You guys never cease to amaze me. Not only are you insanely creative and talented (and I’m talking about both brides and vendors here), but you just keep delivering us these fabulous, unique weddings to blog about! Each day I see something new and inspirational.
We’re very excited to announce today that one of our favorite photographers, Chicago-based Olivia Leigh (who just launched a FAB new site today by the way), is going to be one of our new weekly columnists! Each Tuesday beginning next week she’ll be bringing you inspiration in the form of her gorgeous weddings, expert advice on photography, a glimpse into a day in the life of a vendor, boudoir sessions, engagement sessions, and other general fabulousness!
To help you all familiarize yourselves with her work, we’re featuring one of our all-time favorite Olivia Leigh weddings today. Sam and Ben’s Chicago wedding is one of those that just makes me laugh, smile, and gaze in wonderment. It was actually quite simply orchestrated, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Meet our happy couple – this photo is so full of color and joy!
The wedding was held at Chicago’s A New Leaf, who also created all of the stunning florals which are some of the most unique I have ever seen and incorporated kale, radishes, and feathers.
Sam wrapped her bouquet in lace from her mother’s mantilla. The lace was also used in her Dame Couture custom gown and in Ben’s pocket square. So sweet!
I think my favorite aspect of Sam and Ben’s wedding is how much of their own personalities they infused into the event. Neither one of them skimped on the accessorizing!
This series of portraits is just awesome:
The ceremony was very emotional, and Ben surprised Sam by asking their guitarist to perform a song for her. Olivia describes this moment as “one of the most touching moments I’ve ever seen at a wedding” and seeing these photos, I can completely see why.
The reception was just as beautiful as you would expect, with that amazing floral and catering by FIG.
Sam collects lucky pennies – apparently she can’t pass one up on the street! Their favors were actual lucky pennies that Sam had collected over the years, which were turned into souvenir pennies at Chicago museums. How perfect is that?
A tender moment…
… in an otherwise crazy-fun party!
I’ll leave you guys with my two favorite portraits – these really characterize Olivia’s style and speak volumes about why we are so excited that she’s going to be blogging with us!
Visit Olivia’s blog for more photos from Sam and Ben’s wedding and please give her a big blog hug and a warm welcome to EAD!
E.