Expertly guided. Beautifully designed. Seamlessly executed.
At Birdcage & Blushers, we offer bespoke wedding planning for couples in Chicago and beyond — leading with clarity, creativity, and calm. Whether you're newly engaged or knee-deep in decisions, we’re here to make planning feel grounded, guided, and deeply supported. We specialize in full-service planning and partial planning, with a focus on design-forward celebrations layered with intentional details, personal meaning, and expert execution.
Why We Do What We Do
You’ve chosen each other. Now let’s celebrate that beautifully and meaningfully.
Here’s what it’s like to work with us:
Your time is respected. We streamline the process so you can focus on what matters most.
Your story leads the design. From your ceremony script to your signature cocktails, every detail reflects your values and style.
Your experience comes first. We’re more than planners—we’re sounding boards, dream protectors, and calm in the chaos.
If you're looking for a wedding planner who values personalization, emotional intelligence, and elevated service, you're in the right place.
This is the start of something unforgettable. Let’s create a wedding that honors your story with style, substance, and joy.
Let’s chat about how we can bring your vision to life—beautifully, calmly, and with intention.
The Three Cs
🤍 Care
We lead with heart. You’ll feel supported from day one—with calm, clear guidance and a genuine investment in your vision.
🎨 Creativity
We design weddings that feel like you—not like everyone else. Expect fresh ideas, personalized touches, and an elevated aesthetic inspired by your story.
🌿 Calm
We create space to breathe. From vendor coordination to timeline building, we handle the moving parts so you can be fully present and enjoy the experience.
Meet Alyson
Owner, Lead Wedding Planner & Designer
Hi, I’m Alyson Thompson—Chicago native, experienced wedding planner, and the heart behind Birdcage & Blushers, a boutique wedding planning company in Chicago.
After a decade working in luxury hotels, catering, and venue sales, I founded Birdcage & Blushers to combine what I loved most: refined event design and deeply personal connection. What started as a passion has grown into a full-fledged wedding planning service rooted in care, creativity, and calm.
I specialize in full-service wedding planning, partial planning, and wedding coordination, serving modern couples who want a thoughtful, elevated experience. Planning a wedding is a big deal. It’s emotional. Whether you're planning a second wedding, or a destination celebration, I bring structure, reassurance, and intentionality to every step of the journey.
I’ll advocate for your needs, help you tune out the noise, and give you permission to focus on what truly matters: your love story.
A few fun facts about me:
I’m a proud pet mom and fully support four-legged guests at your wedding or on our Zoom calls.
I’m a romantic at heart—I love hearing how you met and your proposal story
I’ll do a little happy dance when things fall into place. Usually off camera. Usually.
I draw inspiration from fashion—texture, silhouette, and detail always catch my eye
I’m an alumna and active volunteer with Delta Gamma Fraternity (and I love giving back!)
I can’t wait to meet you and help you bring your celebration to life—your way
What We Believe
Love is real—and it’s worth celebrating with intention.
We serve couples who choose each other daily and want a wedding that reflects that depth.
Details matter—because you matter.
From your ceremony script to your signature cocktails, every detail should feel like you.
You deserve support at every step.
We’re planners, yes—but also sounding boards, dream protectors, and calm in the chaos.
This is just the beginning—so let’s make it unforgettable.
You’ve built something beautiful. Let’s honor it with style, substance, and joy.