Amanda + Ryan’s story follows an interesting timeline of events. They first met at a “Throw Back to College Years” birthday party about 8 years ago. Even after a couple jello shots – there weren’t any sparks, and it seemed they were going to take the road towards friendship. Fast forward 6 years, and Ryan moved back to Chicago after playing professional baseball in Florida. They both had mutual friends, so their journey started with a solid base of friendship. Then, at 13,000ft in Breckenridge, CO – something clicked, timing was perfect, and everything aligned for them.

The following year, they were in Park City Utah. After scouting the mountain for 2 days and snowboarding with a ring in his pants, Ryan found a scenic woods setting to take their annual handstand picture. After the final picture and wipe out, Amanda stood up while Ryan stayed in the snow …but this time on one knee – asking Amanda to marry him.

Their wedding was the perfect Sunday Funday. Their friends and family gathered for an early afternoon ceremony/cocktail hour/lunch reception at Ovation. A lot of the details were DIY, and I’m talking GOOD DIY. They designed their own logo, created all the signs, made all the centerpieces full of greenery and palms, made the place cards… and they even built the structure at the front of the ceremony. But my favorite detail was that they brought all their plants from home – it was such a personal touch! They had fun, showed their love for each other, drinks were flowing, and the after-party continued at Fifty-50. After spending the day with them – I now LOVE the idea of a Sunday Wedding – it was perfect 🙂 Amanda + Ryan, all the best to you guys – and I hope to continue running into you at the Windy City Smokeout for years to come!

VENDOR CREDITS // Wedding Dress Designer: Justin Alexander, Weddings 826 | Tuxedo Designer: Adrian Park Custom Suits | Hair Stylist: Amanda, Blohaute | Make-up Artist: Joey Claeyssen | Donuts: Glazed and Infused | Ceremony/Reception Venue: Ovation | Caterer: Catering by Michaels