A Chic, Formal Wedding at the Rookery in Chicago, Illinois

Lauren Bellagamba (31 and a yoga teacher) and Eddie Freiwald (31 and an accountant) knew they wanted a venue that was a little different from the classic ballroom, but they weren’t sure what that looked like. Then they saw the Rookery in Chicago, Illinois, with its high glass ceilings, huge staircases and amazing gold detailing throughout the space. Although the space is open to the public and full of business during the day, Lauren and Eddie transformed the space into the glamorous old-Chicago feel they wanted for their wedding. Wanting the gorgeous space to speak for itself, Lauren and Eddie chose an ivory, gray, blush and gold palette that would complement the Rookery's natural assets. They also included lots of ultra-local details in celebration of the city they love so much. “I’m from Chicago and love my city dearly,” Lauren says. “I knew it would be a part of my wedding theme.” The city’s skyline decorated all the stationery and guests even went home with Garrett popcorn. One of our favorite details was the personalized cake topper on the three-tier gold cake from Sweet Mandy B’s. “We like pandas a lot,” Lauren says. “We thought these super-cute panda cake toppers reflected our silly personalities.” See all our favorite details, beautifully captured by Ann & Kam Photography and Cinema, below.