We're Elevate

What started as a side hustle for two creative, driven sisters has now become one of the Midwest’s premier event planning and design firms. At Elevate, we find pure, unbridled joy in celebrating all aspects of life - big moments, small gatherings and anything in between.

Real Wedding: Chris & Nicole’s Greenery-Inspired Chicago Fête

In our line of work, we are blessed to have clients become our friends, and even more fortunate when our friends become our clients. Hearing that these two were engaged was the highlight of our holiday season in 2016, and finding out later that they wanted US to be the ones to assist with the biggest day of their lives – well, we were obviously overjoyed! To know Chris and Nicole is to know a true, sincere and intense love, and man, meeting their close friends and biggest fans, it’s apparent that these two know how to love on everyone they meet and throw one heck of a classy party!

Looking back on this day, one of our favorite elements (and likely something we’ll be talking about for years to come) was Chris and Nicole’s heartfelt, raw and beautifully planned ceremony. Chris’ grandfather, Charlie, presided over their nuptials and Nicole’s brother, Neil, played her down the aisle with a custom-written song just for her. You guessed it folks, there was not a dry eye in the house during that ceremony. (Couples – don’t gloss over the ceremony while you’re planning – it’s literally the reason why you and all of your guests are there!)

Another aspect of the day that we adored was Chris and Nicole’s venue choice – the clean, modern lines of Greenhouse Loft in Chicago perfectly set the stage for their neutral, minimalist palette of champagne, blush and lavender tones and accents of greenery. We helped Nicole with her selection of a few key wooden and acrylic pieces to bring the venue to life and make their wedding day one-of-a-kind, and were truly SO pleased with how it all came together! Their custom “elevated” head table structure was such a showstopper, and really set the stage for a beautiful reception. We also loved creating the acrylic seating chart and soft (yet practical) photobooth backdrop, both courtesy of Shelby Made It and Mrs. Freund & Co. 

Chris and Nicole, your love for each other is seismic. You two are going to move mountains together, and already affect people all over the country with your love. We are so honored to have been a part of your day. Cheers to many happy years together, and a friendship neverending!

Venue: Greenhouse Loft | Photography: Jenna Marie Photography | Flowers: Natural Beauties Floral | Planning & Design: Elevate Events | Officiant: Groom’s Grandfather, Charlie | Catering and Desserts: Big Delicious Planet | Videography: Kathleen Quinn Films | DJ/Entertainment: Danny Wedel, Lighting/AV – AV Chicago | Hair & Makeup: Debra Petrielli | Transportation: Windy City Limousine | Beverage: Binny’s Beverage Depot | Elevated Head Table Structure & Seating Chart: Shelby Made It | Photobooth Backdrop: Mrs. Freund & Co. | Invitation Suite: Wedding Paper Divas