Paula + Steve

Assumption Church + London House Hotel

Paula and Steve’s wedding weekend was nothing short of a masterclass in modern romance with a luxury twist. They kicked things off with a Rehearsal Dinner at a sleek little bistro, think black-and-white checkered floors, private room, and a whole lot of understated yes, we’re that chic energy. It was intimate, stylish, and the perfect prelude to a weekend that only got more fabulous from there.

Next up? A Welcome Reception in Millennium Park; because when you’re hosting guests from around the country, you don’t just roll out a red carpet…you give them skyline views and a taste of Chicago magic. Held at Millennium Hall, it was the ultimate city-meets-elegance moment. The weather? Crisp and cool with just enough breeze to remind everyone they were in the Windy City, but Mother Nature was clearly on Paula & Steve’s side.

When it came to the wedding day, every single detail was dripping in thoughtful intention and luxury that embraced a springtime soft pastel palette. Their ceremony was held at the lovely Assumption Church in the River North area.  Paula and Steve’s reception at the iconic London House Hotel was a study in how to make a ballroom feel both grand and intimate. Floor-to-ceiling windows on one side poured in that golden hour glow and views of the Chicago River as far as the eye could see, while the other walls were draped in lush, tailored crisp white panels of fabric to soften the space and elevate the setting.

The florals? Show-stopping. Spring-forward. Elegant as hell. Lighting? Layered and dramatic, changing with the rhythm of the night, speeches, dances, and champagne toasts all had their own vibe. Nothing was overlooked, every element felt so them.

Paula and Steve are that couple everyone’s just magnetically drawn to, stylish, kind, totally in sync. The kind of love story that lights up a room. And speaking of lighting up a room… their band kept the energy soaring, with a killer mix of live music that had even the self-proclaimed “non-dancers” living their best life. Cocktails came with a live string trio, the rooftop portraits were everything, and even the cake cutting was a moment. This wedding was iconic-Chicago, pure sweetness mixed with high-glamour touches from start to finish.

Bottomline…this one was truly HBIC Weddings favorite way to spend a weekend.
 

Create a Welcome Bag That Actually Feels Welcoming...
  • Include water, snacks, local goodies, a weekend itinerary and location places such as a place for coffee, a drug store for anything that was forgotten and local attractions you love that guest could enjoy

  • Fill each of your welcome bags with the same items so that the hotel can deliver a bag with ease.

  • Budget for and buy for an extra 10% than what you think you’ll need; if the room count is 90, make an even 100; you’ll be glad you did!!

pro tips:

“Diane listens carefully to what the bride and MOB envision for the special weekend and then provides really clear insight and wisdom in making decisions. Besides her phenomenal competence, she's also a hoot to work with!”

-catherine, Paula's Mom