Beautifully Moody 1920’s Garfield Park Conservatory Wedding in Chicago
At Garfield Park Conservatory, Arielle & Daniel celebrated their intimate wedding with a charming 1920s vibe, expertly curated by planner Julissa from Clementine Custom Events. As dusk settled, their reception bathed in starlit market lights exuded a cozy Parisian Bistro ambiance. Amidst the lush greenery of the Conservatory's garden, metallic rose gold accents, mixed metals, and rich burgundy hues adorned the scene, beautifully captured by Aga from Ivory Light Studio.
For the bridal party's getting-ready shots, they opted for an adorable vintage-style Air BnB in Chicago, just a stone's throw from the venue. This charming space not only provided a picturesque backdrop for stunning, stylized photos but also served as a delightful retreat post-wedding.
Both avid video gamers who met through their shared passion, Arielle and Daniel's love for gaming runs deep. Daniel, a professional musician, lovingly transcribed their favorite video game tunes (from Final Fantasy, Bioshock, Legend of Zelda, etc.) for his band to perform live during their ceremony and cocktail hour. Set to the lively tempo of Parisian gypsy jazz, it was a unique touch that transported everyone back to the Jazz Age. Talk about an epic and unforgettable moment!
Our story began serendipitously, intertwined by music and geeky passions. In my sophomore year of college, while helping out at a Cabaret Night hosted by my opera-singer roommate, fate introduced me to Danny. He, playing the upright bass in the band that night, caught my attention with his rendition of songs from The Legend of Zelda. And just like that, sparks flew.
Eight years, numerous apartments, and a furry companion later, our journey led to a magical moment on my 27th birthday. In our kitchen, amidst the aroma of Starbucks coffee, Danny strummed my favorite video game tune on his mandolin. Then, with a large box filled with handmade gifts from dear friends, each progressively smaller, he surprised me. Nestled within the tiniest pouch was a rose gold diamond ring by Heidi Gibson, featuring a center stone—a surprise family heirloom from the 1800s! Overwhelmed with emotion, I looked up to find Danny on one knee. Lost in the moment, I uttered a resounding "Yes!" amidst laughter and the embrace of family.
We aimed for fashion with Gatsby and vintage flair, but with a modern twist to avoid feeling like we were in costumes. Six months before our engagement, I discovered the Jacinda Dress from BHLDN and instantly knew it was the perfect fit! Its glamorous yet effortless vibe captured the essence of what I envisioned.
The delicate all-over beading and button-down back evoked the spirit of a Jazz Age bride, while its unique shape and sheer bodice with a low-cut back added a modern touch, keeping me grounded in the present. The airy tulle felt soft and ethereal against the backdrop of the greenhouse, completing the enchanting ensemble.
I adorned myself with an antique-inspired metal magnolia headband, complemented by a side-swept hairstyle that showcased my naturally curly locks, and pink velvet kitten sling-backs. My bridesmaids donned BHLDN dresses in varying shades of burgundy and mix-matched floral prints. As a token of appreciation, I gifted each of them a rose gold headband to pair with their rose gold shoes. They carried exquisite rose gold floral hoops adorned with lush ferns and greenery.
Danny looked dashing in a custom-made velvet jacket in a rich copper-brown hue, combining vintage charm with a modern silhouette. His ensemble was completed with a burgundy floral tie to coordinate with our wedding theme. He matched his groomsmen in classic black tux pants and loafers, paired with crisp white shirts featuring subtle black detailing on the collar.
Crafting our ceremony and vows was a deeply personal endeavor, reflecting our non-religious beliefs while ensuring authenticity and heartfelt sentiment. Lasting 20-30 minutes, it was a true expression of our love. Incorporating nods to Final Fantasy games added a unique touch, making our hand ceremony even more personal.
We were blessed to have my husband's godmother officiate, adding an extra layer of love and significance to our special day.
The color palette of my wedding bouquet echoed the overall floral theme—moody and rich, with deep burgundies and vibrant dahlias. The inclusion of latte brown roses, a hue I never knew roses could possess, added a unique and special touch. Infused with fragrant rosemary, eucalyptus, and raspberries, my bouquet exuded a delightful aroma. However, it was the striking proteas and cascading amaranth that stole the show, making it a truly breathtaking centerpiece.
Our reception took place in a separate hall within the conservatory, beautifully illuminated by sweeping market lights cascading across the entire ceiling. The lights shimmered against the glass roof, creating a magical ambiance reminiscent of starlight. Rectangular farm tables were arranged in two long lines, evoking a warm, family-style atmosphere. Continuing the elegant theme, we adorned the tables with copper chairs from the ceremony, enhancing the room's sparkling glow. Dark wood tables provided a rustic backdrop, allowing our metallic accents and vibrant florals to shine as the focal point of the celebration.
Wedding Planning Tips:
Invest in top-notch photography and consider adding a fun activity for your guests to enjoy.
Be mindful of hidden costs when selecting venues. While some may appear cost-effective initially, additional expenses can arise. For instance, although our conservatory venue offered a picturesque setting, the absence of a working kitchen required us to bring in equipment, significantly increasing our expenses. Despite this, we wouldn't change a thing!
Hiring a wedding coordinator is invaluable, especially for busy couples. Our coordinator, Julissa from Clementine Custom Events, was a true lifesaver. From assisting with every detail to ensuring the smooth execution of our day, she went above and beyond. Thanks to her expertise, we could fully immerse ourselves in the joy of our special day without worrying about logistics.
