We love when a wedding transports guests somewhere unexpected, and this celebration at The Chicago Illuminating Company did exactly that! Designed in collaboration with the talented team at Estera Events, the evening brought a touch of Southern romance to the heart of Chicago. Think magnolia branches, flowing Spanish moss, and layers of lush greenery that created the feeling of an overgrown forest tucked beneath a glowing tent. The atmosphere was dreamy and effortlessly romantic & it was all perfectly captured by Brittany Bekas Photography.
The design vision centered around creating an immersive, natural environment in the south. Rich, textured moss and white orchid blooms cascaded throughout the space, transforming the Chicago Illuminating Company into a lush garden-inspired reception. Spanish moss dripped dramatically from suspended installations, while magnolia foliage added structure and depth to the arrangements. The result was a floral design that felt both wild and intentional, bringing a bit of the Southern landscape into an urban Chicago setting.
To truly elevate the experience, we focused on hanging floral and greenery chandeliers that floated above the reception tables. These custom installations became the focal point of the room, allowing delicate orchids blooms and greenery to cascade downward like vines in a forest canopy. The suspended designs added height, movement, and drama, creating a magical layered look that drew the eye upward while still allowing guests to enjoy the table settings and conversation below.
In contrast, the tabletop design was intentionally simple and elegant, allowing the dramatic overhead florals to shine. Soft neutral linens, candlelight, and minimal greenery accents kept the tables fresh and refined while maintaining the organic garden feel. The balance between lush installations and understated place settings created a sophisticated aesthetic that felt timeless yet completely immersive. We also created some centerpieces with stands on top to add a little drama to the room.
