1. Real Weddings

A Vintage, Shoe-Themed Wedding at Patrick Haley Mansion in Joliet, Illinois

Self-proclaimed shoe addict Whitney McCall (35 and a pediatrician) has a serious affinity for heels. In fact, it was a last-minute shopping trip to DS

Self-proclaimed shoe addict Whitney McCall (35 and a pediatrician) has a serious affinity for heels. In fact, it was a last-minute shopping trip to DSW in 2012 that led her to the perfect pair...and her soulmate. "I was eyeing a pair of green peep-toe pumps when I asked a handsome, red-headed gentleman for help," she laughs. That employee, Vincent Fose (33 and a warehouse supervisor), would soon turn out to be her future husband. Less than a year later, Vincent proposed using his great-grandmother's white gold diamond – and a pair of heels, of course. With the ring serving as the inspiration behind their vintage aesthetic, the couple quickly began planning their special day with the help of Five Grain Events and their florist, Kio Kreations. "Our vendors really got to know us and it was that genuine relationship that made everything they did so perfect," Whitney says. One such perfect detail was the unique rose petal design scattered down the couple's brick aisle. "Our florist even included a treble clef in the design as a nod to our mutual love of music," Whitney says. Armed with a blush, ivory and plum color palette, the couple paired lush blooms and mercury glass votives with vintage shoes that double as centerpieces. "We collected shoes on Etsy and at resale shops to use on each table," the bride says. (The gift table even showcased a pair of shoes dating back to 1925 that Whitney's great-grandmother wore on her wedding day!) Another sweet detail? Bacon chocolate lollipop favors that Vince made himself! The treats were tied with a piece of purple raffia and left at each place setting with a tag that read "Bacon and Chocolate: The Perfect Pair." Check out all of the romantic details below thanks to these shots by Jennifer Kathryn Photography:

Kio Kreations mixed succulents, garden roses, sage, astilbe, anemones and peonies for a lush, purple bouquet that was both textured and bright. "We wrapped it in ivory fabric leftover from my dress and accented it with a brooch that belonged to my great-grandmother," the bride says.
In search of a venue with a vintage feel, the couple quickly settled on Patrick Haley Mansion as both their ceremony and reception venue. While folding chairs were lined up on the space's lawn for a clean, simple look.
The bride's vintage-inspired look was achieved using side-swept pin curls tucked under a birdcage veil and fascinator designed by Alice Padrul.
Pink and Purple Rose Bouquet
Per the groom's request, Kio Kreations used a single calla lily and succulent to create a natural boutonniere.
White lanterns hung from the pagoda and flanked the brick walkway while a sweet rose petal design was strewn down the length of the aisle. "It included a treble clef as a nod to our mutual love of music," the bride explains.
The ring bearer wore tan suspenders and a white button down that was paired with brown suspenders and a bow tie. To complete the look, an "official ring security" badge was pinned to his lapel.
After both of Whitey's parents walked her down the aisle, the couple completed a sand ceremony and traditional ring exchange before reading their own personal vows. "We both got choked up!" the bride says.
White Lantern Ceremony Decor
Patrick Haley Mansion Wedding Reception
The couple's vintage-inspired decor was born from the use of Whitney's grandmother's dress and engagement ring that belonged to Vincent's great-grandmother. Vintage shoes were even collected at resale shops and on Etsy to create unique, shoe-centric centerpieces!
Instead of one confection, the couple ended up serving three tiered, buttercream cakes complete with six different flavors – including lemon, amaretto, caramel and red velvet.
Purple and Pink Roses in Mercury Glass Votives
Rustic Initial Decor