Maia and David’s wedding at South Branch in Chicago was a true celebration of love, laughter, and the vibrant city they adore. With stunning river views and the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, their big day captured everything they envisioned: heartfelt moments, joyous dancing, and the energy of downtown Chicago.
Choosing South Branch as their venue was an easy decision for Maia and David. Nestled in the heart of Chicago, it offered breathtaking city views and a scenic riverside setting. The location made it convenient for their guests to find nearby accommodations and explore the city. Maia noted, “Mel, the venue coordinator, was absolutely awesome, and the food was delicious!” The venue’s seamless mix of elegance and urban charm set the stage for an unforgettable day.
For Maia, finding “the one” was a serendipitous moment at Glamour Closet in downtown Chicago. “I went in with a few friends to get an idea of styles but ended up leaving with my dress that same day!” she shared. With its beautiful sleeves and a stunning bow in the back, the dress perfectly complemented her style and the day’s vibe.
Their wedding was filled with memorable surprises and joyful moments. From a surprise dance to the playful mishap of the DJ playing “Shout” during the Hora, laughter filled every corner of the day. Maia and David also carried charms of loved ones who couldn’t be there—Maia’s nephew and David’s grandfather—keeping them close in spirit.
The dance floor was the highlight of the night. “It was the most fun I’ve ever had in my entire life,” Maia said. David added, “I felt like it was the greatest, most fun party anyone has ever had.” A standout moment? The Mariah Carey-inspired dance to “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” a lighthearted nod to the season that left everyone grinning.
Maia and David kept their theme simple yet impactful: city, outdoors, and dancing. Their unique touches included personalized table names featuring photos and descriptions of places special to them. These details, combined with the venue’s urban backdrop, created a warm and intimate atmosphere that reflected their personalities.
Maia and David’s advice is simple yet wise: “Delegate and don’t sweat the small stuff.” Their ability to stay present and soak in every moment made their day even more special.
Maia and David couldn’t stop raving about the photography and videography experience. “You seemed to be everywhere all at once! We were so impressed by how much ground you covered and how creative you were,” they shared. Their riverside photoshoot was a favorite moment, capturing the magic of the city and the energy of the night.
Maia and David’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Venue: South Branch Chicago // Florist: VR Inspirations // MUA: Gaby Ragusso Beauty // Hair: Kiss This Makeup // DJ: DJ MadJazz from Cage and Aquarium // Live Music: Boris Piano & Aleksey Poltavchenko
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We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.