Ali & John’s Winter Wedding at Union League Club & Holy Family

Ali & John: A Timeless Chicago Winter Wedding

There is nothing quite as cinematic as a winter wedding in the heart of Chicago. On December 18, 2021, Ali and John’s celebration was a masterclass in classic elegance, blending historic architecture with the warmth of the holiday season.

The Morning Preparation

The day began at the historic Union League Club, where the air was buzzing with excitement. Our cameras captured the quiet, beautiful moments of preparation: the bridesmaids in their robes, the final touches of hair and makeup, and the poignant moment when Ali stepped into her wedding gown.

A Cinematic First Look

For their first look, the couple headed to the iconic Chicago Board of Trade. Against the towering Art Deco architecture, John saw Ali for the first time as a bride, a grand, urban scale that perfectly complemented the intimacy of the moment before the wedding party joined them for photos throughout the city.

The Ceremony at Holy Family

The heart of the day took place at the Church of the Holy Family, a venue with a sense of timelessness and reverence. As the evening ceremony began, the soft lighting of the historic church created a romantic and sacred atmosphere for Ali and John to exchange their vows.

An Elegant Evening at the Union League Club

Following the ceremony, the celebration returned to the Union League Club. Guests were welcomed into the President’s Hall for cocktails before moving into the magnificent Lincoln Ballroom for dinner, an evening filled with heartwarming traditions, from the cake cutting and emotional toasts to the couple’s first dance.

As the night progressed, Ken Arlen’s Entourage took the stage, turning the elegant ballroom into a high-energy celebration. From dinner to the late-night snacks and the photo booth fun, every moment was a testament to the joy Ali and John share with their family and friends.

The Creative Team

• Videography: 312FILMS
• Coordination: Your Day by MK (MK Andersen)
• Photography: Christy Tyler
• Ceremony: Church of the Holy Family
• Venue & catering: Union League Club of Chicago
• Floral design: Fabrinni
• Entertainment: Entourage (Ken Arlen)
• Photo booth: Snap Booth
• Calligraphy: Calligraphy by CT
• Transportation: Pontarelli & M&M

Love Holy Family? See another celebration there: Mia & Stone’s Everglow wedding. And for more December magic, browse our winter wedding films.

Planning a Union League Club or Holy Family wedding? See our Union League Club venue guide and Holy Family guide, or check your date →