Ivy Room Wedding - Alison & Kevin
Alison & Kevin showcased what it means to make a wedding day uniquely about the two of you perhaps more than I've ever seen before. Alison in particular showed me what it means to own that vision and drive with her candid approach: "If it's a mess. It's my mess." Their day was far, far from being a mess in part because of the great team they brought together (credits to them at the end of this post) and also in part because it was so obviously a reflection of their relationship and what they hold dear. For their Ivy Room wedding day, Alison & Kevin were able to think through whether to keep things outside with the threat of rain or move inside because they had provided themselves the time in the first place to slow down during their day. Their relaxed schedule allowed them to really soak in each moment (no pun intended).It's because of their laser like focus in keeping the celebration centered on their personal choices, that family & friends alike were beaming with smiles even if briefly sitting under umbrellas. I like to think that Mother Nature listened to their commitment and quit on the rain just for them! When the day is built on who the two of you are together and why you are together, everyone else can't help but be filled with equal joy at your decisions. I will forever remember their shared ping-pong vows that outwardly showcased their equal partnership. Not to mention, the heightened level of emotion when a room full of the most important people in your life raise a glass to not only toast to your new life but toast to the cider inside the glass which your own hard work created.
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Alison's bridesmaids have heard me say this about 20 times already, but I adore these JCrew dresses! They are really comfortable, they have pockets, and that classic blue color can't be beat! We all agreed they were bridesmaid dresses that would actually be re-worn! Paired with the always gorgeous work of Hello Darling, the bouquets hinted at just the right amount of the fall season to be cohesive to the time of year without being all sorts of #pumpkinspicelatte. Subtly is my favorite.
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We all love an epic veil or dress photo, but have you ever thought about how they are actually made? Odds are the wind didn't just perfectly life that veil to just the right height. The secrets of wedding photos you don't typically see sometime make for the best outtakes.
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This is what happens when a simple lighting test before family photos turns into a lovely portrait.
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Do you notice anything missing from this photo? I sure do and it's glorious! It's the back of cell phones. There are ZERO. Zero my friends! That's a small miracle! A miracle made possible by Kevin & Alison's very clever friend and officiant who asked everyone to take their own vow before the ceremony - A vow to be present. To not worry about Instagram. A vow to pay attention and stay focused on the commitment these two were making. It was beautiful and hilarious and everyone actually did pay attention. Because of it, we have beautiful moments like the photo below, where Alison & Kevin will now be able to look back and actually see the faces of their loved ones rather than a forehead followed by brand reinforcement for Apple.
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Grab some of your very own #KellerCaryGetMarried wedding cider by checking out Kevin's very own Begyle Brewery! Even if the cider is all finished, you won't be disappointed in the always delicious Begyle selection.
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Alison & Kevin, Cheers to sincerity and spunk. To owning your messes because they are yours and to many more signature ciders. And to one more outtake... ;-)
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The Chicago Ivy Room Wedding Day Team
Planning & Coordination: Naturally Yours Events | Ceremony & Reception: The Ivy Room | Music: Sway Chicago | Videography: Big Foot Media | Floral Design: Hello Darling | Delicious Cider: Begyle Brewing | Gown: Sarah Seven | Bridesmaids Dresses: JCrew | Hair & Makeup: Debra Petrielli | Men's Attire: Menguin