Afton Vangsness

Sep 14, 2021

Alex + Dan: Romantic West Loop Wedding

The day started out gloomy with a big thunderstorm popping up, but the clouds parted and sun shone just in time for Alex + Dan's rooftop wedding ceremony - the perfect sign it was meant to be.

All photos courtesy of Meg Adamik Creative

After a year and a half of planning, which started before the pandemic, we were beyond excited for Alex and Dan's wedding day to be here on a Saturday in June! We got started at the Hyatt House Chicago/West Loop where the bride and groom got ready for their big day. Alex and her bridesmaids had their hair and makeup done by The Bridal Beauty Team. Her bridesmaids were so attentive to her throughout the morning, showing how happy they were for her!

Flatlay of wedding invitation suite by Minted

Dan and his groomsmen were just down the hall sharing beers and laughs before it was showtime. With the clouds getting darker and darker, Alex and Dan's spirits never wavered. They were joyful and at ease the entire day.

The bride wore a stunning Kenneth Winston bridal gown that was ornate, romantic, and had a warm champagne underlay. It was perfectly complemented by her lush bridal bouquet from Florist & Hound Design.

Because of the weather, we had to change their first look location. Luckily, the hotel has a covered space with a view of the city that worked out perfectly! They were both so eager to see each other!

First Look at Hyatt House Chicago West Loop

The wedding party photos also took place in this area. The ladies wore dresses in various shades of blush and dusty rose while the men wore classic black suits.

Once things started clearing up, Meg Adamik Creative took the couple around the West Loop for the gorgeous shots they were looking for. There are so many excellent locations and backdrops around the West Loop that give a variety of options for wedding photos. They all turned out beautiful!

The ceremony and reception both took place at Loft Lucia - a popular Chicago wedding venue with a rooftop. The ceremony took place on that rooftop, with a gold infinity arch backdrop from Posh Studio Rentals adorned with greenery and floral in shades of blush, dusty rose, and light violet. We went for a romantic, yet simplistic design throughout that played on the style of the venue.

The couple's ceremony was officiated by a close friend, giving it a personal touch. They had the best man's daughter and maid of honor's son as the flower girl and ring bearer, and they exchanged their own heartfelt vows.

The cocktail hour also took place on the rooftop, which always creates a fun vibe for the guests. They had a lot of people travel from Michigan and Indiana, since that is where Dan and Alex are from. We had been working together and planning through an entire pandemic, so everyone being able to be together for this occasion meant so much.

The reception took place on the 3rd floor of Loft Lucia. With the exposed brick, natural light from the windows, and farm tables, we incorporated elements of modern and rustic throughout. On the farm tables, we had ivory runners with greenery and floral, blush napkins, and ivory pillar candles. On the banquet rounds, we incorporated ivory linen, garden-inspired compote floral arrangements, and blush napkins.

One thing Alex and Dan knew they wanted from the beginning was donuts! We had towers of Do-Rite Donuts in their wedding colors in place of a cake.

The group was ready to party, and it got started off right away with the grand entrance! It was followed by some heartfelt toasts. The sun set throughout the delicious dinner from Cocina Fusion, and the candlelight filled the room in time for their first dance as husband and wife. You can see just how happy they are in these photos!

Then, it was party time! And a party it was. Everyone danced the night away to the music from DJ Tabitha from Toast & Jam. To keep things going, we also had a late night taco bar served. This group loves to have a good time, and you couldn't wipe the smiles from Alex and Dan's faces!

Throughout the planning process and the wedding day, Alex and Dan never once lost sight of what a wedding day is all about - them. They were always focused on simply getting married and having a wonderful celebration with loved ones, which is exactly what they had. They truly enjoyed every moment and didn't sweat the small stuff, which is my advice for everyone getting married!