The room was small. It was quiet. But it was warm. And not in an unbearable heat kind of way, in a homey feeling kind of way. Like when you feel welcomed. You feel happy. You feel like you’re in the right place at the right time. It was the perfect day to be at Chicago’s City Hall. An abundance of love filled the air and our hearts with so much joy. It was as if Haruka and Dan had won the lottery. Their smiles were so big and they couldn’t contain their excitement. They held each other’s hands tightly and leaned in for a kiss. Haruka’s grandma threw her hands up in the air and clapped ecstatically. They both looked at each other and beamed even bigger than before, which we didn’t think was even possible. Within a matter of a few precious moments, Haruka and Dan were FINALLY married. We can’t quite put into words just how happy these two were. But they were glowing! And it was so magical to witness.


We think that even though this ceremony and celebration was small, it was mighty. Haruka and Dan’s love for one another was shining so bright. We make note of this because we sometimes feel like there’s this negative connotation circling around a courthouse wedding. But we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t need to be that way. And Haruka and Dan are the perfect example. Of course so many people dream of their big day and all that goes into it (we were both hands down Type A, perfectionist brides). Making everything perfect. Having a big celebration. And we are in awe of all that goes into our couples’ big days. But, Haruka and Dan kept it simple. They love each other. End of story. They had a mutual understanding that love is love no matter how you celebrate it. They both realized for themselves that all they needed in that moment was a promise to continue to love one another for the rest of forever. And we think that is such a beautiful thing. What’s even more beautiful is how happy they make one another. How easygoing and effortless their love is. How much fun they have with one another. Man, it's amazing how they make each other laugh. It’s plain as day to anyone who sees them that they just love doing life together. It’s magical to witness.


Haruka and Dan, thank you. Our hearts are so full from your perfect, intimate celebration. It was such an honor to witness your forever begin. And it was a beautiful reminder that sometimes you don’t need all the grand gestures to show your honey that you love them. You two can light up an entire room and contagiously make everyone around you happy. It is such a treat to be around you both! Cheers to your forever and more. We cannot wait to see what this life has in store for you. 


HMU: Sophia Bella Bridal

Dress: David's Bridal