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.

A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate

From the moment we first connected with Rachel and Utsav, it was clear their wedding would be a celebration rich with heart, connection, and the blending of two beautiful worlds. Set against the sweeping landscape of Bunker Hill Farms in Woodstock, Illinois – with its private lodge, rolling hills, and sparkling pond – their day felt like a true retreat for their closest family and friends.

With both the ceremony and reception held on the property, guests were able to settle in and savor the easy, relaxed rhythm of the day. Their ceremony felt intimate and heartfelt, rooted in classic American traditions with a few gentle nods to Utsav’s Indian heritage; a meaningful preview of the larger celebration to come next year.

From there, guests made their way to the sailcloth tent we transformed into a cozy retreat beside the pond. We draped the entire structure to soften the space, laid down a coastal-inspired floor for warmth and texture, and filled the space with the whites and greens of late summer. The result was a welcoming, elevated environment that felt equal parts naturally elegant and deeply personal.

One of our team’s favorite moments of the entire day was revealing the tent to Rachel and Utsav. Seeing their excitement and the way they took in every detail as the sun set behind them was the most meaningful culmination of months of dreaming, designing, and planning together.

As the evening continued, guests enjoyed heartfelt toasts, a beautiful dinner, and a dance floor that absolutely came alive. Joey from DCP kept the energy high well into the night, blending smooth electronic tunes with spirited punjabi dance breaks; perfectly matching Rachel and Utsav’s personalities. With the pond shimmering nearby, the tent glowing from within, and their favorite people gathered around them, the entire celebration felt warm, intentional, and truly unforgettable.

Rachel & Utsav, thank you for trusting us with such a meaningful part of your story. We loved every moment of planning alongside you and cannot wait to cheer you on as your celebrations continue in the year ahead. Here’s to a lifetime of joy, love, and nights just as vibrant as this one.

A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois
A Late-Summer Sailcloth Celebration at a Private Estate in Illinois

Vendors

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Bunker Hill Farms | Photography: Allison Francois | Videography: Hello Darling Films | Planning & Design: Elevate Events | Tenting & Flooring: Blue Peak Tents | Catering: The Vibrant Veg | Bar: Pour Inc | Floral: Sweet Pea Design Studio | Entertainment: David Charles Pro, Cloud Gate Quartet | Stationery: Minted | Beauty: Makeup Eva Willet | Dessert: Heirloom Bakery and Kitchen, Lake Geneva Bakery, Beavers Donuts | Rentals: Event Essentials, BBJ La Tavola, David Charles Pro, Velvet Rentals | Bar: Bartique Bars | Accommodations: Lodge Geneva National | Transportation: ThinkLimo | Fashion: Bon Bon Belle