A Dramatic, Candlelit Wedding of Refined Elegance at Medinah Country Club

By Kevin Harson4 February 2026

Black, blush, ivory, and candlelit gold

Timeless, romantic, and chic. Steven and Iman wanted their Medinah Country Club celebration to feel intimate yet grand, with dramatic candlelight, lush drapery, and refined architectural details captured throughout. Yanni Design Studio and Cygnet Events and Design brought their vision to life with romantic textures, layered lighting, and abundant ambiance.

Iman, from Toronto, and Steven, from Chicago, first met on Bumble when Steven was living in Toronto for work. Their first date at a wine bar ended with Steven cheekily writing “Do you want to get another drink after this?” on a notepad with checkboxes for yes, no, and maybe, a playful moment that became a defining part of their story. Years later, Steven recreated that memory in his proposal, giving Iman a new note reading, “Do you want to marry me?” with the same checkboxes. On their rooftop, under string lights he had hung himself, Steven proposed with the Chicago skyline behind them.

Iman completed her look with a blush-toned, lace Monvieve veil borrowed from her sister-in-law, a cherished heirloom piece.

Iman’s four bridesmaids, her two best friends from college, and Steven’s two sisters each chose their own black dress, creating a cohesive but personalized look that perfectly matched the timeless and chic theme.

The couple hosted a private pre-ceremony mini cocktail hour with their closest family and wedding party, complete with a champagne tower moment.

Designed by Yanni Design Studio, the ceremony featured breathtaking candlelit drapery that transformed the space into a warm, romantic haven. The reception design echoed the same drama and intimacy, creating an atmosphere that guests are still talking about months later.

The couple used the same cake-cutting knife that Steven’s parents used at their wedding over 40 years ago, a sentimental heirloom that made the tradition especially meaningful.

A string trio set the tone for the ceremony with a modern twist on classical romance. At the couple’s request, the musicians performed a Bridgerton-inspired playlist featuring pop and dance favorites like “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter and “P.Y.T.” by Michael Jackson. As the wedding party made their entrance, the trio delivered a dramatic rendition of “How Deep Is Your Love” by Calvin Harris and Disciples. Guests couldn’t stop raving about the music, noting how fun it was to hear familiar songs reimagined through strings.