Chevy Chase Country Club ceremony and reception, Wheeling, IL wedding | Amanda & James

There were so many gorgeous details at this wedding, I was almost overwhelmed at times. From the dress to the invitations, nothing was left to chance. And don’t even get me started on the flowers, (Blue Daisy ) the Bride was so happy, that she cried and hugged the florist when she saw the reception room…it was flawless.

A very special thank you to Sarah Deeke with Cheers! Chicago She is one of the most amazing, organized, knowledgeable, sweet-but-makes-sure-that-stuff-gets-done, wedding planners I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, THANK YOU!

The Groom is from England, so his family surprised the couple with a vintage 1956 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud 1 from A Dynasty Classic Cars for Weddings.

Venue – Chevy Chase Country Club

From the Bride…

‘Day-of Planner – Sarah Deeke with Cheers! Chicago….LOVED her – I don’t know how we would have gotten through the day without her.

Venue – Chevy Chase Country Club – Liked it, got a lot for the price (nice chairs included, great bar package included, beautiful room with hardwood floors)

Dress – All About the Gown by Judy in Lake Geneva. Dress was by David Tutera ‘Katharine’

Hair/Makeup – Yes Ma’am – liked the makeup artist, was not happy with the hair – they did try to make it right, but I still wouldn’t recommend them.

Tux – won a giveaway with GQ Formalwear – James’ tux was free, the others got a discount. It was an expensive place but we liked them a lot.

Cake – included with Chevy Chase, DELICIOUS! there wasn’t any cake left over from the wedding! Lovin Oven Cakery

Band – ‘Velocity’ through Arlen Music Productions…LOVED THEM. Everyone had a great time and many of our friends got their card for their future weddings.

Flowers – Blue Daisy – I LOVED my flowers…so beautiful. Annie is very fair in her pricing and works with you within your budget.

Paper Products (invitations, save the dates, all day-of paper) – Dby Invitations – expensive, but beautiful!

Videographer – Shangri-La Wedding Films – Loved him – beautiful videos – good price for quality.

Lighting – An Enchanted Evening – very easy to work with, liked them a lot.

Photo Booth – Concept One – good price for what you got, attendant was nice.

Favorite purchases: dress, favors (personalized mini champagne bottles), flowers and seriously all of the vendors I had onsite with me – you all were FANTASTIC! <3

Favorite memories: dancing with friends and family with the band, toasts, taking pictures together and with wedding party.

Something that didn’t make a difference: I was worried about how the kids would come down the aisle (wagon, walking, flower crown, pillows for boys) and in the end they were going to do what they wanted! 🙂 Also, I spent so much time finding frames for the signs and that was probably not worth worrying about. Additionally, shoes…you couldn’t see them, and I spent SO much time ordering and returning shoes.

Advice – Get a day-of coordinator! Videography is worth it (in addition, of course, to photography). It’s worth spending a little more to get quality vendors and people you can trust. Really enjoy the day, it does go by so quickly. And get a band if you can! ‘