Chicago Botanic Garden Wedding
Chicago Botanic Garden weddings have a magic all their own—and my summer design for Megan and Adam will always be one of my favorites. I’m Stephanie Stopka, founder and owner at Flowers by Stem, and as a Chicago wedding florist with nearly 20 years of experience crafting luxury, sustainable arrangements, this day at the Chicago Botanic Garden truly inspired me.
A Summer Love in Full Bloom
Walking through the lush greenery of the English Walled Garden, Megan and Adam’s ceremony had the feeling of a secret garden. Their ceremony backdrop featured a simple yet impactful wooden chuppah with lush greenery that echoed the vibrant botanical beauty surrounding them.
Personalized Ceremony Details
Soft pastels complemented Megan’s bouquet and the romantic summer vibe.
Lush greenery chuppah framed the ceremony space, enhancing the garden’s charm without overwhelming it—an approach I find balances elegance with nature.
Pops of color via stunning coral peonies and other early summer blooms
An Enchanting Evening Under the Stars
As sunset settled over McGinley Pavilion, we transitioned guests into a reception that glowed beneath a ceiling of twinkling greenery-laden lights
Reception Highlights:
Lush flowers including coral peonies, chamomile blooms and delicate blue delphinium for a gorgeously garden-fresh design
Our bride created her very own stunning seating assignment sign! We complemented her work with huge armfuls of blooms billowing out of woven market baskets for a truly unique floral moment.
Black Iron Candelabras - we balanced the delicacy of the lighter blooms with visually impactful black iron candelabras, adding a bold yet organic layer to the table designs.
A heartfelt next day flower donation - we donated all of the remaining blooms to a local nursing home chosen by the couple themselves.
My Philosophy: Luxury with a Green Heart
At Flowers by Stem, I focus on hand-crafted, sustainable design using seasonal blooms and mindful repurposing. Megan and Adam’s wedding is a perfect showcase of this philosophy: lush, garden-inspired designs that minimize waste and maximize elegance. It’s an approach that resonates with couples who care about both beauty and the environment.
Why I Love the Chicago Botanic Garden as a Venue
The Chicago Botanic Garden is more than just a venue—it’s a living, immersive environment. From the magical English Walled Garden to the stunning water-side McGinley Pavilion, each space offers a unique canvas for florals. I tailor my designs to honor those settings, ensuring your wedding looks incredible without competing with nature.
Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?
If you’re dreaming of a Chicago Botanic Garden wedding filled with lush, sustainable florals that enhance—but never overpower—the beauty of your venue, I’d love to connect. 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!
Florals are my art—and I’d love to make your wedding day bloom beautifully.
Vendors: photo:@seancookweddings - venue:@chicagobotanic -planner:@thecreativeplanners