Following a private proposal on the golf course, Jessica Brickner and Josh Turner began planning their winter wedding, inviting loved ones to a holiday-themed celebration that married the groom’s love of golf with their shared adoration of Christmas. “The planning was a team effort,” confirms Josh. Jessica shares, “We did everything together [since] we wanted it to be special for the both of us.”

Since the bride had always imagined getting ready for her wedding day at her childhood home, the couple chose to wed in Lake Forest, Illinois. They were married at the church Jessica attended from preschool through eighth grade and celebrated their nuptials at a golf club – a nod to both their engagement and the groom’s passion for the sport.

The traditional Catholic Mass ceremony took place in the beloved sanctuary adorned with minimal décor to allow the church’s timeless beauty to shine. The bride walked down a personalized aisle runner featuring the couple’s wedding crest in a long-sleeved, off-the-shoulder custom gown. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of peonies, hellebores, and roses accented with loose foliage and magnolia leaves as she made her way to meet her groom, dashing in a custom green velvet tuxedo.

The service incorporated cherished Christmas hymns such as “Joy to the World” and “Oh Holy Night,” and the unity candle used by Jessica’s parents and her sister and brother-in-law at their weddings was included as a meaningful symbol of family and tradition.

“We wanted a Ralph Lauren holiday theme with lots of rich greens, leathers, and a cozy winter feel.”

After the “I dos,” guests arrived at Conway Farms Golf Club to discover a winter wonderland. “We wanted a Ralph Lauren holiday theme with lots of rich greens, leathers, and a cozy winter feel,” notes the bride. Their vision came to life through a custom plaid design, antler chandeliers and sconces, evergreen trees twinkling with lights, and magnolia leaves woven throughout the space. “The reveal of the tent and the reception décor absolutely took our breath away,” Jessica affirms.

Guests found their table assignments on a grand plaid display framed with oversized wreaths before making their way to their seats inside the warmly lit tent. Three distinct tablescape designs unified by the same florals and holiday greens created a dynamic, layered effect.

Linens alternated between emerald velvet and vintage-inspired tree motifs, paired with varied seating – from cane-back and leather chairs to velvet banquettes. Golden, amber, and tortoise-shell candle vessels glowed against custom-wrapped lamps, wrought-iron horse sculptures, and elegant place settings featuring green-and-gold china atop leather chargers. Napkins, in rich velvet or patterned fabrics, completed the dark, chic aesthetic.

A delectable dinner was followed by slices of a stunning five-tier wedding cake featuring an etched plaid design, cascading sugar magnolia leaves and berries, and golden antlers at the center. “Our cake designer also made us a custom gingerbread cabin we used as a card box!” Jessica smiles.

With their palates satiated, guests filled the dance floor. “No one left the dance floor the entire night,” recalls the groom. “The Chicago Players [of Gold Coast Events] absolutely knocked it out of the park for us!” The newlyweds shared their first dance to “Feels Like Christmas” by Brett Eldredge. “We practiced a lift, which was a surprise for the crowd as Jess picked me up and spun me around,” laughs Josh. “Everyone erupted in cheers and laughter.” Jessica adds, “We opened up the dance floor immediately following, and it really brought a major energy boost!”

As the evening came to a close, the couple was overwhelmed with gratitude and joy. “The night was absolutely perfect!” confirms the bride. The groom continues, “I wish we could do it again!”


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