Michelle and Clifford’s spring Peninsula Chicago wedding is one of our absolute favorite Chicago weddings that we’ve captured! From the classically elegant decor to the non-stop fun on the reception dance floor, it was a beautiful day from start to finish. Michelle and Clifford were an absolute joy to work with, and we’re so excited to share more of their Chicago wedding photos.
The Couple’s Story
In 2016, Michelle started a new job. Her coworker in the cubicle next to her happened to be no other than her future husband, Clifford. Six years after meeting, Clifford proposed in Miami on a sunset boat cruise. In his romantic proposal, he quoted one of their favorite books, Pride and Prejudice, and surprised Michelle with her mother’s ring.
They set out to plan an unforgettable wedding at the Peninsula Chicago! I loved getting to know the two of them at their sunset downtown Chicago engagement session. Once I saw their joy and love for each other, I knew their wedding day would be a blast too.
Their Peninsula Chicago Wedding Ceremony
Michelle got ready in a suite at the Peninsula Chicago. She wore her hair in a sophisticated bun and completed the look with natural glam makeup. Her wedding dress featured delicate lace and whimsical sleeves that were removable. She removed all but small off-the-shoulder straps for the ceremony and then removed the sleeves fully for the reception. It was such a fun touch to change up her look for each part of the day!
Similarly to Michelle, Clifford got ready with his groomsmen at the Peninsula before they shared an emotional first look on the Peninsula Chicago patio.
After the first look, Michelle and Clifford’s wedding party joined them for photos on the patio too.
Then Michelle and Clifford posed for a few couples’ portraits around the Peninsula Chicago.
Michelle envisioned a Taylor Swift “Lover” aesthetic. From the start, she wanted a wedding that was “very classically romantic and clean.” The vendor team did a fabulous job bringing her vision to life! The color palette featured light pink, purples, greenery, and gold. The oversized floral arrangements by HMR Designs with lots of texture were the perfect touch.
During the wedding ceremony, Michelle walked down the aisle with her father as a live singer performed Ariana Grande’s “POV.” It was so special to witness Clifford’s reaction as she approached him. After saying their vows and sealing them with a kiss, Michelle and Clifford exited the ceremony hand in hand with the biggest smiles!
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed an outdoor cocktail hour on the Peninsula Chicago patio.
Their Peninsula Chicago Wedding Reception
Michelle, Clifford, and the vendor team incorporated the same aesthetic from the ceremony into the reception. The larger-than-life floral arrangements made for breathtaking centerpieces on the round tables. Meanwhile, the raised floral arrangements with bulb candles created a nice contrast for the rectangular tables.
At the Peninsula Chicago wedding reception, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner followed by heartfelt toasts. They watched on as Michelle and Clifford cut their three-tier red velvet wedding cake. After dancing the beginning part of the night away on the dance floor, guests were treated to a movie theater candy bar. Complete with Sour Patch Kids, Mike and Ikes, and Swedish Fish, the candy bar gave the guests the sugar rush they needed to keep the dancing going even longer!
We loved getting to be a part of Michelle and Clifford’s Peninsula Chicago wedding! If you’d like to see more of their gorgeous day, don’t miss their wedding featured in Modern Luxury Chicago!
Planning your own Peninsula Chicago wedding? As Chicago wedding photographers, Peninsula Chicago is one of our favorite wedding venues. Get in touch today to learn more about our wedding photography collections!
The Peninsula Chicago Wedding Vendor Team
Special thank you to the amazing vendor team who helped bring this wedding to life!
Wedding Planner: Reva Nathan
Venue: The Peninsula Chicago
Bride’s Gown & Veil: Rita Vinieris from Bridals by Lori
Bride’s Hair: Erika Romero
Makeup: Arta Gashi; Magda Herron
Groom’s Tux: Well Groomed Man
Rings Hers: heirloom; His: Burks Jewelers
Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Florals & Decor: HMR Designs
Invitations: Arzberger
Entertainment: Rendezvous
Videographer: Mirar Weddings
