Brenda and Mike especially looked forward to all the thoughtful details they planned for their guests. A close friend designed their wedding florals, so sweet! The couple also put a lot of care into choosing the wine, custom cocktails, and appetizers served during cocktail hour. Guests were able to choose from five different entrees, each cooked to order, which was such a fun and memorable touch.
Winter Wedding Day at Eddie Merlot’s | Brenda & Mike
Winter Wedding Day at Eddie Merlot’s
Lincolnshire, Illinois
Brenda and Mike’s winter wedding day was the kind of celebration that felt warm and joyful from the very first moment! They were married at a restaurant that holds a special place in their hearts, and it didn’t take long to see just how loved they are there. When we walked into Eddie Merlot’s, it felt like everyone on staff knew them. Their names are even engraved on a plaque on the bar, which made the whole day feel even more personal and meaningful.
I started the morning with Brenda at a nearby hotel where she was getting ready with her kids, family, and bridesmaids. The energy in the room was so fun and lighthearted. One of my favorite moments from the morning was watching the “kids” and bridesmaids practicing their choreographed dance for the reception. There was so much laughter in the room as they ran through the moves together, and you could already tell the reception was going to be something special
Brenda’s kids were such an important part of the day, which made everything even more meaningful. They spent the morning getting ready with her and later walked her down the aisle. This wedding wasn’t just about two people coming together, but about celebrating the love and family they’ve built together.
After dinner, the celebration at Eddie Merlot’s really kicked off. Brenda and Mike shared their first dance before performing a choreographed dance they had been practicing together. Complete with glowing sunglasses, it was the perfect surprise for their guests!
As if the evening couldn’t get any better, guests were also treated to an incredible dessert table featuring a bananas foster station that was just as delicious as it sounds.
From that moment on, the dance floor stayed full for the rest of the night. It was the kind of celebration where no one wanted the evening to end. All the laughter, great music, and so many happy moments shared with the people who love Brenda and Mike most.
Brenda and Mike, your wedding day was such a joyful celebration, and it was an honor to capture it all. Thank you for letting me be part of such a meaningful day for your family!
Vendor Team:
Venue: Eddie Merlot’s
Photography: Karen Shoufler Photography
Florist: Brian Hooper
HMUA: Lindsey Rose Bridal
Cake: Deerfields Bakery
Dress: Maggie Sottero at Volle’s Bridal & Boutique
Suits: Daniel George + The Tailored Foundation
DJ & Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Yazz Events
Live Wedding Artist: Marjorie Jean
Invitations: How Impressive
To see more weddings like this wedding at Eddie Merlot’s, click here.
If you are engaged and looking for a timeless, classic and joyful wedding photographer in the Chicagoland area or around the world, contact me here or email me at karen@karenshoufler.com.
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