Fourth Presbyterian & Gibsons Chicago Wedding Video

Lauren & Shane: A Cinematic Chicago Love Story

From a fateful “swipe right” over six and a half years earlier to a stunning spring wedding in the heart of Chicago on April 23, 2022, Lauren and Shane’s celebration was a masterclass in urban elegance and heartfelt emotion. Their film captures the “highest highs and lowest lows” they’ve navigated together, culminating in a day defined by unification, laughter, and a touch of French humor.

The Story

The couple’s journey began when Lauren moved to Chicago after a weekend that “solidified her decision” to embrace the city. Their first meeting at Old Town Pour House set the stage for a relationship where Shane’s humor and unmatched sense of adventure met Lauren’s thoughtfulness and amazingly organized planning. Friends and family noted how Lauren’s incredible hosting game, complete with perfect charcuterie and ambiance, brought a beautiful balance to Shane’s powerful personality. And then there is the recurring favorite: the story of Shane accidentally telling his French teacher “I am a little girl” during their first class together, a moment that immediately endeared him to Lauren.

The Wedding Weekend

The celebration began the night before with a rehearsal dinner at Gibsons Italia and a welcome reception at Travelle at The Langham. On the wedding morning, the bridal party prepared in the Langham suites with SukyV Makeup and Meghan Schnell Hair, while Polly’s Petals delivered lush personal florals before the couple’s first look and wedding party portraits on the DuSable Bridge, the architectural heart of the city that brought them together.

The Covenant at Fourth Presbyterian

The ceremony was held at the historic Fourth Presbyterian Church on Michigan Avenue, preceded by a touching first look between Lauren and her father. In a moving service, the couple entered into the “covenant of marriage,” promising to be each other’s “container for growth,” before exiting to cheers as The 312 Limo waited to carry the newly joined families through the bustling Chicago streets.

A High-Energy Reception at Gibsons on Rush

The celebration moved to Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse on Rush, a quintessential Chicago landmark.

Heartfelt toasts: from the matron of honor, the best man, and the couple themselves, including a poignant memorial toast to Shane’s father, George, whose spirit was felt throughout the room.
A cinematic surprise: the couple’s engagement video played on the screens just before they took the floor.
The first dance: Sinatra’s “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” with the bridal party joining midway to open the dance floor.
Non-stop celebration: a dessert carving station and late-night snacks kept the energy high until the final note played at midnight.

The Creative Team

Videography: 312FILMS
Photography: Photography by Lauryn
Ceremony: Fourth Presbyterian Church
Reception: Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse on Rush
Getting ready: The Langham Chicago
Floral design: Polly’s Petals
Makeup: SukyV Makeup
Hair: Meghan Schnell
Transportation: The 312 Limo

Love these venues? Fourth Presbyterian is one of our 12 most beautiful churches in Chicago, and for another Gibsons celebration see Courtney & Adam at Gibsons Italia.

Planning a Fourth Presbyterian or Gibsons wedding? We know both rooms and the light between them. Check your date →