Luxury wedding at the library at 190 in chicago

A Romantic, Immersive Wedding at The Library at 190 S. LaSalle in Chicago

B and S’s story began with a playful Tinder exchange about wine, even though, as Selena admits, she doesn’t actually drink it. What started as a laugh turned into a three-hour first date talking about movies like The Matrix and Aliens, and the rest, as they say, is history.

When they reached out in April to plan their August wedding, they came with a vision inspired by the Twilight films: moody greenery, candlelight, and Pacific Northwest-inspired romance. Ben, originally from Maine, loved the idea of incorporating ferns and deep green tones that reminded him of home. It was a distinctive and deeply personal vision, and The Library at 190 S. LaSalle in Chicago was the perfect venue to bring it to life.

The Morning

The morning of the wedding day was calm and full of excitement. Selena was thrilled to finally try on her custom-designed wedding gown by Laury Bride, and she completely stunned her husband-to-be when he saw her. The couple got ready at The Kimpton Gray, one of Chicago’s most beautifully designed boutique hotels and a perfect home base for a downtown Chicago wedding day.

The Ceremony

The couple had warm summer weather for quick wedding party photos in downtown Chicago before the ceremony. The wedding ceremony took place in the marble lobby of 190 S. LaSalle in front of the stunning golden staircase, one of the most architecturally striking ceremony backdrops in Chicago. The staircase was adorned with lush greenery and romantic taper and pillar candles, setting the mood perfectly before guests made their way upstairs.

The Library at 190 S. LaSalle

After the ceremony, guests transitioned to The Library on the 40th floor, where Ben and Selena’s vision truly came to life. The Library at 190 S. LaSalle is one of Chicago’s most unique and sought-after wedding venues, combining dramatic city views with the warmth and intimacy of a private club setting. For couples looking for a non-traditional Chicago wedding venue with genuine architectural character and a wow factor that hits before a single floral arrangement is placed, The Library delivers.

In addition to the romantic Twilight-inspired theme, the couple leaned into their shared love of books throughout the design. Custom bookmark escort cards greeted guests at their seats. The wedding cake by Flourish Cake Design was designed to look like a stack of books, incorporating their colors and finished with handcrafted sugar leaves. It was one of the most creative and personal cakes I have ever seen at a wedding. The Library blew guests away and exceeded Ben and Selena’s expectations entirely.

The Reception

The reception was full of love, laughter, and a lot of dancing. Guests enjoyed a delicious menu inspired by Ben’s Italian background and Selena’s southern roots, a pairing that felt as natural as their relationship. Heartfelt speeches filled the early part of the evening before everyone transitioned to the dance floor. Later in the evening, guests were treated to a sweets and tiramisu cart as they danced the night away.

Even with just four months to plan a wedding, the result was seamless. An evening that felt like a movie, yet entirely real. From the moody palette to the deeply personal touches, every detail told their story: two people who found connection in laughter, shared passions, and a love that feels both grounded and extraordinary.

If you’re looking for a Chicago wedding planner with experience at The Library at 190 S. LaSalle, explore our full-service planning and design offerings.