Nick & Merlene’s Global Love Story on the Lake
Nick and Merlene’s wedding unfolded like a love letter written across continents. Rooted in family, shaped by travel, and filled with unmistakable joy, their Chicago celebration welcomed 225 guests into a day where every moment was intentionally crafted to honor where they come from—and where they’re going together.
A Meaningful Beginning
Nick and Merlene exchanged vows at St. Mary of Perpetual Help, a space that held deep meaning for Nick's family. Father Tom—who served as Nick’s late father's priest—officiated the ceremony. His presence brought a sense of legacy and remembrance to the moment.
The space itself was breathtaking, but what lingered most was the sense of presence. Merlene, radiant and steady, was surrounded by loved ones—some having traveled all the way from India, arriving just in time to witness the vows. As church bells rang and the couple stepped outside together, it felt like a true threshold moment—the past honored, the future unfolding.
A Cocktail Hour That Traveled the World
For Nick and Merlene, hospitality wasn’t just about feeding people—it was about storytelling. They wanted their guests to experience the places that shaped them, and the cocktail hour became a global tasting tour.
From samosas and mutton rolls representing India and Sri Lanka, to Chicago-style mini hot dogs, Swedish meatballs, Spanish croquettes, and Texas ribs, each bite sparked conversation and connection. It was playful, generous, and deeply personal—an effortless way to bring their worlds together in one room.
Dinner, Candlelight, and Long Tables by the Lake
As guests moved into the reception space at Theater on the Lake, the atmosphere softened into an intimate, inviting atmosphere. Long farm tables encouraged lingering conversations, while lush florals by Southside Blooms and glowing candlelight framed the evening with warmth.
Guests gathered around long farm tables framed by lush florals from Southside Blooms and flickering candlelight. It was the kind of setting that invites guests to stay. To talk. To celebrate.
Family-style dishes from Viola’s Kitchen filled the tables—miso black cod, grilled beef tenderloin, mushroom risotto, and seasonal vegetables—for a meal that was abundant and communal.
Toasts, Dancing, and One Unforgettable Surprise
After heartfelt toasts—equal parts laughter and tears—Nick and Merlene shared their first dance. From there, the energy picked up—and didn’t let up.
Desserts from Vendador and Flourish Cake Design gave guests a sweet interlude before the evening's final surprise: late-night karaoke.
With DJ Vestus guiding the vibe, the mic made its rounds. Guests sang their hearts out, laughed until they cried, and transformed the reception into a memory they won't stop talking about.
We love dancing the night away with DJ Vestus setting the tone. Read our full review for this Chicago DJ here.
A Celebration That Held It All
Nick and Merlene’s wedding was a joyful collision of cultures, families, and stories. From samosas to Swedish meatballs, from quiet reverence to exuberant karaoke, the day honored the past while celebrating the present with open arms.
This is what it looks like when a wedding is shaped by intention and shared generously—with love, laughter, and a whole lot of heart.
Vendor Team
Lead Planner: Haylie Scherr, Heirloom Event Company
Photographer: Landon Salman Photo
Videographer: Elegante Media
Ceremony Venue: St. Mary of Perpetual Help
Reception Venue: Theater on the Lake
Catering: Viola’s Kitchen
Desserts: Vendador
Cake: Flourish Cake Design
Florals: Southside Blooms
Hair & Makeup: Diem Angie Team
DJ: DJ Vestus
Planning your own Chicago wedding and dreaming of a day that feels layered, personal, and unmistakably yours? We’d love to bring it to life.