A Modern Loft Wedding at Bridgeport Art Center in Chicago, Illinois

Karen Zaransky (28 and a yoga teacher) and Michael Alexander (28 and a doctor) had their loft wedding at Bridgeport Art Center in Chicago, Illinois, and turned its open and airy space into a colorful wonderland filled with succulents, wildflowers and sparkling twinkle lights. Because they were moving to New York a month after the wedding, the couple knew their day would also serve as a farewell party. After hearing about the venue from a friend, the couple knew it was the perfect place to say goodbye to their friends and family. "We loved the high ceilings, natural light and the spectacular views of our favorite city! I wanted a blank slate to work with so that we could make it our own," Karen says. The couple's florist, Richard Remiard, brought the outside in by utilizing as many colors as possible to contrast with the neutral palette. Karen gave her bridesmaids free rein to chose their own dresses following the color scheme. "Beading and sequins were fair game," says Karen. "They all have great individual style, and I wanted them to feel comfortable and beautiful." With a serious love of doughnuts, Karen and Michael opted not to have a wedding cake. Instead, they had a machine popping out fresh doughnuts -- their guests could even choose their own toppings! "We also had mini ice cream cones and pies passed around for those who couldn't leave the dance floor," says Karen. A piece of advice from the bride: "Dance, have fun and be grateful for each moment. It is truly a celebration," says Karen.