Dottie and Jason dreamed of a blowout party in downtown Chicago, but a family emergency had us shift gears mid-planning, and we pivoted to a small gathering in the groom’s parents’ living room in the suburbs. With only three weeks to pull the event together, we curated every element to ensure that the smaller affair didn’t feel “less than” a larger celebration. The ceremony took place in the round, giving our bride and groom the ability to look at their 30 family and friends from every angle, the tallit topping the chuppah was a family heirloom, and custom napkins imprinted with Dottie’s late father’s words of wisdom “When life gives you lemons, drink champagne!” were used to wipe away tears of joy. Lush floral arrangements, personalized menus, and a decadent lunch ensured that guests felt as special as each of them meant to the couple.