Mitch + AJ’s Artifact Events wedding was so stunning! I absolutely loved getting to photograph their wedding day. When Mitch + AJ first reached out to me, we chatted about how much they dreamed of an editorial flair to their photos, so I knew I would be a great match for them. After only a few minutes of chatting, I could tell that what they shared was special, and I adored their vision for their wedding day, so I was thrilled when they booked me for their Artifact Events wedding. When we met for their engagement session, the vibes were so good and I couldn’t wait for this day.
Having met online, Mitch + AJ have a true modern-day love story. However, their first date was at their favorite bar in Boystown (the LGBTQ+ neighborhood in Chicago), Roscoe’s. On their 5th anniversary, AJ proposed to Mitch. He surprised Mitch with a helicopter tour of the city! Following, they shared dinner at the Michelin Star Filipino restaurant Kasama. Finally, when they came home, their condo was decorated by AJ’s friend. It was there where he officially proposed, and of course, Mitch said yes!
Artifact Events an industrial, modern wedding and event space located in Chicago’s Historic Ravenswood neighborhood. Exposed brick walls, gleaming chandeliers, string lights, exposed wood beams, and high ceilings make this venue an easy choice. As a photographer, I couldn’t have been more pleased with the light this space offers, as well as the many spaces available for photos. As you’ll see below, we never had to leave the venue to get Mitch + AJ the wedding photos of their dreams. Artifact Events also has getting ready suites for pre-wedding preparation.
Artifact Events has many spaces to accomodate weddings. The private outdoor courtyard (my personal favorite part of the venue!) offers room for more than 250 seated guests for ceremonies. The North First Floor accomodates 250 for a seated dinner, while the North second floor accomodates 220. The South First and Second Floor both accomodate 200 seated guests. Overall, the venue can hold 1,000+ guests.
Less than a block from the Brown Line, less than 8 miles from The Loop, and equipped with ample street parking, Artifact Events weddings are super accessible for guests, even those from out of town.
Mitch + AJ’s Artifact Events wedding was such a dream! Getting married in the middle of the summer in Chicago can be a gamble, but the weather was perfect. Mitch + AJ got ready together with their closest friends and their sweet pup, Milo. Their ceremony was so sweet and intentional, and their vows had almost everyone tearing up. Of course, Milo stole the show as the ring bearer!
They decorated their reception space with class and elegance, filling the tables with candles and white florals. It was so chic. Their grand entrance was a choreographed dance that every guest loved! Their first dance was to II Most Wanted by Beyonce and Miley Cyrus, so you know I was singing along! After sharing some special moments with their guests via dinner, toasts, and special dances, they told their guests they had a surprise. As lovers of drag (they try to visit a drag show any time they visit somewhere new), they had two drag queens perform, who were amazing! AJ + Mitch even joined in at the end. It was incredible.
Venue: Artifact Events / Planner: Olive Fine Weddings / Florals: Studio Poppy / DJ: Green Line Talent / Hair: Kristi Edmonson / Photo Booth: Magic Moment / Guest Book: After the Tone / Invitations: Zola / Rings: DaValle Jewelers / Reception Outfit: Men’s Warehouse / Groomsmen tuxes: The Black Tux / Groomswoman dresses: Birdy Grey / Pet Handling: Paw Wedding Service
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