Juliana and Max are super stylish, trendy, and know what they want. In 2019, they chose to have a 25-person intimate elopement at Cindy's Rooftop in Chicago, IL. Little did we know they'd be setting the trend for the 2020 wedding season. So take notes from a couple who eloped before it was cool.
Max and Juliana coordinated a day that was perfectly tailored to them. They met the morning of their elopement at the coolest park in Chicago, so they could include their pup in wedding photos! They invited 25 of their closest family and friends. Does that number sound familiar? Well, it might be our new cap on guest count for weddings in 2020. We told you this would be relevant!
They chose Cindy's Rooftop as their elopement venue. Cindy's is an outdoor-indoor patio rooftop that overlooks Millennium Park and the streets of downtown. Their elopement ceremony was officiated by a best friend. Their guests surrounded them, many on video Facetime with distant relatives unable to make it. Does that ring a bell? It's the new normal.
They shared hand-written vows, exchanged rings, and sealed their marriage with a kiss. Attending guests shared stories, recited readings, speeches, and gave wholesome toasts. The bride and groom then made their way around to each phone screen to say hello and receive congratulations from guests who witnessed their ceremony from their homes miles and miles away.
Champagne was poured and candid group photos were taken. The guests took their seats for lunch while Juliana and Max soaked up the view from the rooftop, alone, together.
Juliana and Max sat at the head of the long wooden table. Cindy's created a dining menu of all their favorite foods: pasta, hot dogs, french fries, gourmet salads, etc. while also pairing it with their signature cocktails and favored wine.
There was absolutely no stress. They still got glammed up, and ate and drank their favorite foods. They still exchanged vows and rings. Their most important people attended their wedding, near or far. At the end of the day, Juliana and Max were married.
If applicable, we highly suggest eloping on your actual wedding date and saving the large party for later. You might be shocked to find out that an elopement was what you should have been planning all along. You have more time to spend with each guest, your new husband or wife, and that makes the day infinitely more emotional and special.
Technically a wedding is just the event to celebrate your marriage - sooo you could do that every year if you wanted! ;)
C&A Photographer: Hanna Walkowaik
Venue: Cindy's Rooftop
Bride's Dress: Needle & Thread
Groom's Suit: Suit Supply
Ring Designer: Pli Restrepo
