There are some couples who light up a room the moment they walk in — cue Emily and Brian. From our very first conversation, their laughter, ease, and genuine happiness set the tone for what would become one of the most joyful spring weddings we’ve ever had the honor of planning.
Their April wedding at The Drake Chicago was the perfect reflection of who they are: timeless, romantic, and full of color, movement, and heart. A classic Chicago venue paired with vibrant spring florals, incredible music, and a room full of love? Yes, please.
A Timeless Chicago Wedding Venue with Historic Charm
Emily and Brian chose The Drake Chicago, one of the city’s most iconic and storied wedding venues, and it couldn’t have been a more fitting backdrop. With its grand architecture, historic elegance, and lakefront location, The Drake offers an unmatched sense of old-world glamour — especially beautiful in the spring when the city begins to bloom again.
The venue’s Gold Coast Ballroom provided a neutral canvas that allowed the design to truly shine, blending tradition with fresh, modern details.
A Floral-Forward Spring Design Bursting with Color
The design vision centered around multicolored spring varietals — joyful, lush, and intentionally layered. Working alongside the incredibly talented team at Fleur Inc., we leaned into seasonal blooms that felt organic yet elevated, colorful yet refined.
The florals brought movement and warmth into the space, perfectly complementing the grandeur of The Drake while reflecting Emily and Brian’s vibrant personalities. Paired with luxurious BBJ La Tavola linens, the tablescape felt curated, playful, and undeniably chic.
To enhance the ambiance, MDM Entertainment provided lighting to provide candlelit warmth and depth to the room— proof that lighting is truly one of the most powerful design tools in any luxury wedding.
A Couple Who Made Planning a Dream
What made this wedding especially memorable wasn’t just the design — it was Emily and Brian themselves. They are the kind of couple who trust the process, savor every moment, and laugh through it all. Planning their wedding was an absolute joy, and their energy carried through every part of the day.
Emily was stunning in her Ines Di Santo gown from Ultimate Bride, a look that felt timeless and fashion-forward all at once complimented by a gorgeous soft glam look done by Gabe Post of Bianca Sansosti Artistry. Brian looked equally sharp in classic menswear from The Black Tux — polished, confident, and effortlessly stylish.
A Celebration That Never Missed a Beat
Once the dance floor opened, it stayed packed. Beatmix Chicago (BPM) delivered an unforgettable performance, keeping the energy high and the party going well into the night. From heartfelt moments to full-on celebration, the evening flowed seamlessly — exactly how a wedding should feel.
The entire day was beautifully captured by Cristina G Photography, whose images tell the story with warmth, authenticity, and an editorial eye. Every laugh, glance, and joyful tear was preserved. Mirar Weddings captured the motion and emotion on film, ensuring Emily and Brian can relive their day for years to come.
A Luxury Spring Wedding to Remember
Emily and Brian’s wedding was the perfect reminder of why we do what we do. When thoughtful design meets genuine love — and when a couple fully embraces joy — the result is magic.
We’re so grateful to have been part of this beautiful celebration at The Drake Chicago, and to work alongside such an incredible team of creative partners to bring it all to life.
Vendor Team
- LOLA Event Productions: Lavish LOLA Planning Package
- Wedding Venue: The Drake Chicago
- Photography: Cristina G Photography
- Floral/Decor: Fleur Inc.
- Entertainment: Beatmix Premier Music
- Lighting: MDM Entertainment
- Linens: BBJ La Tavola
- Cake: Cake Chicago
- Video: Mirar Weddings
- Beauty: Gabe Post for Bianca Sansosti Artistry
- Wedding Dress: Ines Desanto, Ultimate Bride
- Menswear: The Black Tux
