Old Hollywood Black-and-White Palette at The Evergreen

Inspired by the classic elegance of film and style icon Audrey Hepburn, Sydney and Nebeu’s lavish wedding at The Evergreen celebrated tradition with elevated style. The couple, originally from Portland, dated in high school before traveling to different cities for college. They rekindled their relationship while living in Washington, D.C. and eventually moved to Chicago, where they spent time traveling and enjoying adventures aplenty.

On a crisp October day, Sydney, outfitted in a pearl-adorned gown and veil, and Nebeu, in a classic black tuxedo, shared their first look, then read their vows privately—a helpful, calm-inducing moment—before reading them again in front of their nearest and dearest. Instead of bouquets, bridesmaids carried vintage beaded clutches down an aisle flanked by candles, white blooms and greenery—a contrast to the venue’s industrial style.

For their grand entrance as newlyweds, the couple wore traditional black-and-gold Ethiopian kabas to honor Nebeu’s heritage. The groom gave a welcome speech in both English and Amharic, the official language of Ethiopia. An opulent, candlelit dinner, complete with vintage crystal wine glasses that guests could take home, created glowing warmth under the lofty ceilings.

As the sun set, Sydney and her father shared a sweet dance set to their cover of Billy Joel’s “Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel).” The night ended in The Evergreen’s moody underground speakeasy, Voysey—an homage to the couple’s love of a stylish night out. —Diane Meyer