*sigh* I will never get tired of fall weddings in Chicago.

Allow us to take you on a love story that’s been over a decade in the making. Last September, we had the privilege to witness one of the most beautifully woven love stories in the lush and open spaces of Heritage Prairie Farm in Wheaton. 

When you watch Ryan and Mike interact, the first thought that runs through your head is, “Wow, these two… These two are it!” Throughout the day, there were so many little moments that gave tribute to the bride and groom. It was so apparent to see how involved and supportive their friends and family were in their big day. 

A Decade in the Making

One of my favorite things about Ryan and Mike’s relationship is their subtle synchronicity and adventurous spirit they carry as a by-product of being together for ten years. 

Let me just reiterate in case you missed it… *ahem*… TEN. YEARS!!!

After a decade of growing in love, these two have travelled far and wide together. Yet, the most exciting adventure they would take together wouldn’t be along the shores of Fiji or in the tulip fields of the Netherlands, but instead it would take place in the natural and organic fields of Heritage Prairie Farm in suburban Chicago. 

The venue was fully reflective of how natural it felt being around these two and the bridal party. Ryan looked absolutely stunning in her bohemian-inspired wedding dress and we couldn’t help but join in the tenderness of her reveal to her bridesmaids. 

By the way, how absolutely adorable did these bridesmaids jumpsuits look? With the maid of honor joining Ryan in wearing a bridesmaids dress, the rest of the bridesmaids looked equally parts elegant and stylishly cool with this modern twist on a bridesmaids dress! 

“I’m Always Home”

One of the most easily memorable moments from the entire day was the actual ceremony. Ryan’s brother officiated and delivered one of the most entertaining and hilarious speeches we’ve heard! Including his opening line:

“Today we finally, finally, get to answer a question a decade in the making… ‘when the hell are Ryan and Mike gonna get married?'”

This was one of those ceremonies where you looked around and you saw love radiating from every single person. There were moments of full-belly laughter and moments of tearful reflection as everyone took a moment to honor Mike’s mother, who had recently passed and was unable to witness the joy of seeing her son get married.

It was beautifully comforting to watch Ryan and Mike as they shared their vows. Just read what Mike had to say as he reflected on the last ten years of love for Ryan:

“Through all of our experiences I can confidently say, I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you.”  

That was what made this wedding so unique for us: you just know that the last decade of love and growing together as a couple and as individuals, has given them the confidence and foundation they require to move forward in this new chapter of their lives. 

Where You Go, I’ll Go

One thing we learned about this couple is that they love seeing new sights and being on the go. So it came as no surprise to see how eager they were to get their beautiful reception at Heritage Prairie Farm started.

We loved the vintage travel chests at the entrance, which perfectly reflected Ryan and Mike’s love of traveling together. 

This party had it all, y’all. From the bohemian-inspired theme with touches of rustic, earthy elements…

To a tender mother-in-law/son dance shared between Mike and Ryan’s mom, Robin…

Everything felt so natural and effortless! The evening consisted of heartwarming toasts, too many dance-offs to count, and a traditional Hora dance which saw our starry-eyed bride and groom hoisted in chairs above their guests in celebration of their commitment in front of friends and family. 

We were so honored to be a witness to this remarkable ten-year journey and we wish nothing but decades of love and laughter and traveling for Ryan and Mike! 

VENDORS

• Videographer: Anchored Films | Adam as Lead
• Photographer: Ashley Galminas Photography
• Venue: Heritage Prairie Farm
• Makeup/Hair: Levato Salon
• Officiant: Craig Dickey
• Flowers: Three Sisters Park Events
• DJ: Toast & Jam
• Invitations/Stationery: Etsy
• Jeweler: New York Jewelers
• Dress: Rue de Seine | Alice in Ivory

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