Rehersal Dinner

Celeste

WELCOME DRINKS

Armour House at Lake Forest Academy

Wedding Day!

Ceremony

Reception

Summer

After five years of romance, moving into their dream apartment in Miami and coparenting their beloved Holland, lop bunny, Elphie, Ben Butin and Emi Ratcliffe will be getting married on a dreamy estate outside of Chicago on Sunday, the 14th of June 2026.

Our Wedding

Their love story began, as these things sometimes do, over coffee and final exams. The year was 2019, the setting, the University of Georgia, and they found themselves getting to know one another over a warm cup of coffee, as a reprieve from the cold winter weather and exhausting exams.They then embarked on a post-college adventure together in summer of 2021, when they relocated to Miami, Florida together for Ben to enter law school and Emi to embark on a new career in the big city. The couple rang in the new season together swing dancing in their beautiful, empty, yet charming apartment on Coral Way, where they have lived ever since. Ben and Emi have relished many days and nights, cooking adventurous dishes, hosting fun, filled dinner, parties and board game nights and strolling many mornings to vibrant, local cafés with friends and yes, even Elphie.Ben and Emi's love story reached its turning point during a summer journey that, fittingly, ended close to where it began—on a quiet Georgian beach. Ben dropped to one knee and asked Emi to share forever with him. In June of 2026 the couple will declare their love and promise to one another on the beautiful Armour House property in Lake Forest, Illinois.

The Story of Ben & Emi

Our Story

We recommend staying at The Viceroy hotel! Transportation to and from Armour House will be provided from this hotel. Pickup will be at 3:00 and shuttles will be making rounds at the end of the night at 11:00.

Viceroy Chicago

Want another option? The Westin Michigan Ave is within walking distance from The Viceroy!

The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago

Want another option? This is another great option!

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

Travel

WEDDING WEEKEND TIMELINE

SATURDAY, JUNE 13th8:00 pm - 10:00 pm - Welcome DrinksCeleste Chicago - Roof Garden (4th Floor)111 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654 SUNDAY, JUNE 14th4:15 pm - Ceremony, Cocktails, Dinner, and Dancing to followArmour House 1500 Kennedy Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045Shuttles will be picking up at The Viceroy Chicago at 3:00 pm pm, and making rounds at the end of the night at 11pm.

the best local spots

With the help of our wedding planner, we've curated a list of the best spots to visit in Chicago! If you're looking for the best things to do during your visit, look no further.

Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean")

Located in Millennium Park, this shiny, mirrored sculpture is one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors love snapping photos with the city skyline reflected in its surface — it’s especially pretty at sunrise or in the evening when the city lights glow. A must-see, (and free!) stop while exploring downtown.

Stans Donuts & Coffee

A Chicago favorite, Stan’s is known for its colorful, over-the-top donuts and great coffee. With several locations around the city, it’s an easy (and delicious) stop while exploring. From classic glazed to fun flavors like lemon pistachio or Nutella pocket, there’s something sweet for everyone.

The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the world’s leading art museums, the Art Institute houses everything from Impressionist masterpieces to modern works. It’s located right next to Millennium Park, making it easy to combine with a visit to “The Bean.” Even if you don’t go inside, you can enjoy the beautiful South and North Gardens, which are free and open to the public — perfect for a peaceful stroll among fountains, trees, and seasonal flowers.

Navy Pier

One of Chicago’s top attractions, Navy Pier stretches out into Lake Michigan and is full of fun things to do. You’ll find restaurants, shops, live entertainment, boat cruises, and the iconic Centennial Ferris Wheel with gorgeous skyline and lake views. It’s a great spot for a stroll, a family outing, or catching the fireworks in the summer.

Lou Malnati's Pizza

As Ben &amp; Emi's wedding planner (and a lifelong Chicagoan), I have to jump in here: if you’re going to try deep dish while you’re in town, this is the place. Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago institution — buttery, flaky crust, the best tomato sauce, and that famous layer of gooey cheese. Everyone has their own favorite spot for deep dish, but in my book, Lou’s wins. Trust me, you won’t regret it.- Alyssa, Northwest Weddings

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Treat yourself to small-batch ice cream made with creative, flavors like Brambleberry Crisp, Brown Butter Almond Brittle, or Gooey Butter Cake. Jeni’s has shops throughout Chicago, making it a perfect stop for something sweet while you’re out exploring the city! They even have options for those with restrictions!

Things to Do

Think black tie optional, but make it BOLD!

As the title suggests, we are aiming for a fun bold take on black tie/black tie optional. In short, try and go all out. (or even outdo the bride and groom) We’re inviting you to show up in your most elevated, fashion-forward look, or anything that makes you feel confident! Statement gowns, unexpected textures, bold suits, dramatic details. Funky accessories … yes please!! Consider this your official permission to go all out. If you have a bold outfit you’ve always imagined, we’d love to see it! We can’t wait to see what you bring :)

Emi & Ben

Emi & Ben

Photos