
Ever after: Theresa Song & Todd Bannen
Two forces became one when “Star Wars” superfans Theresa Song and Todd Bannen said “I do” Jan. 18 at the W City Center Chicago (172 W. Adams). After meeting at a local bar and embarking on a 10-year courtship, Bannen surprised Song with a proposal during a 2013 Mexican getaway. As the pair began the planning process, both agreed the famed film would be an important part of their big day. “I’m obsessed with ‘Star Wars,’ like sci-fi-nerdy obsessed, so I asked our planner if we could incorporate that into the theme,” says Song. Bridget Allen of Shannon Gail Weddings & Events and floral designer Nathan Waldo gamely accepted the couple’s challenge. At the reception, the newlyweds walked through a tunnel created by guests’ light sabers before servers doled out Skywalker Sangria cocktails. Alliance Bakery crafted a peanut butter cream and vanilla cake for the occasion, and accented it with a topper portraying Song, Bannen and their dog Maddox (who wore a tuxedo during the ceremony), as Han Solo, Princess Leia and an Ewok. The unconventional evening was the perfect way for the fun-loving couple to celebrate their new life together. “Guests drank and had a good time until 2 a.m.,” laughs Song. “Nothing else mattered.”
It’s in the details
Gown: Legends by Romona Keveza, Ultimate Bride, 106 E. Oak; Ultimatebride.com
Heels: Jimmy Choo, 63 E. Oak; Jimmychoo.com
Groom’s attire: Hugo Boss, Nordstrom, 55 E. Grand; Shop.nordstrom.com
Photographer: Jeremy Lawson Photography; Jeremylawsonphotography.com
Planner: Bridget Allen for Shannon Gail Weddings & Events, (773) 580-3660; Shannongail.com
Florist: Nathan Waldo; Nathanwaldo@gmail.com
Hair: Stevie Smith for Smith & Davis Salon, 735 W. Wrightwood; Smithanddavissalon.com
Makeup: Sonia Roselli, (773) 465-7363; Soniaroselli.com
DJ: Fig Media, (773) 466-8800; Figmediainc.com
Invitations: Anna Kate Design; Anna.kate.design@gmail.com
Band: Sixteen Candles, (773) 547-3833; Sixteencandlesba
Videography: Leap Weddings, 1147 W. Ohio; Leapweddings.com
Ceremony & cocktail music: Jim Perona; Jimperona.com