Real Weddings | Kimpton Gray Hotel

A Spartan love story

Though Alyssa and Tim had an immediate connection during a brief late-night chat at iconic East Lansing bar, and favorite MSU student hangout, Rick’s American Café, it took a few weeks to for their romance to get off the ground. When it came to wedding planning, however, once they decided Chicago was the ideal city to bring their nearest and dearest together, they didn’t hesitate to choose The Gray to host their special day (as well as their out-of-town guests). “You remember how someone or someplace made you feel—that feeling did not go away after we first toured the venue, it was very much there the day of our wedding, and has been there each time we’ve visited the property since our wedding day, and the beauty and kindness have been consistent every time,” said the couple.

The Perfect Venue

The couple took full advantage of the hotel’s dynamic and distinctive spaces throughout their wedding day. The morning started with a hang for Tim and the boys in the Robie room, where they could kick back with beers, play a little pool and watch football. Alyssa and her squad were able to take over the Presidential Suite to celebrate and get glammed up while enjoying breakfast and mimosas (naturally).

“The Gray was a perfect fit for us—from the aesthetics to the service—and we couldn’t have imagined our wedding anywhere else.”

Capturing the moment

When it came time for photos and the “first look”, the couple found that on-site cocktail bar Vol. 39 and The Gray’s grand marble staircase were gorgeous backdrops for the lead up to the romantic reveal. “My mom and sister stayed behind to be part of the first look with my Dad. It was such a special moment and I am so happy to have had a few minutes with just my family to take everything in before the ceremony—it is a memory I will cherish forever.”

All in the details

The short & sweet ceremony and dinner took place in the Adler Ballroom, while the cocktail hour and the reception were held in rooftop restaurant Boleo. The décor in each space, featuring fresh florals, lush greenery and warm candlelight, beautifully captured the late summer vibes of the day. Once the post-dinner first dances in Boleo ended, it was officially party time. “The energy in the room was contagious—it was a night that I could relive over and over again.”

“We will never forget the feeling we had the moment we walked into [The Gray]. Tim and I were blown away by the beauty of the hotel and the kindness of the staff.”

Special thanks to trailheadcreative

Alyssa + Tim