The Best Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

The Best Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

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Melissa Stuckey Photography 

4.7

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hello, I’m Melissa! I’m a wedding & lifestyle photographer with a heart and eye for the genuine, real, and joyful moments! Based in Chicago but let’s be real, I love to travel - so take me with you! :) My heart as a photographer is to document your moments genuinely & always true to color. So that one day you will look back & remember not just what it looked like - but what it FELT like!

Hire Melissa for all of your photography needs, especially if you are particularly camera shy or think you feel awkward in front of the camera. She is simply the BEST and makes you feel super comfortable, makes you laugh, and most importantly, captures the perfect moments. We hired her for our fall engagement session and our winter wedding in January and are in LOVE with every single photo. I find every excuse to post the photos she took. In fact, my entire family loved her so much that my little sister is using her for her wedding in June 2024. Thank you so much for everything, Melissa!
Brittany, 9 months ago
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Ryan Shephard 

5.0

  • Solo performer
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL
  • Offer

50+ 5-star reviews across major event platforms, and brand new to Zola! My name is Ryan Shephard, and I'm an artist from Cincinnati, OH, (Now located in Chicago, IL) with a large repertoire of experience ranging in a wide variety of musical genres and endeavors including working with and sharing the stage with bands and artists like Sublime with Rome, Richie Ramone of The Ramones, and Chance McCoy of Old Crow Medicine Show. I've played 600+ events that include over a hundred weddings, performances for Fortune 500 companies, high-profile politicians, and more! Quality is my expertise! Let me give you a night to remember.

Awarded Best of Zola
From the moment we booked Ryan Shephard for our wedding, he was incredibly responsive, quick to answer any questions, and made the entire process easy. On the day of the wedding, Ryan was exactly what we had hoped for - he seamlessly executed our special requests beforehand and took requests from our guests all night long. My husband and I had a very specific vision in mind for the music, and Ryan brought it to life perfectly. My guests raved about him. I cannot recommend Ryan Shephard enough - he was truly amazing and played a big part in making our wedding day so special.
Marty and M., a month ago
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Riddle Road Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,400
  • Serves Gardner, IL

With 12 years of experience, Julie Riddle masterfully blends the timeless art of classic 35mm film with the precision of digital photography. Specializing in photojournalistic photography, she captures candid, emotional moments that tell a compelling wedding day story. Her expertise ensures a perfect balance between the nostalgic charm of film and the modern clarity of digital images. Julie’s work is characterized by natural, spontaneous shots that beautifully document the genuine essence of each couple's special day.

Awarded Best of Zola
This is going to be a long BUT WORTHY review because we cannot say enough AMAZING things about Julie - she is the best photographer ever! Working with Julie was a highlight of our wedding day. She has a very calming presence ad knowing she was there taking my photos made me so happy. She took our wedding photos and an engagement photo shoot and is truly one of the kindest people I have ever met! She has excellent communication and responds to calls and texts almost instantly, which was so reassuring because I was running late getting to the venue and she was fine walking around and getting a lay of the land before I got there. From the initial phone call to hear about her services and ask questions, I knew without a doubt she would be our photographer. She explained her wedding packages, her experience with photography and it felt like I was having a conversation with a friend and throughout the wedding process ad the big day, I feel like we have become great friends. She personalized our photo experience to match our style and that is so apparent in all of the photos. She provided the wedding photos within 6 weeks of the wedding day and kept me in the loop on timing and sent amazing preview pictures. She has a very easy to use gallery in which a link is provided, and you can download all of the photos. I got so many compliments from guests that she was so friendly and took so many great photos. For someone who worries about everything, photos was something I did not have to worry about because she knows exactly what photos should be taken and took suggestions for poses we wanted (it was a wedding on a tennis court so we had a few specific poses we wanted). She got so many great photos of guests, family photos, candid photos during our vow exchange and other times and during the ceremony that every emotion we were feeling was captured on film. My husband hates photos, but Julie is such a calming presence that even my husband and some family members who don’t like photos really enjoyed taking photos. She can strike up a conversation with anyone and is a ball of positive energy, which is a must have on a wedding day! Everyone that talked to her was delighted to meet her and said she was the best photographer they have met, and I couldn’t agree more. I am still amazed at the photos we received. She made the colors of the flowers, my hair (redhead) and the colors of the bridal party dresses pop in a way I didn’t even know was possible. She truly captured every emotion of the day. I couldn’t be happier with the photos and cannot wait for Julie to take more photos in the future for our family!
Ariel And S., a year ago
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Angelica Radway Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hi. I’m Angelica and I’m a Brooklyn native, a momma, and gamer who has been into art since a child. I focus on capturing candid, wholehearted moments portraying your true personalities while always keeping the vibe relaxed and intimate. Your wedding is a unique and precious celebration of love. It should be fun for you and your guests. Just be yourself as I capture all the happy, emotional, romantic and quirky moments that make you and your partner who you are.

Awarded Best of Zola
Angelica was wonderful abd knows exactly what she is doing. All the photos were taken precisely and all the photos are beautiful!!! I highly recommend Angelica Radway Photography! A
Robert & T., 2 years ago
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Widlet Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $895
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I developed a deep passion for photography when I was just 12 years old. Back then, capturing moments with my friends and family meant using Kodak Film, which was not as effortless as it is today. Since then, photography has remained my true calling. In 2002, I pursued my love for journalism and photography by studying at the reputable Institute of LAINSPROCOM. From 2006 onwards, I have been professionally capturing the beauty of weddings and portraits. My photography style can best be described as honest, sincere, and intimate. I strive to capture the raw emotions and captivating moments that make each occasion unique.

Our experience with Widlet was amazing. He is such a fun photographer to be around. He is very professional and got the eye to catch the perfect shot. In overall we ended with BEAUTIFUL PICTURES. I would recommend him without a doubt.
Marie-Line B., 4 years ago
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Studio 1534 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At Studio 1534 we are a a husband and wife team on a mission to capture your fun, unique love story. Our couples want memories of their wedding day captured in a way that does not interrupt the magic. This is where we shine. Emily focuses on photographing the precious moments that naturally occur between two people who are madly in love, while Taylor rocks the videography. Together, our style is authentic, bright, and electric.

Awarded Best of Zola
We absolutely loved working with Emily! My husband and I definitely aren't naturals in front of the camera, but Emily made it so fun and easy! Her pictures are amazing! She's great at capturing the moment. Our engagement pictures were the most fun I've had getting my picture taken, and I think my husband would agree. Our wedding was rainy and cold, but Emily was a trooper and we got some amazing outdoor pictures. We love her work and have had her photograph our maternity, Christmas, and family pictures as well, and I'm sure we'll have more pictures taken with her in the future. Definitely recommend working with her!!
Victoria, 2 years ago
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Moments by Frank 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Moments by Frank is a wedding photography experience based in Chicago, IL. Frank believes in capturing the essence of your joyous occasion in a relaxed and authentic setting. He focuses on guiding the happy couple through a mindfulness approach – soaking up every second of the memorable day. His gentle and professional tone allows the couple to feel comfortable, so even the most camera-shy will be able to embrace a day of flawless moments. Schedule a quick video call to find out how Frank can capture a day full of intimacy, authenticity, and love.

I do not have enough kind words for Frank! He is amazing! We had our engagement and wedding pictures taken by Frank they came out stunning! He is very responsive and kind. He really cares about his clients and the quality of the experience. You wont go wrong if you choose Frank!
A&V, a year ago
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DLN Floral Creations 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

We are so excited that you’ve come to visit us today. DLN is a full-service Northwest Illinois Florist specializing in lifestyle and event floral. Our team of Floral Artists are here to create the wedding designs of your dreams and fresh flowers for any life event or everyday occasion. Whatever your style is traditional to funky crazy, we can make your dreams come true. With over 41 years of experience and trying new styles all the time, we can't wait to meet you and design for your wedding day.

Darlene and her team are always such a pleasure to work with. They have great communication and are always there when they are scheduled! Not to mention their florals are absolutely beautiful! I would highly recommend them!
Patti, a month ago
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A Chic Experience Wedding & Event Planning 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $800
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Choosing A Chic Experience will be one of the best decisions you make in planning your event. Specializing in weddings, but handling all events is our expertise. We pride ourselves in attention to detail and flawless execution.

Tee was so incredible to work with, and truly made the day a breeze! We hired Tee to be our Day of Coordinator, and this was one of the best decisions we made for our wedding! She took on all the responsibility for the day, and was the perfect go-to person and communicator amongst the bride and groom, the families, the guests, the venue manager, and the vendors. I highly recommend Tee, and having a Day of Coordinator so that you can just relax and enjoy your day that you put so much effort into planning! Thank you Tee!
Kennedi Pierce, 7 months ago
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At-The-Altar 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $1,300
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hi! My name is Liz I am the owner and lead coordinator for At-The-Altar. I started At-The-Altar back in 2018 as an officiating service with our first job of officiating my sisters wedding and today we've expanded to 6 Officiants, 2 Lead Coordinators and 3 Assistant coordinator. We absolutely love what we do and can't wait to be apart of your big day!

Awarded Best of Zola
I am a professional wedding photographer and found that working with Elizabeth in the capacity of wedding coordinator was overall a great experience! She was very professional and prompt with her communication and her actions on day-of were nothing less than above the bar!! It was my first time working with Liz and I found that she knew the right questions to ask me (as the photographer) and how to make it a great and easy experience for the couple. I was and am very pleased and put them immediately on the referral list for preferred vendors because of how great they were to work with! 10 out of 10 would recommend and cannot wait to work with them in the future!
BLQM Photography, 7 months ago
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Graceful Weddings And Events Llc. 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $100
  • Serves Gardner, 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., 5 days ago
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505 Media Company 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I take great pride- and an immense amount of pleasure- in working with brides. Imagine being able to redo your own wedding time and time and time again- I treat each client’s event the way I would take care of my own. I own the initiative down to the smallest detail. If it’s not good enough for me it certainly isn’t good enough for you! Every couple deserves to see their vision brought to life in the best way possible, and have a sense of accomplishment at the end of the night. I love being able to bring you over the finish line strong and leave you with lasting memories! Little bit about my personal life

I felt my head spinning the weeks leading up to the wedding. Luckily Jessica remained so calm and collected the entire time. She was reassuring, and followed up multiple times just to check in. She had a natural touch for decor that made my wedding visions come true. She was vocal when necessary (I can sometimes be looked over when trying to give instructions - but Jessica did the work for me). I was on the fence about hiring a day of coordinator because of our tight budget but I was advised more often than not that a DOC is NECESSARY. I'm so glad we went ahead with one because I felt like I relaxed the whole day thanks to Jessica. She was a boss, incredibly professional, and yet still so friendly.
Jennifer G., 5 months ago
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Tyler Preston | Country, Southern Rock, Americana 

5.0

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Gardner, 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
Tyler made our Anniversary a night to remember. He serenaded my wife at dinner as we celebrated 16 years together. He was able to take a list of songs I asked him to sing and create a beautiful arrangement in less than a week, including learning a custom song that had been written for our wedding. He would be a Blessing to have perform for any occasion. I highly recommend this wonderful artist.
Bruce M., 4 months ago
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Cotten Designs 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Cotten Designs is a boutique event planning and design company specializing in creating unforgettable experiences. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, we transform your vision into reality, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or private celebration. Our dedicated team works closely with clients to curate personalized designs, ensuring every aspect reflects your unique style. From concept to execution, Cotten Designs is committed to delivering seamless and extraordinary events that leave lasting memories.

Cotten Designs was an incredible wedding planning partner from start to finish. Marissa and her team were incredibly flexible, highly responsive, and approachable communicators throughout the entire planning process. They were always quick to respond to our questions and adaptive to any changes we needed to make. The quality of their work was outstanding - they were creative, dedicated, proactive, collaborative, and incredibly organized. For example, Marissa helped us come up with the perfect wedding favors by sourcing custom Coca-Cola bottles with our names on them, which saved us a ton of time and effort. She also knew exactly how to get all our guests using the POV app on the day-of with a simple QR code sign. She also helped me source other decor I needed for the wedding, semi last minute. On the wedding day itself, Marissa ran everything flawlessly - no one came to me with questions and I didn't have to lift a finger, even for clean-up. Marissa's design skills are amazing too, as she helped us create custom signage throuhgout and at the last minute. I can't recommend Cotten Designs enough - they truly made my wedding stress-free and perfect.
Deanna - B., 8 days ago
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Bonie Weddings 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,499
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At Bonie Weddings, we specialize in capturing the genuine, unforgettable moments of your big day, from the first kiss to the final dance. Our team of photographers and videographers is committed to telling your unique love story with a timeless style that you'll cherish for a lifetime. We understand that wedding planning can be overwhelming, which is why our in-house planning team is here to streamline the process. With clear communication and personalized support, we handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your special day with less stress.

Awarded Best of Zola
We loved our video from Bonie Weddings! They were extremely professional leading up to the wedding and fantastic on the wedding day. They were flexible, capturing every perfect detail, and made our day truly special. Julian was especially amazing, delivering our wedding highlight video in just two weeks. Our video looks like highlights from a romantic movie! We highly recommend Melissa, Burhan, and the entire team for their incredible work. Thank you for making our wedding day unforgettable!
Melissa, 7 months ago
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two-2-tango 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $800
  • Serves Gardner, IL
  • Offer

Hi, I'm Louie, a Chicago-based wedding photographer with a love for working with fun, creative couples who want their special day captured in an artistic, personal way! With over 400 weddings photographed, I focus on intimate and mid-size celebrations, offering a uniquely personal touch that sets us apart from larger studios. Every couple has a unique story, and my goal is to capture yours in a style that's fun, creative, and tailored just for you. It would be an honor to document your day and preserve the memories you'll cherish forever. Let's make your wedding photography as unforgettable as your love story!

Louie took pictures at our wedding two weeks ago, waiting on the viewing, and he was awesome to work with! Louie walked us through all the posing and we were at ease with him. Louie was a lot of fun and professional at the same time. Louie took photos when family or friends asked and went above and beyond! We would highly recommend him!!
Karin M., a year ago
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Elegante Cuisine 

5.0

  • Caterer
  • Starts at $5,625
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At Eleganté Cuisine, our sole goal is to ensure the complete satisfaction and happiness of our customers. Through our meticulous attention to detail, quality, execution and presentation, we always strive to exceed expectations by placing the utmost emphasis on the wants and needs of our clientele.

Awarded Best of Zola
Elegante Cuisine is one of the higher end catering companies in the area, so this was a splurge for us, but one that we do not regret. Good food and good music are two of the biggest factors in the guest experience, so it was worth it to us. Our tasting was awesome; their menu options are extensive but all the dishes seemed to be executed perfectly. They had catered at our venue many times, and seemed highly competent. During and since the wedding, many of our friends and family have raved to us that it was the best food they’ve had at a wedding. Our entrees were the chicken asiago and the stuffed peppers (sooo good!). On the wedding day, Elegante staff took great care of us, even making sure we had hot, full plates and an assortment of our cocktail hour hors d'oeuvres ready when we entered the reception space. We worked with Trisha, who at times did not respond very effectively or efficiently to our questions/concerns/requests, but overall we are very happy with the services we received and us and all the guests were certainly well fed.
Megan, a year ago
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Joanna and Brett Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

If you’re after a husband-and-wife wedding photography team who’s just as excited about your wedding day as you are, we’re here for you. We bring loads of personality and passion, capturing every joyful, genuine moment perfectly. You want more than just great photos—you want to feel totally at ease with your photographers. We’ll get to know your story, your friends, and family to create a wedding experience that’s unforgettable. With us, your wedding day’s story will be beautifully showcased in photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Joanna and Brett have been phenomenal to work with over the past year of our engagement. We had video calls to get to know one another prior to our engagement session and wedding day which truly sets them apart. Their passion for what they do and the couples they care for, shows in their work you receive. Not only are they great people who go above and beyond to deliver high quality images that capture special moments perfectly, but they get to know you and all your friends and family that are a part of your special day to prioritize who matters the most to you. My husband and I cannot wait for our wedding day photo reveal!
Kristin K., 3 years ago
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G & R Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $995
  • Serves Gardner, IL
  • Offer

Hi and thanks for viewing my page. My name is Ruben and I have been a photographer for a long time. I started this journey when I was 17 years old. Back in the film years as we like to call it. I’ve worked and still work for major studios in Chicago that contract my services and do many wedding under my own label. Please contact me for more information.

Awarded Best of Zola
G & R Photography was a fantastic choice for our wedding photography. From the beginning, their communication was easy and quick, which put us at ease throughout the planning process. Their work was professional and the value was very affordable, especially given the quality of the photos. On the day of the wedding, they were flexible, considerate, and punctual, helping to ensure everything ran smoothly. We're thrilled with the beautiful photos that captured all the special moments of our big day.
Rachael, a month ago
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Stefan McFall Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hi there! I'm Stefan, a wedding and portrait photographer based in Central Illinois. I've been capturing special moments through my lens for the past 9 years, and I can't imagine doing anything else. Photography has always been my passion, but it wasn't until I started shooting weddings and portraits that I truly found my calling. There's something incredibly special about being able to document life's most important moments - the laughter, the tears, the joy, and the love.

Awarded Best of Zola
We love to work with Stefan because he works patiently with his clients. Also, he is really passionate about photography and know his stuff.
By Your Side Photography, 2 years ago
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All seasons beauty salon 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hi I am a licensed cosmetologist and a certified makeup artist i am also certified in airbrush makeup I have work with several bridal companies but finally want to do something for myself I have also worked with Asian/Indian/Pakistani brides

From the moment I walked into All Seasons Beauty Salon, I felt like they cared about my vision for my day. The staff was fast, friendly, and flexible . Their attention to detail was impeccable, and the quality of their work was simply just right. I left feeling cared for and confident that I looked my absolute best on my wedding day. I cannot recommend All Seasons Beauty Salon enough to any couple looking for a talented, professional team to help make their special day unforgettable.
Jenny R., 7 days ago
GemHidden gem
Buenas Vibras Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hi, I'm Mayra!! If you don't know me, I'm your wedding day bestie!! I'm here for anything you need - snapping BOMB photos, keeping the bridal party on track, picking the best photo locations, + I'll even pass you a tissue if you need it, which you will, BUT no worries, so will I. I cry at every wedding by the way. I'm a tequila drinking + loud music lover + capturing the moments inspired photographer based in Chicago, IL. I'm a heels off + have a good time day full of buenas vibras girl! On a wedding day, my goal is to make you feel comfortable with buenas vibras in front of the camera, and to focus on the raw + real moments on your day.

Mayra does a wonderful job in directing, especially for those of us who have no idea what we're doing or how to pose! She always brings such great vibes, and there's never a dull moment when shooting with her. She cares about her clients and never fails to get amazing shots. I would totally recommend her and Buenas Vibras Photography 1000%!!!
Jiana + E., 4 years ago
MB Events - Weddings by Eric Jaeger 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Curating Unforgettable Moments Through Thoughtful Planning & Execution. At MB Events, Eric believes that every event is unique and deserves to be tailored to your vision. Eric will work with you every step of the way to create an unforgettable and memorable experience for you, your friends, and your family! MB Events specializes in creating the perfect atmosphere for any event. Whether you’re looking for a upbeat atmosphere, a more relaxed vibe or something in between, we’ve got you covered. Eric is an experienced and skilled professional that is dedicated to providing you with the best possible experience!

MB Events - Weddings by Eric Jaeger provided outstanding communication and planning for our wedding day. Eric was extremely fast and informative in all of his responses, making the planning process smooth and enjoyable. He demonstrated exceptional care and dedication in getting to know us as a couple and understanding exactly the style of music we envisioned for our ceremony and reception. One special touch was his idea to have us record videos expressing why we were perfect for each other, which he incorporated into a beautiful montage that was played during the reception. It was incredibly meaningful. Eric's personal investment in understanding our love story allowed him to make our wedding feel customized and special. I would highly recommend MB Events to any couple looking for a DJ / Entertainment Service who will dedicate time, care, and creativity to ensure your wedding day reflects your unique love and personality.
Amberly G., 4 months ago
GemHidden gem
Creative Sounds Entertainment 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Creative Sounds Entertainment is an award winning entertainment company known in the Midwest as leaders in South Asian Weddings. We are a full fledge Sound/AV production house that provides custom lighting, sound, and visuals. We specialize in working with our clients in designing custom LED walls for a once in a lifetime experience. Each wedding celebration package comes with a two-man team and a vast music library of over 50,000 songs ranging from the oldies to today’s hits. We pride ourselves on staying away from trying to sell our clients separate packages. It’s the biggest day of your life and everything that you need is all-inclusive.

Awarded Best of Zola
Maulin did an incredible job working with us for our wedding. He gave us a clearly outlined contract with no hidden costs. When it came to planning the wedding, he had a great online portal where we could share pertinent information. During the day of the event, he did an incredible job working with our wedding planners to ensure they stayed on track. Last but not least, the reception music was incredible and his entire package of lights had the entire venue looking beautiful. Every one of our guests were wowed with his performance and I could not recommend anyone better to have be the DJ during your wedding/reception
Raj & H., 4 years ago
GemHidden gem
Caitlin Davis Photography 

5.0

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

We are Caitlin and Dejan (pronounced Dayin), we met each other in high school and we’ve been together ever since (time flies when you’re having fun!). Photography is something that we both have always had a passion for, and it wasn’t until we started to plan our own wedding that we realized we wanted to turn our passion into a career. Aside from photography, we love to spend time with our two dogs, Stella and Blaire. They are Australian Shepherds with HUGE personalities, and they are a big part of our lives. We are excited to start this journey and we can’t wait to become friends with you during it!

Awarded Best of Zola
We couldn’t be happier with our experience with Stella Rae. They were so kind and cute and personable, which made it easy for them to wrangle our giant family together for pictures. We are so impressed with them! We couldn’t recommend them more!!!!!
Molly N., 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
JVaughn Photography LLC 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Based in Huntley, IL, JVaughn Photography LLC adores producing stylish wedding images for couples to cherish. Serving special occasions in the Windy City and beyond, skilled photographer Justin Vaughn has a captivating style that will surely charm you and your partner. Justin is committed to providing you with a collection of pictures that keeps all of your magical moments of matrimony alive forevermore. JVaughn Photography LLC is available for weddings across the USA and worldwide. Justin can adapt his style to suit your aesthetic preferences, specializing in artistic, documentary, and modern photography styles.

Awarded Best of Zola
2020 was a difficult year for many reasons, but weddings were especially tough to make happen in this calendar year. But what made it even more difficult was having to plan 2 different weddings. The first being a 10 month planned wedding in Joshua Tree, California, until we had to cancel it due to COVID in November a month before it was supposed to happen. My now husband and I scrambled to reset for a smaller ceremony in Illinois instead to allow at least his family to attend and have it at his sister's home in Huntley, IL. We only had one month to reset. One of the most important things for us was photography, and although we had spent most of our savings on the cancelled wedding and we had no hope in recovering most of that back or even soon enough to help with the 2nd wedding, we knew we had to put forth the money and make the right choice for a photographer to document our day as best as possible so that our love ones who couldn't make it could experience that day through the right lens. Justin Vaughn of JVaughn Photography LLC was the right lens and so much more! He worked very closely with us via online google meetings, with a minor setback, which was we couldn't have an in person engagement photo session with him (since we were based in Wyoming and wouldn't arrive in Illinois until closer to the ceremony). Justin prefers to complete an engagement photo session, which comes already included in a lot of his packages, before the wedding to get to know us as a couple and make sure we get the shots we prefer. However even without the engagement session, through our online meetings, we were able to discuss who we are and Justin had that personal touch as though we were talking to an old friend. We established the narrative and story telling that we hoped to have for the day. Justin took detailed notes and had a list of shots to take for the day. But his improvisation and artistic eye was also excellent and he captured moments that we had never thought of that were so beautiful and amazing. In addition to the photography he also did minor videography to provide us a highlight reel, which was beyond what we expected! Throughout the day he was also very much a ninja in capturing the right moments beautifully without obstructing the views of guests present. I would recommend him for any photography need, he truly is an artist that captures the moments you wanted and so much more!
Jenny+Andrew, 3 years ago
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The Rock & Soul Band 

5.0

  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

The Rock & Soul Band is Chicago's premier choice for luxury wedding entertainment, specializing in high-energy performances of classic rock, soul, and Motown hits. Led by the talented Joy Storm, we bring over 60 years of combined experience to create unforgettable moments that keep your guests dancing all night long. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, we offer tailored band configurations and a personalized approach to ensure your wedding music reflects your unique style. Elevate your special day with a dynamic and sophisticated musical experience. Let's make your wedding extraordinary!

The Rock & Soul Band was an absolute hit at our wedding! From the moment they arrived, they were creatively engaging the audience and got everyone on the dance floor. As top-notch artists, they delivered an incredible performance that exceeded our expectations. They were on time and prepared to entertain, seamlessly transitioning between lively dance music and romantic slow songs. Our guests are still raving about how much fun they had dancing the night away thanks to The Rock & Soul Band. We couldn't have asked for a better wedding band to make our special day truly unforgettable.
Johnsie M., 5 months ago
GemHidden gem
Nichole Babiez Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I am a midwesterner, born and raised in the burbs north of Chicago who strives to capture moments that are gone in a second, impossible to reproduce, but with the help of an artist touch, can last a lifetime. I'm here to connect with you, listen to you, create with you, and provide a stress-free, comfortable atmosphere from start to finish. 3 things about myself, I have 3 dogs (yes, its crazy LOL), I am in loveee with Target, and coffee and mango froyo are my love languages.

Nichole is the best choice you can make for photography for your wedding day! She has a special ability to make all of her couples feel amazing. We love how our gallery came out and she did an amazing job getting pictures without them feeling forced or awkward. We had so much fun having her capture our day. Throughout the planning process, she was always available for a phone call and responsive via email to our questions. Thank you Nichole for everything, you are the best!
Meghan F., 3 months ago
GemHidden gem
Kelli and Josh 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $20,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Kelli and Josh are a sought-after international photographer team specializing in a unique combination of editorial and photojournalistic photography. Their expertise in each of their skillsets give them a timeless yet beautiful look to their photography. They have photographed weddings and events in over 42 countries across the world and have been named by BRIDES magazine as one of the top wedding photographers in Houston.

Awarded Best of Zola
I cannot say enough good things about Josh Newton. I have had the pleasure of working with Josh on many projects and in different settings from modeling for styled shoots to specialized marketing material to my own wedding and am always blown away by his artistic eye and ability to write a story through photography. His attention to detail is beyond compare, he is wonderful at guiding posing and creating a comfortable environment for solo modeling, couples and large parties alike. Josh listens, is so kind, is a joy to work with and always delivers above and beyond all expectations. If you want to remember your day like the magical, ethereal dream that it was, I 100% recommend Josh Newton Photography.
Amie Hagen and L., 3 years ago
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Kiersten Franks Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Heyyy there! I’m Kiersten, the founder and creative force behind the lens. Born and raised in West Virginia, this beautiful state is what I call my home. I’ve developed a love for traveling across the United States, and I’m excited to expand my adventures internationally in December 2024. I’m passionate about capturing that best friend type of love—the real, raw, and candid moments that make your relationship unique. On your wedding day, my focus is on documenting your authentic selves, from those emotional first looks to cozy moments during golden hour. And I’m all about the pops of color!

I recently had the pleasure of working with Kiersten for my wedding, and I can't recommend her enough. From the moment we met, her professionalism and passion for photography were evident. She took the time to understand our vision and was super easy to communicate with throughout the planning process. On the big day, Kiersten was a true pro—capturing all the special moments without being intrusive. She managed to blend into the background while still getting all the key shots we wanted. The candid shots really stood out. The final photos blew us away. The quality and creativity were top-notch, and we received countless compliments from our friends and family. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who delivers stunning results and makes the process enjoyable, Kiersten is your person. You won’t regret it!
Noah, 5 months ago
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Timeless Beauty Studios Inc. 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 5
  • Starts at $97
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Timeless Beauty Studios Inc. is a beauty & wellness studio that offers on-site beauty services and wellness programs that help brides shed unwanted pounds and build beauty from within. My signature Eat Pretty Lifestyle Programs consist of beauty detoxes, beauty meal plans, and workout routines.

Timeless Beauty Studios Inc. was an absolute pleasure to work with for my wedding day. From our very first interaction, Marci's communication was responsive, clear, and kind - answering all my questions thoroughly and putting me at ease throughout the planning process. On the day of, she was incredibly professional, arriving on time and sticking to the schedule seamlessly despite some late bridesmaids. The makeup artistry was truly flawless and precise, making me feel absolutely beautiful. My bridesmaids also felt just as gorgeous and confident. The wellness plan she put together also helped prep my skin, body, and mind for the big day, and I retained multiple strategies even after the wedding. I cannot recommend Timeless Beauty Studios enough - Marci truly helped make my wedding day a dream come true!
Tai M., a month ago
GemHidden gem
Karl Knutson - Band Or Dj? Get Both! 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,259
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I love what I do. I have been singing since age 8 and DJing since 15. I found a way to combine the best parts of music for an amazing wedding experience! People are wowed at the elegance of live music during cocktails as a first impression. Then they are treated to their favorite songs on the dance floor with me as the dj! It’s a perfect balance!

We absolutely loved DJ Karl! He was such a sweetheart and so flipping talented! I had multiple guests asking me for his business card after the wedding. He did such an amazing job listening to what type of music we wanted and making sure he played exactly what he we hoped for. You could tell he cared deeply for his job and was all about providing amazing service. His voice is phenomenal - I would highly recommend him for DJ and band services. Thank you Karl for making our night so special. Everyone had a blast and that was largely because of you. Best DJ EVER! Don't hesitate to hire him! :)
Lauren A., a year ago
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Lawrence Connor Films 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Storytelling style
  • Starts at $2,950
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I love coffee. I never leave home without it. I’m easy going. I love to chill. I’m a huge sports fan and I love watching Skip Bayless and others argue on Fox. Basketball was my first love and even in my thirties I still daydream about playing in the NBA. As a teenager, while most of my peers were listening to 2Pac and Biggie, I preferred Marvin Gaye, Al Green and The Temptations. I’ve been told that I have an old soul. At the end of the day I love life, I love my job and my customers always come first.

Awarded Best of Zola
It’s very important that the photographers and videographers not only get along with, but work well together. Making sure you’re not in each others shots and staying creative through the day. We had a great time working alongside Lawrence and his second videographer. I highly recommend them for your big day!
Lacie Whitesell, a year ago
GemHidden gem
Anemone Chicago 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Gardner, 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
Jessica of Anemone has done a great job providing flowers and decor for weddings at The Grove Redfield Estate. She captures the essence of the Vintage venue and natural beauty of the environment all around the space. Jessica is a pleasure and easy to work with. I highly recommend their services.
Carol Di Lorenzo, 5 years ago
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Dream Events By Sonya 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Let us guide you in bringing the wedding you have dreamt of come to life!​ We analyze everything from vendor selection to day of management. Our professionals draw up the finest in the wedding industries to fit your taste and budget. Let us come up with a design that compliments you. Dream Events by Sonya is a Chicago based wedding planner, we take your wedding planning and preparations off your shoulders but never out of your hands.

Sonya was awesome. She was there from the beginning coordinating with all vendors and making sure the vendors are on time for the wedding as well as for the reception. On the day of the wedding, we did not needed to do anything other than to follow her instructions. All of the vendors were on time and provided an excellent experience to our guests as well as for us. Sonya is a go getter and I would highly recommend her for anyone that need any event coordination.
Ramesh Nair, a year ago
GemHidden gem
Krystal Richmond Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,400
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Our approach is about capturing the real moments, the candid and unfolding raw emotions and those glamorous high end masterpieces you blow up and showcase on your walls. KRP is a team, I have associate photographers who can give you the same, full experience as I can when I am not available. Our team of trained and dedicated associates and second shooters are available for your Wedding Day and the entire journey no matter where that may be, even if outside the Chicagoland Area.

Krystal did an absolutely fantastic job capturing our wedding day! She was so fun to work with and got the best pictures from our entire day. She made us feel so comfortable and made group pictures so fun. Could not recommend her enough!
Allyson M., 2 years ago
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clover + stone 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

clover + stone marries a timeless sense of tradition with a modern style and sentiment. Let us set a mood of wild and romantic elegance. Diane has worked as a freelance floral designer with highly acclaimed florists throughout Southern California, with whom she has created bespoke, intimate and large-scale weddings. Now with her own venture, clover + stone, she focuses on weddings, corporate events, restaurant florals, and styled shoots using floral and botanical elements as a medium to bring life to any space. Based out of Chicago and Los Angeles (travel welcome)

Awarded Best of Zola
We decided to surprise our families with our wedding in Santa Ynez and asked Clover & Stone to create the bouquet, flower arraignments & altar (yes they also built us an A-frame to get married within). They did not disappoint, our families just could not get over the beauty and creativity their team produced, not to mention the professionalism, punctuality and calmness under the pressure we created for them being part of a surprise wedding. There’s no other team to go with, Clover & Stone is the best!
Michelle & D., 4 years ago
GemHidden gem
Meg Pearson Photo 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I've been a photographer for almost 6 years - almost 3 years FULL TIME! As a kid/teen, concerts were (and still are) my home. I was gifted a point and shoot camera for Christmas one year and to remember the moment, I'd bring it to every concert I went to. Eventually, I'd bring it to every sleepover and event. Snapping photos has always been important to me. I'm sure 12 year old me would absolutely LOSE it if she knew this would be the start of something amazing. 6 years in - 75+ weddings of all sizes and hundreds of love stories documented and no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Megan was absolutely amazing to work with. She is super sweet and takes the time to listen to what you really want. She pays attention to tiny details and is always there with more ideas. She really takes the time to make sure she knows exactly what you want and how you want it to look. Then she blows it out of the park! If you are ever looking for a photographer I would say go with her! She is one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and truly loves her job.
Tatianna M., a year ago

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