modern romantic wedding at the arbory

Some weddings get planned around a color palette. Alyssa + Conor’s got planned around a vibe – warm, loud, chaotic in the best way, and stuffed full of the people they love most.

The Night Before: All Aboard

The wedding weekend kicked off the evening before with the ultimate pre-game: a sunset boat ride along the Chicago skyline! Guests were greeted with a cheeky welcome sign warning them not to “miss the boat,” along with custom leather luggage tags tucked inside their totes. By the time the Navy Pier Ferris wheel lit up the sky, the party was officially underway.

The Details: Color & Heirloom Charm

Their invitation suite set the tone for the whole design: burnt orange, sage, mustard – and everything looked beautifully in sync. Add the pearl-strapped heels, a deep moss velvet ring box, Conor’s pocket watch – little things, but they added up. And that bouquet? Basically the color palette’s greatest hits in flower form.

Getting Ready: Pajamas, Perfume, and Happy Tears

Before the big event, Alyssa and her bridesmaids spent the morning in pajamas, enjoying some private time full of laughs. After finishing getting ready, the couple headed to the bar for their first look – taking a long, quiet breath together before bursting into huge smiles. After taking some pics, the bridal party joined the happy couple, and showed off their fully in-sync mismatched dresses and suits. Look how cute they all look!

The Ceremony: Brick, Blooms & Emotional Vows

Guests gathered at The Arbory, where they were welcomed by the sweetest details. Jenga pieces inviting them to sign a message to the newlyweds and custom glass cups were just the beginning. A thoughtful “Remembering” table honored loved ones who were there in spirit, and some of them even had their seat reserved for the ceremony.

The soon-to-be newlyweds were walked in by their loved ones for the big moment, and their officiant – rocking a genuinely incredible purple suit – brought the perfect mix of warmth and humor.

The Reception: Garden Party Meets Supper Club

Inside, floral tablecloths, dusty-blue runners, and amber glass goblets turned the loft into something between a garden party and a fancy supper club. Every table had its own number card, with menus tucked right into the napkins.

And the personal touches just kept coming – the couple cut their pearl-textured cake, topped with fresh blooms, right in front of a bold palm-leaf wallpaper. Iconic backdrop, honestly.

Toasts, Dips & Late-Night Snaps

The toasts fully captured what this couple is all about and had everyone cracking up. Alyssa and Conor opened the floor with a first dance that left everyone speechless with a seriously dramatic dip at the end, then danced with their loved ones.

By the end of the night, everyone was out there. Before calling it a night, the two snuck outside for a few last portraits in front of The Arbory’s iconic red doors, and even snapped a pic with our own ET!

Congratulations, Alyssa + Conor!

*eye candy courtesy of Joy by Jo

Ceremony + Reception Venue: The Arbory
Caterer: Niche & Co. Events
Alcohol: Garfield’s Beverage
DJ: Toast & Jam
Photographer: Joy by Jo
Videographer: The Arbory
Makeup: Lindsay D. Beauty
Bridal Party Hair: AG Hair Salon
Hair (for family members): Chicago Avenue Salon
Hotels: The Emily , LEVEL
Officiant: Karun Pavithran
Florist: Sprout Home
Bakery: Alliance Bakery
Rehearsal Venue + Alcohol: Anita Dee
Rehearsal Catering: Catered by Design
Rentals: BBJ Linen + Tablescapes
Planner: Anticipation Events
Afterparty: Selva @ The Emily Hotel
Brunch: Shore Club