Krista & Chris: Natural Beauty at Quail Ranch

After being together for nine years, Krista thought there was no way Chris could plan a surprise proposal. Chris defied her expectations and caught her off guard with a romantic proposal by Crabapple Lake at Chicago’s Morton Arboretum. Exactly 10 years from the day they first met, Krista and Chris tied the knot at Quail Ranch.

Krista envisioned a simple, intimate evening celebrating with her loved ones, but she also wanted meaningful details from their relationship to play a role. The duo loved the natural beauty of Quail Ranch, anchored by its grand Spanish Revival ranch house, which is surrounded by an avocado orchard, towering pines and grand oak trees.

Dahlias, roses and Queen Anne’s lace adorned the tables in a soft blush and ivory palette. The couple’s favorite color—blue—was used as an elegant accent on the groom’s suit, the bride’s engagement ring and with the napkins on the tables. Vintage décor, including ornate mirrors and signage, embellished the ceremony together with lush greenery lining the aisle.

Inspired by the couple’s travels, planner Claudia Hoste incorporated personal moments into the décor. Instead of traditional table numbers, each table was decorated with a card displaying the city name and a description of the couple’s adventures in that given place. Their unique guest book, reflecting their sense of adventure, allowed loved ones to write notes and attach them to a magnetic, globe-like display.

The couple’s beloved golden Lab served as the four-legged flower girl while Chris’ father, an ordained pastor, performed the ceremony. The bride’s aunt created a vintage bouquet from brooches gathered from family and friends, with each piece symbolizing a significant story or meaning. On the wedding day, Krista’s father added a fish pin to the bouquet as a symbol of their relationship and fond memories spent fishing together as she grew up.