Denise & Mike’s Literary Wedding at All Saints Church and Royalty West Banquets

When two book-loving souls fall in love, you get a wedding like this personal, playful, and full of stories written by the couple themselves. Denise and Mike’s wedding day had everything: emotional vows, whimsical details, a dreamy castle-like venue, and a niffler (yes, from Fantastic Beasts) holding their wedding rings.

From the heartfelt first look to the choreographed moves that may or may not have been forgotten mid-dance, this day was filled with fun, laughter, and a whole lot of love.

Getting Ready With All the Vibes

Both Denise and Mike got ready at the Burr Ridge Marriott, just floors apart but worlds away in the excitement building up for that first look.

Denise was surrounded by a crew that could talk for hours about past shows, travel adventures, and their adorable niece. Meanwhile, Mike and his guys kept the mood light, balancing jokes with that subtle oh wow this is happening energy.

By noon, the dress, the suit, the rings (and the niffler) were all ready to go.

A First Look Before the Fairy Tale Begins

One of the most emotional moments of the day came before the ceremony even began when Denise and Mike saw each other for the first time. With nerves calming and smiles growing, it set the tone for everything that followed.

An Outdoor Ceremony With Family at the Center

The ceremony at All Saints Lutheran Church was held outside under a clear sky. Simple, beautiful, and incredibly meaningful, it included a special sand ceremony with Mike’s kids symbolizing their families becoming one.

Officiated by Don Borling, it felt less like a performance and more like a conversation about love, commitment, and connection.

There were no phones out, no distractions just the couple, their people, and a ceremony crafted to be fully theirs.

The Brass Tap Detour and Some Literary Magic

After the ceremony, the couple made a quick stop with their crew at The Brass Tap for a celebratory round of drinks before heading to the reception.

The details of their day reflected who they are: book-page flowers, literary-themed decor, champagne flutes with personality, and, of course, that sneaky niffler showing up again. The wedding colors blue and bronze tied it all together with a touch of whimsy and elegance.

Reception at Royalty West: First Dances, Forgotten Moves, and All the Laughs

When we say fun, we mean fun. The reception at Royalty West Banquets started with a warm welcome, cake cutting, and speeches that had guests laughing, tearing up, and raising their glasses.

Their first dance was to Swept Away (Sentimental Version) by The Avett Brothers. A song choice rooted in meaning, especially knowing they were just days away from their honeymoon adventure in Greece.

The night rolled on with half the bridal party breaking into semi-choreographed dance moves, a flower girl stealing every bit of attention (and hearts), and a full dance floor that stayed packed until midnight.

A Day That Was Fully, Beautifully Them

From literary themes to dance floor chaos and tender family moments, Denise and Mike’s wedding wasn’t about perfection it was about personality. It was about creating a day that felt like their story, told one joyful chapter at a time.

Denise and Mike’s Wedding Day Vendors:

Photography: Westley Leon Studios // Ceremony Venue: All Saints Lutheran Church, Orland Park // Reception Venue: Royalty West Banquets, Willow Springs // Dress: David’s Bridal // Suit: Men’s Wearhouse // Makeup: A Modern Face // Hair: Crystal // Florals: Flowers by Kathee // Cake: Dominic’s Homemade Cupcakes and Creations // Invitations: Penelope’s Paper Pantry // DJ: Overstreet DJ Services // Limo: A Star Limo

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