The Perfect “Lift & Twirl” at Artifact Events in Ravenswood, IL
There are some weddings that remind us exactly why we love what we do — the kind where every room bursts with energy, laughter, and emotion. Lauren + Dylan’s Chicago wedding at Artifact Events was one of those unforgettable days.
From the moment we arrived, the vibe was equal parts elegant and electric. A huge bridal party, nonstop laughter, and an atmosphere that felt like a dance party waiting to happen. We’re Whole Heart Video, and capturing this celebration was pure joy from start to finish.
Dancing in Pajamas + Emotional First Looks
Lauren started the morning surrounded by her bridesmaids — who also happened to be dancers and dance teachers. So naturally, pajama picture time turned into an impromptu dance party! Someone hit play on a speaker, and suddenly the room exploded into choreography, laughter, and the kind of unfiltered joy that makes for the best candid footage.
Then came the first look moments — and they couldn’t have been more different, yet equally moving.
Lauren’s first look with her dad was sweet and emotional, the kind that leaves everyone misty-eyed (including us behind the camera). Moments later, she turned to reveal herself to her bridesmaids — cue the shrieks, cheers, and one of the most riotously fun reactions we’ve seen all season.
Meanwhile, Dylan and his groomsmen were getting ready, joking around, and trying to keep the nerves in check before heading to the venue. No first look for these two — they chose to save that powerful moment for the aisle.
A Ceremony Full of Emotion
Artifact Events is one of our favorite Chicago wedding venues — and for good reason. The exposed brick, the stunning chandeliers, and the iconic gang plank walkway where the bride makes her entrance all come together to create a setting that’s both dramatic and timeless.
That long, elevated aisle at Artifact adds this perfect cinematic tension. Every step Lauren took built up the anticipation — you could feel every guest holding their breath until she reached Dylan at the end.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt, beautifully officiated, and extra special for us because we’d actually filmed the officiant’s own wedding at Sky on Nine (you can check out their wedding here). Seeing them again — and watching them tear up the dance floor later that night — felt like a joyful reunion.
And speaking of adorable moments, the flower girl and ring bearer absolutely stole the show. Their walk down the aisle had everyone smiling ear to ear, perfectly setting the tone before Lauren made her grand entrance beneath those gorgeous chandeliers.
Cocktail Hour and Reception at Artifact Events
After the “I dos,” the celebration flowed seamlessly into cocktail hour. Guests mingled under Artifact’s soaring ceilings while we snuck the couple away for some intimate newlywed footage — those quiet moments in the industrial-chic corners of the venue gave us some of our favorite romantic shots of the day.
Once the reception began, the energy hit another level. Rosanna & Co. Weddings coordinated every detail flawlessly, keeping things on schedule while maintaining that relaxed, celebratory vibe that makes a wedding feel effortless.
The speeches were a perfect mix of humor and heart. We learned that Dylan had once shaved his chest before their first date — and let’s just say, that detail got the entire room howling. Moments like that are gold — those little glimpses into who a couple really is, wrapped in laughter and love.
The First Dance — and the Party That Followed
When it came time for their first dance, Lauren and Dylan brought the romance and the wow factor. As their song swelled, Dylan lifted and twirled Lauren across the floor in a move straight out of a movie — the crowd erupted, and it set the tone for the rest of the night.
From that moment on, the dance floor was a blur of energy, confetti, and pure happiness. Guests from all corners of their lives joined in — including the officiant and their spouse from the Sky on Nine wedding, who proved once again they know how to light up a party.
The music, the laughter, the choreography (thanks to all those dancer bridesmaids!) — it was one of those receptions where the joy was contagious, and we loved capturing every minute.
Why We Loved Filming This Wedding
As wedding videographers, we’re always chasing those perfect combinations of story, personality, and emotion — and this day had all three in spades.
Lauren and Dylan’s wedding at Artifact Events was the definition of a perfect Chicago celebration: heartfelt, hilarious, beautifully designed, and overflowing with love. From the pajama dance party to the emotional first looks, to that incredible aisle walk beneath the chandeliers, every moment felt intentional and unforgettable.
And as the night ended, surrounded by laughter and friends, it was impossible not to feel inspired. This is exactly the kind of wedding that reminds us why we do what we do — capturing love stories that feel alive, real, and joyfully one-of-a-kind.
Vendor Team
Videography: Whole Heart Video
Planner: Rosanna & Co. Weddings
Venue: Artifact Events
Prep: Claridge House Chicago
Photo: Everly Collective
Florals: Lula's Floral & Gifts
Catering: Beyond Catering
Band: Arlen Music Productions
Transportation: Signature Transportation Group
Officiant: Featured from Sky on Nine Wedding
Thinking About Getting Married at Artifact Events?
If you’re planning a Chicago wedding and want a film that captures the heart, humor, and energy of your day, we’d love to be part of it. At Whole Heart Video, we create cinematic wedding films that feel authentic and full of life — just like Lauren + Dylan’s.
Learn more at whvid.com and let’s start planning your own unforgettable Chicago wedding film.