From Pandemic to Partnership
Some love stories begin with grand gestures. Others begin next door. Nikki and Charlie first met in college in 2021, right in the middle of the pandemic. With Charlie living beside Nikki’s sorority house, what started as a casual connection quickly turned into something deeply meaningful. Over the past four years, their bond has only grown stronger navigating life, travel, and love hand-in-hand. It was a true love story leading them to an elegant wedding at Pazzo’s!
How They Knew It Was Forever
Nikki:
“I knew Charlie was the one when we lost all of our luggage while traveling across Europe. As a curvy girl, finding clothes abroad was a nightmare but Charlie made it his mission to make me feel beautiful and supported. He spent every day finding stores that carried my size, translating Italian Amazon, and booking busses and taxis. Through all my tears, he never made me feel like a burden. He turned what could’ve been a disaster into one of our most special trips.”
Charlie:
“I knew Nikki was the one when our summer together ended and I had to return to school while she stayed behind to student teach. Saying goodbye felt like a part of me was breaking. That’s when I knew I didn’t want to live another day without her.”
A Meaningful Proposal at Starved Rock
Charlie popped the question during what Nikki thought was just a fun day trip with his nephew to Starved Rock. But this wasn’t just any hike, it was the location of one of their very first big dates. That sentimental touch, paired with the surprise and sweetness of the moment, made the proposal unforgettable.
A Wedding in the Heart of Chicago
Set at Pazzo’s in the iconic 311 South Wacker building, Nikki and Charlie’s wedding was nothing short of a city fairytale. With its grand marble staircases, dramatic architecture, and the towering Poseidon fountain Nikki remembered from childhood events, Pazzo’s brought their dream day to life in timeless, elegant fashion.
“I always thought it was so beautiful growing up,” Nikki shared. “So to get married there, in the heart of the city I love, made everything feel full circle.”
Unforgettable Moments
The day was filled with personal touches and emotional highlights, but their favorite moments were clear:
- Nikki walking down the aisle and locking eyes with Charlie for the first time.
- Exchanging personal vows privately after the ceremony, an intimate moment away from the crowd.
- Dancing the night away with their favorite people in the world, under the glow of Chicago lights.
The Nerves Before the Magic
Nikki:
“After all the planning, I was most anxious about how I’d feel that morning, how I’d look, how the day would unfold. But once I put on my dress and saw Charlie, I felt like the most beautiful woman on planet Earth.”
Charlie:
“I’m not big on public speaking, so having all eyes on me was intimidating. But I stayed focused on Nikki, and all my nerves disappeared.”
The Start of Forever
The newlyweds are heading off to Sandals La Toc Resort in St. Lucia for their honeymoon, a trip filled with sun, relaxation, and celebration. But beyond the honeymoon, Nikki and Charlie are most excited for the everyday moments of married life. Building their own family unit, putting each other first, and continuing to grow together through every season.
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.
