Alex and Cameron's Parisian School House Wedding
Fierce Productions is all about designing unique and non traditional events. Well, we had the privilege of creating a unique and memorable wedding for Alex and Cameron at The School House Chicago. The wedding’s theme, “Romantic Parisian School Drop Out,” set the stage for an extraordinary affair. “Parisian Prep school” played a lot on the schoolhouse venue. But instead of midcentury schoolhouse, we went for a more classic and elegant vibe. Think enlightenment salons, the classics, newton, Galileo, botany experiments, old science drawings. “Drop outs” was included so the classic part was not stuffy. We kept it elegant, but it didn’t take itself seriously. Think neon lights, disco balls.
Guests were whisked away into a chic, scholarly realm, complete with actors, personal flags, and captivating digital presentations. The ambiance of a Parisian soirée was brought to life with a candlelit dinner amidst a library of dreams, adorned with astrology motifs and shimmering tinsel, creating a “magical starlight dinner” atmosphere. This wedding was not just an event; it was a journey into a world of romance and whimsy, meticulously designed by to be a cherished memory for all.
WHAT WAS FIERCE ABOUT THIS WEDDING:
The whole event was immersive! Guests were greeted by an actor portraying a headmaster to immediately set the mood for the guests. As guests sipped on cocktails, they were sorted into “chapters”—based on what part of the couples life they had known them from. All guests were also a part of the ceremony processional, lead by a head boy or girl with a matching flag.
The venue itself was super unique—It was an old schoolhouse transformed into an event space. It was perfect for this niche concept!
The ceremony was in-the-round to allow everyone to have a great seat. They ceremony even included readings from each head boy/girl, candle lighting, and virtual presentations to help share the couple’s story.
The guests processed and recessed from the ceremony though a tinsel tunnel! It was such a fun, magical touch.
The couple had a dirty martini bar during cocktail hour, with a live bartender pouring vodka over ice and olives. The cocktail hour was also in a large space filled with various art pieces. It almost felt like a scholarly archive room!
The decor featured lots of custom decor and all effectively supported the Parisian School theme. There were books, school equipment, statues, and custom flags to showcase “school”, while adding some romantic touches to highlight Parisian nights. The sparkle tinsel gave a “starry night effect,” while the disco balls, candelabras, simple floral touches, and astrological motifs added some play and romance.
We had an ABBA cover tribute band perform for a private first dance for the couple, and then during the reception.
FIERCE VENDOR TEAM:
Planner: Fierce Productions | Venue: School House Chicago | Photographer: Megan Saul Photography | Band: Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute | Photo booth: BoomFrog Events | Catering: Food for Thought | Decor: Revel Decor | Videographer: This Charming Heart | DJ: Raphael Olivier | Transportation: Signature Transportation | AV: Luxe Productions
KIND WORDS FROM ALEX & CAMERON:
“It’s hard to put to words how much we appreciate Laura and the Fierce team, so well just share the text we sent Laura the day after our wedding: Laura, it feels like the most common piece of advice people give about weddings is that, something will go wrong, just expect that. However, you delivered a perfect wedding. We wouldn’t have changed a single thing. What you accomplished was absolutely extraordinary. Complete magic. We thought we knew exactly what to expect, but it was so much more than we dreamed of. We are so proud of what we created with you. It left guests feeling so grateful to have experienced something so unique and loving. They’re saying it was the coolest experience and best party they’ve ever been to. Laura made sure we could be present. She respected our vision like it was her own and protected every piece of it. By the time the wedding arrived, she was our friend--not a vendor. Imagine having your friend send you down the aisle...rather than someone your hired. We would hire Fierce a million times over.”
- Alex & Cameron
DO YOU HAVE A BOLD VISION FOR YOUR WEDDING?
Fierce Productions is a Chicago based wedding planning company specializing in curating unique, bold, non-traditional weddings and events. Our talented team of professionals can handle all of your event needs including planning and coordination, design and styling, vendor and talent management, fundraising, marketing support and beyond - get in touch to learn more!