The Best Wedding Vendors in Essex, IL

The Best Wedding Vendors in Essex, IL

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in Essex, IL

Quick responder
Visual Reflection Video 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Any talented wedding videographer can create a romantic cinematic wedding film of your wedding but there's so much more to a wedding day than that. While we craft our videos around the love you share, the fun you have when it's just the two of you as well as the celebration with your family and guests is what really makes each story so unique. So, as you'll notice in the examples above, no two wedding highlight videos are the same. We do our best to customize each wedding video we create to fit the couple we're working with as well as the flow of the wedding day, which will allow you to relive your day the way that it actually happened!

Awarded Best of Zola
Gordon was so nice to work with! He also was always checking on me throughout the day. the photographers of course will lead the way throughout the day and Gordon made sure he was capturing more natural things. We received all our footage so quickly! Gordon also cares about giving the best product to his clients and that’s something I really appreciated about him. The product was amazing and so flawless. Our short clip had all the perfect words from our ceremony and the video was like what happened the whole day! I loved it!!
Morgan B., 10 months ago
Quick responder
FRWD Style Weddings and Events 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, IL

We create soulful events and experiences that celebrate the story of who you are! FRWD Style Wedding & Events is a boutique design firm based in Chicago, IL specializing in creative ways to tell your unique story. Focusing on Event planning & management along with event design/decor, we execute your event style story from start to finish. Our Services include: Glam Your Space- Event Design and Event Decor that compliments the event experience Wow Your Guests- Event Planning and Management that covers you from A to Z.

As an Entertainment Director/Event Manager myself, I’m blown away by Franklin. It was important for me to hire someone I could trust to handle the organization for my wedding day. After our first meeting with Franklin, I knew he understood what we wanted. I was thrilled to know he was available for our wedding, and I feel like we couldn’t have made a better choice. Before the wedding day, I was so relieved when Franklin came over to pick up all the decor. He even stopped by on the morning of the wedding to check on us and pick up any last-minute items. This alone really touched me because many people don’t go that extra mile, but Franklin does! I was seriously stressing about how to get those items delivered, and Franklin came right along and eased all that stress! He took our ideas and exceeded our expectations. We are Funko Pop collectors, so we wanted a fun way to incorporate them into our wedding decor, and he did it with ease. He surprised us several times throughout the event, and those memories are some of my favorite moments. When he revealed the reception dining room, which he had decorated for us, I was filled with chills. I couldn’t believe he took my simple idea and made it look so GRAND; it was next level. Then we walked over to the cookie and cake table, where I was seriously at a loss for words. I was blown away by the details he displayed in his decorating. It seemed like a scene from a movie. Before walking down the aisle, we learned that one of our food caterers was extremely late delivering the food and potentially wasn’t going to deliver it at all. Franklin was calm but still urgent in his demeanor, and I totally appreciated his proactive professionalism. Moments like these can really test any event coordinator's patience and could cause a domino effect. I don’t know exactly what happened or what he did, but all the food was there and ready to be served when it was time to eat. Our guests LOVED our wedding. They all mentioned how different and elevated our wedding was, and I’m 100% sure that had a lot to do with Franklin’s hard work. We wanted something unique, and he delivered. Overall, I’m truly grateful to have met Franklin and want to also shine some light on his assistant, Will. Both of their A, fun, efficacious attitudes just make everything better. I was able to kick back and watch my wedding day unfold beautifully. For those who work in events/entertainment, you know how hard it is to go to any event and not feel like you’re working, especially your own event (lol). Franklin is a star, and I’m sure he’s going to go far in the event business. He understands the importance of an event and how each event is personally unique. Most importantly, he takes the time to know and understand his clients.
Mike S., a year ago
Quick responder
truejoyweddings 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 6 services
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Based in Chicago, IL, truejoyweddings is a distinguished wedding planning studio led by husband-and-wife team, Alicia and Deric. With a shared passion for celebrating love, they specialize in crafting JOY-filled weddings that are thoughtfully curated to reflect each couple’s unique story. Their personalized approach ensures that every detail is intentional, meaningful, and seamlessly executed. Whether you're seeking comprehensive planning or expert guidance along the way, truejoyweddings offers an elevated, heartfelt experience designed to bring your wedding vision to life with intentionality, grace, and joy.

Alicia and Deric were amazing. They helped us plan our wedding in 3 months and we couldn’t have done it without them. They are communities, flexible, detail oriented, and the day of, were indispensable.
Hannah G., 4 days ago
Quick responder
Taylor's Tacos 

5.0

  • Caterer
  • Starts at $250
  • Serves Essex, IL

Taylor's Tacos is a pop-up catering company that specializes in authentic street style tacos with a whole lot of soul! We take pride in our delicious flavors and quali-TAY service. Do yourself a flavor and let Taylor's TACOS create a fiesta on your wedding day!

Awarded Best of Zola
They were great to work with! Very professional and arrived on time. And the food was delicious! At least 5 different people told me it was the best food they’ve ever had at a wedding
Joey, 2 years ago
Quick responder
Susan Ryan Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Essex, IL

SUSAN RYAN has established herself as one of Chicagoland’s top photojournalists in wedding and portrait photography. Noted for her artistry and poetic vision, she is celebrated for skillfully capturing storytelling moments while her subjects may not even be aware of the camera’s presence.

Beautiful pics taken. Thanks for making our day so special and giving us great memories.
Joe, 9 months ago
Highland Preferred 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Essex, IL

We are full-time wedding professionals who understand that every event is unique. We tailor our services to the needs and vision of our clients' ultimate dream celebration. Our company is composed of some of the most highly skilled, versatile, & fun entertainers & musicians in the Chicagoland entertainment industry. We consistently go above & beyond to ensure that every event is nothing short of amazing. You are not just a number to us. We are honored to be a trusted part of the most important celebration of your life!

I recently had the pleasure of working with Highland Preferred for my wedding, and I can honestly say they transformed our special day into an unforgettable experience! From the moment I reached out, their professionalism and attention to detail put my mind at ease. It's clear that they know how to create incredible memories, whether it’s for personal celebrations or corporate events. We opted for a DJ and live band combo, and from the moment our guests heard the first notes, the dance floor was packed! The DJ effortlessly mixed genres, catering to all ages, while the band brought that lively energy that really got everyone involved. Our LED dance floor was a showstopper, literally sparkling under the lights as our friends danced the night away. The various photo booths offered by Highland Preferred were an absolute hit! Each booth had its own unique props and backgrounds, allowing our guests to capture fun memories throughout the evening. And I can’t say enough about the photography and videography services—the team was unobtrusive while perfectly capturing every moment. Just a few days after the event, we were delighted to receive a sneak peek at some of the photos—they were simply stunning! Moreover, their up lighting and decor services added an elegant touch to our venue. They truly transformed the space into a fairy tale setting that we had only dreamed about. Everything was reasonably priced, especially given the level of service provided. I genuinely felt like we got so much value for our investment. If you’re planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or any type of event, I can’t recommend Highland Preferred enough. They take the stress out of party planning and deliver results that exceed expectations. Thank you for making our celebration the talk of the town!
Charlotte M., 10 months ago
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Windy City Mix, Inc. 

4.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Essex, IL
  • Offer

With Windy City Mix you will find the best in quality, dependability, and service for all your Mobile DJs, Lighting, Photo Booth Entertainment and Customized Red Carpets. We have created a few attractive "All - Inclusive" packages to make this a stress free event for you and your guests!

Rodrigo was easy to work with and did a a great job choosing music throughout the night. Would definitely recommend!
Audrey & V., 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Swinging the Standards with Ross Failla 

5.0

  • Solo performer
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Make your rehearsal dinner, cocktail hour, or wedding dinner perfect with the sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Bobby Darin, Nat King Cole and more. I have been singing for the past 20 years, and I sing all the best Classics and Oldies that all of your guests will know and love!

Ross is personable, & talented as a vocalist/entertainer. He embodies the charm and charisma of the classic crooners of musical legend. He is skilled at song selection geared to his audience, and can keep the attention of the crowd with smooth vocals, subtle humor, giving him the ability to keep the dance floor filled, not to mention put everyone at ease with his warm personality. He never disappoints, and is a consummate professional in all aspects right down to his freshly pressed tuxedo!
Terry P., 3 years ago
GemHidden gem
Rise Entertainment Group 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,950
  • Serves Essex, IL

Riley, the founder of Rise Entertainment Group LLC, began his DJ career over a decade ago at local venues in the NW Chicago Suburbs. His journey continued through college, where he performed at private events, parties, bars, and nightclubs. Today, Riley channels his extensive experience into curating dream weddings for couples. Understanding that seamless communication is key to a stress-free wedding, we offer unlimited consultations with every package. Our goal is to make your special day effortless and enjoyable.

Awarded Best of Zola
Can't recommend him enough! My husband and I loved that he took the time to get to know us and our style. I told him I wanted Bridgerton style music as guests were walking into the ceremony space and he nailed the vibe perfectly. The music during the reception was also the perfect soundtrack to our wedding day! If I ever need a dj again, I would 100% hire Rise Entertainment again!!
Mattie & A., a year ago
GemHidden gem
The RCP Band 

5.0

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $7,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

The **Robby Celestin Project (RCP)** is Chicago’s premier wedding and corporate event band, delivering high-energy performances with world-class talent. Led by **Robby Celestin**—a globally experienced performer, sought-after MC, and TED Talk speaker—RCP brings an engaging, crowd-focused approach to every event. With international experience, a feature on *The Danny Bonaduce Show*, and years of hosting elite events, Robby ensures a seamless and unforgettable night. Hailed as one of Chicago’s top bandleaders, he gives your event full focus from the first call to the final note.

Robby was the MC and lead vocalist/entertainer at our wedding and hiring his band was the best decision we could have possibly made. Every single person at the wedding was up and dancing all night, and everyone is still raving about how much fun they had. We are so glad we made the choice to hire him and will definitely do so again in the future for more events.
Dana, 7 days ago
GemHidden gem
Aubrey & Brandon Visuals 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $8,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Aubrey & Brandon Visuals is a husband and wife photo + video team specializing in fine-art wedding visuals for exquisite celebrations. We've documented weddings across the world and were recently seen on the front page of major publications.

Aubrey was absolutely incredible to work with. She is so quick to respond to messages, is clear with her communication, and makes sure every detail is planned. The quality of her pictures is unbelievable, and a very quick turn around time. She creates an extensive timeline with you and makes sure it is stuck to (MUCH appreciated). In addition to all of that, she is so kind and easy to work with while making sure all of the pictures get taken. She cares about each one of her couples so much, and makes it feel like you are the only couple she is working with. Did I mention the pictures are STUNNING? We will be using her for all future photography needs.
Dani & M., 5 years ago
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Graceful Weddings And Events Llc. 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $100
  • Serves Essex, IL

At Graceful Weddings & Events and Makeup & Hair by Traci & Co., we’re committed to making your special day unforgettable. With over 20 years of experience in planning and beauty services, we offer a seamless and personalized experience. From intimate elopements to grand destination weddings, our team handles every intricate detail, from budget to vendors. Our beauty squad, led by Traci, is expert in delivering looks that make you dazzle on your big day. We use top-notch beauty products to ensure you not only look but also feel your best. Choose us for an exceptional, stress-free, and stunning wedding celebration.

Graceful Weddings And Events Llc. was an absolute pleasure to work with. Their communication style was super responsive, and the quality of their work was truly professional, valuable, honest, and transparent. Traci and her team were amazing - they put everything together seamlessly and saved our wedding day. When my wife's maid of honor accidentally left the wedding veil at the hotel, Traci's assistant sprang into action, getting an Uber and rushing the veil to the church, delaying the ceremony by only 11 minutes. Traci knew my wife couldn't walk down the aisle without it, and she went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. She's not just a wedding planner, she's a true professional who gets things done. I can't recommend Graceful Weddings And Events highly enough. I cannot tell you enough how amazing Traci was throughout the entire process. She was there every time we needed her. Absolutely no restrictions on phone calls, meetings messages, whether in person or not. She actually truly cares about her clients and does not make commission off of any venues or vendors in fact, quite the opposite, she is a master at negotiation and that’s how you can tell that she’s in this Because it’s her passion. She goes way above and beyond for all of her clients and I could tell by working with her throughout the process for the entire year along that we worked with Traci. To be honest we actually miss her because she was solving not only wedding problems, but other issues as well Put it this way Traci will make sure that you have exactly what you want but she will go and take it 10 steps further! I would recommend her to anyone I know having any type of event!
Ron S., 6 months ago
GemHidden gem
Fierce Productions 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Fierce Productions is a wedding planning and event production company that specializes in creating unique, unforgettable experiences in Chicago, Miami and beyond. We are a team made up of creative people who are skilled in the art of event planning and design. We are always looking for ways to think outside the box and do the unexpected. Fierce Productions was founded in 2015 by Laura Reitsma, proud Cuban-American Owner. Laura dreamt of creating an event production company that was fueled by her love of the theater. She wanted to make an impact and start a business that could give back to LGBTQIAP and theater communities.

Awarded Best of Zola
I contacted Fierce to help me plan a happily ever after party to celebrate with friends and family after we eloped during COVID. Many of the the party planning companies I'd talked to seemed confused or uncomfortable with this slightly unconventional request - but not Fierce! They had great ideas, great advice and went out of their way to find vendors, decor and ideas that exactly matched our vision. Olivia and Laura were on top of all the timing and details throughout the process and always available and helpful. The party went off without a flaw or worry. What a great experience!
Christine T., a year ago
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Tyler Preston | Country, Southern Rock, Americana 

5.0

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Tyler Preston's soulful Southern twang and irresistible finger-lickin' chicken pickin' will bring that warm, down-home charm to your country wedding. Whether he's gently strumming his acoustic guitar or electrifying the stage with his band, Tyler Preston creates the perfect atmosphere with timeless country tunes. As you and your loved ones boot scoot the night away, you'll sing along to classics by Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Zach Bryan, Tyler Childers, and more. Let Tyler Preston work his magic to make your wedding an unforgettable celebration of love and joy your guests will talk about for years to come.

Awarded Best of Zola
We hired Tyler Preston Country, Southern Rock, Americana for our wedding and he was fantastic! From our first call with his wife, the communication with both her and Tyler was thorough, clear, and timely - they answered all of our questions and made sure we felt prepared for the big day. On the wedding day, Tyler was a wonderful musician who played with energy and passion. His performance was a highlight of the night that our guests enjoyed. Tyler and his wife are also very kind people. We felt we got great value for the quality of their work. We highly recommend Tyler Preston for other weddings or events!
Krystal + D., 4 months ago
GemHidden gem
Amy Slogar Photograpy 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Amy Slogar is an Orlando based photographer specializing in refined and emotional imagery. Since 2016, couples have trusted her vision for capturing real moments, knowledge of the wedding space, and reputation as a trusted and reliable wedding vendor.

My husband and I hired Amy as our engagement and wedding photographer for our wedding at Sydonie mansion on 9/30/2023. We highly recommend her. Amy was so pleasant and easy to work with and answered all our calls, texts, and emails. She is professional and made us feel comfortable and confident. She also had some scissors that came in very handy when I realized I didn’t pack some. She constantly made sure that she was capturing all the shots we wanted while still remaining creative with her own style of photography. Lastly, she got some shots to us very quickly so we could have a sneak peek, which was amazing. Thank you Amy!
Gabi & Jake, a year ago
GemHidden gem
Mary Shelton Media 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Featured on Today show and Wedding Day Magazine. I believe everyone deserves to have life's biggest moments captured on camera. But photos turn into heirlooms when the moments are documented in a way that feels absolutely authentically you. No forced emotions, no fake smiles, and certainly no awkward prom-pic poses. Whether you’re dressed to the nines on the day of your wedding or, the dirty white dress that spent more time on the dance floor than the altar let’s capture the authentic you and have a damn good time doing it.

It’s hard to put into words how incredible Mary is. From the moment we booked her, we knew we had made the right choice. Mary meticulously crafted mood boards, timelines and provided invaluable advice from the engagement shoot to the wedding. She has a warm and vibrant spirit that makes you feel comfortable and excited. We found many times throughout the wedding day we felt most calm with Mary while taking pictures. You won’t find another photographer like her, willing to go the extra mile to deliver a vision. We cannot thank Mary enough for our beautiful photos. They are mementos of a perfect day we will cherish forever.
abbey & b., 3 years ago
GemHidden gem
The Honeymooners Productions 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $6,300
  • Serves Essex, IL

The Honeymooners Productions are a husband and wife duo who are determined to live life like they are on their honeymoon! They specialize in both PHOTO AND VIDEO which simplifies you’re planning process and budget. Their energy for life and love makes them PASSIONATE about your wedding experience! Let's get this party started! Email us about your wedding! We would LOVE to hear alllllllll about your day and your love!

Let me start this off by saying at the top of my lungs - WE LOVE LOVE LOVE THE HONEYMOONERS PRODUCTIONS!! Now that I've gotten that off my chest, here are the reasons why we recommend them to the highest extent: As a lesbian couple it was very important for my wife and I to find a photo & video vendor that was LGBTQ+ friendly. When we asked The Maddie and Luke about that, they instantly made us feel comfortable with their answer. Before the (first) wedding date, they were in constant communication with us and made a point to get to know us well before the big day. Then the pandemic hit, and we had to postpone our wedding. We had already paid our deposit to The Honeymooners and several other vendors. Other vendors were not as kind or accommodating to the change, but The Honeymooners stayed in communication with us through the changes and made it easy. Maddie & Luke had stayed in contact with us throughout, checking in periodically. 1 year later, we had to postpone again due to the on-going pandemic and once again Maddie & Luke took it in stride. They never gave us a reason to worry that they would come through for us. FINALLY, we had our big day. As soon as Maddie and Luke got to the venue it all made sense why we liked them so much. They greeted us like old friends. They were warm, kind, organized, and extremely professional. They just went for it at every step. They just never missed a beat. The few times I asked them to capture a photo of this or a video of that, they had already done it before I even thought of it. Even in how they directed us to pose or activities to capture on camera, it was all perfectly us. Not a single moment felt forced. I truly believe that because they took the time to get to know us before the wedding, that is what made everything they did feel so utterly authentic to us a couple. If it sounds like I am obsessed with them, it is 100% because I am. They weren't just the photo & video vendors that we hired for our wedding, they became our friends through this process. We had an absolute blast with them, and we laughed together all day. They literally made our wedding even better, and I believe that if we hadn't had them there it wouldn't have even been as fun as it was. The very next day after the wedding they sent us about 8 photos, already retouched and perfected as previews of our gallery. We were blown away by how they captured us and our love in just these few photos. What is more is they also created a 1 minute preview video that we have watched about 1,000 times already. Everything from the moments they included, to the song they chose was PERFECTION for us. 1 month after the wedding, they sent us our full photo gallery, full wedding video, and individual videos of specific moments. We were floored by the quality of their work. Everything is even better than we ever expected and we are so thankful to have those memories from the best day of our lives. I also have to note that I am in fashion so I have worked with a ton of photographers and videographers in my career - I can say with professional confidence that Maddie & Luke are some of the most talented people behind a camera I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I could go on and on about these two beautiful humans, but to sum it up - there are not strong enough words for how much we recommend The Honeymooners Productions to every couple (especially our LGBTQ+ family who need that kind of love and care). We love you Maddie & Luke!
Mandy B., 4 years ago
GemHidden gem
Bozena Voytko Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,100
  • Serves Essex, IL

I believe that every picture I take and give you should be frame-worthy. Give me beautiful light and good vibes and I'm set to go! Looking forward to hearing your story, getting to know You better and creating memories for you! If you are looking for a fine art wedding photographer in Chicago I would love to hear from you!

Awarded Best of Zola
From the moment we first spoke with Bozena of Bozena Voytko Photography, we knew we had found our wedding photographer. Her communication was prompt, detailed, and personable, putting us at ease throughout the entire process. The quality of her work is truly stunning - her light and airy style beautifully captures the details and natural light of our special day. Bozena shot our engagement session as well, so we knew it would be a breeze to work with her on our wedding day. She was a joy to have by our side, and the photos she delivered just 12 days after our wedding are incredible. We are thrilled with the way she was able to document all the special moments that made our day so unique and meaningful.
Colleen S., 8 months ago
GemHidden gem
Captured By Morgan 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,400
  • Serves Essex, IL

NOW OFFERING 50% OFF REMAINING 2024 DATES! I'm Morgan and I've been a professional portrait photographer for 10 years and a wedding photographer for 6. I'm based in Illinois and travel all over the Midwest capturing people's love stories. I strongly believe that everyone deserves photographs that reflect their true personality and spirit, without any need for awkward posing. As your photographer, my priority is to create a comfortable and relaxed environment. I'll guide you through each step of the process so that you can simply be yourself and let your natural beauty shine.

Morgan was fantastic to work with! She brings a great energy to what she does and also is very go-with-the-flow. She did our engagement and wedding photos and they all turned out fantastic!
Alysse, 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Forever Hello Films 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Vintage style
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Hello! I’m Amy Lynn, owner and lead videographer at Forever Hello Films. I've been a fashion photographer and music video director for 13 years, and storytelling has always been at the heart of my work. When my closest friends started getting engaged and approached me wanting me to be involved in documenting their days I knew creating films was what I wanted to do for them. The truth is, I love love. I wanted to capture their day in a way that would truly allow them to relive those moments again and again. Re-experiencing the love they shared on that day and what it felt like in a way that feels like them.

Awarded Best of Zola
Amy Lynn's attention to detail, beautiful storytelling, and utmost professionalism is unmatched! She captured our day flawlessly and I have had so many people tell me how they love our wedding photos and day-of video. She is such an easy-going and friendly person that it feels like your best friend is photographing you the entire day. I felt so comfortable with her around us, especially during those intimate "getting ready" moments and the "first look" with my dad. Her time, professionalism, and high-quality photos and videos are definitely worth the investment. Since our wedding, we have asked Amy Lynn to photograph milestone moments in our lives. This just is a testament that not only will she become one of your favorite vendors, but become a life-long friend. Do yourself a favor and just book her!
Margaret + H., 3 years ago
GemHidden gem
Kirsten Wray Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

Hi, I’m Kirsten, the creative heart behind Kirsten Wray Photography! Since 2008, KWP has been capturing life’s most amazing moments, right here in Indianapolis and beyond. After earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Ball State University, I followed my passion for photography to the vibrant city of Indy, where I’ve been telling stories through my lens ever since. Whether it's local events or adventures across the globe, I’m all about creating stunning, authentic images for my incredible clients. Let’s make magic together!

Kirsten Wray Photography was absolutely fantastic to work with for our wedding. From the very beginning, Kirsten's communication style was direct, effective, and genuinely sweet - she immediately put us at ease as a couple who doesn't usually love being in front of the camera. Despite having a huge family that was challenging to wrangle, Kirsten was professional, prompt, and thorough in getting all the group shots we wanted. The finished photos are of excellent quality and editing, capturing all the special moments of our day in a way that exceeds our expectations. Kirsten went above and beyond to deliver amazing photos, and we couldn't be happier with the results. We highly recommend Kirsten Wray Photography to any couple looking for an exceptional wedding photography experience.
Sephrah, 9 months ago
GemHidden gem
Jason Snorlax Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Jason "Snorlax" Cun is an all around photographer that currently resides in Los Angeles, California. He was raised in the heart of Los Angeles, where he found his calling in photography. He aims to capture the beauty of the world and the people in them. He has recently begun his travels around the U.S capturing the life of those within that city.

Five stars all around for honestly the best human and wedding photographer. We did three shoots with Jason since his pricing is so fair. We loved all of them! He’s so good with seeing the perfect backdrop where you’d never think one exists. And it was so meaningful to watch his style develop over the years that we’ve been working with him. We hope to always lean on him to capture our special occasions and moments. Thank you Jason from the bottom of our hearts for helping us hold onto the best times of our lives!
Kelly, 3 years ago
GemHidden gem
Anemone Chicago 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Anemone is an eco-focused and artsy floral and event design company, committed to bringing on the pretty and head over heels for the opportunity to be a part of your celebrations. Our full service floral and event design studio is located on the northwest side of Chicago, Illinois. Our business focus is customized and intimate - we want your event to be as amazing as you are. Every. Single Time.

Awarded Best of Zola
I did a lot of research prior to picking a florist for our wedding. After talking to Jessica about my hopes and vision for our wedding flowers, and seeing her proposal, I knew she was the florist for us!! The flowers for our wedding were GORGEOUS! We got so many compliments on how beautiful every bouquet, bout, and centerpiece was. On top of ordering and creating everything for our wedding day, my mother in law called Jessica the week of our wedding to see if she could make centerpieces for our rehearsal dinner (there was last minute drama with the original florist my MIL chose). Jessica amazingly said no problem, and created beautiful Tuscan themed center pieces for our wine cellar rehearsal dinner. I HIGHLY recommend Anemone Creative for your floral and centerpiece needs. You will get beautifully designed pieces and work with an incredibly talented floral designer who can make your vision come to life!
Melissa and M., 5 years ago
GemHidden gem
Kristin La Voie Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

I am a fine art wedding photographer who makes your photos more FUN. I'm for the couples who want to show the JOY while still getting those beautiful, editorial images. Ever since my first wedding in 2006 (where I developed the negatives in the darkroom myself), I have been obsessed with capturing couples' love stories. I was born and raised in Chicago where I still split half my time, but I will travel all over the world to capture your love. You can always find me covered in an endless supply of dog hair or hiding chapsticks in several locations around my home.

Kristin is a Tier A photographer all the way! She brings an unparalleled aesthetic, attention to detail and artistry. We are forever grateful for the amazing memories of our daughter’s wedding.
Stacey, 9 months ago
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engraveVine 

5.0

  • Event extras
  • Gifts and favors
  • Starts at $100
  • Serves Essex, IL

At engraveVine, we transform premium wine, whiskey, and champagne into unforgettable wedding gifts through precision engraving. From 'Will you marry me?' to 'Happily ever after,' our custom-engraved bottles add a timeless, elegant touch to proposals, bridal party gifts, wedding day toasts, and anniversaries for years to come. Thoughtful, personal, and beautifully crafted, each bottle becomes a cherished keepsake of love’s most meaningful moments. Design yours today and give a gift they’ll treasure forever.

I recently ordered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Rosé from engraveVine, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how stunning it turned out. The engraving is absolutely flawless, adding such an elegant and personalized touch to an already beautiful bottle. The quality and attention to detail truly exceeded my expectations. I’m so impressed that I will definitely be using engraveVine for all my future wedding gifts. If you want a unique and memorable gift that will be cherished, this is the place to go!
Daniel, a month ago
Quick responder
Sunfire Films 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Storytelling style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Sunfire Films brings a highly creative storytelling experience to your wedding film. Together, we can make some real magic. Every wedding film I create is completely unique. Using narrative and storytelling expertise, we can bring out your individuality for a boutique, fully custom, wedding film.

Sun Fire Films is an exceptional wedding videography duo that I highly recommend. As a photographer, I was impressed by their professionalism, collaborative approach, and ability to seamlessly blend into the day while capturing stunning, cinematic footage. Their technical expertise, and warm personalities made working with them a joy, and their final product perfectly encapsulating the emotions and details of the wedding. They went out of their way to ensure our work complemented each other, even sharing footage to match my editing process. Sun Fire Films is a talented, thoughtful, and reliable team that elevates any wedding vendor lineup I can’t wait to work with them again!
GrantDeveloped, 4 months ago
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Photography By Lauryn 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $8,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

I'm just a suburban girl who decided to turn her dreams into a reality. I'm all about building relationships and connections. After all, that's what wedding photography is all about. I do this job every weekend because I'm one of those people that is obsessed with pictures. Not just for a living, but for myself. I understand the value in photography. I do this for people who are just like me. For the ones who cherish those photos hanging on the walls. The photos still in that purple glitter album from 2002 of you and your friends in Limited Too. Those memories are all we have from the anchors that built us. Photos are proof that we have lived

Awarded Best of Zola
Lauryn is not only a spectacular photographer, but her organization and lively personality make working with her for your wedding such a great experience. We were nervous about engagement photos as neither of us are super comfortable in front of a camera, but she made us feel at ease, knowing exactly how to guide us and make us feel natural. We are a type-A couple, so Lauryn's professional platform was another huge benefit to working with her. Lauryn's portal houses all your information, she sends regular check lists and questionnaires to ensure she has everything she needs and is extremely communicative. This made us feel so supported throughout the planning process. Lastly, on our wedding day she was such a pleasure have with us. She corralled our friends and family to get things done efficiently without sacrificing quality--allowing us to enjoy our big day to the fullest. We received a sneak peek within a few days, and the full 1,000 images in less than 2 weeks. And they were STUNNING. We couldn't stop reliving our wedding day through her photography, and we'll forever be grateful for Lauryn's talent.
Maryclaire C., a year ago
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Tuan B & Co 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $12,000
  • Serves Essex, IL

All the beautiful moments, from the tiny ones to the big amazing ones - they are all important. We tell stories from start to finish, with a focus on emotion. We photograph in our home cities of San Francisco, Chicago and New York City, but also travel internationally - we've photographed weddings in seven countries.

Awarded Best of Zola
Tuan B & Co are so kind and amazing to work with. Their team is dedicated in capturing every moment with such care and consideration that you can tell they love what they do and give it their all. They are the only team I know that will anticipate social interactions during all parts of the event day and capture all the emotion in those special moments. The energy of the day comes through in their work with what feels effortless- but in reality it is the years of experience and artistic vision that can only be brought to you by Tuan B & Co.
Naturally Yours Events, 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Weddings by Jazmin 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Storytelling style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Essex, IL

Hi, I'm Jazmin! I’m passionate about what I do and love creating and capturing genuine, candid moments. I’m there to capture the joy, laughter, emotion, and beauty of your wedding day. I love it when my couples relax, go with the flow, and enjoy themselves. My mission is to help put your love story on display for the world with the memories we capture together — and have an amazing time in the process!

Awarded Best of Zola
Thank you for filming our wedding! I was crying when I watched our wedding video. From the beginning, communication with you was very comforting and easy. I felt very confident in my choice for a wedding videographer! On our wedding day, I could tell you were capturing all of the important details and moments, even though I was super busy and distracted most of the time! Watching our wedding made all of the stress and nervousness I was feeling seem like nothing at all! I’m crying, writing this! Thank you so much. For anyone reading, do not hesitate to hire Jazmin! She is the best wedding videographer and shows you how much she cares about you and your wedding day! She has a beautiful and kind heart!
Loren M., a year ago
GemHidden gem
DJ-Chicago 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,895
  • Serves Essex, IL

Established in 2000, DJ-Chicago has set the standard for the DJ industry in Chicago for the past 25 years. Since our inception, our number one priority has been simple, to meet or exceed our client’s expectations for their event entertainment.

As the groom I was responsible for the music. I interviewed several DJs and was impressed with DJ-Chicago. Nick, owner, was service oriented and was flexible with options. Nearing the wedding, Nick was focused on announcements and walk-in songs. At the reception, Nick was great at keeping the crowd dancing and sticking to our playlist options. With no reservations I'd refer friends and family to DJ-Chicago.
Peter L., 3 months ago

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