2021: Year In Review -

2021: The year started off with the nonstop uncertainty of 2020, but with hope on the horizon as we gained more data and understanding of Covid-19. Events were still a big question mark and, in many ways, 2021 looked like it was going to be a repeat of 2020. However, the year ended up being the opposite case for social events—weddings, in particular, came back in full swing so much so that it was difficult for planners and vendors alike to meet the high demand. It was certainly stressful, but a good problem to have!

At Preoccupied Bride, I was fortunate to celebrate eight couples after a quiet 2020. I am excited to share my 2021 Year In Review with you.

Weddings

I had a couple weddings postponed from 2020 to 2021, but majority of my clients were new business, which was an exciting turning point after everything with covid.

My first wedding of 2021 was in May, and it was exactly nine months after my one and only wedding in 2020. To say I was beyond excited is an understatement. Jessica & Jithu’s small banquet hall wedding was supposed to be 150 guests, but it was cut in half due to covid restrictions. Although it wasn’t what they originally envisioned, it was a wonderful day, nonetheless. They had their ceremony at Syro Malabar Cathedral and reception at Ashyana Banquets. The reception stage setup was a showstopper! (Photographer: Jasko Photography)

At the end of July, Tiffany & Alex’s intimate wedding took place at the incredible Emil Bach House, a prairie-style home built in 1915 and designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Half of their 33 guests stayed at the home making Tiffany and Alex’s wedding extra special and turning the weekend into a family vacation. The wedding ceremony took place in the yard of the famous home surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful flowers in the garden, the cocktail hour took place inside the Lang House, and the reception was in an outdoor tent near the ceremony site. One of my favorite highlights was the tea ceremony (the couple serving tea to their parents symbolizing the union of two families) that took place before the wedding ceremony. (Photographer: Aila Pham Photography)

In the middle of August, Wendy & Matt’s wedding took place at the stunning Monte Bello Estate, a beautiful wedding venue with breathtaking gardens, a gorgeous mansion and a permanent tent. The wedding ceremony took place at the outdoor gazebo underneath large oak trees, drinks and appetizers were served at an outdoor cocktail lounge nearby, and the reception was held in a beautiful tented glasshouse. One of my favorite highlights was the welcome drinks setup before the ceremony began! (Photographer: Yasmin Alesia Photography)

A week later, Christina & Alek’s wedding took place at a few iconic locations in downtown Chicago. The couple had their wedding ceremony at Old St. Pat’s and their wedding reception at the historic Chicago Cultural Center. The reception was filled with Lithuanian traditions, and a favorite was the newlyweds’ entrance into the reception. Christina and Alek were greeted by close friends and family holding an archway of Lithuanian woven sashes and, at the end of the line, the couple was met by their parents holding a tray of bread (symbolizing work), salt (symbolizing tears) and wine (symbolizing joy)—the three elements of life. The grand wedding party table and backdrop were also a stunning focal point of the room! (Photographer: Kenny Kim Photography)

Kara & Vinesh’s wedding occurred on Labor Day Monday at Loft Lucia, a boutique loft space in the West Loop. Their cocktail hour took place on the fourth-floor rooftop terrace and indoor lounge, and their reception took place on the third floor where the main dining area is located. One of my favorite highlights was the escort cards that also doubled as bottle opener wedding favors for guests to take home! (Photographer: Jasko Photography)

At the end of September, Emily & Adam’s wedding also took place at Loft Lucia. Their ceremony was on the rooftop terrace, the cocktail hour was in the indoor lounge on the same floor, and the reception on the third floor. One of my favorite highlights was the groom’s brother officiating their ceremony—it was so personal, lovely and beautifully done. (Photographer: Cassie Howard Photography)

Towards the end of October, Reeny & Sybil had their wedding ceremony at St. Thomas Marthoma Church and reception at Abbington Banquets. The ceiling installation and stage setup were incredible! Some of my favorite highlights included the donut truck setup near the reception venue’s patio and the shawl wedding favors they had for guests to keep them warm on that chilly night. (Photographer: Geoffrey Photography)

In the middle of November, Dahlia and Kurt’s wedding ceremony and reception took place at the gorgeous Loews O’Hare Chicago Hotel. One of my favorite highlights was the incredible dessert table display they had for guests after dinner. (Photographer: Edward Fox Photography)

Awards

Preoccupied Bride won The Knot Best Of Weddings 2021! We were honored to win this award and it’s all thanks to our couples.

Thank You

Before 2022 begins, I’d like to thank you for supporting me and Preoccupied Bride. From my wonderful couples to my friendors to my wedding planner friends, I’m thankful to have an encouraging and collaborative community in Chicago of hardworking and creative individuals who will go out of their way to help one another and go above and beyond to make magic happen for clients.

And as always, thank you to my husband, Andrew. He never ceases to amaze me with his constant love and encouragement as I do my work. His confidence in my abilities and unconditional support are the priceless treasures that keep me going, and the reason why I’m still here almost five years later!