Blooms in Winter KELSEY AND CHRIS HILLARD WRITTEN BY KELSEY O’SHAUGHNESSY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FURLA STUDIO
After twelve years as a couple, Chris took his high school sweetheart, Kelsey, on a surprise helicopter ride over Chicago. The breathtaking view twinkled with a holiday glow, and high above Lincoln Park Zoo’s iconic light show, Chris asked Kelsey to marry him. Friends and family awaited their arrival at the airport to celebrate. Kelsey remembers, “It was truly magical.” Chris and Kelsey dreamed of a wedding that was dripping with flowers and candles from top to bottom, and their vendors did not disappoint. Gorgeous blooms transformed their winter wedding into a warm, lovely day. Gentle uplighting created a softness that accented their rose gold, off-white, grey, and burnt lavender color scheme. The couple used white draping to create an intimate space during their beautiful ceremony. After, guests moved to another area of the venue to enjoy signature “bride” and “groom” cocktails. Little did they know, the ceremony room was being completely redesigned for the reception. A drape hid the area, so “the transformation of the space was totally unknown to guests.” When it was time for the grand reveal, the fabric drapes in the walkways were pulled back by beautiful floral bunches and cast with uplighting. Guests stood in awe as they took in the gorgeous atmosphere and the beautiful scent of flowers in the air. They enjoyed a delectable five-course meal, then kicked off a night full of fun and dancing. In lieu of favors, the bride and groom made a donation to PAWS Chicago. It was a fabulous evening for all in attendance. “Chris and I have nothing that we would change about our magical day,” says Kelsey. “We will never forget our wedding and the people who made everything possible.” 170
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