Some love stories unfold in the most ordinary of places, while others begin in the middle of extraordinary circumstances. For Elizabeth and Michael, their story began at the height of the pandemic in early 2021. With the world on pause, they found each other online. Those early days were spent on long walks through Schenley Park, hammocking dates, board games, movies, and picnic afternoons. What began as casual company during campus lockdown quickly turned into a best-friendship that blossomed into love. By March 24, 2021, they made their relationship official. Although much of their journey was long-distance, they’ve been inseparable ever since. That brings us to their romantic wedding at RPM Events.
Knowing They Were the One
Unlike a dramatic “lightbulb” moment, Elizabeth and Michael’s realization was a gentle unfolding. By July 2021 they were already posing for Christmas card photos in matching sweaters and Santa hats on the beach. It was playful, raw, and deeply authentic, a reflection of how comfortable they had become being unabashedly themselves.
Instead of being scared off, Elizabeth knew she was falling in love with someone who saw a forever with her.
A Proposal to Remember
If their love story started simply, Michael’s proposal was nothing short of extraordinary. At the time, Elizabeth was living in Madison, Wisconsin, and Michael in Silver Spring, Maryland. Their long-distance rhythm meant every reunion was precious.
On December 30, 2023, what Elizabeth thought was a family dinner at RPM Seafood in Chicago, thanks to a raffle her mom had “won”, turned into the biggest surprise of her life.
Upstairs, in a private room, Elizabeth was greeted not by a dinner table, but by a poster of her and Michael surrounded by photos of their relationship. Then she saw who was there: friends from across the country, family from out of state, and future bridesmaids gathered in one room. Michael had orchestrated the entire plan with the help of her mom, keeping the secret for over a month.
On the balcony overlooking the Chicago River, beneath twinkling Christmas lights, Michael gave a heartfelt speech before asking Elizabeth to be his wife. Every detail was thought out, from a ring box that matched their outfits, to a photographer capturing it all. It was, in Elizabeth’s words, “the most magical moment of my life.”
The Wedding Day | RPM Events
Just one floor below the place Michael proposed, Elizabeth and Michael celebrated their wedding at RPM Events, an elegant venue overlooking the Chicago River. The day was nothing short of magnificent, a blend of custom details, unforgettable moments, and joyful celebration.
From the fully tailored ceremony created by the incredible Liz Babinski, to the breathtaking florals and design by Taylor & Co. Events, every element felt intentional. Guests dined on mouthwatering dishes crafted by RPM’s catering team, while DJ Chris from Toast & Jam kept the dance floor alive with nonstop energy.
The couple loved how RPM’s flexible packages, responsive staff, and indoor-outdoor spaces created the perfect flow for their day. The indoor ceremony transitioned seamlessly into a terrace cocktail hour, and personal touches like displaying photos from their relationship in the venue’s alcoves added a deeply sentimental touch.
Favorite Moments
For Elizabeth and Michael, the ceremony itself was one of their most treasured memories. A traditional Irish handfasting ritual held deep meaning. Their cord was sourced from a small shop in Ireland where Elizabeth studied abroad, with bows tied from two fabrics, one from the hoodie Michael wore the first day they met, and one from Elizabeth’s wedding dress.
The reception brought pure joy. With DJ Chris reading the room perfectly, the dance floor never emptied. One highlight? Michael, typically reserved, twerking on Elizabeth, much to the delight of their guests and cameras.
Pre-Wedding Anxieties
While the wedding day itself carried no stress, planning wasn’t without its challenges. Their biggest hurdle came when their invitations were delayed over a month in processing and further held up by USPS. Some guests didn’t receive theirs until the week of the wedding, and one even arrived back as “return to sender” two weeks after the celebration. Thankfully, technology saved the day, and they were able to share RSVPs electronically to ensure everyone was included.
Advice for Future Couples
Elizabeth and Michael encourage couples to get things done earlier than you think you need to. Giving yourself wiggle room allows for unexpected delays. They also remind future brides and grooms not to sweat the small details. Once the day arrives, what truly matters is being present and enjoying every moment.
A Honeymoon in Paradise
After the wedding, the newlyweds traveled to Mo’orea in French Polynesia, where they stayed in an overwater bungalow with a glass floor for watching fish, even sharks, swim below. Their days were filled with kayaking, snorkeling, jet skiing, horseback riding, and swimming with stingrays. They even collected sand from each public beach to fill a heart-shaped jar, and Michael gifted Elizabeth Tahitian black pearl jewelry as a symbol of their first adventure as husband and wife.
Looking Ahead
After years of long-distance, Elizabeth and Michael are most excited about the simple joy of finally living in the same place, waking up next to each other every day. Their future plans include buying their first home, adopting a dog, and continuing to build a life filled with laughter, love, and adventure.
We Would Love to be Your Wedding Photographer
It would be an honor to become a part of your wedding team. We create that timeless keepsake of your big day you’ll love forever. Myself and my team of wedding photographers at videographers at Lauren Ashley Studios will go above and beyond to capture the atmosphere of your special occasion, and share it with passion and authenticity.
