An Elegant, Floral-Filled Celebration at The Wellsley Chicago

Some weddings just feel like home — familiar, joyful, and entirely reflective of the couple at the center of it all. Emily and Kate’s September wedding at The Wellsley was exactly that: a celebration of balance, heritage, and so much love.

E and I first met through the Chicago Delta Gamma Alumnae Chapter, and I was so honored to help a fellow sorority sister plan such a special day. I often refer to K and E’s wedding as “a tale of two Jewish girls.” When they began planning their wedding, they initially envisioned an elevated dinner party — intimate, design-driven, and full of beautiful details. But as planning unfolded, they realized they wanted something more: a wedding where their community could gather, celebrate, and truly feel their love story come to life.

Getting Ready

Wedding day was beautifully calm. Kate and Emily enjoyed bites and bubbly while getting ready at the Ritz Carlton Chicago with their friends and family — the perfect setting for a luxurious, unhurried morning before one of the most important days of their lives.

The First Look

The wedding goddesses smiled down on us that day. The early afternoon drizzle passed just in time for Kate and Emily’s first look at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, followed by photos on the Wells and LaSalle Street Bridges and along the Chicago Riverwalk. After not seeing one another all day, the brides were so excited to lay eyes on each other — and even more excited to say “I do.”

The Venue: The Wellsley in Chicago’s River North

The Wellsley in Chicago’s River North was the perfect venue for Kate and Emily’s celebration. Emily leaned toward classic, timeless design, while Kate brought a creative, modern flair — together, their aesthetic became something effortless and elegant. The Wellsley is classic with a sense of history and character, while also being a little moody and romantic. It combined the brides’ sensibilities perfectly.

For couples searching for wedding venues in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, The Wellsley consistently delivers on both atmosphere and execution. It is the kind of space that feels simultaneously grand and intimate — and on a day like Kate and Emily’s, that balance made all the difference.

The Details That Mattered

The couple was meticulous about every detail, from the custom floral selections to the carefully curated menu. The flowers held special significance — every arrangement came from Emily’s late mother’s favorite floral shop, adding depth and sentiment to every corner of the room. After the reception was set, the brides were blown away by how their vision came together. After a private moment to take it all in, they joined their guests for cocktail hour.

The Ceremony and Reception

The ceremony was personal, intimate, and romantic. Their Jewish heritage was thoughtfully woven throughout the day — from the ketubah signing to the joyous breaking of the glass, to the challah and honey display that honored Rosh Hashanah the following week. Every decision came from the heart.

The reception was complete with a spectacular dinner, heartfelt speeches, and way more dancing than the brides bargained for. What made this wedding remarkable wasn’t just how beautiful it looked — it was how personal it felt. Every detail was meaningful, every moment intentional. Proof that love, when approached with intention, truly is the ultimate design element.