Cafe Brauer Wedding at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo

Kate and Anthony

Kate and Anthony’s Cafe Brauer wedding at the Lincoln Park Zoo was destined to be special. Kate’s sister is a past client, as well as a past event assistant for Engaging Events by Ali.

Kate had always loved the Zoo and Café Brauer, so when she got engaged she picked her date around the availability of Café Brauer’s Great Hall.

The wedding was elegant, timeless, classic and sophisticated. And the couple’s personality shone through in the look and vibe of the event. From the moment the day started, this event had a fun and celebratory vibe.

The bridesmaids wore timeless long black dresses, all unique and in different styles. The men wore classic black tuxedos with bow ties and a white pocket square. The bride wore a gorgeous and elegant Vera Wang gown.

The ceremony and Cafe Brauer wedding reception decor embraced the classic style of this wedding—White on white, greens, stunning chandeliers (SO MANY LOVED THEM!)!! The crystal chandeliers were for sure my favorite design element. There were seven of them, and they really elevated and complemented the look of the historic venue.

I also just loved the classic white florals with touches of natural greens.

Kate and Anthony wanted to the day to be very organized but not feel too stringent or stiff. The timeline I created allowed for some free feeling moments for guests, but behind the scenes, we had a very organized plan with structure to make sure the day was flawless.

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I loved their exit outside St. James Chapel after they were married, with everyone cheering from the staircase and from the busy Chicago street. I also loved all the first dances, which were fun and so heartfelt. The father/daughter dance was a fun dance that had everyone cheering them on from the sides of the dance floor. They picked “Luck Be a Lady” by Frank Sinatra.

Kate and Anthony’s first dance was right after they entered the Great Hall, and they danced to “When A Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge with the perfect dip at the end.

Kate’s dad then stole the show with an EPIC toast. This reception was incredible for every moment!

A love note from Kate and Anthony: