A Classic Wedding
at Medinah Country Club

BY KARLIE DRU, CHICAGO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER · WEDDING STORIES

I walked into Medinah Country Club on 11/11 and I was absolutely, completely, totally SPEECHLESS. Blown away doesn't even cover it. 🖤

Sol and Chris gave us one of those wedding days that reminds you exactly why you do this work. Every single moment felt intentional, warm, and so deeply them. From the very first look at her dress to the very last confetti cannon — I didn't want it to end.

Did you know? Medinah Country Club was founded in 1924 by a group of Shriners — which is why the clubhouse looks like a Moroccan palace with domes and minarets. The club has hosted five major golf championships and the 2012 Ryder Cup, drawing the world's greatest athletes to its fairways for over a century, including Michael Jordan. The same grounds where history is made — and where Sol and Chris danced their first dance. Not bad. 🖤

The Bride Squad That Stole the Show

Getting ready with Sol and her girls was everything. Her ride-or-dies, her babes, her PINK LADIES 🌸🌸🌸 — the energy in that room was pure joy and I was obsessed. This is exactly the kind of morning that sets the tone for an entire wedding day, and these women delivered.

The Details That Made Us Stop Everything

Can we talk about the blue details for a second? 🦋 Something borrowed, something blue — but make it absolutely stunning. And then — THEN — the photo shoot with an original Rolex in the background. Was that real life?? I'm still not over it.

Sol wore a breathtaking gown from La Jeune Mariée with Vera Wang sleeves — and Manolo Blahnik on her feet because of course she did. Chris showed up equally sharp in Hugo Boss with Gucci shoes. These two did NOT come to play. 🖤

A Ceremony That Felt Like Home

Their ceremony by the fireplace was one of the most intimate, cozy moments I've ever had the privilege of photographing. Medinah Country Club is grand and stunning — but somehow that fireplace made the whole room feel like a living room. Just the people they love most, gathered close.

Sol's daughter Addie gave the most precious speech. I was done. We were all done. 🥹

The Dances That Had Everyone in Their Feelings

The first dance between Sol and Chris was beautiful — but then Chris danced with Addie and honestly the whole room lost it. 🥰 That moment right there is why I do what I do. Nobody planned for how that would feel. Nobody could have. It just happened, and it was everything.

And to close out the night? Happy Birthday to Addie — because this family doesn't do anything halfway and I love them for it.

A wedding this stunning doesn't happen without an incredible team behind it. So much love to everyone who made 11/11 absolutely unforgettable.