The  Old Post Office

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Summer

Our Wedding

Our story began at the start of our senior year at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, when Amelia moved into the girl's cross country house right across the street from Evan. Fate (and a shared love of running) did the rest. They became fast friends in the cross country group where they would run to practice together, have weekly movie nights, go to the local farmers market, and roadtrip to see their favorite artists in concert. Before long, they were basically glued at the hip. They officially started dating in January of 2020, and things only got better from there. In 2021, Amelia started working remotely for a tech startup based in San Francisco and Evan began his Master’s in Biotechnology at Rush. They moved in together in Chicago’s Little Italy; a cozy neighborhood where they quickly became familiar faces at the community garden, local restaurants, and at the park next door. In 2022, following his Master's, Evan began Medical School at Rush. Their family also grew, with the adoption of two very dramatic cats: Toast, a tortoiseshell, and Jam, a calico. Their home is now filled with plants, books, art, fish tanks, late night playlists, and lots of cat fur. They love traveling and exploring new places together, especially when snacks are involved, and are always up for an impromptu adventure. Wherever life takes them, they know that they’ll be home as long as they’re together!

Our Story

Photos

Will Muckian

Grace Noice

Juliet DeFreitas

Abbie Sharp

Olivia Bertaud

Maya Patel

Sarah Hamilton

Dan Corry

Josh Mallway

Ethan Johnson

Wedding Party

General Wedding Details

Travel & Hotels

Events & Schedule

Gifts & Registry

Fun & Helpful

Q + A

Rate + Fees: $211 Check In: Saturday, June 6 | Check Out: Sunday, June 7 To Reserve your Room: Use attached website link to access online block reservations or call above number providing the block name Bertaud &amp; Patel Wedding. Includes both one king bed and two queen bed options, available until reserved.

Holiday Inn & Suites

Rate + Fees: $327.55 Check In: Saturday, June 6 | Check Out: Sunday, June 7 To Reserve your Room: Use attached website link to access online block reservations or call above number providing the block name Bertaud &amp; Patel Wedding. Includes both one king bed and two queen bed options, available until reserved.

Hilton Garden Inn

Rate + Fees: $351.03 Check In: Saturday, June 6 | Check Out: Sunday, June 7 To Reserve your Room: Use attached website link to access online block reservations or call above number providing the block name Bertaud &amp; Patel Wedding. Includes both one king bed and two queen bed options, available until reserved.

Canopy by Hilton

Rate + Fees: $489 Check In: Saturday, June 6 | Check Out: Sunday, June 7 To Reserve your Room: Use attached website link to access online block reservations or call above number providing the block name Bertaud &amp; Patel Wedding. Includes both one king bed and two queen bed options, available until reserved.

JW Marriott

Hotels

Classic Chicago Activities

One of Chicago’s classic gems, the zoo is completely free to visit and open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s an easy spot to stroll and see the animals. Parking is limited, recommend walking or planning transport.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Visit the 103rd floor of Sears Tower for some of the best views in the city. Tickets are around $30 to $40, and it’s open daily from morning until late evening. Perfect for a daytime, sunset or nighttime visit.

Sears Tower Skydeck

Chicago’s legendary comedy club where so many SNL stars got their start. Shows run most evenings, tickets usually range $30 to $50. Recommend reserving tickets ahead of your visit.

The Second City

Home to world famous pieces like A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte and Monet’s Water Lilies, the museum is a must see for art lovers. General admission is around $32 and it’s open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. The café and outdoor gardens are a beautiful stop during a summer visit.

The Art Institute

A short walk from the lakefront, the Museum of Contemporary Art showcases bold modern art from living artists across the globe. Tickets are about $19, it’s open Tuesday through Sunday, and the rooftop terrace is a hidden gem with a beautiful view of the lakefront.

MCA Museum

A classic way to see the city. These 90 minute cruises glide past iconic Chicago buildings while guides share the city’s history and architectural context. Tickets are usually $40 to $50, boats run daily, and most tours depart right along the riverwalk downtown.

Architecture Tours

Right in the heart of downtown, this is where you’ll find The Bean, outdoor art installations, and often free concerts or events at the pavilion. The park is open daily and free to visit, making it an easy stop before or after exploring nearby Buckingham Fountain, Lakefront Trail or the Art Institute.

Millennium Park Plaza

Stretching along Lake Michigan, the 18.5 mile trail is perfect for a morning jog, bike ride, or a scenic walk with skyline views. Grant Park sits right along the trail (home to Buckingham Fountain) and it's right next to Millennium Park, both are free and open daily.

Lakefront Trail

Amelia & Evan's Favorite Activities

One of the largest and most beautiful conservatories in the country, opened to the public in 1908. It’s like stepping into a lush tropical garden right in Chicago. Located right off the green line (Conservatory-Garfield station) and has ample free parking, admission is free (donations encouraged), and it’s open daily.

Garfield Park Conservatory

Tucked away in Lincoln Park, this hidden spot is a great break from the city filled with winding paths, a waterfall, and of course lilies. It’s free to visit, perfect for a peaceful stroll before or after the zoo.

Caldwell Lily Pool

Right off Montrose Harbor and beach, this lakefront spot is a haven for birdwatchers and one of the most peaceful places in the city (home to the endangered piping plover!). Open year round with both paid and limited free parking. Especially pretty at sunrise with views of both nature and the skyline!

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

An old elevated rail line turned into a 2.7 mile walking and biking trail. The 606 winds through Chicago’s neighborhoods with street art, parks, and skyline views. It’s open daily, free, and perfect for a casual stroll or bike ride!

The 606

Jackson Park is a huge green space with lagoons, gardens, and trails right off of the lakefront trail. It’s free to explore and open daily, and it’s also home to the Museum of Science and Industry.

Jackson Park

Located in Pilsen, this museum showcases 3,600 years of creativity from both sides of the border, exemplifying the diversity of Mexican culture. Admission is free, and it’s open Tuesday through Sunday, great opportunity to see one of the largest collections of Mexican art in the US.

National Museum of Mexican Art

The Shedd Aquarium is home to beluga whales, penguins, and thousands of other aquatic creatures. It also doubles as Evan's second home! Tickets are about $40, and it’s open daily from morning until early evening. Parking is available, but fills up quickly as the weekends get busy!

Shedd Aquarium

A stunning historic building downtown, opened to the public in 1897 originally. This was the country's first free municipal cultural center; best known for the world's largest 40ft Tiffany stained glass dome. Admission is always free, and it’s open daily with art exhibits, concerts, and events!

Chicago Cultural Center

A serene modern study in River North, the Poetry Foundation offers a free library, gallery, and quiet garden dedicated to celebrating poetry. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday, and worth a visit if you’re looking for a peaceful break from the city!

Poetry Foundation

Once an abandoned bank, this landmark has been transformed into a stunning arts and cultural space curated by artist Theaster Gates. Open Thursday through Sunday with free admission, it has everything from rare vinyl collections to archival books in a beautiful historical space.

Stony Island Arts Bank

Amelia & Evan's Favorite Food

Amelia’s go to doughnut spot in Lincoln Park, serving creative vegan doughnuts. It’s a walk up window down an alley, cashless, and sells out quick. Highly recommend pre ordering online ahead of the weekend for pick up!

Beacon Doughnuts

A Ukrainian Village diner famous for its Filipino breakfast. It’s cash only, usually under $15 a plate, and offers unforgettable Longanisa, tocino, and garlic rice. Most often the wait is an hour, just enough time to visit Dark Matter Coffee across the street.

Uncle Mike's Place

A Chicago institution since 1923, this classic diner near Union Station is right at the start of Route 66. Known for hearty breakfasts and free donuts with every meal. Often has a line, but tables have a fast turn over(no reservations or lists, just hop in the line!). It’s casual, affordable, and perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring the city.

Lou Mitchell's

A cozy Little Italy spot right down the street from Amelia and Evan, Sweet Maple is known for its southern comfort food. You can't go wrong from cinnamon roll pancakes, house made biscuits, or hand squeezed OJ. Most plates under $20 and has street parking. Usually has a bit of a wait, but the line moves fast!

Sweet Maple Cafe

A Michelin starred gem in East Village, Kasama serves modern Filipino food. Casual bakery by day with incredible pastries, and a fine dining tasting menu at night. Expect a very long line in the morning, recommend getting there before they open if you're wanting to dine in(no reservations for breakfast, can skip the line by ordering pick up). Reservations required for dinner, recommend reserving your table online before your trip since they book up fast!

Kasama

A family run Italian deli in the West Loop, J.P. Graziano’s is famous for stacked subs on fresh bread. Perfect for a quick and classic Chicago lunch, with the option to add giardiniera on any sub! Most sandwiches are under $15, and every sub can be made as a salad. It’s open weekdays and Saturdays (closed Sundays).

J.P. Graziano

A favorite spot in Lincoln Park serving handmade dumplings, noodles, and homestyle Chinese dishes. It’s casual, affordable (most plates under $15), and BYOB. They don't take reservations, but have a list to add your name. Perfect for a cozy group dinner!

Lao Peng You

Located in Chinatown, QXY is famous for its handmade dumplings (boiled, pan fried, or steamed). Recommend trying one of each (can't go wrong with any of the filling options!) paired with their Jasmine Tea. Most dishes run $10 to $15, and it’s open daily for lunch and dinner. They don't take reservations, recommend joining the waitlist while you explore Chinatown Square!

Qing Xiang Yuan

Evan’s (and the rest of the country's) favorite deep dish. Pequod’s is legendary for its caramelized crust and iconic cheese pull. Pizzas run about $25 to $30 and are best shared. Just be ready for a bit of a wait, would recommend making reservations especially for larger parties!

Pequod's

A favorite authentic Mexican steakhouse where everything is cooked over an open flame. Their skewers are a must get, with massive platters of grilled meats, veggies, and fresh tortillas. It’s BYOB, cash only, and has paid street parking. They don't take reservations, recommend putting your name in while you explore the Pilsen shops!

Cantón Regio

In Pilsen, HaiSous serves beautifully crafted Vietnamese dishes that balance tradition with a modern twist. Highly recommend the signature Whole Fried Fluke and Vegetarian Curry, but everything on the menu is incredible! Entrées are usually $20 to $30, and it’s a great spot for a beautifully curated dinner. Highly recommend reserving your table online before your trip since they book up fast, paid street parking is available!

HaiSous

A favorite spot in Hyde Park, Virtue brings Southern flavors with a modern twist. With James Beard Awarded chief's all the food is amazing, our favorites are their shrimp and grits, blackened catfish, and fried green tomatoes. Entrées are around $20 to $35, and recommend booking your table before your visit. Right off Lake Shore Drive with street parking available, this is a perfect easy to get to spot for comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere!

Virtue

A Chicago classic since 1921, Margie’s is all about old school charm. With massive sharable sundaes, house made chocolates, and classic dinner vibes, it's a dream spot for anyone with a sweet tooth! It’s cash only, open late most nights, street parking outside is limited(parking is available in the area, plan for a little bit of a walk!)

Margie's Candies

Amelia's favorite ice cream shop in Wicker Park, Vaca’s house made soft serve and toppings happen to be 100% vegan. Highly recommend the Affogato or Death by Chocolate Sunday's. Cups and cones are usually under $7, and it’s open afternoons and evenings. Street parking is available but limited!

Vaca’s Creamery

Activities & Food

Registry

Attendees

We ask that guests wear either a suit, tuxedo, or tailored pantsuit (all paired with a dress shirt and tie), as well as an ankle length or floor length evening gown. Outfits should be completed with dress shoes or heels, jewelry and statement accessories are welcome. Overall, attire should feel polished, elevated, and appropriate for an evening celebration.

However, as this is a black tie OPTIONAL event, please do not feel the need to rent a tuxedo for this occasion! Any suit or formalwear would be perfectly appropriate. We just love the chance to dress up :)