One big advantage to getting married during the holidays is the (free!) extra decor and soft, twinkling lights.

Black pintuck linens and four different centerpieces, including ice sculptures, were used on the dinner tables.

A silver tree with crystals and candles served as decor for the escort card table and later, the head table. In lieu of favors, the couple made a donation to a children’s hospital.

The bridal party made their grand entrance down the escalator.

They ordered cupcakes for their guests but also included a small cutting cake that looked like a present. I love the quilting on their cake.

Sarah and Chris shared their first dance to “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne.

Guests loved the photo booth. Of course, the props do have a way of traveling…

Thanks so much for letting me be a part of your big day!

The ladies got ready at Chris’ sister’s house. They were a wonderfully relaxed group.

This brooch is a family heirloom. She added the comb and wore it in her hair.

Sarah made some custom alterations to her gown, including removing full length sleeves and replacing them with a cap sleeve. I love that her dress has a unique look – you don’t see a gown like this every day. Isn’t the back beautiful?

Her bridesmaids chose from two different dresses.

Sarah and her mom made a quick stop at home for some photos that included a special family member!

Sarah and her mom just before the ceremony began.

She couldn’t help but peek as guests arrived!

At least they had some reading material to help pass the time.

Her mother and grandfather escorted her down the aisle.

Venturing back out into the wintry weather. It’s time to start celebrating!

Next, we’ll look at their festive reception.

Bridesmaid Dresses J.Crew Cake Rolf’s Patisserie Ceremony Most Holy Redeemer Church DJ Windy City Hitman Dress Bridal Allure Florist A Finishing Touch Hair & Makeup Chicago Spa Parties Ice Sculptures Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures Linens Classic Chair Covers Photobooth I Do Photobooths Photographer Kelli Ward Photography Reception Pazzo’s at 311 Transportation Stretch Limousine, Inc. Videographer Chicago Videography

The couple took some great shots around the zoo with their bridal party.

These are not your typical wedding day photos, which is exactly why I love them!

Guests were given a brief tour of the zoo on the way to the cocktail hour at Habitat Africa. A giraffe even made an appearance!

Their reception took place in the Discovery Center at the Zoo. With a backdrop of white tables, chairs and linens, the bright colors really popped.

The pillow boxes at each place setting contained animal crackers.  Aren’t these the cutest menu cards?

Instead of a guest book, the bride and groom had guests sign an adirondack chair.

Nicole and Don cut into one cupcake and shared it.

They shared their first dance to “Lucky” by Jason Mraz.

It was a such a pleasure to work with you both. Congratulations again!

Here is Nicole with her two sisters.  Each bridesmaid wore dresses in the same fabric and color, but in a slightly different style. The bride added touches of vibrant color, seen here in their bouquets, throughout the event.

Nicole’s father escorted her down the aisle. Some of her students stopped by to see their teacher get married!

Their friends and family greeted them outside the church with bubbles.

In the next post, we’ll look at their fun photo shoot and reception at a unique venue.

Ceremony Holy Trinity Church  Reception Brookfield Zoo Band TVK Orchestra Cupcakes Rolf’s Pastisserie Florist Ashland Addison Florist Hair Genevieve Melone  Makeup Debbie Tracy  Photographer Metropolitan Imageworks Trolley Victoria’s Flying Lady