Evelina + Marty took a ‘less is more’ approach to their wedding, opting for a timeless feel with Lithuanian traditions throughout, instead of getting lost in trends and details that weren’t super authentic. With hearts set on a garden wedding, they managed to find a divine reception venue at Palm Court Loyola Univerity Chicago–one that was like being outdoors without gambling on the weather. Sounds like the best kind of compromise!
Photog Lauren Balingit‘s work was an Instagram discovery by the bride. She only needed to see a few photos before knowing Lauren was the gal to book!
Totally into this soft makeup look by Evelina’s friend + makeup artist Marla del Angel.
Isn’t Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Chicago stunning?!
Very early in our wedding planning we knew we wanted to have something symbolic and personal during the ceremony. We decided that my father will walk me half way down the aisle where my father will hand over my hand to Marty and we will walk the rest of the way together.
They didn’t want to book a garden venue just to put up tents if it rained, so after searching for an indoor setting that still felt natural (and getting a bit discouraged), they checked out the Palm Court atrium. Evelina says, The beautiful atrium with the abundance of natural light and wrap-around outdoor terrace was a perfect solution for the unpredictable summers in Chicago. Such a good find!
Evelina, on incorporating their Lithuanian heritage:
As a traditional Lithuanian wedding extends over two days and is filled with beautiful traditions and endless festivitie,s it was hard to choose just a few. We decided to incorporate some of the oldest and most symbolic traditions to us such as greeting of the newlyweds and passage of the parents’ hearth fire. As we arrived at the reception venue we were greeted by our parents with rye bread, salt and water. Bread is a symbol of wealth, abundance of food and fulfilled lives. Salt is a symbol of longevity and eternal love. Water is a symbol life and new beginning.
PS: Evelina enjoyed the planning process so much, she recently decided to help other couples plan too! Find her at Ethereal by Evelina.
Cheers you guys!
Photographer: Lauren Balingit / Videographer: TVS Digital Media / Ceremony Venue: Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Parish / Reception at Palm Court Loyola University Chicago / Event Design & Styling: Ethereal by Evelina / Florist: Windy City Lily / Hair: Salon Buzz / Makeup: Marla del Angel / Invitations: Minted / Cake: Vanille Patisserie / Catering: Aramark /Chairs: Halls Rental / Sofa: Shadow Box Dreams / Votive Holders: Ulrapom / Ribbons: Frou Frou Chic / Film Developing & Scanning: PhotoVision / Bride’s Dresses: Dolce & Gabbana & Custom by Ausra Kasperiuniene / Shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Veil: BHLDN / Earrings: J. Crew / Rings: Custom by Family Friend / Lipstick: NARS ‘Dolce Vita’ / Groom’s Suit: Burberry / Shoes: Hugo Boss / Bow Tie: Calvin Klein / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: ML Monique Lhuillier from Bella Bridesmaids / Groomsmen Ties: Calvin Klein
