Stepping into the Hilton Chicago's Grand Atmosphere
The Hilton Chicago is iconic, and walking into its elegant, sprawling event space felt like stepping into a piece of the city's history. Grand chandeliers, lush décor, and vibrant energy from the wedding set the perfect stage. Engaging Events by Ali had every detail locked in — stunning floral arrangements, epic lighting, and seamless flow — which gave me the freedom to focus on one thing: keeping the dance floor alive.
The Ron Bedal Orchestra had already set the crowd on fire with their live set, so my job was to take that energy and push it into overdrive. Ali, the planner, gave me the couple's vision: a high-energy, immersive party with an EDM style.
Curating the After-Party Soundtrack
The couple wanted the after-party to feel like a Chicago nightclub — pulsing, eclectic, and a little wild. We'd worked together beforehand to build a playlist mixing modern hits, throwback anthems, and personal touches reflecting their story. I transitioned out of the band's final song with a crowd-pleaser: a remix of "I Love It" by Icona Pop.
From there I kept the tempo high, blending hip-hop classics like "Dynamite" into club anthems from Fisher, John Summit, Calvin Harris, Zedd and more.
The After-Party Room Was Insane…
After-party crowds are my favorite — the ones who are all-in, ready to dance until dawn. The décor and vibe were phenomenal: they literally built a nightclub in a side room of the Hilton. Lighting was incredible, and guests were stunned from the moment they walked in.
Bringing It All Together
This after-party was a testament to teamwork: Engaging Events by Ali, the Hilton staff, the Ron Bedal and Opal Staples orchestras, and every vendor involved. As I packed up my gear, the energy of the night still hummed. Nights like this are why I DJ — to create moments that linger long after the music stops.
Check out the full feature on PartySlate. Until the next gig — DJ Akib.
Credits
Photographer: Avery House · Ceremony: Holy Name Cathedral · Reception: Hilton Chicago · Planner: Ali Phillips (Engaging Events by Ali) · Videographer: Poetic Productions · Floral: Erin McDonald Co · Lighting: Frost Chicago · Orchestras: Ron Bedal Orchestra & Opal Staples Orchestra · After-Party DJ: DJ Akib · Live talent: ZZAZZ Productions · Stationery: Clementine Ink · Hair: Hair by Juan José · Makeup: Bridal by Aga · Calligraphy: Stacey Shapiro · Rentals: Tablescapes, Nuage Designs, Bowery & Bash, Windy City Linen · Transportation: VIP Valet Services · First Dance Choreography: Windy City Wedding Dance
