Modern Urban English Garden Wedding in Chicago

When we first saw this wedding via Instagram our hearts stopped because it is just so beautiful from start to finish. We found a way to contact the bride and she graciously allowed us to not only feature this lovely day but she also answered some questions for us, sharing her wedding day experience and love story. Thank you so much to Gabbi and her new husband for allowing us a window into your wedding day!

Tell us a little about your love story / proposal story

We got engaged March 12th, 2020 in Paris (right before the world ended lol) and had to fly home early due to COVID-19 and the closing of borders. It was the BEST and most magical 48 hours in paris!!

How long were you planning your wedding? Did you have the assistance of a planner or did you tackle the planning yourself?

17 months (in part because of COVID)! I knew my vision and the venue I wanted pretty early on after deciding on having the wedding here in Chicago! I worked with Samantha Helmig at Shannon Gail Events who was wonderful and the calm to my storm. My mom was also a huge help - as she had gone through this process before with my sister who got married at the same venue a few years before!

What was your vision for your wedding (as you were planning)?

My vision was a modern urban English garden. I knew I wanted a black and white formal wedding and wanted to play into the character of the venue/space we were working with.

What was your favorite memory/moment from the wedding day?

Walking down the aisle and seeing my groom waiting for me at the altar! We didn't do a first-look for this reason- I dreamed of this moment.

How did you find your vendor dream team? Any recommendations to couples planning their wedding now?

Do your research! Instagram is a great tool but also be sure to talk to people who have worked with them before. Also, try and meet the specific team you are working with since you will be in communication with them often/ want to make sure it is a good fit.

As you look back on your wedding day or planning process, is there anything that you wished you did differently?

Don't sweat the small stuff - it is easy to get carried away and overthink every decision!

Again and HUGE thank you to Gabbi and husband for this amazing feature. For lots of fun bridal style inspiration, follow Gabbi’s Instagram @getdressedwithgabbi.

Wedding Pro’s:
Photography: One July Photography
Planner: Shannon Gail Events
Venue: University Club Chicago
Floral: Flowers for Dreams
Cake: Lezza Bakery
Hair Stylist: George Charles Salon & Three One Two Bridal
Makeup Artist: Shannon O’Brien
Videography: Mirar Media
Gown: Vera Wang
Tuxedo: BLVDier
Custom Graphic: Steracle Press