Woo-hoo, Jess and Dmarte’s summer wedding day at the Westin Chicago Northwest is here!
You might remember these two from their engagement photos last fall. We had a blast capturing the fall colors, grabbing ice cream, and taking photos with their pup, Luna. I’ve loved these two since meeting them, and their engagement session made me love them more. Their wedding day has been highly anticipated!
From the Couple
We met like all the best star crossed lovers do – through Instagram… Dmarte was tagged in a picture of a mutual friend I followed. He was in his football uniform and looked CUTE! I followed him and like a few of his pictures, he followed me and liked a few of mine back. Then I liked a couple more of his and so on. He ended up messaging me saying “Hey, do I know you?” I said, “No, but I think you are cute so I hope you don’t mind!” He then asked me out on a date and we have been falling in love ever since.
I can’t say there was a specific moment I knew he was it. As we continued dating, I just started not being able to see my life without him. He was the best part of my day every single day. I knew he was meant to be mine forever.
The proposal was at Cantigny among the flower gardens. He walked me around the gardens for probably 10 minutes (at quite a fast pace, lol). Finally, he got down on one knee and popped the question. My entire family all popped out of the bushes and were there to celebrate. We took pictures all over the garden and popped a bottle of champagne! After this we went to what I was told was a BBQ but was actually an engagement party! All of our favorite people were gathered – college besties (both his and mine) flew in to be there for it. This sounds so cliché but it truly was the best day of my life. Having all our people gathered together for us felt like a dream.
Dmarte and I have lots of things we enjoy doing together! First and most importantly, we love spending time with our pup Luna! Two years ago we rescued her. We love doing long walks with her and of course, lots of cuddles. We’re so blessed to have such a strong community around us; we truly have the best friends ever! We recently bought a house and are so excited to start our new adventure and marriage in this home.
Advice for Engaged Couples
It is YOUR day. Do what makes you happy. The best part is you are marrying the love of your life so the details don’t really matter in the long run. Try your best to enjoy it!
The Wedding Day
Jess and Dmarte’s love is so genuine, sweet, and pretty darn fun! They shared their summer wedding day this July with their closest family, friends, and loved ones in Chicagoland. There may have been a few curveballs thrown their way on the morning of their wedding day, but these two focused on each other and celebrating their best day together yet.
The day started with everyone getting ready at the Westin Chicago Northwest before Jess and Dmarte shared a first look on one of the outdoor bridges. Then, it was off to Busse Woods for some greenery and outdoorsy vibes to fit Jess and Dmarte’s wedding photo vision! One of my favorite parts about photos at Busse Woods (other than capturing this amazing couple & their love) was photographing their flower dog, Luna. Love, love, love!
After photos wrapped up, we made our way back to the venue – time to make things official! We loved documenting these moments for Jess and Dmarte throughout the afternoon and as the day turned into the evening. The photos of their “just married” moments after the ceremony make my heart so happy! These two are the real deal, and we’re lucky to know and love them.
We loved being back at the Westin Chicago Northwest for this wedding. It’s a great, welcoming venue, and they care for our couples so well. Jess and Dmarte are the most loving and adaptable couple. We’re forever thankful for their genuine hearts and love for one another and their people.
All the little things fell into place because that’s just what happens on wedding days with couples that are meant to be! We love these two & just loved documenting their day! Also if you’re reading this and engaged… This is your sign to ask your dog to be part of your wedding party! Those photos from Jess and Dmarte’s day make my heart burst with joy!
Jess & Dmarte – Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for sharing your beautiful day with us. You two are the perfect match, and we’re cheering you on in married life together
Creative credit goes to…
Jessica’s Attire: Brides by Young – Schaumburg, IL | Dmarte’s Attire: Men’s Warehouse | Wedding Party Attire: Azazie + Men’s Warehouse | Hair: Jenna Bussman | Makeup: Refined Beauty – Naperville, IL | Jeweler: K. Hollis Jewelers – Batavia, IL | Getting Ready Location, Catering, & Guest Accommodations: The Westin Chicago Northwest – Itasca, IL | Venue: The Westin Chicago Northwest – Itasca, IL | Wedding Officiant: Deborah Tracey | Florist: Blooming Flowers – Elk Grove Village, IL | DJ: An Enchanted Evening – Rolling Meadows, IL | Photographer & Videographer: Kara Evans Photographer – Kankakee, IL | Cake: Lovin Oven Cakery – Round Lake, IL | Stationery: MagnetStreet
