Events By Shaun Rajah

Step 3 of my venue walk-through guide: Ask about service charge, tax, and gratuity.

A quote can look perfect on paper, but once the additional fees are added, the final number can feel very different.Before you fall in love with a venue, always ask:

“What is the total estimated cost once service charge, tax, gratuity, and any additional fees are included?”

It’s not the most glamorous question, but it’s one of the most important. It helps you compare venues fairly and avoid surprises later.

Style and weddings have always gone hand in hand. What we wear tells a story — of identity, confidence, culture, and how we choose to show up.

For The Knot’s 30th Anniversary, the dress code was “black tie reimagined,” and I wanted something classic, age-appropriate, but still unexpected. I turned to Chicago designer , who created this custom piece within weeks — and I couldn’t love it more.

Because style inspires weddings, and weddings inspire style. Representation matters.

Just in time for Pride Month, this beautiful celebration is featured in Modern Luxury Weddings North Shore Summer 2026.

This wedding was more than stunning design, beautiful fashion, and unforgettable moments — it was a reminder of what weddings are truly about: love, chosen family, joy, and the freedom to celebrate exactly as you are.

Pride is personal, and this feature feels especially meaningful. Representation matters — in love, in luxury, and in every space we create.

Proud of this one. 🌈

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Happy anniversary to this incredible couple. Your wedding was filled with so much beauty, joy, and love — and it’s such a gift to look back on these moments today.

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A year ago, we celebrated a love story surrounded by beauty, joy, family, and unforgettable details. Happy first anniversary to such a wonderful couple.

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Before you fall in love with a venue, ask one very important question:

What is actually included?

Tables. Chairs. Linens. Glassware. Staffing. Setup. Breakdown. Security. Coat check. Ceremony chairs. Cocktail tables. Bar packages. The list matters.

Two venues can have the same rental fee, but the final cost can look completely different depending on what is included and what you still need to bring in.

A beautiful space is important, but understanding the real cost of the space is what protects your budget.

So before you compare venues, compare the inclusions.

That is where the real numbers begin.

Kevin & Sarah’s New Year’s Eve Wedding at The Langham Chicago

The couple celebrated love and the start of a new year with a glamorous wedding at The Langham Chicago, blending elegance and joy.

We wanted every detail to reflect who we are as a couple,” Sarah shares. “From the choice of The Langham Chicago—its sweeping city views and timeless architecture—to the curated décor, lighting, and even the menu, everything was designed to create an unforgettable experience for our guests

“It was important for us that the wedding felt luxurious but also warm and celebratory—exactly how we wanted to start the New Year,” Kevin adds.

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✨ We don’t just do weddings — we do it all. From bar mitzvahs to book launches, to private tastings and everything in between.

When K**a Bistro reached out to showcase their new catering menu, we jumped at the opportunity to create something special. Collaborating with amazing vendors, we designed an experience that highlighted how their space can transform for any private event.

We also invited planners who specialize in South Asian weddings in Chicago to experience it firsthand — bringing together creativity, influence, and connection.

Scroll left and enjoy these stunning moments!

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A beautiful welcome to Portugal—thoughtful details, intentional moments, and an unforgettable start to an epic week. From a charming traditional welcome party reception in the historic city of Évora to an early start filled with meeting incredible vendors, clients, and exciting potential collaborations, day one set the tone in the best way.

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