Kristen & Brian | A Chicago Elopement Wedding % Uttke Photography & Design

Kristen & Brian are married!

I wrote up a long intro on Kristen & Brian’s original plans. Then, their backup plan. But, it was too long and I think we can all assume what happened. Let’s just say: 2020. Despite everything that came at them, Kristen & Brian planned the coolest Chicago elopement wedding.

On a beautiful day in the city of Chicago, we met Brian at the Hoxton Hotel. Before Lazy Bird opened, we snuck in with Connor, Kristen’s brother, and his wife, Paige (the only other people with us, a total of six). Both Kristen & Brian’s excitement to seeing each other radiated and filled the air. It was hard to not smile behind those masks!

As we walked through Fulton Market, the outdoor patios roared with applause. It was honestly one of the happiest moments of the year!

Their little pop-up wedding at the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool was emotional, beautiful, short and sweet. Kristen said, “We were lucky to have a bit of privacy, but it was such a romantic area that reflected a lot of mine and Brian’s personalities.” Connor officiated while Paige quietly watched on… and cried. Immediately after, they popped some rosé and just relaxed while they beamed from ear to ear. They actually said this was their favorite part of the day… “The five minutes of downtime after the ceremony, having a drink, enjoying the moment.”

To couples planning their wedding during the pandemic, Kristen & Brain say, ” Elope! Covid-19 has been a real bummer for a lot of people, especially couples planning a wedding. Eloping allows you to have a ceremony that is so drama-free, intimate and curated specifically for you. And no one’s going to be upset about having to have a future party to attend.”

Congratulations Kristen & Brian!