Mattie + Harrison | A Classic, Candlelit Wedding at the Union League Club of Chicago
Venue: Union League Club of Chicago
Photographer: Cling & Peck Photography & Videography
A Timeless Autumn Celebration in Chicago
Mattie and Harrison celebrated their October wedding at the historic Union League Club of Chicago, a venue synonymous with classic architecture, refined interiors, and old-world art. Their celebration embraced the beauty of restraint—focusing on a tightly curated floral palette and dramatic candlelight to create a look that felt editorial, romantic, and effortlessly timeless. The result was a wedding that honored the grandeur of the space while feeling modern, intentional, and elegant.
A Refined Floral Palette of Texture and Tone
The floral design centered on just three statement blooms: calla lilies, antique hydrangeas, and amaranthus. Rich burgundy, dusty pink, ombré sage, slate green, and warm ivory tones blended seamlessly to create depth and softness without overwhelming the historic setting.
The Bride’s Statement Calla Lily Bouquet
Mattie carried a medium-scale bouquet of raspberry-toned calla lilies designed in a trumpet-inspired, cascading silhouette. Clean, sculptural, and undeniably editorial, the bouquet felt striking against her gown while remaining timeless and refined.
Her bridesmaids carried minimal, modern bouquets of two to three jumbo white calla lilies finished with trailing white ribbon—an elegant, unfussy complement that reinforced the wedding’s classic aesthetic.
The Groom’s Elegant Boutonniere
Harrison wore a berry-toned calla lily boutonniere, subtly distinguished from his groomsmen, who wore white peace lily bouts for a cohesive, polished look.
Sculptural Ceremony Florals
The ceremony space was defined by four hydrangea-forward sculptural arrangements framing the altar. Lush yet architectural, these pieces introduced botanical softness while maintaining a clean, elevated presence within the Union League’s stately interior.
Antique hydrangeas, ninebark, calla lilies, and amaranthus, and created an atmosphere of quiet romance—perfectly suited to an early October ceremony.
A Candlelit Reception at the Union League Club
The reception design leaned heavily into candlelight, transforming the space into a warm, glowing celebration. Most guest tables featured clusters of seven to ten antique brass taper candleholders with white taper candles, creating groupings of soft, flickering glow throughout the room.
The head table served as a dramatic focal point, anchored by three towering brass candelabras and flanked by the bridesmaids’ jumbo white calla lilies displayed in clear glass cylinders. Two dozen skinny tapers set within hurricanes stretched the length of the table, creating an especially luminous and romantic effect.
An Elegant Wedding for the History Books
From the sculptural calla lilies to fluffy hydrangeas to glowing brass candlelight, Mattie and Harrison’s wedding was a masterclass in classic design with modern minimalism. Every detail felt intentional—allowing the beauty of the Union League Club to shine while layering in warmth, romance, and timeless floral elegance.
We were honored to create florals for such a refined celebration—one that proves simplicity, when done thoughtfully, can be truly breathtaking.
