Holy Name Cathedral & Ritz-Carlton Chicago Wedding Video

A Storybook Matchup: Christiana & AJ at Holy Name Cathedral & The Ritz-Carlton

From the moment we began filming Christiana and AJ’s wedding weekend, it was clear this was more than a union of two people; it was the official joining of two families intertwined for years. As the toasts revealed, their story began when a young AJ asked to play catch with Christiana’s cousins, the start of a lifelong friendship that led, at last, to the altar.

The Weekend Begins

The celebration kicked off on Friday with a rehearsal at the iconic Holy Name Cathedral, followed by an intimate rehearsal dinner at Osteria Via Stato, where we documented the excitement as the groom “finally came into focus” for those who had known Christiana since childhood.

The Big Day

The wedding morning began at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, where Christiana prepared with her bridesmaids. One of the most touching sequences to film was her first look with her father, Michael, and her bridesmaids before she departed for the ceremony in a vintage car.

The Ceremony at Holy Name Cathedral

The ceremony, officiated by Monsignor Kenneth Velo, was a masterclass in reverence and joy. Christiana expected to be the one in tears walking down the aisle, but it was AJ who was visibly moved as he watched his best friend approach the altar. They exchanged vows and rings, promising to be true to each other in good times and bad, beginning what the toasts called “a long and beautiful chapter.”

Portraits Around the City

Following the ceremony, the wedding party traveled by party bus to capture the essence of Chicago, with portraits at the Art Institute South Garden, Olive Park, and the Wrigley Building.

An Elegant Reception at The Ritz-Carlton

The celebration continued in the Ritz-Carlton’s grand ballroom, transformed by Bliss Events into a candlelight-hued paradise. Before guests entered, Christiana and AJ shared a private room reveal with their parents and siblings to take in the design together.

• Grand entrance: the newlyweds were introduced to “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).”
• First dance: “At Last” by Etta James.
• Family traditions: Christiana danced with her father to “Isn’t She Lovely,” while AJ and his mother shared “You’ll Be In My Heart.”
• Toasts: Christiana’s sisters shared their joy at seeing their “baby sister” find the best version of herself in AJ.

As the night progressed, the elegant dinner gave way to a vibrant dance floor and an after-party that lasted until 2 AM.

The Beginning of Forever

As the toasts reminded us, this wedding was “only the beginning” of a wondrous journey. It was a privilege to document the “thousand invisible threads” that tie this wonderful couple together. Congratulations, Christiana and AJ!

The Creative Team

• Cinematography: 312FILMS
• Wedding consultant & designer: Bliss Weddings & Events
• Photography: Cristina G. Photography
• Ceremony venue: Holy Name Cathedral (Monsignor Kenneth Velo)
• Reception & after party: The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
• Rehearsal dinner: Osteria Via Stato
• Floral & decor: Bliss Events
• Reception musicians & DJ: Indigo
• Lighting, rigging & draping: Frost
• Hair: RC Beauty
• Makeup: Makeup by Rosie
• Photo booth: Pixster
• Wedding cake & catering: The Ritz-Carlton
• Transportation: VIP Valet Services (shuttle, limo & vintage car)
• Bridal party transportation: Way To Go Trolley & Bus
• Rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals, Bowery & Bash, Northern Décor, Tailored Elements Custom Linens
• Getting-ready catering: Beatrix

Planning a Holy Name Cathedral or Ritz-Carlton wedding? See our cathedral guide and Ritz-Carlton venue guide, or check your date →