Custom Wedding Planning Services in Chicago
Every service starts in the same place — with who you are as a couple.
Whether you know exactly what you need or you're still figuring it out — that's what the first conversation is for. I'll help you find the right fit based on where you are in planning, what matters most to you, and how you want to feel throughout the process.
No pressure. Just clarity.
The Architecture Behind the Experience
Every wedding I plan is guided by a clear, architectural approach—designed to bring structure, clarity, and thoughtful direction to each decision along the way.
Rather than navigating endless options or second-guessing your choices, you’re guided through a process that ensures everything feels aligned from the very beginning.
01. Clarify
We begin by defining what matters most—your vision, priorities, and how you want your wedding to feel.
This creates a clear foundation for every decision that follows, eliminating overwhelm and bringing immediate direction to the planning process.
02. Structure
From there, we build the framework of your wedding—aligning the right venue, vendor team, and overall flow of the day.
Each element is intentionally selected and thoughtfully connected, ensuring the experience feels cohesive and well-considered.
03. Direct
As plans take shape, I guide the process forward—refining details, leading communication, and directing execution so everything unfolds seamlessly.
This allows you to stay present, confident, and fully engaged in the experience without carrying the weight of every decision.
Choose the level of support that's right for where you are.
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Full-Service Planning & Design
For couples seeking a fully guided, start-to-finish planning experience.
I lead every phase—from early vision and venue strategy through design, vendor curation, and final execution—ensuring each decision is aligned and every element works together seamlessly.
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Wedding Planning Strategy & Direction
For couples who want clarity before making major decisions.
In this 1:1 focused session I establish the foundation of your wedding— help you define your priorities, refine your vision, and outlining a clear, strategic path forward.
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Partial Wedding Planning
For couples who have begun planning but want expert direction to bring everything into alignment.
I refine your vision, strengthen your vendor team, and guide remaining decisions—ensuring the experience feels cohesive, intentional, and well-supported from here forward.
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Destination Wedding Planning & Design:
For couples planning beyond Chicago who want a seamless, fully guided experience from afar.
I oversee location strategy, vendor sourcing, travel logistics, and design cohesion—ensuring every element is aligned and thoughtfully executed, no matter the setting.
“Alyson did an incredible job planning our wedding…She is super easy to work with and helps ease all of the stress that comes with wedding planning. Every detail was thoroughly planned and her communication with our vendors was top notch.” - Conor
You Might Be Wondering…
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Couples typically invest $75,000–$100,000+ in their wedding of 100 guests or more. They're looking for someone who will protect their vision and their investment, manage every detail, and make the experience as beautiful as the day itself.
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Yes. We proudly celebrate love in all forms and are committed to creating an inclusive, affirming planning experience for every couple and their community.
We work best with couples who value collaboration, trust professional direction, and care deeply about creating a thoughtful guest experience.
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I blend structured planning, cohesive design storytelling, and steady leadership behind the scenes. Vendors know who is guiding the timeline. Decisions feel aligned instead of overwhelming.
But beyond structure and strategy I care deeply about how your wedding feels to you and to the people you love. The result is a celebration that is not only beautifully designed, but intentional, immersive, and seamlessly executed from beginning to end.
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Start by reaching out through our inquiry form. We’ll confirm availability and schedule a consultation to understand your vision, priorities, and planning needs. From there, we’ll outline the level of direction and support that best aligns with your celebration.
Meet Alyson
Founder | Wedding Creative Director
Alyson Thompson is a Chicago native, hospitality professional, and the founder of Birdcage and Blushers Weddings. With a background in psychology, art, and years of experience across catering, venue management, and hotel events, she brings a steady, thoughtful presence to every celebration.
Alyson’s approach blends emotional intelligence with strategic planning and an editorial eye—guiding couples not just through the process, but through the decisions that shape it. She helps clients move forward with clarity and direction, ensuring each choice feels aligned with the bigger vision.
Serving as both advocate and partner, she brings structure to complexity and a sense of calm to the experience—so every wedding feels deeply personal, intentional, and beautifully executed, without the pressure of “supposed to’s.”
“I didn’t have to look at my phone once! Alyson was organized, thorough, and attentive.” - Danielle
Begin Your Wedding with Clarity and Direction
You’ve chosen each other—now it’s time to shape a celebration that reflects it.
Not sure which level of support is right for you?
We’ll help you find the approach that allows you to feel the most clear, confident, and supported.