Kristen & Kyle’s St. James Chapel & University Club Wedding | 312FILMS

Kristen and Kyle’s wedding was a masterclass in classic Chicago elegance, set against some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: a Saint James Chapel ceremony, portraits in the Art Institute Gardens, and a Cathedral Hall reception at the University Club of Chicago.

Getting Ready at the University Club

The day began at the University Club of Chicago, where the couple prepared in the club’s historic Barber Shop and Game Room before an emotional first look in the 12th Floor Gallery, with the city skyline behind them.

A Ceremony at St. James Chapel

Their ceremony at Saint James Chapel was filled with personal touches, including a homily that revisited their “aggressive” second date of hot yoga, a sharp contrast to their first date of beer and pizza. One of the most touching threads of the day was the “5 AM Club,” the early-morning coffee tradition Kristen’s father Dennis shares with the couple.

Cathedral Hall: A “Hogwarts-Like” Reception

The celebration moved to the University Club’s breathtaking Cathedral Hall, where guests marveled at the soaring Gothic ceilings. From the couple’s first dance to Taylor Swift’s “Crazier” to a high-energy set by Ken Arlen Evolution, the night was a vibrant tribute to “the last Strand girl” and the new chapter she begins with Kyle.

Highlights for the Film

• The venue: Cathedral Hall’s Gothic scale reads both historic and magical on camera.
• The toasts: Kristen’s childhood English accent, her work as a Lurie Children’s OR nurse, and Kyle’s late father, whose pride was felt through the whole room.
• The atmosphere: portraits in the Art Institute Gardens and a grand exit in a vintage car, the essence of a perfect Chicago autumn wedding.

The Creative Team

• Videography: 312FILMS
• Photography: Kent Drake
• Planning: Mary Klein, Clementine Custom Events
• Ceremony venue: Saint James Chapel
• Reception venue: University Club of Chicago (Cathedral Hall)
• Floral & decor: Anthony Gowder
• Entertainment: Ken Arlen Evolution
• Beauty: Deco Adamo
• Wedding dresser: Caroline Shaw
• Live illustrator: Rosemary Fanti

Planning a Saint James Chapel or University Club wedding? See our chapel guide and Cathedral Hall guide, or check your date →