Being Valentine's Day, I couldn't help but post one of my favorite weddings today. Like many winter days in Chicago, you never know what the day will bring. Luckily for Tamara and Peter the day brought mild temps and blue skies, perfect for a Chicago winter wedding. It began with Tamara and Peter getting ready in their Drake suites surrounded by family and close friends.
Their first looks were captured by the very talented Kristina Carter of Vrai. It was a special time for the couple to share an affectionate moment.
Tamara and Peter were married at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral where they took part in many of the Ukrainian traditions, first by entering the church arm-in-arm as willing and equal partners. The priest met them in the back of the church where Tamara and Peter affirmed that they are entering marriage on their own free will before they walked down the aisle. My favorite picture captures the burning light of Tamara's father, knowing that he is smiling down on her as she walks down the aisle with her groom.
A palette of ivory, gold and winter white provided the perfect setting in the Drake's Grand Ballroom. Allison from Stems outdid herself with the gorgeous arrangements of white and ivory roses surrounded by green foliage and accented with lots of candlelight. It was stunning!
Tamara and Peter entered their reception and went right into their first dance. The energy was then kept alive with a classic champagne parade, a long-standing Drake tradition! The evening was followed by heartfelt toasts, some more champagne and a full dance floor thanks to Skyline! Thank goodness Poetic Weddings got all the footage on film!
Congratulations Tamara and Peter. Thank you for letting me be a part of your amazing day! May you remember your fairytale wedding forever! xo
The Team of Vendors:
Ceremony: St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
Reception: The Drake, Grand Ballroom
Photographer: Vrai
Florist: Stems
Videographer: Poetic Weddings
Entertainment: Arlen Music, Skyline
Lighting: Sound Investment
Lace Linen Overlays: BBJ Linen
Wedding Cake: Amy Beck Cake Design
Wedding Cake Topper: BHLDN
Rolls Royce: Victoria's Flying Lady Livery
Coach Busses: Chicago Classic Coach
Bride's Wedding Dress: Belle Vie Bridal Couture, Reem Acra
Bride's Wedding Shoes: Valentino
Bridesmaid's Dresses: J.CREW