Kara & Brad’s Wedding at RPM on the Water (now RPM Events)
Kara & Brad: A Modern Chicago Romance at RPM on the Water
On a beautiful September Saturday in 2019, Kara and Brad celebrated a wedding that perfectly blended modern elegance with deep-rooted traditions at RPM on the Water, the riverside venue now known as RPM Events. Our goal was to capture the vibrant energy of the city alongside the intimate moments shared between this couple and their twenty-three-person wedding party.
Morning Preparations & The First Look
Our day began at two of Chicago’s most iconic hotels: one videographer with Brad and his eleven groomsmen at The Westin, the other documenting Kara’s preparations at the Trump Hotel. The couple shared an emotional first look at Terrace 16, a stunning backdrop for portraits before the entire wedding party boarded a trolley for cinematic shots at the Museum Campus and the Chicago Riverwalk.
The Ceremony: A Chuppah Over the River
The ceremony took place in the Grand Ballroom overlooking the Chicago River, set against a custom chuppah by Steve’s Flower Market and officiated by Kara’s brother, Jared, deeply personal from the first note.
- The processional: a piano and violin duo, with a moving performance of “God Bless the Broken Road” by Kara’s sister, Maura.
- The traditions: the Seven Blessings (Sheva Brachot), the exchange of rings, and the ceremonial breaking of the glass.
- The recessional: a joyful exit to “You Are the Best Thing.”
The Celebration
The reception was a masterclass in Chicago style: white vinyl chairs, lush floral centerpieces, and custom uplighting that shifted to vibrant blues and purples as the party ignited.
- The grand entrance: Mr. and Mrs. Deutsch announced to “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.”
- The first dance: a live performance of Jason Aldean’s “You Make It Easy” by the 12-piece Larry King Orchestra.
- The Hora: the high-energy centerpiece of any Jewish wedding film, bringing every guest to the dance floor.
- Unique details: a Do-Rite Donut wall, Dipsy Cart ice cream, and a late-night Superdawg snack station, every detail curated for a memorable guest experience.
The Creative Team
- Videography: 312FILMS
- Venue: RPM on the Water (now RPM Events)
- Planning: Plum & Ivy Events
- Photography: Nicodem Creative
- Floral: Steve’s Flower Market
- Music: Larry King Orchestra
- Rentals & production: MDM Entertainment
Love a riverside celebration? Browse our Jewish wedding films or see Courtney & Adam’s wedding at Gibsons Italia, another glass-walled room on the river.
Planning a wedding at RPM Events? We know the room, the river light, and the timeline. Check your date →
