Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding

There’s something truly special about a Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding. The sun-drenched terraces, soft evening breezes, and the charm of celebrating your love at a single, stunning location. When I think back to Desiree and Bud’s incredible summer wedding at Hotel Monaco, I can’t help but smile at how flawlessly everything came together. Their choice to host the entire day at one venue—combined with the talents of their wedding planner, SK Events, and DJ Crush—created an experience that was as smooth as it was unforgettable.

Here’s more from the bride:

What was your inspiration behind your Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding?

I was inspired to do something classic and timeless with limited trends and flare because over the years, we have all seen trends come and go. I didn’t want to come up with a vision that I might reflect back on and wish I not gone with what was ‘in’. I knew I wanted lots of white: white flowers, linens, decor, etc. and the stark contrast of black would make for a timeless combination and sharp edges to photos. Additionally, I wanted the ceremony and reception to exude romance with low lighting, candles creating an intimate affair since we were keeping the wedding to a mid size with family and close friends. 

Advice to share with brides planning now?

I would say that a lot of people told me how quickly the day goes by and to just soak it in and I am so thankful that I was mindful of that going into the day of. After the rehearsal dinner, I spent some time with my mom getting excited for the day to come, went over my vows, just prepared myself mentally. The day of the wedding, I woke up early and took a long walk alone just reflecting, meditating, and taking some time for myself to remember and soak in all of the love and how special the day was and that it was finally here. It filled me with just immense gratitude and happiness. So my advice is to not sweat the small stuff, reflect on the journey, gratitude, and the love you and your partner share. Go into your marriage with a full and happy heart. 

How did you and your spouse meet?

We went to the same highschool, were friends on Facebook, but I wasn’t sure how. He reached out to me about a yoga studio I go to and he ended up meeting me there and we got to know each other a bit and I learned that we did go to the same school but he is two years younger than me. From there the rest is history!

Proposal Details! How did it happen? 🙂

Bud called me on a Tuesday and told me we were going to the LeMont for dinner that weekend and I thought it was so unusual of a place for us to go, but I kept that comment to myself and I began to have suspicions about an underlying plan. After dinner, we grabbed ice cream and went to a park where on a picnic blanket he popped the question. 

What was your favorite memory from your Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding?

The ceremony was by far my absolute dream come true. Seeing all of my family and friends as I entered the room I hadn’t seen yet, truly took my breath away. It was darkened and lit with lots of candles, having my dad walk me down the aisle, seeing all my loved ones and my dogs! Wow – still brings tears to my eyes! Our officiant did such an amazing job making everything personal, Bud and I reading vows and promises to each other, it was just magical and everything I wanted!

Desiree and Bud knew they wanted a day that felt joyful, easy, and full of meaningful moments—not one bogged down by transportation schedules and complicated logistics. By holding their ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception all at Hotel Monaco, they (and their guests!) got to focus entirely on what mattered most: celebrating their love.

From getting ready in the stylish suites to their emotional first look on the rooftop, every part of the day unfolded seamlessly. There was no stress about traffic, parking, or getting from point A to point B. Instead, the entire day felt like one beautiful, connected experience.

A huge part of what made Desiree and Bud’s Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding so smooth was the incredible planning and coordination from SK Events. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that every detail had been thoughtfully handled. The timeline flowed effortlessly, the décor was stunning, and Desiree and Bud were able to stay present and enjoy every second. SK Events made sure that no one had to worry about a thing—which is exactly what you want on your wedding day!

Let’s talk about DJ Crush, who absolutely lit up the dance floor! Desiree and Bud wanted a party their guests would remember, and DJ Crush delivered. Bonus! DJ Crush is the cousin of the bride and a friend of mind — the perfect combo. The dance floor stayed packed all night, with moments of laughter, wild dance moves, and pure joy.

Desiree and Bud’s Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding was a perfect example of how one location—combined with an exceptional team—can create a wedding day that’s effortless, beautiful, and full of heart. If you’re dreaming of a celebration where you can be fully immersed in the moment, and where your guests feel cared for from start to finish, I can’t recommend a one-location wedding enough.

Summer Hotel Monaco Wedding Vendors

Photography: Steven Dray Photography

Venue: Hotel Monaco

Planning: SK Events

Entertainment: DJ Crush

Florist: Community Florist

Wedding Dress Designer: Jenny Yoo

Wedding Dress Boutique: Blanc de Blanc

Hairstylist Name:Victoria Bohince

Make-up: Joy Lager

Accessory Information: Jeweled hair comb and veil from Etsy, Earrings and bracelet from Olive and Piper, Shoes from Kate Spade, Engagement and wedding bands from Frost & Co, Gold bangle was a family heirloom as something borrowed

Bride’s Shoe Designer: Kate Spade

Bride’s Ring Designer: Frost & Co

Groom Attire Designer: BOSS

Groom Ring Designer: Frost & Co

Videographer Company: Light and Motion Studio

Paper Goods Company: Minted

Bakery: Bella Christie’s

Any Other Vendor You Want to Recognize: 🙂 Sunny Haven Pets for on-site support and care of our three dogs!