Ivy Room Chicago Rehearsal Session — Jules Kennedy Photography

This past summer, I had the opportunity to document Becky and Ethan’s welcome party the evening before they got married. Since they had so many guests come in from out of town for their wedding, they had the clever thought to invite everyone to the festivities the night before.

The Ivy Room is such a beautiful space in Chicago and a favorite of mine to shoot. In the summer, the brick exterior is transformed into an ivy oasis. Their courtyard gives off Secret Garden vibes in the best way. The city becomes quiet and you no longer feel like you’re in the heart of downtown Chicago. It almost feels as if you've been transported to the French countryside for a moment in time.

Dinner was much more informal than what you’d envision a traditional rehearsal dinner to look like. Servers came around with delicious hors d’oeuvres, including the cutest Portillo’s mini hot dogs, before guests took their seats for toasts. A few of Becky and Ethan’s closest friends said kind words, ending with a gracious thank you from the soon-to-be bride and groom.

This was a wonderful spin on the more traditional rehearsal dinner. It felt like the perfect way to relax, have fun, and catch up with old friends before the craziness of the wedding day. This way you don’t feel the pressure to run around from table to table making sure you say hello to everyone on your wedding day. You can prioritize your time enjoying your day and being present for each and every moment. Your wedding experience should be a projection of who you and your partner are —don’t feel the need to check all the boxes. Form your own path.