Annie & Corey: A Celebration of Growing Up & Growing Together at Café Brauer
Some couples fall in love all at once. Others, like Annie and Corey, grow into it—season by season, year by year—until one day they look at each other and realize they’ve built an entire life side by side. Their June 2022 wedding ceremony at Cafe Brauer was a heartfelt reflection of that journey, rooted in deep friendship, shared dreams, and a love that has matured beautifully over twelve years.
As their officiant, it was an honor to stand with them as they officially stepped into the next chapter of a story they’ve been writing since they were teenagers.
A Love Story Years in the Making
Annie and Corey first met working summer jobs at the Round Lake Park District pool—Corey as a lifeguard, Annie at the front desk. Though they attended different high schools and timing wasn’t quite right at first, their connection never faded. Years later, with patience (and a memorable Facebook message), their story officially began.
Over more than a decade together, they’ve truly grown up side by side—supporting each other through college, career changes, big leaps of faith, and the everyday moments that quietly build a life. Their ceremony reflected that shared history: not just a celebration of who they are now, but of everything they’ve already lived together.
A Ceremony Framed by Chicago & Their Story
With Cafe Brauer’s historic architecture and sweeping views of Lincoln Park and the South Pond, the setting felt timeless and unmistakably Chicago—an ideal reflection of Annie and Corey’s shared love for the city and the life they’ve built within it.
As Annie walked down the aisle to Moon River, escorted by her father, the space felt still and reverent. The ceremony opened by acknowledging not only the love that brought them here, but also the family and friends who helped shape them—and the loved ones present in spirit.
Their marriage, like all marriages, was framed not as something that exists in isolation, but as something formed and supported by community.
A Love Rooted in Friendship & Intention
From the very beginning, Annie and Corey were clear: they wanted their ceremony to feel like them. Thoughtful. Sincere. Meaningful without being overly scripted.
As their officiant, I focused on telling their story in a way that honored both where they’ve been and where they’re going—highlighting their shared values, their mutual respect, and the quiet strength of their partnership. We spoke about growing together, aligning dreams over time, and choosing each other again and again, even as life changes.
Their vows reflected a deep understanding of one another—not grand promises made lightly, but intentional commitments rooted in trust, love, and friendship.
A Joyful Beginning to Their Next Chapter
As Annie and Corey exchanged rings and were pronounced married, the energy in the room shifted—from reflection to celebration. It felt less like a beginning and more like a continuation—an intentional pause to say, yes, this life we’ve built is exactly what we choose.
Annie & Corey, I hope you’re almost 4 years of married life have deepened your roots of friendship, included many belly laughs, and fulfilled your dreams.
EVENT TEAM
Photographer: Ann + Kam Photography
Planner: Christina Currie Events
Floral: Revel Decor
Musicians: Indigo
Videographer: LEAP Weddings
Venue: Café Brauer
Officiant: Zen Events
