Cafe Brauer Wedding
Chicago summer wedding morphs into a different kind of magic at Cafe Brauer, and our design for Emily & Alex—a couple of artful nature lovers —was one of the most whimsical yet elegant events of the year. I’m Stephanie Stopka, founder and owner at Flowers by Stem, and with over 20 years shaping memorable floral experiences, I poured my heart into every bloom at this landmark Lincoln Park venue.
A Whimsical Ceremony on the Patio
Walking into Cafe Brauer’s North Loggia, Emily and Alex wanted to bring nature to the space without losing the airy, architectural grandeur. We covered the columns with greenery, echoing the surrounding park. This set the stage for their romantic ceremony.
Pastels, Texture & Personal Touches
To complement Cafe Brauer’s historic murals and soaring ceilings, we selected a palette of soft whites, pale blues with tiny touches of yellow and lots of delicate yet textural greenery —tying everything together in a way that felt fresh yet timeless.
Our Sustainable-Luxury Approach
At Flowers by Stem, we focus on hand-crafted, sustainable design: using in-season blooms, repurposing ceremony florals at the reception, never using flower foam (Oasis) and choosing locally-sourced materials whenever possible. This approach minimizes waste and amplifies impact, creating beauty that couples and Earth both feel good about.
Why Cafe Brauer Is a Florist’s Dream
Cafe Brauer is a unique canvas: a historic, skylit space surrounded by park beauty—ideal for whimsical, floral-forward designs. Its vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and art glass chandeliers make every arrangement feel elevated, romantic, and timeless. Whether spring’s pastel blooms or summer’s lush greenery, the venue adapts beautifully to each season.
Let’s Create Your Dream Cafe Brauer Wedding
If you're envisioning a Cafe Brauer wedding that melds historic architecture with whimsical, sustainable blooms, I’d love to chat. Explore our work, or head over to the Contact page to reach out. At Flowers by Stem, I guide you through custom design, seasonal selections, and eco-conscious planning.
📞 Contact me here to start the conversation—and let’s create floral moments you’ll cherish forever.
Book a free consultation today and let’s begin crafting your perfect garden wedding!
Planner: @fiercepros Venue: @tigerlilyevents Photography: @goldenhoursweddings Catering: @entertaining_co Cake: @ecbg_studio Beauty: @joannabartistry Attire: @loho_bride Band: @tvkmusic Getting Ready: @hotellincoln