They are the type of people who love to travel, who love good food, and who give with all their hearts. They are good people …. the ones you want to surround yourself with because they make you better.

Ashley and Mark planned a wedding to celebrate the love they have for their friends, family and each other … and in doing so, they set the precedent for how they will live their lives together.

Hand-in-hand, in front of those they love most, they promised to love each unconditionally. They vowed to remain at each other’s side and to always be each other’s best friend. Together they will continue to travel, eat great food and radiate love, but now they will do so as husband and wife. It was a perfect day for two people who deserve nothing less.

Ashley + Mark – Thank you for being so sweet, kind, and thoughtful! It was a joy to document your wedding day, and I feel so blessed to have shared in your first day as husband and wife. I know your lives are destined for great things because you deserve every bit of it. Much love + gratitude … Brittany

The morning started off at a beautiful suite at Hotel Allegro where Ashley had the most gorgeous of bridal details including these to-die-for Jimmy Choos.

Ashley’s closest friends and family spent the morning getting ready and ensured everything was flawless.

While I was oogling Ashley’s Jimmy Choos, I couldn’t help but also adore her reception shoes. Fun and spunky …. just like the bride-to-be.

Ashley is the epitome of effortless beauty.

Meanwhile, Mark and the guys where hanging out at the hotel …

and enjoying a Whiskey tasting. I thought this was such a fun idea!

Mark and Ashley chose to see each other before the ceremony, and I couldn’t have been happier with the amazing moment between the two of them.

After the first look, we went to the Chicago Board of Trade for some bride and groom photos.

Despite all the traffic on Lasalle Street, Ashley and Mark were completely focused on each other.

The best part of seeing each other before the ceremony is it allows ample time for different locations for wedding photos.

And a more serious shot of them ….

It was a brisk fall day, and Ashley’s fur kept her warm when she wasn’t wrapped up in Mark.

A favorite ….

Ashley and Mark kept their wedding party very intimate … only having Ashley’s best friend and Mark’s brother.

The ceremony took place at the First United Methodist Church.

Mark was thrilled to promise his love and his life to Ashley.

The stained glass and wood detail was absolutely stunning.

And Ashley beamed with happiness as she promised to love Mark no matter what comes their way.

Friends and family erupted with applause as Mark and Ashley walked down the aisle as husband and wife.

Ashley and Mark planned this wedding in less than 6 months! Mark was living in China for work during their engagement, so they decided to wait until he was back in Chicago to plan their best day ever.

Fleurs de Lisa designed all the gorgeous floral arrangements.

The ballroom at Hotel Allegro was simply gorgeous!

The night progressed perfectly, only to be outdone by perfect toasts.

There were moments of complete laughter …

…. and moments full of emotion.

The newlyweds were beyond grateful and blessed to share their happily ever after with those they love the most.

What I adore about these two, is that they don’t take themselves too seriously. During their first dance, they made sure to have fun.

The TVK Orchestra had guests jumping out of their seat once the dance floor opened.

Everyone pulled out their best moves late into the night.

Many thanks to the wedding team who helped create a flawless day for Ashley and Mark.

CEREMONY:  first united methodist church // RECEPTION : hotel allegro // FLORIST : Fleurs de Lisa // HAIR + MAKEUP :  // BAND : tvk orchestra // CAKE : alliance bakery // INVITATIONS : Alicia Triche, AHHA Designz // PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT : nicole morisco // PHOTOGRAPHY : brittany bekas photography