Christie and Zain had no choice but to become fast friends. Working at their first post-college jobs at the same consulting firm, their desks were one foot apart. Eventually Zain made his big move with a kiss at the corner of Michigan and Chicago. That smooch sparked a love story, and The Gray was lucky enough to be part of the journey to their wedding day.
The young professionals knew they wanted to get married in Chicago, and had heard rumors of a new Kimpton hotel opening downtown. Donning hard hats, Christie and Zaine toured The Gray even before it was open. “The Gray perfectly fit the romantic theme were were looking for,” Christie recalls. In fact, after the couple booked The Gray, they came back every month to enjoy a cocktail and envision their big day.
The morning of the wedding found Christie giddy with excitement as she gathered with her bridesmaids in The Gray’s Board of Trade room to primp for the grand event. The groom’s party was hanging out and playing pool in the Robie Room, gladly accepting bow-tie tying assistance from The Gray concierge. While the guys piled into a limo, the girls rode a trolley to the ceremony at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Elmhurst. It was here that Christie and Zain had their “first look.”
It was back to The Gray for cocktail hour at the 15th-floor Boleo restaurant, whose retractable roof was open to a cloudless, sunny sky. Dinner was served in the Adler Ballroom, garnished with shades of blush-pink and white flowers in shimmering gold vases. The evening had several fun-loving moments, including the best man rapping to the tune of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” a cultural dance by the bride and several bridesmaids, and bobbleheads in the likeness of the bride and groom.
Christie says, “It truly was the best party we have ever been to, and a day that we will never forget.” Same here, Christie and Zain. Come back and reminisce wit
