One of the best things about my job is sending that final gallery out to my couples. Something about it just brings me so much joy, I seriously can’t handle it. Kayla and Liam’s in particular really did set my heart on fire though. From the jewel-tone florals and details to their infectious love… it was pure and utter magic. Not only that, but their wedding venue was absolutely to die for. Their edgy Chicago wedding at Colvin House was definitely one for the books, and I am beyond excited to share it with you today. Let’s get into it!!!
Chicago Wedding Venue – Colvin House
First and foremost, it’s uber important for us to highlight Kayla and Liam’s incredible wedding venue. Colvin House is truly a unique venue and one that will bring so much character and life to really any wedding. With over 6,000 sq ft. of space and sitting on 1/3 acre of land, this beautiful wedding venue is it. With a capital I-T. It was built back in 1909 and since, has undergone several renovation projects in order to restore and maintain its beautiful history.
Now, a wedding venue is truly amazing based on two things. One, is the landscaping and architecture of the venue itself. Two, the amenities they offer their couples. Let’s just say, we’ve got a real winner here. Colvin House offers a wide range of amenities for their couples that will have you checking off every box needed for your dream venue. Some of those amenities include:
- Onsite venue manager
- 100 brass folding chairs
- Two dressing rooms
- ADA Accessible
- and more
You can check out more info on their amenities on their website, or you can go ahead and inquire before your date is booked!
Edgy Chicago Wedding at Colvin House
The moment I met Kayla and Liam, I knew their day was going to be special. Let’s face it though, I think that way about all my couples. I can’t help it though! Throughout the planning process and getting everything finalized for their wedding day, Kayla and Liam mentioned a few key details to take note of for their wedding photos. The most important was the mix of photos they wanted. Kayla and Liam are very dynamic, and they truly wanted their photos to reflect the same. Some formal, some romantic, and incorporating my trusty flash. Luckily, this was right up my alley and I couldn’t wait until the day finally came.
Getting Ready & First Look
Kayla and Liam got ready on-site at the Colvin house and were prepping for all of the day’s festivities. I arrived early that afternoon and began snapping away at a few details and soaking in all of the magic surrounding me. Kayla had her final touch-ups done and slipped into her dress with the help of her mom. I don’t know about you, but these moments always have me so giddy. Of course, while Kayla was getting ready, Liam was getting spiffed up and dapper for the big day.
It wasn’t long until Kayla and Liam were ready to have their first look. For those of you who don’t know a first look is an intimate moment between you and your partner. It’s a moment where you get to see your partner for the first time on your wedding day, before the ceremony. It gives you and your partner a bit of privacy and intimacy and also can calm those pre-wedding nerves. I love me a good first look moment, so naturally in came the waterworks. No, but in all seriousness, these reactions are some of my favorites so savor every moment of it.
Ceremony
After Kayla and Liam’s first look, we wanted to make sure we had plenty of time for portraits. Kayla and Liam didn’t want to take too much time off from their day after the ceremony, so pre-ceremony portraits it is! Wandering throughout the Colvin House property was definitely a highlight of this day. I mean just look at the beautiful history, design, and architecture. Can you blame me?
It was then time for the ceremony just as the clock struck 5:00. While it was a rather short ceremony, it was nothing less than beautiful. On the first floor of the Colvin House is a warm and cozy space designed just for ceremonies. It really felt like a gathering of loved ones, which was a goal of Kayla and Liam’s. Their ceremony was one of the most heartfelt and intimate ceremonies I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. So many happy tears, there really wasn’t a dry eye in sight. You could feel the love in the air. Not only between Kayla and Liam, but between their guests as well. It truly was such a beautiful experience.
You may also notice that these two didn’t have any wedding party. This was on purpose! To Kayla and Liam, everyone in attendance is like family, and trying to choose select people to be in their wedding party was near impossible. To them, the most important thing on their wedding day was celebrating with those who love and care for them the most.
Reception
Much like the rest of their day, the reception was spent enjoying each other’s company. The ceremony space was turned into their reception space with chairs and coordination offered by Colvin House. The remainder of the night was spent dancing our bums off, eating some delicious cake, some heartfelt speeches, heart-warming first dances, and the drinks flowin’.
Oh, and a notable shoutout to Kayla’s outfit change toward the end of the night. She switched into a much shorter but playful style dress which led to a lot more kicks and grooves on the dance floor. Not mad about it though, in the slightest.
Everything about this night was everything I could have imagined… and more. I am beyond excited for this journey for Kayla and Liam and honored to have been the one to capture it. Cheers and congratulations to you newlyweds!
Loving this Edgy Chicago Wedding at Colvin House? Check out more love stories here!
Full vendor list can be found at the bottom!
Vendors:
Photography: Emma Petersen Photography
Venue: Colvin House
Florist: Pyrite Sun
Hair & Makeup: Debra Petrielli
Cake: Butter Bird Bakery
Dress: Urban Bridal Shop
Jewelry: Asrai Garden & Atelier Arachne
Groom Suit: BLVDier
