Chicago Wedding at the Robey | Clarissa + Hilary’s Reception
Clarissa and Hilary eloped in Vegas, but celebrated their vows to one another and new chapter together by having a Chicago wedding reception at the Robey hotel. Incorporating a subtle Vegas theme, Clarissa + Hilary chose the Robey’s Clever Coyote to celebrate with all of their loved ones. Friends and family gathered from all over the country to celebrate Clarissa + Hilary in Chicago!
How Clarissa + Hilary Met
Like many couples these days, they met on Tinder! They met up at a bar in Ukrainian Village, Chicago, and spent a few hours chatting over beer and fries. They didn’t rekindle the conversation until they ran into each other a couple weeks later at a Pride event! Even after bumping into one another, it took a couple weeks to schedule their official second date. After the second date, the rest is history!
The Proposals
Clarissa + Hilary chose to both propose to each other! Double proposals, especially for LGBTQ+ couples, are becoming increasingly popular. I absolutely love it!
Proposal 1 – Clarissa proposes to Hilary
On a random Thursday night while they were both in their sweatpants, they decided to have a game night. Hilary insisted on playing Mario Kart but Clarissa was pushing to play Uno. Finally, Clarissa convinced Hilary to play Uno. Right before Hilary was about to win, Clarissa put down an Uno Wild card with “Will you marry me? :)” written on it and pulled out a ring! Hilary immediately cried, and of course, said yes!
Proposal 2 – Hilary proposes back to Clarissa
Three months after Clarissa’s proposal to Hilary, they flew to Chicago to visit friends for their annual Halloween party. The first night they flew in, they had planned to get dinner with another couple. Hilary gave the couple a heads up that she wanted to be sure they ended the night at Weegee’s Lounge. After Clarissa suggested other bars instead of Weegee’s, the group finally convinced her to head over there. Once there, Hilary and Clarissa went into their photo booth. After the first photo popped, Hilary pulled out a ring and asked Clarissa to also marry her, catching her reaction as the photo both continued to take photos! Clarissa, confused and surprised, stood up immediately but finally said yes!
About Their Wedding at the Robey in Chicago
Clarrisa + Hilary got married on a perfect September day (the best time to get married in Chicago, in my opinion). They wanted some photos to celebrate their union, so we started with taking photos around some amazing spots in the city! We first explored the Chicago Loop (while Hilary’s brother drove us from spot to spot, so kind), particularly, the Board of Trade Building and the Kinzie Bridge. Then, we bounced over to the 606 elevated trail in Wicker Park. Finally, we did some photos near and throughout the Robey before their guests arrived!
Clarissa + Hilary wanted to keep things simple while still being able to celebrate big with their friends and family. They started with some delicious appetizers and buffet-style dinner options from the Robey. After some time mingling and catching up with their loved ones, they gave a beautiful welcome speech, followed by a couple of speeches from their friends. They then opened the floor for anyone to give a speech that would like to, and there was no shortage of people who wanted to say kind words about each of them, and them as a couple. Both tears and laughs flowed as friends and family told stories and gave encouragements. It was an amazing way to celebrate such an incredible couple!
Kind Words from Clarissa + Hilary
“We were fortunate to have Tawny capture our wedding celebration in September and the experience was nothing short of exceptional!
Tawny was professional and transparent in every aspect. From our initial consultation to the final delivery of photos, she provided clear information and next steps, ensuring a seamless and stress-free process.
My partner and I are both shy when it comes to taking photos but she had a way of making us feel comfortable immediately. The final photos exceeded our expectations and her talent for capturing authentic moments was exactly what we were looking for! Thank you Tawny!”
Thank you, so much, Clarissa + Hilary, for letting me document your wedding reception at the Robey. I am so glad I was able to make you feel comfortable and give you an unforgettable experience!
This Chicago wedding at the Robey is thanks to these incredible vendors:
Venue & Catering: The Robey Chicago, Clever Coyote | Florals: Cornell Florist | Hilary’s Attire: Aritzia | Clarissa’s Attire: Ted Baker | Hilary’s Shoes: Loffel Randall | Hilary’s Ring: Fiat Lux | Clarissa’s Ring – Artëmer (purchased from Asrai Garden)
Need a photographer for your Chicago wedding at the Robey? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you document your Chicago wedding or elopement.
