Inspired by Spring: Love among the Cherry Blossoms

Here at Greatest Expectations we are over this cold weather and snow! I know that spring is just around the corner and I thought a little inspiration was in order!

We had such a great time working with Betsy and Jamie on their beautiful spring wedding. The bride got dressed at The Cheney Mansion in Oak Park (the formal photos were taken there as well) and the ceremony, featuring an Irish Bagpiper, was at Saint Luke Parish in River Forest. The Cherry Blossom inspired reception was held at Butterfield Country Club and the design concept was carried out with elegance and charm by Natalie at Hello Darling and Amy Beck Cake Design.

Thanks to Belen from Orange2Photo for these amazing images.

Behind the Mask, Halloween Elegance

It was truly a pleasure working with Amy and Mark on their intimate and elegant wedding! It was pure coincidence that their special day took place on Halloween; they were adamant about not having a “Halloween” wedding, but as you will see, by the end of the evening, they were embracing the holiday! The amazing photos were taken by Lizz and Maggie at Orange2 Photography. We loved working with these ladies!

The ceremony took place at the gorgeous Alice Millar Chapel on Northwestern University’s campus in Evanston. The weather was perfect for a fall wedding – sunny and mild.


The reception was held in the private dining room at the iconic Spiaggia Restaurant, so naturally the food was out of this world! The views were just as great – overlooking North Michigan Avenue and Lake Shore Drive. The delicious wedding cake was from Bittersweet.





The gorgeous, fall-themed flowers were provided by Anthony Gowder Designs. The simple and elegant centerpieces fit perfectly with the overall ambiance of the room.


The brides big concern for the evening was if people would dance or not.  Well there was never any doubt in our minds because the evenings entertainment was provided by the talented Chicago Catz. The dance floor was packed all night!

And because you simply cannot have a wedding on Halloween without a little festiveness …


Thank you so much to Amy and Mark for including us in your special day!!