She was in Chicago about a year after they had been dating, for a girl’s weekend, when she found a tie clip which reach “Best Day Ever.” Immediately drawn to it she purchased the clip with intentions of giving it to Andrew sometime later. The Saturday of Kayleigh’s visit, she and her friend went to a Downton Abbey clothing exhibit and then went to check out the Chicago Cultural Center, home of the largest Tiffany Dome in the world. After seeing some of the art exhibits and walking for a bit, Kayleigh’s friend asked her to turn around to see something. Standing under a gorgeous stained glass dome, Kayleigh turned around to see Andrew walking through the doors. He approached her, got down on one knee, and proposed! She gave him the tie clip on that trip, and he wore it on their wedding day. 

THE BRIDE AND GROOM

You see, Andrew knew right away, from day one when they met at a party, that Kayleigh was the one. He got her number that night (before she dropped him off at him house), and called her three days later to ask her on a date. 

They plan (A) was to just go out for Sushi, but what they got instead, plan B, was what felt like a perfect, never ending date that night. Between sushi, museums/arts/history, and late night talks, they fell in love with each other. 

THE WEDDING PARTY

I love seeing the bridesmaids dresses, and knowing once again, that plan B was better than plan A. Two of the bridesmaids had to wear dresses found shortly before the wedding, as plan A didn’t work out, but wow. They were the perfect color palette. 

Kayleigh’s veil was made by her (now) mother-in-law, and the stunning wool shawl she were also a gift from her MIL. 

Shauna, Kayleigh’s Maid of Honor, was my bride seven (yes, 7) years ago, in Aruba! 

THE CEREMONY

Plan A was to have an outside ceremony. But again, wow, plan B left me speechless. At Camp Foley there’s a little church, with a stunning red door, and the most intimate feeling ever, and that’s where the bride and groom said I do. 

THE RECEPTION

Local made pies, a delicious buffet, and some heartfelt speeches were just the beginning of the reception. I looked around the room of about 170 people who traveled near, and far, to be there, and I felt happy for Kayleigh and Andrew. They are loved. 

Now they are honeymooning in London, Paris and Venice. I think of how perfect their wedding day was, and one thing comes to mind: when you’re marrying your best friend, and the one who you will share life with, who will be your partner ’till death, it can rain or shine, it will be perfect. 

Vendors: 

Photography: Poly Mendes Photography

Venue: Camp Foley 

Hair & Makeup: Bliss Salon and Boutique

Florist: Bloom Designs by Kate Kuepers

Favor Design: Heather Brooks Design

Pies: Mary Etta’s Pies from A-Pine Restaurant

Bride’s Gown: Diamond Bride

Bridesmaids Dresses: Union Station

Groom’s Suit: Men’s Wearhouse

Groomsmen Suits: Generation Tux + Etsy ties