Morning, Cakies! We’ve actually seen a couple of super duper unique butterfly-themed real weddings here on 100LC (this + this come to mind) in the past, so it was extra special to see this concept come to life in a completely new way, as dreamt up by Stone Fruit and Olive Fine Weddings & Events at the ever-chic Allegro Chicago. While scrolling through the glamorous images Allie Appel Photography shared, be sure to read all about the team’s concept—it’s sure to inspire whether you’re planning a spring or fall wedding.
Already smitten with this Alexandra Grecco gown from Alice in Ivory. And this is only one of the bridal looks…
Spring is a time of change, of emerging from the dark winter and embracing life and growth in longer days. This wedding inspiration features the side of springtime that is: colorful flowers struggling to burst through muddy grass, butterflies breaking free and setting flight, golden sunlight striking through the wintry sky, and a dance between dark and light.
The inspiration for this collaboration between Olive Fine Weddings & Events and Stone Fruit began with the remarkable butterfly. The emergent butterfly’s dazzling first flight can only happen once, as with the wedding day itself, but like the couple, it is forever changed.
The team created a floating butterfly backdrop for the ceremony, illuminated by candlelight.
And as we’ve mentioned before, we’re totally into branching out from the traditional bridesmaid bouquets. Those butterfly hoops are one breathtaking way to do it!
Post ceremony, the bride swapped her first gown for a sculptural, statement number by Chicago designer, Sarah Varca, and a pair of red butterfly heels. She snuggled up with her groom at the velvet-clad table in a shadowy corner of the Allegro Hotel while the L train rumbled past the ballroom windows.
Such a unique way to channel a glam, Art Deco feel, don’t you think?
Stone Fruit’s stationery set the tone for the day. Our setting, the historic Allegro Hotel in Chicago, inspired a touch of Art Deco glamour and geometric motifs. A translucent overlay on the Save-the-Date gave the effect that the printed butterflies were floating above the dark, dutch floral still-life. Marble accents, vintage stamps (including butterfly stamps, of course!), a red, butterfly wax seal, and gold foil pulled everything together. Every element of the stationery hints at something in the scene of the day. French tulips from the still-life bloom in Persephone Floral Atelier’s bouquets. The butterflies come to life in three-dimensions inside hand-lettered acrylic boxes at each place. Gold foil flashing from deep, black paper mirrors the flickering ebony candles on the table and at the ceremony. The marble accents reappear in the three-tier cake.
Still as enamored with this butterfly wedding as we are? Find more photos below!
Film by Floating Home Films.
Big thanks to Allie Appel Photography and the talents below for adding a little luxe into our days…
Photography: Allie Appel Photography / Videography: Floating Home Films / Venue: Allegro Chicago / Planning & Coordination: Olive Fine Weddings & Events / Design, Styling, Stationery, & Signage: Stone Fruit / Flowers: Persephone Floral Atelier / Hair: Alexa Grace of Zazu Salons / Makeup: Mandy Farmer / Cake: ECBG Studio / Rentals: Tablescapes Chicago / Velvet Linen: BBJ Linen / First Look Gown: Alexandra Grecco from Alice in Ivory / Reception Gown: Sarah Varca Bridal / Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids / Fine Jewelry: Cottage Jewelry / Groom’s Attire: Formally Modern Chicago
