The girls and I stopped at the Kinzie street bridge for a few photos on our way to the beach house.
Meanwhile Jesse and the guys were getting ready…
The perfect set of wheels for such a good looking groom…
Best father-daughter photo ever!
The flower girl and Jesse were very excited to see the bride. (**side note: notice the person in the left corner with their iPhone? This is why you should ask your guests to put away their cameras and phones and trust the photographer)
Everyone was bursting with happiness…
A giant kiss and bear hug!
Mustang Sally!
Love this shot!
And all the lovely details…
Jewell catering was serving up some yummy food…
Nothing like a good sombrero to kick the party up a notch!
Ryan from Style Matters DJ’s kept the party rockin!
Best night photos ever, congrats Sally and Jesse!
Check out their wedding video trailer:
Sally + Jesse | Trailer from Shangri-La Wedding Films on Vimeo.
Second Photographer: Jamie Hartley
Videographer: Shangr-La Wedding Films
Hair and makeup: Hair – Debbie Petrielli Makeup -Nika Vaughan nika@nikavaughan.com
Ceremony location: 63rd Street Beach House
Reception location: 63rd Street Beach House
Event Planner: Day of Planner Carlene Smith, Naturally Yours Events
Florist: Fleur du Jour Chicago
Invitations: Tweedle Press
Officiant: Rabbi Evan Moffic
Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s
Caterer: Jewell
Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Suit: Zegna
Accessories: Shoes – Vera Wang, Earrings – Erickson Beamon, Bow Tie – TieBar
DJ/Band: Ryan Norsworthy, Style Matters DJ’s
First Dance: Ray Lamontagne – You Are The Best Thing
Q&A with the bride and groom:
What was the most memorable moment of your day?
Sally and Jesse: We both found it very difficult to name ONE moment that stood out of thousands of amazing moments. That being said, we both agree that if we had to choose one, it would be the moment we first saw each other. Sally having both of her parents by her side and Jesse holding back tears ready to solidify what we already knew… that we are the luckiest people alive to be with each other for the rest of our lives. Having our loved ones from many locations all come together as one group of the most amazing people in the world, was the best detail. Well that, and the “kiss the bride” part 😉
What was your favorite detail?
Sally and Jesse: Everything! The location on the water and the venue were amazing. When we saw the beach house for the first time we both got chills. We were worried about the Chicago weather but we just couldn’t imagine getting married anywhere else. The day was hot and so was the company! The dancing went until then end. We really enjoyed planning all of the little details of the wedding. Plus it was so special that our families helped us make our vision a reality. It was a true family effort in searching for the vintage handkerchiefs, silver, suitcases, little syrup bottles, our handmade menus, table numbers, gift bags and more!
Funniest memory from your wedding day?
Sally and Jesse: Fake kiss lean when we both thought the Rabbi was done, chair dancing, sombreros and mexican blanket dancing, light sabers, I think that says it all:)
Any advice for future brides/grooms?
Sally and Jesse: Don’t worry too much about whether everyone else is having a good time. They are… just dance and soak up all the love. People want to see you happy, in love, and having fun.
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Sally and Jesse: Nothing, but we weren’t finished dancing.
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Sally and Jesse: Didn’t go yet, but planning for November and we can’t wait! Thailand and Cambodia – Elephants, Rainforest, Ruins (Angkor Wat) and beach, beach, beach, bliss!!!