Carey & Jesse
EmilyMelissa Photography
A Colorful Community-Centered Wedding with a Distinct Point of View
Some weddings are defined by aesthetics. Others are defined by atmosphere. This celebration managed to do both.
From the beginning, the couple envisioned a wedding that felt creative, communal, and a little unconventional, a space where their friends and family could gather, move freely, and celebrate together in a way that felt relaxed and authentic.
They chose a creative venue that gave them the freedom to shape the environment themselves, transforming the space into something that reflected both their personalities and their shared values.
Earlier in the day, before the ceremony began, the couple took photos throughout Chicago, including a stop at one of their favorite neighborhood bars, where they toasted the day with a celebratory shot of Malört. It was the perfect start to a celebration that never tried to fit into a traditional mold.
The bride gravitated toward a moody, autumnal aesthetic with rich tones, candlelight, and layered textures that created a warm, inviting atmosphere.
But beyond the visual direction, the couple was most focused on the feeling of the celebration. They wanted the evening to feel social, interactive, and full of movement.
Instead of a traditional ceremony layout, guests were seated along a runway-style aisle, creating an intimate and immersive ceremony experience. Afterward, the ceremony space was transformed into a lounge filled with vintage furniture, encouraging guests to settle in, relax, and connect throughout the evening.
Dinner was another opportunity for the couple to celebrate their backgrounds. Rather than a formal plated meal, they brought in two food trucks, one serving soul food and the other Mexican cuisine, reflecting their respective cultures and creating an atmosphere that felt festive and communal.
They also included a beautiful ofrenda, adorned with candles and marigolds, honoring loved ones and traditions in a deeply meaningful way. The result was a celebration where culture, family, and heritage were woven naturally into the experience.
Because the evening was designed to feel open and fluid, thoughtful structure became especially important. While guests moved freely between the lounge spaces, dance floor, and outdoor areas, the event still included key moments that kept everyone connected: introductions, speeches, and the couple’s first dance.
Music played a huge role in shaping the atmosphere. The DJ curated a house music set inspired by the couple’s love of live shows and music festivals, filling the space with the kind of energy that makes people want to stay on the dance floor all night.
Looking for a Chicago wedding planner experienced with The Wellsley? Explore our full-service planning offerings.
The Details:
Birdcage and Blushers: Partial Wedding Planning
Venue: Trigger Chicago
Catering: Tamale Space Ship and Soul & Smoke
Getting Ready Hotel: Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
Photography: Emily Melissa Photography
Dj: Matt Wyser
Florist: Flowers For Dreams
Hair & Makeup: Sandy Thinnes
Transportation: Premier Trolley
Vintage Lounge Furniture + Rugs: Arcana Vintage Rentals
Event Staffing: Carol’s Event Staffing
Dessert Cart: Sweet Ride
