A Romantic Winter Wedding at Independence Grove in Libertyville, Illinois

When Anna Christerson (26 and in client services) and Luke Mladucky (26 and in sales) ran into each other for the third time at a bar in January 2013, they knew they were meant to be together. The couple had been introduced at a friend's apartment in 2011 and crossed paths constantly in the years after that, as they often rode the same bus around town. Luke popped the question after a romantic dinner one December evening, and the couple quickly began planning their wedding. Both the ceremony and reception were held at Independence Grove in Libertyville, Illinois, which also happens to be Anna's hometown. Anna says of the venue, "I spent time there when I was younger." The space was "simultaneously modern and cozy," which was exactly what the couple was looking for. The venue's caterers served outstanding food: "It was out-of-this-world good!" says Anna. Servers passed trays with mini cheeseburgers, smoked chicken quesadillas and tomato bisque with grilled cheese. During cocktail hour, the couple also served signature cocktails. The gin martini was served in honor of Luke’s Grandma Ginny. The Oma and Opa, a Jack Daniels and Coke mix, paid tribute to Anna’s grandparents. Another personal twist: Instead of a champagne toast, the couple offered their guests a shot of Fireball (the couple spent a ton of time rooting for the Blackhawks). In exchange, the guests received a personalized shot glass. Luke and Anna always checked in with each other throughout the wedding planning, which made everything less stressful. It was important to Anna that Luke was “looped into the process.” No wonder their day was such a success!