Art of Imagination loved creating this intimate dinner at the Stan Mansion. The room was much larger than what was desired for this intimate affair, so we designed a space focused on the dining experience and the guests themselves. We started with a large square table scattered with mercury glass candles throughout, and paired with stunning crystal candelabras.

The lighting was key in bringing everything together, we lit the surrounding wall with a leaf pattern that created a softness to the overall feel. The ceiling above the guest were strung with Italian globe lights that were hung from posts covered in fabric. Our team added fresh curly willow branches and greenery to the upright poles to create more of an enchanting indoor/outdoor experience.

// Vendors // 
// Venue: Stan Mansion // Event Styling & Lighting: Art of Imagination //
// Photos by Deborah // Flowers: Juliet Tan Floral //

Art of Imagination was thrilled to create a romantic setting for April and Matt’s Bridgeport Art Center wedding.  The guests were greeted with floor-to-ceiling, ivory crepe-back satin fabric, pulled open by crystal-studded cuffs.  As they entered the ceremony space, guests were transported to a lush, romantic setting.

Complimenting the venue’s beautiful wooden pillars, we created the most dynamic aisle for the bride to walk down.  The long aisle had three stunning chandeliers on each side paired with two main chandeliers at the beginning and at the end.  Our designers created a romantic ceremony backdrop with luxe, ivory crepe satin fabric, pulled open to reveal a classic white voile drapes behind it.  The entire focal area was lit with a soft diffused white light to enhance the ethereal setting. The bride looked absolutely stunning walking down this custom aisle.

The space transformed magically from ceremony to reception, with the help of the tall fabric. The white color palette continued with pop of soft blush and candlelight throughout the tablescapes. April and Matt were such a joy to work with, we wish them years and years of magic in their new marriage.

// VENDORS //
// Venue: Bridgeport Art Center // Fabric + Lighting: Art of Imagination //
// Photo: Amanda Crean Photographers //

Sang and Frank came to our creative studio to meet with our designers for their Room 1520 wedding, and we were so happy to have met them!  They were such a delight to work with and their wedding featured artistic details at every turn.

The couple’s color palette was perfect for this all-white loft space, pairing a navy blue with pops of bright orange, purple, soft yellows and a natural undertone in all of the earthy details.  The place settings did not fail to impress with bright pink chopsticks and lovely natural toned menu cards.  The stationery pieces were some of our favorite details, the invitations were a custom spinning wheel in navy that gave all the detailed information as you spin the card.  We have never seen such a great way to invite your guests.  The stationery flowed into the centerpieces that were a mixture of earthy elements with a simplistic style.

Our designers created a beautiful lit backdrop that hung mini lights vertically to pair with the couple’s gift table. For the finishing touch, we included strings of Italian globe lights to add a romantic feel overhead.  The fun, earthy ambiance matched the couple perfectly, and the guests truly enjoyed celebrating with the couple, as did we!

// Vendors // 
// Venue: Room 1520 // Lighting & Fabric: Art of Imagination //
// Photos: Gerber and Scarpelli // Event Coordinator: JEM Weddings // DJ: CAS Music //
// Cinematography: WM-Films //

Francesca and Martin were married at A New Leaf, the beautiful rustic space located in the North side of Chicago. Our designers at Art of Imagination were delighted to assist the lovely couple with their romantic winter wedding theme. From the custom chandelier, that we constructed in our creative studio, to the antique silver candelabras; this wedding was dripping with decadence.

One of the focal points of the space was the living archway that was up-lit on both sides. We created this green wall using custom built frames and chicken wire. The team at A New Leaf added the fresh foliage to grow vertically and give the couple’s wedding the etherial feel of romance all night long.

The custom chandelier was our absolute favorite to design detail we created for the couple. This chandelier, with over 350-crystal beads encased in a wire ball, was covered with moss and was simply breathtaking, if we do say so ourselves!

We were also able to add unique details using the existing architecture of the space. Our designers worked with the bride to turn a plain partition wall into a personalized gallery wall. We hung beautiful gold frames in a unique arrangement … it was the perfect touch of romantic against the bare wall.

To create an elegant, softer look upstairs, we draped an ivory sheer voile fabric diffused with a soft amber glow. The entrance of the space was draped with the same ivory voile fabric and swung open, creating a special entrance for the guests.

The tables were set with a beautiful contrast of ivory linens with a ruby red napkin at each place setting. The centerpieces were created by A New Leaf and the antique silver candelabras were provided by Art of Imagination. They were perfect for the romantic feel of the room. The taper candles and lighting throughout the room created the diffused candle light amber glow that we were wanting for this romantic winter wedding.

// VENDORS //
// Venue & Floral: A New Leaf // Decor & Lighting: Art of Imagination //
// Photos: Olivia Leigh Photographie //

Wedding Ceremonies are getting more and more creative… and we love it! One of our most recent couples, Heather and David, worked with our designers to create a personalized wedding structure. The custom ceremony backdrop included soft voile linens draped behind a wall of more than 300 paper cranes. The origami birds represented part of the brides’ culture and heritage.

To complete the runway look, organic florals and pedestals were placed as anchors on both sides of the aisle. We also placed large paper lanterns high above the aisle, creating a playful sense as guests walked in.

As each guest entered the ceremony, we created a wonderful glow with candles, leading them down the stairs. They were welcomed by the beautiful ivory crepe back satin fabric swaged open. Inside the ballroom, the walls were accented with tall fabric panels polished by a diffused light that created the enchanting atmosphere.

At the focal point of the room, we covered a large stage and added a luxurious ceremony structure that allowed all of the guests to experience the traditions of the two families. From flower garlands, to custom monogrammed light patterns, the entire setting was filled with embellishments that meant the world to the bride and groom as they celebrated with family and friends.

To see the entire vision come together, watch the production video here: http://vimeo.com/101168614

VENDORS: Kai-Duc Luong | KDL Productions // Greg Stephen Reigh // Marcin Tomaszczyk // Heather Stone Photography// Kristina Taheri // Juliet Tan Floral Design //  Art of Imagination // Crizen Hasewaga // Peninsula Hotel

The contemporary setting of this space with the minimal yet stunning architectural design was the perfect match for this collaboration. The theme was creating a modern enchanted winter atmosphere with a touch of sparkle and fun.

By combining wood elements in the design with the tables and chairs this offered an organic nature feel. The farm tables made the perfect setting for the gold and white chinaware with the linen napkins tied with fresh seasonal foliage which offered a slight fragrance reminisce of the holidays. Table decor doesn’t have to be about flowers as the focal so we incorporated greens, berries, white painted branches with a collection of clean and gold votives for a warm glow.

For a playful use of the taller ceiling we hung white tree branches with floating gold and platinum glass ornament balls over the tables and larger white round balloons at different heights.  Lighting is always an important element as it helps set the mood. White glowing circles were projected onto the balloons and surroundings to help add that perfect touch.

Creating the right signature bar at every party is always a challenge. To keep with the same theme, two wooden farm highboy tables were placed together for a champagne station that displayed a triple cream goat brie with rosemary bread from a local bakery, petite grapes and of course delicious bottles of Champagne. A Holiday greeting was displayed on a blackboard easel surrounded with gold glitter painted leaves. Behind the bar, tiers of white vertical thin branches twinkled from white LED lights woven throughout to add that magical sparkle next to Chez‘s beautiful glass staircase.

Planning Corporate Holiday parties can be fun keeping to a simple yet creative theme, knowing your budget and selecting that perfect venue. Chez offers such a clean and modern palette that you can let your imagination be adventurous.

Vendors:  Venue: Chez // Design + Decor – Art of Imagination // Photographer- Amanda Hein // Rentals – Tablescape Chicago Party Rentals // Balloons – Balloons by Tommy

Stop Motion Film shows how our team of professionals preps the magic of aisle.

Stop Motion: http://vimeo.com/105923115 // For the Full Wedding Video: http://vimeo.com/101168614

Vendors: Kai-Duc Luong | KDL Productions // Greg Stephen Reigh // Marcin Tomaszczyk // Heather Stone Photography// Kristina Taheri // Juliet Tan Floral Design //  Art of Imagination // Crizen Hasewaga // Peninsula Hotel

To help illuminate the Glessner House Museum‘s courtyard, we hung several strands of Italian globe lights to create ceiling effect. The decorative lights were on a dimmer to control the mood of the atmosphere throughout the evening.To complete that enchanted garden look the sidewalk railings next to the Coach House, featured a twinkling path for Janel & Tyler’s guests. Inside the historic venue, the Art of Imagination team hung our own sparkling chandelier over the sweetheart table to create the focal point where the couple enjoyed their first meal as husband and wife with their family and friends.

Terrell and Michaela had such loving energy and wanted to share their feeling for each other with their guest. They loved how cafe globe lights always gives such an enchanted warm feeling so they had us design and install strands above the guest tables for an intimate glow.

The alter for their ceremony was designed with two layers of sheer white volie with white twinkling lights in between creating the perfect backdrop for the ceremony later to be repurposed for the sweetheart table.

The groom, made the “Love” marquee sign inspired by Robert Indiana to express his love for his bride. Michaela, in turn, surprised Terrell by having his sport’s jersey on a pulley system we designed that as they enter the room for the reception they will pull it up together.

The dancing area was placed by the east widows so as it became dusk you could see the city’s fabulous view and to complete the look we added sky blue lighting onto the brick creating an organic texture.

Vendors: Venue: Bridgeport Art Center // Space Placement + Lighting + Fabric Treatment: Art of Imagination // Caterer: Beyond Events // Photos: Adam Novak 

KIND WORDS FROM THE BRIDE: “Terrell and I just wanted to say thanks again to you, Deborah, and all of your staff! We had high expectations for what you guys would do, and we were blown away!!!!!!!!! Everything was as magical as we expected and we can’t thank you guys enough for making our space so beautiful, and SO us!!! We attached a few pictures that you guys can use to show other clients, if you want. Thank you again!”

Wedding video: http://vimeo.com/101168614

Vendors: Kai-Duc Luong | KDL Productions // Greg Stephen Reigh // Marcin Tomaszczyk // Heather Stone Photography// Kristina Taheri // Juliet Tan Floral Design //  Art of Imagination // Crizen Hasewaga // Peninsula Hotel

Our favorite brides are those that incorporate their own personal creativity into their special day. From the origami place cards to the several hundreds of paper cranes hanging at the altar, this wedding had all types of personal touches.

After a last-minute venue change, our bride and groom hosted their special day at the beautiful new Chez.Our team at Art of Imagination used floor-to-ceiling drapery to guide guests through the open floor plan and lighting accents to illuminate a soft sky blue on to the white-washed walls.

Citygirl Weddings // Art of Imagination // AFR furniture rental (bars) // Chez // David Turner Photography // Floral was her Aunt from Wisconsin // D’absolute Catering

Rachael is probably one of our favorite wedding clients, to date, at Art of Imagination. She was completely enamored by the elegance of fabric, and understood why certain design choices are made, to enhance the already intricate space at Stan Mansion, as opposed to covering it up. For her wedding, we created a stunning, overhead swoop that came out over the dancefloor, extending the stage’s backdrop into the room. The ivory Japanese crystal fabric had a beautiful shimmer that sparkled in the lights as the night went on.

Rachael and Jason’s wedding ceremony took place on the stage among candlelight, soft amber lighting, and magical twinkle lights set behind a sheer white voile. During their reception, we added the bride’s favorite color, magenta purple, to the room with uplighting and pinspotting techniques, enhancing the VIP bridal area and bar located in the outer platforms of the ballroom.  Rachael and Jason also opted for the center feasting table as a head table, which is our favorite floorplan option for this historic venue.

Thank you to George Street Photography for the gorgeous photos!

Stan Mansion // Art of Imagination // George Street Photography

Sarah & Sam’s wedding at Loft on Lake was an elegant mix of urban chic and natural enchantment. The couple was very inspired by nature. In fact, when they met at our design studio for the first time, Sam completely fell in love with our birch tree branches. It was love at first sight! The mid-winter wedding lent itself to the season decor of LED, twinkle lights among the tree arch and swags of ivory fabric overhead during the ceremony. Being eco-conscious, we repurposed the tree arch along the brick wall to create a focal point for the sweet heart table during their reception. It was a magical night!

Vendors: Loft on Lake // SQN Events // Art of Imagination // Hearty Boys

This beautiful wedding was held at a newer Chicagoland venue located in the West Loop area of the city. Both the wedding ceremony and wedding reception took place at Open Secrets Studio.The blank canvas was the perfect backdrop for our design team to execute Jamie and John’s vision. Jamie really wanted to see a hanging structure overhead; our team in collaborations with the designers at Fleur created a wooden structure featuring lush flowers of sage, pink and burgundy colors.

We hung the structure to be used and repurposed throughout the event. First, we created a focal point for the couple’s nuptials, and then, during the reception, the structure was perfectly placed over the head table for a dramatic flair. Just behind the structure on the open wall, we placed a summer foliage light pattern to create a natural look, coordinated with the farmwood table, place settings, centerpieces, and other design elements. Matching that aesthetic, we added Italian globe lights above the 2nd floor terrace area, where guests were greeted with cocktail tables, a bar area, and food stations.

Photography: Becca Heuer Photography | Floral Design: Fleur | Cake: Sweet Mandy B’s | Catering:Entertaining Company | Event Planning: City Girl Weddings (Kerrie Gallagher) | Event Design: Art Of Imagination | DJ: Okyne Media Lab | Officiant: Meghan Kennedy | Guitarist: Neil Dixon Smith | Letterpress Printer: Steracle Press | Open Secrets Studio: Open Secrets Studio | Party Rental: Table Scapes | Photography – Assistance: Gina Deconti

The Brides’s Choice Event hosted by Room 1520 invited designers, paired with planners, to create unique and inspirational settings, ultimately voted upon by the brides themselves. Our design team at Art of Imagination was paired with our dear friend Anthony Navarro of Liven It Up Events. Our space to create was the bridal Head Table. Since Room 1520 is a clean, white canvas, we created an urban outdoor setting bringing nature indoors, with the added essences of chic enchantment.

Birch trees that Art of Imagination often uses, framed the couple and brought in a Spring-like color when we added the cherry blossoms and other pink flowers. The elegant, white voile fabric added an airy lightness, while the diffused white light behind provided the sunny happiness.  The essence of enchantment was a subtle touch, accomplished using a projection of crystal white water waves. The magical ambiance could be felt immediately. To ground this etherial setting, we incorporated one of our grandiose chandeliers with hanging crystals.

In collaboration with Liven It Up Events, Windy City Linen, and Tablescapes our designers personally selected the glassware, flatware, tableware, and other couture rentals that brought the whole tablescape together. Deborah customized the fold on the luxury napkins to include tiny details inspired by the glassware, china, and florals. She tied each with fresh greenery and accented with a galax formed flower nestled inside. Speaking of flowers, Deborah and Anthony both ventured to the wholesale florist to choose the Spring favorites that completed the look. From magnolia tips to seeded eucalyptus, galax leaves were selected, as well as the lovely and vividly fuchsia agonis. Fresh greenery was displayed throughout, from the accents in the small black basket at each place setting (repurposed from Deborah‘s Flower and Garden Show set-up) to the bountiful garland edging the table, beautifully placed and fluffed by Anthony.

The vintage farmwood table is a repurposed piece of furniture from Art of Imagination‘s personal collection, as well as the damask dining chairs. The gorgeous, charcoal studded bench was on loan from Platinum Events and give a unique options to our newlyweds for their sweetheart table seating.

All in all, the challenge was enjoyed by our entire team and it was so much fun collaborating with our fellow industry friends to create this whimsical outdoor/indoor setting. And, as the cherry on top, our beautiful head-table setting won the event’s competition! We are blessed and so grateful to be designated as the Bride’s Choice! Thank you to everyone involved in the makings of this luxurious setting, the event itself and everyone on our Art of Imagination staff. Can’t wait to see what next year will bring!

It was absolutely wonderful partnering up with Debi Lilly and her team at A Perfect Event for an afternoon tea with Pure Kitchen Catering, M&M Special Events, Private Label Linens and Angela Eve dancers at Chicago’s newest hot spot event venue, City View Loft in the West Loop. With a Moroccan theme, our designers at Art of Imagination created the custom luxury draping and light patterns to reflect the mood and color palette of the event.

We created an entrance with stripes of white, platinum and gold fabrics, swaged open with gold tassels accented with fringe.  Fit for royalty, we hung a burnished gold sheer fabric over the dining area and hung globe lights underneath the fabric to create the intimate feel.

The light pattern design was inspired from Moroccan architecture. We custom created special lighting frames to display the patterns along the entire wall. Each table and vignette was accented with an array of colorful flowers and linens, the use of custom lanterns and paper patterns complimented the theme. The variety of food items on the menu, provided by Pure Kitchen Catering, added an ethnic flair bringing the whole event together. They even poured Moroccan gunpowder green tea infused with mint as a welcoming beverage in authentic and colorful glassware.

A Perfect Event – Florals, Event Design, Lanterns, Teacups, Favors
Art of Imagination – Custom Drapery & Ambient Lighting Design
City View Loft – Venue
M&M Special Events – Rentals, Lounge Seating
Private Label Linens – Tablecloths
Pure Kitchen Catering – Menu and Beverages
Angela Eve – Dancers

Loving this video of Justin and his smooth dance moves. Payal’s new husband lit up the dance floor in her honor to the tune of Michael Jackson. You just have to watch it for yourself.

Our team of designers absolutely love styling photo shoots. The creativity and opportunity to stretch our imaginations is at it’s highest when we get to work with so many of our friends. We were honored to be asked to contribute to the photo shoot at Stan Mansion for Wedding Guide Chicago.

It was such a beautiful day with a beautiful team of vendors. Each vendor brought their A’game and surpassed expectations to make the entire photo shoot breathtaking. The vision was Reflections in Black:

Designed with the formality and timelessness of ‘black tie’ in mind. We created a classic but contemporary ambiance that will work or any venue, any season and any color palette by changing the florals.

The vendor team included: DBY invitations & events, Elysia Root Cakes, Stan Mansion, Wedding Connections, M&M Special Events, Windy City Linens, Phillip’s Flowers, and, of course, these beautiful images were taken by Lemon Twist Images.

For more images and the full coverage, check out Wedding Guide Chicago’s Winter/Spring 2014 issue, on shelves now. Or simply click here to see their online coverage!

The beautiful partyscape included more than just a table set-up, we also set up a beautiful VIP lounge area in one of the wings of Stan Mansion. Our designer team added ambient uplighting with glimmers and sparkles to add a touch of bling to the black decadence.

Room 1520 is a blank canvas unlike any other venue in Chicago. The opportunity to work creatively is endless with colors, fabrics, spacial design, furniture… we have even added textured and patterned walls and floors with the use of decals. With so many possibilities we chose a few of our favorites for your inspiration!

Metallics

gold and steel

A Happy Place

sky blues with a little coral

Romantic Palette

reds and pinks

Luxurious & Swanky

blush tones

Fairytale

soft blues with a little pink

These color palettes were made with the help of ChipIt! by Sherwin Williams.