Venue: The Arbory
Photographer: Emily Williams Photography

An Intimate Evening at The Arbory

Marsha and Sean’s November wedding at The Arbory in Chicago was a celebration defined by warmth, texture, and romance. Tucked into an industrial yet inviting space on Grand Avenue, the venue’s exposed elements and natural greenery created the perfect setting for an atmospheric, candlelit evening.

Their floral palette embraced the richness of late fall—dusty rose, ivory, champagne, and deep burgundy layered with earthy, tonal accents. The overall design felt soft yet moody, blending refined florals with organic textures for a look that was both elevated and effortlessly intimate.

A Textural, Asymmetrical Bridal Bouquet

Marsha carried an organic, hand-tied bouquet that balanced softness with depth. Designed in an asymmetrical shape, the bouquet featured a layered mix of ivory, champagne, dusty pink, and mauve blooms accented with deeper burgundy and mocha tones.

Dark peonies, deep purple calla lilies, colorful orchids, and ranunculus formed a lush foundation, while trailing amaranthus added a delicate trailing texture. Finished with flowing ribbon and textural greenery, the bouquet felt romantic, velvety, and very dramatic.

A Bridal Party with a Designer Edge

The bridal party florals introduced a modern, editorial element to the day. Bridesmaids carried bouquets drawn from the overall palette, designed as more refined, scaled-down versions of Marsha’s bouquet. This approach created a layered, deconstructed look—each arrangement distinct, yet cohesive within the full palette.

Sean was distinguished with a floral-forward pocket square, composed of petite blooms and wildflower accents. Groomsmen’s boutonnieres followed an eclectic, botanical approach, each featuring a singular statement bloom with coordinated greenery and raw silk ribbon for a polished, textural finish.

A Dramatic Ceremony Installation

The ceremony design transformed The Arbory into an immersive, garden-like environment.

Leading up to the altar, the aisle was lined with staggered groupings of floating candles set on varying pillar heights. Nestled within lush beds of seasonal greenery, the candles created a warm, flickering pathway that felt both intentional and inviting.

A custom hanging installation defined the altar area, featuring cascading greenery and reaching branches layered with statement blooms like orchids, anthurium, antique hydrangeas, delphinium, amaranthus, and garden roses. These elements created a dynamic overhead piece that felt both organic and sculptural.

A Layered Candlelit Reception Design

At the reception, the design shifted into a richly layered tablescape that carried the mood of the ceremony into the later hours of the evening.

Long tables featured repurposed floating candles from the aisle, paired with scattered votives and delicate ribbed bud vases. Each arrangement was interwoven with greenery, creating a natural, flowing composition that felt both elevated and relaxed.

Round tables offered a complementary moment, with classic compote arrangements in a mix of neutral blooms accented by deep burgundy florals. Bronze mercury votives added warmth and cohesion, tying the entire room together with a soft, ambient glow.

A Romantic Sweetheart Table Moment

Marsha and Sean’s sweetheart table served as a focal point within the space, surrounded by an abundance of floating candles, tapers, and votives that created a layered, luminous effect. Positioned in front of the ceremony’s hanging floral installation, it created a draping, glamorous vibe surrounding the couple on all sides with flowers.

Bridal party bouquets were thoughtfully repurposed to frame the table, adding depth and a dynamic floral story that anchored the room. The result was dreamy and romantic—a true centerpiece of the evening.

A Wedding Defined by Mood and Texture

Marsha and Sean’s wedding was a study in balance—soft yet dramatic, refined yet organic. By layering rich fall tones with textural florals and abundant candlelight, the design created an atmosphere that felt immersive, romantic, and deeply personal.

Saville Flowers was delighted to bring their vision to life, crafting florals that embraced the season while elevating every moment of the day.