Claire + John’s wedding at St. Michael’s Catholic Church and the University Club of Chicago felt like it came from a different era. Between the beautiful cathedral and a venue that feels frozen in time, this one played out like a classic Chicago romance movie.
Getting Ready
The morning kicked off surrounded by family and best friends, matching pink striped button-downs, and (we assume) a lot of laughing. Claire’s bridal party swapped those for dark navy dresses, while Claire herself stepped into a strapless gown so timeless it could’ve been pulled from another decade – pearls, a simple white bouquet, done and done.
Meanwhile, John and the groomsmen were busy suiting up in black tuxes and bow ties, looking sharp as ever.
A Cathedral Ceremony
Vaulted ceilings, gold altar details – Claire and John said “I do” in a ceremony that felt straight out of a fairytale, no exaggeration needed. White florals lined the aisle, ribbon-trimmed pews on either side, and surrounded by their favorite people, the two made it official.
Venue Architecture & The Details
Can we talk about this setup? The University Club of Chicago is already one of those venues that can’t miss – gothic arches, stained glass, wood paneling for days; the whole thing feels everlasting. Then you add elegant white tablecloths across the round guest tables and the head table, plus a multi-tier cake topped with flowers that matched the actual floral decorations in the room, and suddenly you’ve got a space that belongs on a magazine cover.
Toasts, Dances & A Night to Remember
A grand entrance, dreamy first dance, toasts that had people laughing and emotional – this reception had it all.
Once the DJ kicked things off, the dance floor never emptied out. Parent dances, kids getting hoisted into the air – everyone kept the energy going. So many people showed up to demonstrate their appreciation for this couple! It was a night to remember.
Congratulations, Claire and John!
*eye candy courtesy of Katie Whitcomb Photography
Ceremony Venue: St. Michael Catholic Church
Reception Venue + Caterer: University Club of Chicago
Band: Indigo by Ken Arlan Band
Ceremony Musicians: St. Michael’s Choir + Band
Photographer: Katie Whitcomb Photography
Hair + Makeup: Morgan Marie Beauty
Hotel: Palmer House Athletic Club
Officiant: Father Steven Borello
Florist: English Garden Floral Shop
Florist – Friday Rehearsal: Oliver Dogwood Floral Inc.
Rehearsal Dinner: RPM Seafood
Transportation: Windy City Limos + The 312 Limo
Coordinator: Anticipation Events
Want to see pictures of another classic Chicago wedding? Click here to check it out!
