On a dreamy Friday in September, Carli + Ben tied the knot at The Lytle House surrounded by their close friends and family.

Their Story

“We met at a good friend’s 23rd birthday party in January of 2017. At the time, Carli was not the biggest fan of Ben. This was because he was put in charge of the music at the party and was not taking any requests. It’s kind of funny looking back, because we learned that music would end up be a big part of our lives. We have gone to a ton of concerts together and have so many memories surrounding music. The first time Ben told Carli that he loved her was at a concert at the House of Blues. It was in 2020 when our relationship furthered because of COVID, and we ended up living together before we had planned. Ben showed up at Carli’s apartment in Lakeview with some of his belongings in a garbage bag. Little did we know he would need much more than that! We think at this time, we really saw the future of what we could have and solidified our plans. We ‘officially’ moved into the planned apartment together six months later and nothing has changed since.”

Getting Ready, First Look + Portraits

Carli got ready at The Thompson Hotel in River North. Her bridesmaids, mom, and mother-in-law all helped her get everything ready for the day. After a sweet first look with dad, I went outside to prep Ben for his own first look with Carli. Once they had their moment together, the couple exchanged private vows. It was starting to drizzle, so we tucked away under the overhang of an apartment complex nearby. Lucky for us, not a soul went in or out of the building while we were taking photos! We then drove over to Lincoln Park for some portraits at the South Pond before heading over to The Lytle House for family + wedding party photos.

Wedding at The Lytle House

Carli + Ben’s intimate ceremony was held in the courtyard of the Lytle House. It was too early in the year for autumn to set in any bit of chill, so guests were able to comfortably sit while they watched the couple get married. For cocktail hour, everyone was able to enjoy appetizers and drinks while admiring the *unreal* table decor. Ben insisted on giving Carli all of the credit for this masterful setup. Even the owners of the Lytle House were taking cell phone photos of the plates, chargers and candles.

Before everyone took their seats, some of Carli’s friends surprised the couple with a small cake! We took some cute cake cutting photos (or more like putting-wine-glass-into-cake photo) before hearing a few speeches. Once dinner was finished, guests watch the couple have their first dance to “Darling” by Chiiild. After the Carli danced with her dad and Ben danced with his mom, the rest of the wedding guests hit the dance floor (but not before grabbing some dessert from the sweets table!). This was truly an unforgettable day at the Lytle House that was filled to the brim with love.

Venue: The Lytle House / Getting Ready Hotel: The Thompson / Hair + Makeup: Rarebird Beauties / Florals: Artquest / Dress: Alexandra Grecco / Alice in Ivory / Suit: Husbands Paris / Catering: Huegah Catering Co. / DJ: Gold Noise DJs