Kimmie & Patrick’s Colorful Winter Wedding at the Pritzlaff

Kimmie from Chicago and Patrick from Milwaukee met through mutual friends at their mutual hobby: Phish shows! Patrick proposed in Central Park during an impromptu trip to New York City to once again see their favorite band. Suffice it to say, when Patrick asked, “Come waste your time with me,” Kimmie said yes.

Though the two planned a January wedding at the Pritzlaff, they were determined to keep things as bright and summery as the music that brought them together. “The Pritzlaff was the first venue we saw and we knew immediately we wanted to get married there. We loved the feeling the building gives—historic yet modern, open rooms, cream city brick, wood ceiling and structures, a beautiful built-in bar. A huge reason we chose the Pritzlaff was that we could create our very own vision and customize every little detail if we wanted.”

Patrick and Kimmie landed on a vibe that was neo-hippie, playful, simple, and elegant. “We didn’t want it to feel like a winter wedding at all.” Patrick and Kimmie accented a refined color palette of black, white, and grey with pops of orchid pink and purple, plus lots of marbling and tie-dye. Kimmie found decor inspiration by creating vision boards galore. Her advice to other brides: “Create boards that include art, architecture, colors, and design that speak to you and your tastes—not just pictures of weddings. You will be surprised by how far you can push the space and your own creativity to make this day special and unique.”

Kimmie and Patrick certainly succeeded in creating a shining, singular space. The ceremony centered on three large, living wall pieces. Candles were thoughtfully placed throughout the room, giving off an enchanted glow. “There was a tropical feel, even on a cold, snowy day.” For the reception, the room was divided in two distinct areas, one for dining and the other for cocktail hour and dancing. “A beautiful hand-dyed fabric separated the space. Guests were transported to a new experience throughout the evening.”

In addition to the stunning ceremony walls, there were also lush centerpieces, hanging living walls, and orchid mobiles to further fill the Pritzlaff with warm, tropical flair. Patrick and Kimmie also opted for a mix of seating, combining black banquet and wood tables with leather and ghost lucite chairs. The effect is gorgeously eye-catching and special.

“Working with Cori at the Pritzlaff was the best,” Kimmie says. “She really helped bring the vision to life, and we had so much fun along the way. Hiring her as our wedding planner was one of the best decisions. She was able to take our vision for the wedding and even recommend which vendors we should work with. With her knowledge and experience at the Pritzlaff, she really helped push us to use the space in a special way. Cori was truly a pleasure to work work and definitely a friend for life.”

For dinner, guests had a choice of three entrées. Dessert was a mixture of petite desserts and a festive rainbow sprinkle cake with two lovebirds perched atop the highest tier. Later in the evening, folks were treated to build-your-own tacos and a margarita machine dispensing two delicious flavors.

At the end of the day, Kimmie hopes other brides will think big. “It’s the one day that’s truly yours. Make it special and make it your own!” For Kimmie and Patrick, their day was happy, loving, and delightfully funky-fresh—just like the bride and groom themselves.