REAL WEDDINGS, REAL TALK

Carolyn Johnson 6/10/26 Carolyn Johnson 6/10/26

AELO Alumni | Kellie + Drew, 5/2/26 - PHOTOS

What an incredible night. It’s no secret that we love our unconventional weddings, and a couple of cuties getting married at the city’s best dive bar was no exception. Kellie + Drew wanted a casual, fun wedding at their favorite place, and that’s what we delivered. Drew carefully curated their music, the “Pope” officiated, and everyone had a blast. Born to Run, indeed. We love you guys. Congratulations!

Carolyn Johnson 5/20/26 Carolyn Johnson 5/20/26

YOU MUST HIRE CATERING.

What does a serving staff need to take care of when you’re just having food dropped off?

Listen, not to call anyone out, but your wedding planner/coordinator is NOT a caterer. We’re not licensed to deal with food and it’s NOT why you hire a planner.

We totally understand the need to save money. But you’re going to have catering dropped off for nearly two hundred people, you must hire catering and serving staff. There are so many other things we need to be doing while expert caterers are doing their thing.

What does a serving staff need to take care of when you’re just having food dropped off?

-Throwing linens
-Setting cutlery, napkins, flatware, glasses
-Setting up the buffet, including plates and sterno
-Replenishing food, plates, etc.
-Bussing tables
-Cutting cake and serving it
-Setting up dessert and coffee
-Taking out all trash
-Sweeping and mopping per venue instructions

Absolutely none of that is what we do. Please think it through before you decide not to hire an event caterer. We know price tags can be shocking but in the end, you may spend just as much hiring outside staff. Okay? Okay. Thank you.

Carolyn Johnson 4/22/26 Carolyn Johnson 4/22/26

AELO Alumni | Becca + Nina, 11/15/25

The cutest wedding with the most FUN group of folks! And somehow the perfect weather for an outdoor cocktail hour - in November. From matching tuxes and doc loafers, the adorable ceremony with live music (from one of the marriers!), to a flower crown for the pup, I had the best time coordinating & being a part of Becca + Nina's wedding. Thanks for letting me end the night in the middle of the dance circle scream singing Pink Pony Club, it's where I belong ;)

two brides in a white suit and a green suit walk down a street in chicago walking their dog

Carolyn Johnson 4/15/26 Carolyn Johnson 4/15/26

AELO Alumni | Lizzie + Brady, 11/1/25

Congratulations Lizzie and Bradyl! It was such a treat to celebrate with this sweet couple on a beautiful fall day at the Greenhouse Loftl This wedding had it all - gorgeous decor (most of it created by the bride and her mother!), a touching ceremony and an unforgettable day filled with lots and lots of love. We are so happy for Lizzie and Brady and wish them a lifetime of happiness.

bride and groom stand under the staircase at the Rookery, Chicago, looking at each other

Carolyn Johnson 4/8/26 Carolyn Johnson 4/8/26

AELO Alumni | Katie + Matthew, 11/1/25

Katie and Matthew’s celebration was truly unforgettable. Their ceremony took place in the historic Mayfair Theater, where the timeless decor and incredible acoustics created the perfect setting for their harpist and heartfelt vows. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the 2nd floor, surrounded by fascinating artifacts and unique decor that sparked conversation and added to the venue’s charm. The evening continued in the elegant Erin Room, where Katie and Matthew danced the night away with their family and friends. It was a beautiful celebration filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

A groom in a white tuxedo and a bride in a mermaid gown kiss in front of their large, cheering bridal party who wear black gowns and black tuxes