Ada and Jeremey knew a traditional wedding wasn’t for them. They loved attending their friends’ large celebrations but always left feeling exhausted by the thought of planning their own. They craved intimacy, simplicity, and a day that genuinely felt like “them.” Yet, they also wanted elegance, style, and a splash of tradition. Could they really have both: an effortless Chicago elopement and the elevated feel of a modern wedding?
Absolutely. And their beautiful day at Pasteur Chicago proved just that.
When you hear the word “elopement,” maybe your mind jumps to quick ceremonies, Vegas chapels, or spontaneous courthouse vows. But today, elopements have evolved into intimate, curated events that can deliver sophistication and style without losing their relaxed charm. Ada and Jeremey’s elegant elopement at Pasteur Chicago showcased how couples can have the best of both worlds.
Pasteur Chicago: A Unique Venue for Your Chicago Elopement
For Ada and Jeremey, this beloved venue offered everything they were looking for. Located in the heart of the city, Pasteur Chicago is a beloved Vietnamese-French fusion restaurant with a rich history. Established in 1985 by a then-18-year-old Kim Nguyen, the restaurant has gracefully evolved over the years. Its recent facelift highlights Pasteur’s commitment to staying fresh and stylish while honoring its roots. It’s a subtle yet beautiful parallel to marriage itself—an enduring bond that evolves, adapts, and grows stronger over time.
From the moment Ada walked in wearing her incredible floral headpiece, carrying a soft, loose bouquet, I knew they’d created something special. She got the full bridal experience without the stress and distraction of hundreds of guests. Jeremey looked equally at ease and in love–no nerves or pressure, simply excitement about marrying his best friend.
Curating & Photographing a Chicago Chic Wedding Design
The details were intentionally simple yet undeniably chic. Pasteur’s modern event space set the scene beautifully, blending seamlessly with the restaurant’s French-Vietnamese elegance. A monochrome white palette accented with gold touches kept things sophisticated without overwhelming the eye. The tasteful balloon arch welcome sign and minimalist white and gold tablescapes enhanced the atmosphere, elevating the occasion even more.
As their photographer and partial planner for the day, I had a front-row seat to Ada and Jeremey’s story. (Shout out to the owner’s talented daughter who handled most of the design details! She did fabulous work!) I chose direct flash photography to capture the bold champagne pop and sparkling champagne tower moments, while opting for film for the rest of the day. These photography choices enhanced their elegant aesthetic, bringing out their elopement’s sophisticated yet spontaneous essence.
6 Ways to Elevate Your Chicago Elopement
If Ada and Jeremey’s elopement idea resonates with you, here are some tips on how to elevate your own intimate wedding or elopement, so it feels modern, elegant, and intentional, and never rushed:
Choose a Venue With Meaning
Eloping doesn’t limit you to city hall or a chapel. Look for spaces that reflect your personality and your values. Pasteur provided cultural meaning, modern elegance, and a cozy patio shaded by a whimsical weeping willow. A unique, meaningful location can elevate your day from quick-and-easy to intentional and unforgettable.
Invest in Thoughtful Details
An elopement doesn’t mean you have to cut corners. Curating thoughtful details—like Ada’s floral headpiece and corresponding monochromatic floral arrangements—shows intentionality and enhances elegance. These details bring so much to the table (pardon the pun), especially in smaller events.
Stylish Simplicity is Key
Stick to a minimal, consistent color palette. Too many colors or busy setups can distract from the intimacy of an elopement. Ada and Jeremey’s white and gold tablescape made their space feel cohesive, effortless, and polished.
Hire a Photographer Who Understands Your Vision
Your photos should reflect your style and personality. Talk to your photographer about the types of shots you envision, and how you’d like your story told. For Ada and Jeremey, a stylish mix of film and bold, direct flash photography created fresh, subtly trendy, and timelessly sophisticated images. The combo balanced the mood perfectly.
Keep Traditions You Love, Ditch the Rest
Ada enjoyed the full bridal experience without hosting a 300-guest event. You can still wear the gown, walk the aisle, have a beautiful ceremony setup, and pop the bubbly. Choose traditions you love and drop those that don’t resonate with you. Remember, your elopement is about authenticity.
Tip: Heartfelt handwritten vows will make your elopement even sweeter and help you savor the moment.
Balance Spontaneity with Planning
Spontaneity is fun, but planning key aspects of the day means your elopement feels intentional, not rushed. Work with vendors who listen to your vision and collaborate closely to make your day the seamless experience you envisioned.
A Fine Art Wedding Photographer Who Does Elopements?
I would be honored!
Ada and Jeremey’s elopement at Pasteur Chicago reminded me—and hopefully reminds you—that intimate doesn’t have to mean casual or hurried. It’s entirely possible to have the beautifully curated wedding you’ve always imagined, infused with intimacy and ease. Their elevated elopement proved that you can have the best of both worlds.
If you’re considering an elegant elopement, micro wedding, or intimate celebration in Chicago, Pasteur is a fantastic choice. And I’d be delighted to document it for you in authentic fine art fashion.
Chicago Elopement Vendor Team
Photography: @danielleheinsonphotography
Venue: @pasteur_chicago
Planning: @laur_angutan
Dress & Accessories: @graceandivoryofficial
Makeup: @giselledozier
Hair: @beautybylutkaaa
Bride Model: @ada_diep
Florals: @ordinary_seed
Balloons: @yoyas_party
