Vendor Rolodex: Jen David, Chicago Wedding Planner

Oct 15

amelie boudoir interviews Jen David of J's Elevated Dreams Chicago Wedding Planner

Meet Jen David of J’s Elevated Dreams

I fell in love with Jen’s wedding style at J’s Elevated Dreams and her warm spirit on Instagram. It’s nice connecting with like-minded Chicago wedding professionals so I reached out to form a connection and dive into her story with a fun vendor profile. FUN FACT: We cater to a similar type of bridal client, I used to live by where she lives now, and we both of backgrounds in Psychology. (Featured images care/of Jen David)

Q: Jen, tell me a little bit about yourself and how you got into weddings?

Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamt of planning my perfect wedding day and future kid’s birthdays, hopelessly pinning to my Pinterest vision boards. And now, I get to help put together all the details for YOUR special events.

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, I come from a big, lively, and wonderfully loud Middle Eastern family, my heart has always been set on bringing people together and celebrating love in all its forms. What better way to do that than planning fabulous and unforgettable weddings, birthdays, showers, + more! My friends often turn to me for organizing their events, our travel adventures, and booking our excursions, which sparked the idea: why not make this my career?

Q:Tell me more about your Chicago event planning experience?

I have over five years of professional event planning experience and planning at more than 50+ Chicago venues (while also planning events in Texas, Michigan, and Wisconsin). I’ve absolutely fallen in love with crafting every little detail to ensure a bride’s special day is nothing short of perfect no matter where you are in the world!

When a bride has me by her side during the planning process, she can relax and enjoy the journey. No need to stress about how everything will come together on the big day or who will be coordinating all your fabulous vendors—I’ve got it all covered!

I’m here to make your elevated dreams come true and sprinkle a little magic into every celebration!

Q: What neighborhoods, suburbs, or venues in Chicagoland do you most often work in?
You need me, I’m there! I’m open to traveling anywhere in the world for your special day! Most of my work has been in the Chicagoland area (city and burbs), but I have also done a handful of travel weddings such as Michigan, Minnesota, Texas, Wisconsin, and Indiana and am looking forward to adding more to my list!

Q: Do you have a favorite local venue to work at, and why?

My favorite venue is Bridgeport Art Center! Their team is so organized and lovely to work with, the space is stunning and works with any couple’s vision & season!

Q: Are there hidden-gem wedding spots in Chicagoland you recommend to couples?

Absolutely! Beatnik West Town is one of my favorite hidden gems for a stunning garden vibe wedding!

Q: What makes your approach to weddings in Chicago unique?
My approach to weddings is unique because I am always told that I am the bride’s therapist and best friend by the end of the planning process! I do have a background in Psychology so maybe that’s where that comes in.

Q: Can you share a favorite wedding you’ve worked on locally?
One of my favorite weddings was Sasha & Greg at People’s Gas The Honeycomb & Gibson’s Italia. It was such an intimate and stunning experience. They didn’t have a wedding party, and roughly only 100 guests. The ceremony was perfect and the weather was outstanding. The reception had amazing food and great vibes all around!

Q: What’s your #1 tip for couples planning a Chicago wedding?
Always make sure to have umbrellas and extra buffer time for Chicago’s traffic!

Q: Do you have any favorite local vendors you love collaborating with?
Absolutely! I have a huge list of preferred vendors that I love working with that I always share with my couples as soon as they book with me.

Q: How far in advance should couples in Chicagoland book your services?

Absolutely any time! I’ve had couples book with me 2 years in advance, and others who have booked me less than a month away from their wedding date! I will be sure to coordinate all your details and make sure everything is squared away prior to your wedding and everything runs smoothly and as perfectly as possible!

Rapid Fire Q+A

Favorite romantic memory: My couple’s First looks are always my favorite romantic memories!

Favorite Chicago dining or cafe spot: My favorite dining spot is Armitage Alehouse & my favorite cafe is 3 Arts Club Cafe!

When I'm not working, I like to: cuddle with my mini poodle, Coco, workout, go for walks, read books or watch my favorite TV shows, and spend time with family!