Loft Lucia

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Our Wedding

Michael and Raffaella's story starts with a leap of faith, when Raffaella relocated from southern Italy to Houston, Texas for work in 2020. While both working for the same employer, they knew of each but never had much interaction. However, after spending time together at events through mutual friends (Hi, Randy!), their interest in each other was apparent. During their first date, there was an immediate connection. Over the next months, Michael and Raffaella's relationship quickly grew. Enjoy our love story!

Our Story

We were fortunate to have our dear friend Cristian in attendance at our wedding ceremony, and he was able to take some amazing photos to document the day. You can check them out here: <a href="https://cristianbedoyaphotography.pic-time.com/-mikeraffa/gallery" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Michael and Raffaella's Texas Wedding</a>

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

We know a majority of attendees (including ourselves) are travelling from elsewhere across the United States and globe. For those of you that have yet to visit Chicago or need advice on getting to Loft Lucia, here is some guidance to help you in your travels. AirportsIf flying domestic in the United States, you may fly into either Midway International Airport (MDW) or O'Hare International Airport (ORD). If flying international, you will most likely arrive to O'Hare. Both airports have accessibility to downtown Chicago via the CTA metro train system (locally known as the 'L'). Getting Around ChicagoChicago is a pedestrian friendly city and is easily explored by foot and the CTA 'L' and bus systems. It is unnecessary to rent a car if you plan on only visiting sights and attractions in the city limits. Street parking is difficult to find and parking garages can be very expensive. Getting to Loft LuciaThe wedding venue, Loft Lucia, is in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood. If you are staying near the Loop (named after the loop the 'L' system makes in downtown) it is easiest to hop on the Pink or Green Line 'L' trains to the Morgan station stop. From there, it is a 0.3 mile (~8 minute) walk to Loft Lucia. If you are coming in from the Chicagoland suburbs, consider taking the Metra commuter train to Ogilvie or Union Station. From there it is a 0.7 mile (~15 minute) walk to Loft Lucia. You could also consider taking a short Uber or Taxi if the members of your party are not up for the walk. Loft Lucia DOES NOT have designated parking. You may park with the valet at Monteverde or with the parking garage on Washington street at the end of the block. HotelsThere will not be a reserved block of hotel rooms for this event. Sorry for the inconvenience! There are a couple hotels near Loft Lucia that are listed below, and there are countless hotel options near the Loop.

Hyatt House is located 0.2 miles (~4 minute) walk from Loft Lucia and is conveniently located near the Morgan Street Pink and Green Line 'L' station.

Hyatt House Chicago / West Loop-Fulton Market

Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop, is located 0.4 miles (~9 minute) walk from Loft Lucia, but is further from the 'L' train system with it being 0.6 miles (~15 minute) walk from both the Morgan Street or Clinton Street Pink and Green Line station

Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop, an IHG Hotel

Travel

Chicago is the 3rd largest city in the United States, with endless options to entertain. Keep in mind, December can be brutally cold and some activities Chicago is famous for can only be enjoyed outside of Winter season (looking at you architectural boat tours on the Chicago River). However, December is a fantastic time to visit Chicago to enjoy the holiday decorations and other seasonal activities! There are thousands of "what to do in Chicago" videos/itineraries depending on your interests, so happy exploring when planning your time in Chicago! Some of my favorite Winter activities are:-Visit the Christkindlmarket for mulled wine or a hot chocolate-Ice skating on the ribbon at Maggie Daley Park-Stroll down Michigan Avenue to check out the holiday decorations-Visit a museum to escape the cold outdoors. My favorite is the Museum of Science and Industry

Michael & Raffaella

Michael & Raffaella

Photos