Inside a Romantic Chicago Forest Wedding: Glamorous Design Meets Earthy Details

When Caroline and Tom first came to us, they shared a clear vision: they wanted a wedding that felt glamorous yet grounded, romantic yet full of life, and above all, true to who they are as a couple. Together, we crafted a celebration that balanced Caroline’s timeless, elegant style with Tom’s earthy, free-spirited energy — all woven together with a shared love for the color purple. Set against a stunning forest backdrop just outside Chicago, their reception space alone was a dream canvas. But it also came with its own design puzzle: an ornate layout with specific spatial quirks that required creative solutions. We embraced every curve and corner, transforming the room into an inviting, layered environment that felt both intimate and expansive. By extending the surrounding natural elements into the design, we made sure the forest didn’t just sit outside the windows — it became part of the celebration itself.

The color palette was key to this. Shades of purple anchored the design, joined by organic greens, dusty blues, and subtle neutrals. We played with floral-printed linens that echoed the forest floor and brought softness and movement to each table. Romantic candlelight and layered lighting brought everything to life as day turned to night, creating an atmosphere that felt warm, festive, and a little bit magical. At House of Joy, we believe a wedding should feel unmistakably like the couple at the center of it — and for Caroline and Tom, that meant weaving in details that reflected their passions and personalities. Tom’s love of vintage cars and scooters inspired one of our favorite guest moments: a seating chart designed as a nod to his extensive collection. Each guest received a custom, leather keychain with their seating assignment, a tiny keepsake to take home.

Caroline and Tom are the kind of people who light up any room. They love to travel, try new things, and surround themselves with friends and family who feel like home. Their wedding embraced this spirit fully. From the moment guests arrived at their hotels, they were treated to thoughtful welcome bags stocked with the couple’s favorite things — including beloved Chicago snacks, a nod to the city they call home. The celebration itself was designed for connection and movement. Toasts weren’t simply speeches — they were stories, laughter, and the kind of heartfelt words that linger long after the last glass is raised. On the dance floor, the party came alive in full force, with carefully curated lighting that shifted throughout the night to match the energy in the room. The music, the toasts, and the constant swirl of guests ensured the evening was never static — just the way Caroline and Tom like it.

Even the cocktail napkins joined the fun. Scattered with fun facts about their relationship — from favorite trips to funny inside jokes — they became tiny conversation starters that gave everyone a peek into the love story being celebrated. Of course, no celebration of theirs would be complete without something sweet. Caroline and Tom wanted a dessert spread that felt decadent and generous — a final gesture of hospitality for their guests to savor before heading back into the night. The dessert table overflowed with treats that delighted every palate and gave everyone one last reason to linger, laugh, and steal a dance or two more before saying goodnight.

Weddings like Caroline and Tom’s are why we do what we do. They remind us that the most memorable celebrations aren’t just beautiful — they’re layered with meaning, thoughtful in every detail, and alive with the energy of the couple at the center of it all. To Caroline and Tom — thank you for trusting us to help tell your story. May your adventures always be colorful, your toasts always heartfelt, and your dance floor always full.