Chicago Elysian Hotel wedding: Samantha & Ben
Posted Jul 20, 2010 / by Kevin / in Weddings / 6 Comments
Whew. I believe this is the largest set of images I have ever posted on my blog. While I firmly believe a blog posting should not contain more than 20 images, there are several factors why I chose to break my own rules.
Ben and Sam are special to me. Their hire occurred after 9 long months of hard work rebranding my business and one month before I landed my first lease on a studio space in the West Loop. Being chosen to shoot their wedding validated many of my business decisions and insecurities revolving around those choices. I am so honored to celebrate this time of my career with them as well as their families.

While the details aren't important to share, expressing my gratitude and bond is important. I mentioned last week I rarely ever get personal and close with a client, and I am saddened they are moving to Colorado at the end of this week. However, I sense I just might have a spare room with my name on it for a skiing vacation. Yes?
We gathered at my studio this past Sunday so they could see the final product before they leave, drink some wine (OK, three bottles) and then head off to a fantastic meal at the Longman & Eagle which they introduced me to this past Spring. If you have not eaten there, I urge you to go. If you are a whiskey fan like myself, you will be thrileld to know they have an extensive menu for that special spirit. Oh, and make certain to order one of their specialites, a Manhattan. Oy. Some of the best I have ever tried. Our evening spanned nearly 7 hours and into the middle of the night until I nearly passed out from exhaustion. I wish I could have gone another 7 hours.
As you will see below, their wedding was a beautiful, formal affair. However, lacking the "social formalities." Ben and Sam are low-key and definitely did not want their event to be weighed down with rules, agendas and a check list of what normally occurs on a wedding day. They chose an incredible team of vendors from hiring Reva Nathan & Associates, Kehoe, me and my team, Flat Cats and the Elysian Hotel to begin their married life together.
When all was said and done, the two were truly happy with the results, as well as their incredible families. And pleasing parents is always a huge added bonus. Thank you Ben and Sam, as well as your supporting teammates who threw you an incredible event. See you shortly …
Oh, drive safe on Thursday. Now you have three Jewish mothers.
Samantha Barlow & Ben Kreisman
July 3, 2010
Ceremony: Elysian Hotel
Reception: Elysian Hotel






Chadd Foy image






Chadd Foy image




























Chadd Foy image



Chadd Foy image

Ceremony: Elysian
Reception Elysian
Planning: Reva Nathan & Associates
Florist - Kehoe Designs
Lighting and decor - Kehoe Designs
Officiant - Cantor Lynda Dresher - Congregation B'nai Torah
Make up and Hair by Emily Massa and Maddie Wagner
Wedding dress: Dimitras Bridal
wedding dress designer: Atelier Aimee
Brides shoes: Werner Kern, bought at Russian Pointe
Caterer/chef: Head chef Jason McLeod - Elysian Hotel
Deserts: Elysian Hotel
Band: The Flat Cats
Invitations: Reva Nathan & Associates
Menus: Elysian
Groom's suit: Albert Karoll, owner of Richard Bennett Custom Tailors
Grooms shoes: Prada
Second Shooting Assistant: Chadd Foy

OMG. I LOVE her dress! The details of the wedding are so beautiful. I especially love the lighting/ambiance. And of course, stellar photos Kevin
You should know I’m already a big fan!
XO
Jul 20, 2010 / Deb Pang Davis