tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27900487985291633842024-03-05T20:17:51.757-06:00Sweetchic Eventssweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-19980400723958152822011-05-25T11:15:00.000-05:002011-05-25T11:15:00.300-05:00Style Me Pretty: A Secret Loft Garden<p>Ahhh!! It’s been sooo difficult to contain my excitement about our photoshoot that is featured today on <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/05/25/chicago-wedding-inspiration-from-nakai-photography/">Style Me Pretty’s Little Black Book Blog</a>! </p> <p>Back in the winter, I had lunch with Grace from <a href="http://www.valeofenna.com/">Vale of Enna</a> Floral Design and photographer <a href="http://www.nakaiphotography.com/Welcome_to_Nakai_Photography.html">Kenny Nakai</a>, who had recently moved into their fabulous new studio space in Lincoln Park. Uhm, hello-what-a-perfect-place-for-a-photoshoot!! There are a ton of pics in the <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/05/25/chicago-wedding-inspiration-from-nakai-photography/">SMP feature</a> and even more <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/gallery/nakai-photography+3521">eye-candy in the Gallery</a>, but here’s one that’s not in there:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWQApg_cG392oHuCPpd6_saEB4ZeUzjLgl7R8Ao5fFK7SMknIOSHkjp1DeyUvZE2ZflqoB0CNdrzWQCkSRG4T_Fak9oRhG4cIMLKv3PR8L8jVrpQAqo1LMeWCp7KwD3sZfcpXXRjbW7vx/s1600-h/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-289%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-289" border="0" alt="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-289" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pVMwq9EI/AAAAAAAACdw/u9u-WZXvI-g/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-289_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a></p> <p>Grace and I, tired and happy after hours of tweaking and perfecting :)</p> <p>Here is probably one of my favorite shots. I am OBSESSED with the hanging mirrored table number!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pXLJsqkI/AAAAAAAACd0/9pVryFmtJGw/s1600-h/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-007a%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-007a" border="0" alt="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-007a" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pXeXDQzI/AAAAAAAACd4/mRDw7pdsxhg/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-007a_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pXhN3QeI/AAAAAAAACd8/ZHUApQ1eXQI/s1600-h/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-028a%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-028a" border="0" alt="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-028a" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pYDq_GzI/AAAAAAAACeA/sKrK0p58wgY/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-028a_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="840" /></a></p> <p>I can’t even explain how tricky these bubble shots were to pull off!! But I saw it in my head and was determined to bring it to life. It involved me standing on a tall chair, ungracefully huffing and puffing, while Grace fanned the bubbles in the right direction, all while Kenny snapped a million shots! But totally worth it :)</p> <p>     <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pYeZkvPI/AAAAAAAACeE/TJ3Qrdf9sc8/s1600-h/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-249a%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-249a" border="0" alt="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-249a" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pYqoBAhI/AAAAAAAACeI/GVVTcpAy_Zk/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-249a_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="840" /></a> </p> <p>Another one of my favorite details were the mirrored escort cards in the glass globe holders with a dainty ranunculous bud. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pY1xhzSI/AAAAAAAACeM/Q6WB_J2lRTY/s1600-h/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-305a%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-305a" border="0" alt="sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-305a" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pZKYEAzI/AAAAAAAACeQ/MiDkRbuM4uw/sweetchic-valeofenna-nakaiphotography-305a_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a> </p> <p><strong><em>What do you think, friends?!</em></strong></p> <p>Images by <a href="http://www.nakaiphotography.com/Welcome_to_Nakai_Photography.html">Nakai Photography.</a> <br />Event Design & Styling by <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/">Sweetchic Events</a> <br />Florals by <a href="http://www.valeofenna.com/">Vale of Enna</a> <br />Draping by <a href="http://artofimagination.com/menus/home.html">Art of Imagination</a> <br />Food by <a href="http://www.purekitchencatering.com/">Pure Kitchen Catering</a> <br />Calligraphy by <a href="http://writebymike.com/">Write by Mike</a></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pZVLbeeI/AAAAAAAACeU/S-OKU6kOZmQ/s1600-h/Sweetchic%20Charlene%20Blog%20Sig%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="Sweetchic Charlene Blog Sig" border="0" alt="Sweetchic Charlene Blog Sig" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Td0pZh_II-I/AAAAAAAACeY/MsSAW3KWBEA/Sweetchic%20Charlene%20Blog%20Sig_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="175" height="98" /></a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-5564905739252553982011-01-18T10:00:00.000-06:002011-01-18T10:00:04.442-06:00Venue Spotlight: The Newberry Library<p>I am super excited that one of my 2012 couples <em>just</em> booked one of my favorite venues, <a href="http://www.newberry.org/" target="_blank">The Newberry Library</a> as their wedding venue! It was a tough choice, and it came down to the <a href="http://www.spiaggiarestaurant.com/privateevents.html" target="_blank">Private Dining Rooms of Spiaggia</a> and <a href="http://fultonsontheriver.com/" target="_blank">Fulton’s on the River</a>. In the end, the uniqueness of the Newberry won out!</p> <p>I first heard about The Newbery Library when I read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Time-Travelers-Wife-Audrey-Niffenegger/dp/015602943X" target="_blank">The Time Traveler’s Wife</a> (one of my favorite books) a few years ago! It also happens to be an amazing wedding venue… one that is booked <strong>solid</strong> up to 14+ months in advance! So if you love this place, be prepared to wait (or get lucky). </p> <p>Why is it so popular? Well, first and foremost, it is a gorgeous library and you get the place all to yourselves for six hours. The $6,000 rental fee is fairly reasonable for downtown Chicago (ok, it’s still a lot…), especially when you consider that it includes all the tables, <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/blog/guide-to-wedding-chairs/" target="_blank">opera chairs</a>, a parking lot, and you have the freedom to bring in any caterer (with the appropriate licenses and insurance) and can purchase your own liquor. It is also across the street from the lovely <a href="http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/parks.detail/object_id/903ed439-8529-4e2b-951b-83e060d96bbf.cfm" target="_blank">Washington Square Park</a> where you can have your ceremony (a separate permit must be obtained through the <a href="http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/departments.permits_region.cfm" target="_blank">Chicago Park District</a>).</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQis8oupI/AAAAAAAACbc/qv_oxtEGYqg/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20exterior%20front%20entrance%20Secondprint%20productions%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library exterior front entrance Secondprint productions" border="0" alt="Newberry Library exterior front entrance Secondprint productions" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQiyHkxaI/AAAAAAAACbg/zAucEAgaiWY/Newberry%20Library%20exterior%20front%20entrance%20Secondprint%20productions_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a></p> <p>A ceremony across the street at Washington Square Park.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQjLfgidI/AAAAAAAACbk/uwRNr1nr-uk/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20%20wedding%20ceremony%20Washington%20Square%20Park%20Secondprint%20productions%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library wedding ceremony Washington Square Park Secondprint productions" border="0" alt="Newberry Library wedding ceremony Washington Square Park Secondprint productions" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQjr66jdI/AAAAAAAACbo/-Lg3sQRVBx4/Newberry%20Library%20%20wedding%20ceremony%20Washington%20Square%20Park%20Secondprint%20productions_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQj33g5II/AAAAAAAACbs/dMjV_rBRZpg/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20foyer%20stairwell%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library foyer stairwell" border="0" alt="Newberry Library foyer stairwell" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQkTJs5QI/AAAAAAAACbw/dClCUWINWZo/Newberry%20Library%20foyer%20stairwell_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="418" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQkun275I/AAAAAAAACb0/H5CvydpnKZg/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20wedding%20reception%20escort%20cards%20Secondprint%20productions%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library wedding reception escort cards Secondprint productions" border="0" alt="Newberry Library wedding reception escort cards Secondprint productions" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQkwKjdhI/AAAAAAAACb4/9jn8k2mZCbs/Newberry%20Library%20wedding%20reception%20escort%20cards%20Secondprint%20productions_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a></p> <p>Ruggles Hall (check out those <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/blog/guide-to-wedding-chairs/" target="_blank">Opera Chairs</a>!!) <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGNmIDk8I3A2wFUU-2i9fgyZPYFu2lU20ok7-3JRSJWlY8ydmSMLS4EWvYpEHTM9s6SJXA9ff9zjOSmlYTboo6HoZ1drs4TesBAsVrH4zUVXGBO5uae6ycY48hg76akWeDovbCiHehTcXc/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20Ruggles%20Hall%20wedding%20reception%201%20Secondprint%20productions%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library Ruggles Hall wedding reception 1 Secondprint productions" border="0" alt="Newberry Library Ruggles Hall wedding reception 1 Secondprint productions" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQmrNyrtI/AAAAAAAACcA/L0xbhLO5ya8/Newberry%20Library%20Ruggles%20Hall%20wedding%20reception%201%20Secondprint%20productions_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQnN9N4II/AAAAAAAACcE/-rBfVpNjhhY/s1600-h/Newberry%20Library%20Ruggles%20Hall%20wedding%20reception%202%20Secondprint%20productions%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Newberry Library Ruggles Hall wedding reception 2 Secondprint productions" border="0" alt="Newberry Library Ruggles Hall wedding reception 2 Secondprint productions" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQnhXpyQI/AAAAAAAACcM/IlH_FGH1qfE/Newberry%20Library%20Ruggles%20Hall%20wedding%20reception%202%20Secondprint%20productions_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="373" /></a>  <br />All images above by <a href="http://secondprintproductions.com/" target="_blank">Second Print Productions</a>, from one of my favorite 2009 weddings!</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Any Newberry brides out there? </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQn5gfstI/AAAAAAAACcQ/Y7qUR-KfKec/s1600-h/Blog-sig-v1%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Blog-sig-v1" border="0" alt="Blog-sig-v1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TTUQoAn5G4I/AAAAAAAACcU/qPwBPVE0dk8/Blog-sig-v1_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="175" height="98" /></a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-88822691597847844352010-09-13T10:00:00.000-05:002010-09-13T10:00:04.060-05:00Wedding Eye Candy<p>I’m headed to Hawaii today for 8 days of blissful vacation and to attend a friend’s <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/blog/musings-on-a-destination-wedding-2/" target="_blank">destination wedding</a>! We have been looking forward to this trip for months, so I am SO excited! Not to mention… I need a break! Wedding season is exhausting  :)</p> <p>But before I leave, I thought I’d leave you with some wedding eye-candy: here are a few teaser pics from my last two weddings (taken by yours truly, obviously)! Stay tuned for pro pics later this month…</p> <p><strong>Dana & Steve, September 5, 2010, </strong><a href="http://www.ucco.com/Default.aspx?p=DynamicModule&pageid=228858&ssid=78553&vnf=1" target="_blank"><strong>University Club of Chicago</strong></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pSGZjQtI/AAAAAAAACTI/_22e831J27E/s1600-h/University%20club%20wedding%20dana%20steve%20sweetchic%20events%201%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="University club wedding dana steve sweetchic events 1" border="0" alt="University club wedding dana steve sweetchic events 1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pSx6JeWI/AAAAAAAACTM/f9YrZ8h_GpA/University%20club%20wedding%20dana%20steve%20sweetchic%20events%201_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="420" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pTUQcWxI/AAAAAAAACTQ/iSHNC3KBOZA/s1600-h/University%20club%20wedding%20dana%20steve%20sweetchic%20events%202%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="University club wedding dana steve sweetchic events 2" border="0" alt="University club wedding dana steve sweetchic events 2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pUPHMgHI/AAAAAAAACTU/B6Cw7iA12i0/University%20club%20wedding%20dana%20steve%20sweetchic%20events%202_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="420" /></a></p> <p><strong>Kelley & Mike, September 11, 2010, </strong><a href="www.chicago-botanic.org" target="_blank"><strong>Chicago Botanic Gardens</strong></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pVEeVtUI/AAAAAAAACTY/jxxt8dr21x4/s1600-h/Chicago%20botanic%20garden%20sweetchic%20wedding%201%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Chicago botanic garden sweetchic wedding 1" border="0" alt="Chicago botanic garden sweetchic wedding 1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pVWvL3AI/AAAAAAAACTc/6XGJdn5_RAs/Chicago%20botanic%20garden%20sweetchic%20wedding%201_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="420" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pWG1BMOI/AAAAAAAACTg/-lwheeYNVVA/s1600-h/IMG_0147%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_0147" border="0" alt="IMG_0147" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pWhfTr-I/AAAAAAAACTk/GDpG128xlOc/IMG_0147_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="420" /></a></p> <p>I’ll be back soon with some pictures from Hawaii!    </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pWy-yPrI/AAAAAAAACTo/YaBhBcCpb7A/s1600-h/Blog-sig-v1%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="Blog-sig-v1" border="0" alt="Blog-sig-v1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/TI0pXnyTdcI/AAAAAAAACTs/suoy6QckxDA/Blog-sig-v1_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="175" height="98" /></a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-67543793110243449022010-02-16T11:32:00.001-06:002010-02-16T11:32:14.560-06:00Tuesday’s Tablescape: Drama in Aubergine & Chartreuse<p>First of all, what is <em>aubergine</em>? It’s French for <em>eggplant</em>, as in the vegetable and color!</p> <p>Today’s tablescape inspiration is full of DRAMA! I love the use of the vibrant jewel tones and the lighting, lighting, lighting! I know manzanita branch centerpieces have been done to death, but when done right, I still can’t help but love them! Especially here with the fluffy rose pomanders and crystals, nestled in a lush arrangement at the base. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S3rWmG_TiGI/AAAAAAAABkk/Kn-S6ps6Atc/s1600-h/Aubergine%20Chartreuse%20manzanita%20tablescapes%5B12%5D.jpg"><img title="Aubergine Chartreuse manzanita tablescapes" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="415" alt="Aubergine Chartreuse manzanita tablescapes" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S3rWmXNWIEI/AAAAAAAABko/QqEVDTBLQ78/Aubergine%20Chartreuse%20manzanita%20tablescapes_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="567" border="0" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S3rWmxZSNZI/AAAAAAAABks/dUMvKXMzlyI/s1600-h/Aubergine%20Chartreuse%20manzanita%20tablescapes%5B11%5D.jpg"><img title="Aubergine Chartreuse manzanita tablescapes" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="383" alt="Aubergine Chartreuse manzanita tablescapes" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S3rWnd5XDSI/AAAAAAAABkw/FU8OXrY071M/Aubergine%20Chartreuse%20manzanita%20tablescapes_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>And how gorgeous is this venue? Wedding at the <a href="http://www.skirball.org/" target="_blank">Skirball Cultural Center</a> in LA and photographed by <a href="http://www.joymariephoto.com/" target="_blank">Joy Marie Photography</a></p> <p>Via <a href="http://junebugweddings.com/blogs/what_junebug_loves/archive/2010/02/12/real-weddings-kate-and-gil.aspx?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+WhatJunebugLovesWeddingBlog+(What+Junebug+Loves!+Top+wedding+and+fashion+blog)&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">Junebug Weddings</a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-89296030134651192452010-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:002010-01-13T10:00:03.090-06:00Indie Wed: A Unique Wedding Show<p align="center">Are you going? </p> <p><a href="http://www.indiewed.com/home.htm" target="_blank"><img height="209" src="http://www.indiewed.com/banner-web2.jpg" width="560" /></a></p> <p>I am so looking forward to Indie Wed on January 30th! According to their site:</p> <p>“On January 30th 2010, Chicago will be the location for a unique wedding event. The event, called <strong>Indie Wed</strong> will be the first of its kind in the Midwest, bringing together local vendors with a twist. <strong>Indie Wed</strong> caters to unconventional couples who are taking a more modern, edgy, or eco-friendly approach to their special day as well as the more conservative couples who simply want to add some special touches. The event will highlight the work of local independent designers specializing in various wedding related fields including stationery, cakes & pastries, fashion, catering, floral design and photography”</p> <p><strong>Saturday, January 30th, 2010 <br />from 11am-5pm <br />at <a href="http://www.ravenswoodeventcenter.com/">the Showroom at the Ravenswood Event Center</a> <br />4025 N. Ravenswood Ave <br />Chicago Illinois</strong></p> <p>Click <a href="http://www.indiewed.com/tickets.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to pre-order tickets, and <a href="http://www.indiewed.com/vendor%20list.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> for the list of participating vendors! Hope to see you there…</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-31388694426583799862010-01-07T13:24:00.002-06:002010-01-07T13:26:49.504-06:00We have moved!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Please check out our new home at <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/blog/">www.sweetchicevents.com/blog</a></div>sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-14951326255208580412010-01-05T09:22:00.001-06:002010-01-05T09:22:15.685-06:00Introducing: Sweetchic’s New Website & Blog<p align="center">Happy New Year, everyone!</p> <p>We are SO excited to announce that <a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/index.php" target="_blank">Sweetchicevents.com</a> and our blog have undergone a MAJOR overhaul! Our old site was a flash-based website through <a href="http://www.bludomain.com/" target="_blank">Bludomain</a>, and while that served us very well for a year and a half, it was time for an upgrade! Our new html site now has an entirely new look and feel with the help of web designer, Lauren of <a href="http://www.goodspark.com/" target="_blank">Goodspark</a>. And did you notice that Sweetchic’s logo also received a little love?</p> <p><a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/index.php" target="_blank"><img title="image" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="388" alt="image" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S0NZJPQLnPI/AAAAAAAABes/dtVFMC1E9IM/image%5B15%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Our new blog has been integrated into the website itself, and is located sweetchicevents.com/blog/</p> <p><a href="http://sweetchicevents.com/blog/" target="_blank"><img title="image" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="390" alt="image" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/S0NZJqpRIxI/AAAAAAAABe0/VYGYrE8gsBU/image%5B16%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><strong>Please be sure to change your RSS feed, Google reader, or whatever you use…</strong></p> <p><strong>Soooo… whaddya think?!</strong></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-77900047504366068472009-12-24T11:48:00.001-06:002009-12-24T11:48:42.240-06:00Happy Holidays from Sweetchic!<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzOpdw4epII/AAAAAAAABek/9xoue0qGYAE/s1600-h/Ruby%20Press%20Joy%20Cards%20Sweetchic%20Events%5B10%5D.jpg"><img title="Ruby Press Joy Cards Sweetchic Events" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="420" alt="Ruby Press Joy Cards Sweetchic Events" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzOpeevuveI/AAAAAAAABeo/_C9LUA2dMFM/Ruby%20Press%20Joy%20Cards%20Sweetchic%20Events_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Happy Holidays dear readers and friends of Sweetchic! It has been a wonderful year, and I’m off for an 8-day vacation to ESPANA with my husband and family tomorrow! Email access will be sporadic if at all, so hopefully you’ll understand :) I’ll be back in January with pictures galore!</p> <p>I am so excited for 2010! Here are just a few of the things Sweetchic has in store for the new year:</p> <p>- NEW website and blog launching in January!  <br />- NEW branding! (keeping my logo and my fun colors… but with a twist!) <br />- New Marketing collateral, fun fun! <br />- More consistent blogging (I promise!) and bringing it to a more <em>personal </em>level<em>, </em>and hopefully interesting to you readers :) <br />- A Silent Auction for charity! <br />- Attending the <a href="http://www.eventology2009.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Eventology</a> conference in Indy, and the ABC conference in Phoenix <br /> <br /><strong><em>… and of course, weddings, weddings, WEDDINGS!</em></strong></p> <p>Above is a close-up of the diviiiiinnee letterpress cards I sent out this season (in my colors, no less! :)  They are courtesy of lovely Etsy seller, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rubypress" target="_blank">Ruby Press</a>, who kindly customized them to my liking. The luxurious paper, the vibrant color, and the amazing press… ooh la la!!</p> <p>May your holidays be filled with family, friends, and much JOY!</p> <p>Cheers,</p> <p>Charlene</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-3036192946189678702009-12-23T10:00:00.000-06:002009-12-23T10:00:03.294-06:00Venue Spotlight: theWit Hotel<p>There has been a lot of buzz surrounding my next featured venue, theWit Hotel, and after a recent site visit, I’d have to say that buzz is well deserved! Everything about this hotel is super modern, sleek, and chic!  theWit is located next to the Chicago Theater (as evidenced by the picture below) and the rest of the theater district and some fabulous State Street shopping.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEp_qiFSFI/AAAAAAAABcM/imUzudoJltw/s1600-h/image21.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="256" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqAEFc3PI/AAAAAAAABcQ/BSskmmeFsFg/image_thumb30.png?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqAsQVl-I/AAAAAAAABcU/Urmj8edoz9o/s1600-h/theWitChicagoballroomceremony4.jpg"><img title="theWit Chicago ballroom ceremony" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="376" alt="theWit Chicago ballroom ceremony" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqA4m0_yI/AAAAAAAABcY/vy2_eod5m_g/theWitChicagoballroomceremony_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://www.carascophoto.com/" target="_blank">Carasco Photography</a></p> <p> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqBVDpfNI/AAAAAAAABcc/nj9JGgXOeOM/s1600-h/theWitChicagoballroomcityview5.jpg"><img title="theWit Chicago ballroom cityview" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="600" alt="theWit Chicago ballroom cityview" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqBs84FgI/AAAAAAAABcg/177y6UB6V-0/theWitChicagoballroomcityview_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqBz99mBI/AAAAAAAABck/hvjimsmu2E8/s1600-h/theWitChicagoballroom14.jpg"><img title="theWit Chicago ballroom 1" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="theWit Chicago ballroom 1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqCRQIxtI/AAAAAAAABco/zQ-i5oNPiAA/theWitChicagoballroom1_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> Above two images: Ashley Portraits</p> <p>Ballrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows <em>and</em> great views are not as easy to find as you may think!   <br /> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqCoQKIMI/AAAAAAAABcs/lpbz6JhBW0k/s1600-h/theWitChicagoROOFOutside4.jpg"><img title="theWit Chicago ROOF Outside" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="theWit Chicago ROOF Outside" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-nZGApLJc4JM70B4j1OQXgsi0gapEBf6PmP-5ODXctEjHQB73K2_-ms-dCVWJII1x3HIe3-GaT8o4jTjjKhDPV89WDIx-caz9F_LQKdO5Pe9zJiVOyb9RQ0tDTgWVnnLCAjZ4WtXljB-/?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />theWit is also home to new Chicago hotspot, Roof, aka a fab rooftop bar. Check out all the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/roof-chicago" target="_blank">Yelp reviews</a>.   </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqDELfdhI/AAAAAAAABc0/3GNSZ_hIvJg/s1600-h/theWitChicagomovietheater4.jpg"><img title="theWit Chicago movie theater" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="theWit Chicago movie theater" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqDfdx63I/AAAAAAAABc4/cQMQiCbLeHM/theWitChicagomovietheater_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />A hotel with a private movie theater? Yes, please! Imagine a bride and her ladies getting ready in their suite upstairs while the groom and his entourage take over this theater and catch a game (or whatever) since we all know it takes the gents less time to get ready :)</p> <p>   <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqD9jsIyI/AAAAAAAABc8/Uq5oWlky7tk/s1600-h/image22.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="278" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2rg7SRzR5_offE82p-M7u_XTpaDXRWGrW3gWZw19lcqZCTi7vveSRxinDwG-J1xXLTV506a54Dk7BA-xW0tE6qYO-xpDcmPAx7xGyWlmSaq3UCOxHmzl1ZCmbnEa8uduT-Hh09CoQUqC/?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Swanky lobby</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3JR7f_rRlrsQbek9D1EPm3_mIet-ZlytpJtoF2hyAD-xvJgnwcw8sEfPE9iYEE_XkG5E0xlBn9g6Zx8iWrTHQdJIUaso-h1PjHAZvs3DzioGs4E9CVTFd6UNCh2lj25z54a7PBdPYJZ-/s1600-h/theWitChicagocommonarea4.jpg"><img title="theWitChicago common area" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="theWitChicago common area" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqFb0BwhI/AAAAAAAABdM/0cHV2lni-Ww/theWitChicagocommonarea_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />The lovely Library area</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqF_u2PfI/AAAAAAAABdQ/DExWXMJYAks/s1600-h/image23.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="245" alt="image" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEqGdMho1I/AAAAAAAABdU/LHhSbo_nMy4/image_thumb32.png?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Wouldn’t it be nice to wake up to this view (in this cozy bed)?</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>See more hotel pictures <a href="http://www.thewithotel.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <p><strong>Capacity for seated dinner:</strong>  200 with full-size stage and dance floor <br /><strong>Capacity for cocktail reception:</strong> 400 <br /><strong>Ceremony space:</strong> Yes, up to 300 <br /><strong>Package starting price: </strong><strong>$155.00**</strong><b> </b> <br /><strong>Food & Beverage minimum:</strong> $24,000.00 for a Saturday, $20,000 for Friday or Sunday. <br />No Room Rental or Ceremony Fees</p> <p>**Includes Cocktail Hour on ROOF <br /> <br />Additional options: <br />- AfterParty on ROOF <br />- Brunch in Library Space <br />- Party in the Theater </p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-27417363673158133022009-12-22T11:22:00.001-06:002009-12-22T11:22:30.282-06:00Chicago Weddingbee Holiday Party<p>Back in 2006 - 2007 when I was planning my own wedding, I was thrilled to blog as <a href="http://www.weddingbee.com/author/emerald/" target="_blank">Mrs.Emerald</a>, the first Chicago “Bee” on the fabulous site, <a href="http://www.weddingbee.com/" target="_blank">Weddingbee</a>, which has exploded in popularity over the years. We have since expanded our numbers to include 11 Chicago-area Bees, so I decided to invite everyone over (sans significant others) for our first annual Holiday Party! To make it quick and easy, I asked everyone to bring a drink, hors d’oeuvres or dessert… and the result was an 8 foot long spread of sparking wine, quiche, shrimp puffs, sushi, bruschetta, cookies, cream puffs and cake galore! And thanks Quiche for the lovely calla lilies :)</p> <p>Thanks Heather, aka <a href="http://www.weddingbee.com/author/mssnapdragon/" target="_blank">Snappy</a>, for taking the pictures below with her new DSLR!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAPbsGXXI/AAAAAAAABbM/QD53sMzOJt4/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2010%5B8%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 10" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="604" alt="Bee Holiday Party 10" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAPjBVf4I/AAAAAAAABbQ/kig92OenTC8/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2010_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAP2QCqlI/AAAAAAAABbU/Jo9NYi-M1hI/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2012%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 12" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="371" alt="Bee Holiday Party 12" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAQcyRAbI/AAAAAAAABbY/1ZVnyUqwVno/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2012_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAQhNrdtI/AAAAAAAABbc/1fqYUBc1oBM/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%208%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 8" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="376" alt="Bee Holiday Party 8" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAQyu5GpI/AAAAAAAABbg/2I8Zwa71ia4/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%208_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>   <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEARI0_PRI/AAAAAAAABbk/unOuA8kyz14/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2013%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 13" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="371" alt="Bee Holiday Party 13" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEASmqzwAI/AAAAAAAABbo/FYa9oFx3URQ/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2013_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAS9aJtVI/AAAAAAAABbs/6px-1BHWeVQ/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%207%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 7" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="604" alt="Bee Holiday Party 7" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEATmb7E-I/AAAAAAAABbw/KgQHw9fP6uA/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%207_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAT3JsOxI/AAAAAAAABb0/438YoiupecY/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%202%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 2" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="371" alt="Bee Holiday Party 2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAUUAYFAI/AAAAAAAABb4/9_rfDvXiE7E/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%202_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> Cutting into my Kahlua cake and topped with fresh whipped cream… so easy to make, and so deeeelicious to eat. Let me know if anyone is interested in the recipe! :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAUgEoVNI/AAAAAAAABb8/chzqva9i3Ak/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2015%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 15" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="Bee Holiday Party 15" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAUwpO_rI/AAAAAAAABcA/euOKN--PfwI/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2015_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> Had to get a picture of snap-happy-Snappy!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAVHZXZgI/AAAAAAAABcE/Js3fJ1_PY4s/s1600-h/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2014%5B7%5D.jpg"><img title="Bee Holiday Party 14" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="374" alt="Bee Holiday Party 14" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SzEAVQaOX2I/AAAAAAAABcI/L_WM_p8pZHQ/Bee%20Holiday%20Party%2014_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />From L-R, Powderpuff, Stiletto, Quiche, Emerald, Snapdragon, Nacho, Mascara, and Parfait <br />Missing from our Chicago contingent: Jasmine, Radish, and Peacock (who almost came, but instead gave birth to baby Eloise 24 hours after our party!)</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Thanks ladies for a fabulous evening! It sounds crazy, but Weddingbee really changed my life, and I now have such a wonderful network of amazing women (and a few men) who I would never have met otherwise!</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-499325659450412192009-12-17T14:28:00.001-06:002009-12-17T14:28:55.636-06:00Kids + Stuffed Animals Down the Aisle<p>I just saw this image on <a href="http://www.thebridescafe.com/?postID=646&real-wedding-eileen-brian" target="_blank">The Bride’s Cafe</a> and had to share… how cute is this flower girl carrying a stuffed doggie down the aisle in her basket? It just goes to show that that a flower girl does NOT have to do anything with flowers and will still be oh-so-adorable. Simple is good :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyqUghOkeII/AAAAAAAABas/qj0eBzmKsQM/s1600-h/Flower%20girl%20stuffed%20animal%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="Flower girl stuffed animal" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="525" alt="Flower girl stuffed animal" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyqUhMQfbkI/AAAAAAAABaw/LuproSemKas/Flower%20girl%20stuffed%20animal_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a> <br />Photo by <a href="http://canlasphotography.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jonathan Canlas</a> (who shoots in film!!)</p> <p>I love this photo and this idea because it reminds me of my own wedding back in 2007 when I gave my young flower girl and ring bearer teddy bears to carry down the aisle. She was also supposed to ring a bell with her free hand, but she felt more secure holding hands with her big brother :) And the ring bearer-bear was holding a tiny pillow with fake rings attached!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyqUhR6zRnI/AAAAAAAABa0/JNhrgBmWRgM/s1600-h/Flower%20girl%20ring%20bearer%20teddy%20bear%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Flower girl ring bearer teddy bear" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="600" alt="Flower girl ring bearer teddy bear" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyqUhiy1L6I/AAAAAAAABa4/4YdMQ5xofQQ/Flower%20girl%20ring%20bearer%20teddy%20bear_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a>  <br />Photo by <a href="http://dennisleephoto.com/" target="_blank">Dennis Lee</a></p> <p>Did you have kids involved in your wedding, and what did they carry down the aisle?</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-22473145318546576482009-12-11T16:20:00.001-06:002009-12-11T16:20:03.515-06:00DIFFA: More Tablescape Inspiration!<p>I just realized that I never finished posting the pictures that I took from the <a href="http://diffachicago.org/dbdeventinfo.html" target="_blank">DIFFA</a> event a few weeks ago! So let’s round out the work week with some visual fabulousness…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFZlCSbjI/AAAAAAAABWk/lRTDJyuDKRk/s1600-h/IMG_5284%5B9%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5284" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="534" alt="IMG_5284" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFaPO4LVI/AAAAAAAABWo/Anga2GeSzHk/IMG_5284_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFakA7OII/AAAAAAAABWs/PesSDEPkfvM/s1600-h/IMG_5286%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5286" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5286" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFa0iuOWI/AAAAAAAABWw/WBx-bdTp9VE/IMG_5286_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>I love everything about this tablescape, especially the simplicity of it! There isn’t anything here someone couldn’t replicate themselves on a budget… amazing what simple topiaries and baskets of fresh apples can do! <br /> <br /> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFbYlT8aI/AAAAAAAABW0/chUUj3N_I8o/s1600-h/paint%20can%20tablescape%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="paint can tablescape" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="paint can tablescape" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFbh9idyI/AAAAAAAABW4/yCyQHd9OT-8/paint%20can%20tablescape_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>Yes, that is a giant Benjamin Moore paint can! Someone was very creative, and this display is oh, so cute!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFcPP0s_I/AAAAAAAABW8/7ZpcC_6sONo/s1600-h/IMG_5322%5B10%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5322" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5322" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFcUIjdTI/AAAAAAAABXA/WE-sKS9aUEQ/IMG_5322_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFcwc8rcI/AAAAAAAABXE/pUiHua06KxM/s1600-h/IMG_5324%5B12%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5324" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5324" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFdN-wQ0I/AAAAAAAABXI/UUcwLRk5VR0/IMG_5324_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFdpb_1mI/AAAAAAAABXM/TFNUCDHncXE/s1600-h/fuschia%20orange%20mokara%20orchids%20blue%20asian%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="fuschia orange mokara orchids blue asian" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="fuschia orange mokara orchids blue asian" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFd44vcPI/AAAAAAAABXQ/hcwwe3CA8rA/fuschia%20orange%20mokara%20orchids%20blue%20asian_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>Did you know that cobalt blue will look amazing with fuchsia and orange? Why yes it will!  <br /> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFeUBAQNI/AAAAAAAABXU/tjnav_kmec4/s1600-h/IMG_5305%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5305" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5305" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFep-ovAI/AAAAAAAABXY/L2y2ZSFkN0M/IMG_5305_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFfBiqBkI/AAAAAAAABXc/ly7RBzbx8YM/s1600-h/green%20white%20wood%20tablescape%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="green white wood tablescape" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="green white wood tablescape" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFfn5NLNI/AAAAAAAABXg/782Qln7WlzI/green%20white%20wood%20tablescape_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> This display screams “rustic with a modern twist!!!” to me! <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFf58f7QI/AAAAAAAABXk/k_0jze7CeO0/s1600-h/pink%20tent%20pails%20zebra%20print%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="pink tent pails zebra print" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="533" alt="pink tent pails zebra print" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFgKIB3LI/AAAAAAAABXo/KBPnFrrmYDc/pink%20tent%20pails%20zebra%20print_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a> <br />If I was a little girl, I would want my birthday party hosted under this tent, with those yummy cupcakes (see below)!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFgU5noZI/AAAAAAAABXs/VbmOW6rUCbY/s1600-h/IMG_5341%5B9%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5341" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="533" alt="IMG_5341" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFgtRvLSI/AAAAAAAABXw/1ANPvwccLyk/IMG_5341_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFhJI42CI/AAAAAAAABX0/JveuJ-gOG0U/s1600-h/IMG_5314%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5314" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5314" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFhYtodFI/AAAAAAAABX8/gQx_1uMtpPw/IMG_5314_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFhijslgI/AAAAAAAABYA/F5pWYS5IKD0/s1600-h/gold%20paper%20clip%20lamp%20closeup%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="gold paper clip lamp closeup" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="533" alt="gold paper clip lamp closeup" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFhzidFHI/AAAAAAAABYE/1y5JOPMG2ZY/gold%20paper%20clip%20lamp%20closeup_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a>  <br />The tablescape itself was not very inspiring, but the hanging chandelier made entirely of PAPER CLIPS certainly was! I can’t imagine how much time this took…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFifJL_BI/AAAAAAAABYI/XE8bUuwbRKE/s1600-h/green%20white%20brown%20garden%20tablescape%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="green white brown garden tablescape" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="533" alt="green white brown garden tablescape" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVdE4mMMI0fBe08LL9N11eI4SsgXf84AnY-hvHV7uuaMs9VTp42y1xlNViWtu53Fpaq6nEim4cW4qpYNUJ0GUEwu7wMmWb7Eda-guUmel93u4kNRjAqdbvlYQfCdK1DjTTbmc0WcxBEqD/?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFi-_GjwI/AAAAAAAABYQ/v1Syl9eSugs/s1600-h/IMG_5282%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5282" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5282" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFjeKXVcI/AAAAAAAABYU/BqXDi81Zzkg/IMG_5282_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>    <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFjhe73XI/AAAAAAAABYY/RCRGDN_RiGc/s1600-h/IMG_5290%5B10%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5290" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5290" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFkPyxrCI/AAAAAAAABYc/VI-PkiyfEw4/IMG_5290_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>Adore the multiple vessels each with a different flower…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFkR9k6tI/AAAAAAAABYg/_CaIs3jytd0/s1600-h/IMG_5295%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5295" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="533" alt="IMG_5295" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SyLFklvixJI/AAAAAAAABYk/aYjMVfahIx4/IMG_5295_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a>  <br />Manzanitas are still hot stuff…</p> <p> <br />Have a fabulous weekend and stay warm!</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-28056808048442843262009-12-01T10:37:00.001-06:002009-12-01T10:37:03.947-06:00Kehoe+Olivia Leigh+Smitten Boutique<p align="center">= FABULOUS EVENING of Creativity, Cupcakes & Champagne!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SxVGLXACs_I/AAAAAAAABWQ/xSk-RzSXpO4/s1600-h/smittenolpevent%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="smittenolpevent" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="747" alt="smittenolpevent" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SxVGLz26LcI/AAAAAAAABWU/ZHZttU0MSwg/smittenolpevent_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-88493934445041019952009-11-20T10:00:00.000-06:002009-11-23T11:18:28.838-06:00Venue Spotlight: Trump Int’l Hotel & Tower<p>My job allows me to visit some of the most fabulous venues in Chicago… and I thought I’d start sharing them with you! </p> <p>Chicago recently received a shiny new skyscraper to add it its world famous skyline: Trump International Hotel & Tower. This hotel is the epitome of contemporary luxury and elegance, and the Grand Ballroom is equally spectacular. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVypmoU71I/AAAAAAAABUw/FwIZGSSHtYA/s1600-h/Trump%20Exterior%5B9%5D.jpg"><img title="Trump Exterior" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="714" alt="Trump Exterior" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyp96k8bI/AAAAAAAABU0/bKSnedF5g00/Trump%20Exterior_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyqDIFJJI/AAAAAAAABU4/PKrWiFnTj14/s1600-h/Ballroom%202%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Ballroom 2" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="385" alt="Ballroom 2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyqnMUY9I/AAAAAAAABU8/6U4v_7pzbEU/Ballroom%202_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyq9-tUNI/AAAAAAAABVA/plZUQ7hWblA/s1600-h/Ballroom%201%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Ballroom 1" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="385" alt="Ballroom 1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyrdh8a5I/AAAAAAAABVE/FlGrVI_JW5o/Ballroom%201_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p align="center"><img title="Grand Ballroom North view0023_9940" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="385" alt="Grand Ballroom North view0023_9940" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVytIhg4JI/AAAAAAAABVU/uOZewvgOb1A/Grand%20Ballroom%20North%20view0023_9940_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /><font size="1">{Above images courtesy of <a href="http://www.rosalindweddings.com/" target="_blank">Rosalind Wedding</a>; Wedding Consultant: </font><a href="http://www.engagingeventsbyali.com/" target="_blank"><font size="1">Engaging Events by Ali</font></a><font size="1">) <br /> <br /></font><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyr_Z0VbI/AAAAAAAABVI/spy3K-qoeCw/s1600-h/Grand%20Ballroom%20full%20room%20view%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Grand Ballroom full room view" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="448" alt="Grand Ballroom full room view" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVysVhOOlI/AAAAAAAABVM/xgX2MR-KG7s/Grand%20Ballroom%20full%20room%20view_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>  <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVytsSX73I/AAAAAAAABVY/jLK6uoLuWTU/s1600-h/IMG_7564%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_7564" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_7564" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwVyuCiSfuI/AAAAAAAABVc/B8FdiUXNIvI/IMG_7564_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><strong>Capacity for seated dinner:</strong> 269  <br /><strong>Capacity for cocktail reception:</strong> 269 <br /><strong>Ceremony space:</strong> Skyline Room (up to 175 capacity, theater style) <br /><strong>Package starting price:</strong> $220 per person (+ tax & gratuity) <br /><strong>Food & Beverage minimum:</strong> Yes, may vary depending on day/season, inquire with contact below <br /> <br /><strong>Unique attributes:</strong> Everywhere you turn, this hotel has STUNNING wrap-around city views! Everything is simply first class: the food, the service, the attention to detail, and of course, the space. Did you expect any less from The Donald?!  I especially like that the furnishings are modern, and the decor neutral – perfect to dress up any way you please! </p> <p><strong>Address:</strong> 401 N. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 <br /><strong>Contact:</strong> Aristene Aurand <br /><strong>Phone number:</strong> 312.588.8062 <br /><strong>Email:</strong> <a href="mailto:aaurand@trumphotels.com">aaurand {at} trumphotels.com</a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-37267212287722043252009-11-16T13:31:00.001-06:002009-11-16T13:31:11.003-06:00DIFFA: Tablescape Inspiration<p>A friend and (former client!) recently invited me to check out the <a href="http://diffachicago.org/dbdeventinfo.html" target="_blank">DIFFA</a> Dining by Design event at the Merchandise Mart with her. <a href="http://diffachicago.org/dbdeventinfo.html" target="_blank">DIFFA</a> stands for Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids. According to their website, “DIFFA’s Dining By Design brings together the best talents in the design world to create breathtaking three-dimensional dining installations. This unique fundraiser on behalf of DIFFA/Chicago has raised more than $5.5 million since the event’s inception, and returns to Chicago every November at the celebrated Merchandise Mart.” Apparently, part of the fundraiser is that bidders can bid to actually DINE at one of these magnificent tables! Love it!</p> <p>This amazing event was right up my alley: it just OOZED fabulous tablescape inspiration! There were so many, I may just have to break this into two posts full of eye-candy. I wish I had kept track of the designers (sorry!) but there were SO many!!  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoYKZOhFI/AAAAAAAABRs/jQsFjwWbBwI/s1600-h/IMG_52512.jpg"><img title="IMG_5251" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="347" alt="IMG_5251" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoYvvuWAI/AAAAAAAABRw/dV8Y8Tku_hc/IMG_5251_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoY4GThyI/AAAAAAAABR0/YeaZorXMrP0/s1600-h/IMG_52541.jpg"><img title="IMG_5254" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="347" alt="IMG_5254" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoZH-QYjI/AAAAAAAABR4/8g03bNrEeho/IMG_5254_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a> <br />I just love the yellow Billy Buttons combined with the green moss. <br /> <br /> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoZT2r1DI/AAAAAAAABR8/js4zhfEEY3s/s1600-h/IMG_52413.jpg"><img title="IMG_5241" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="550" alt="IMG_5241" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoZ0kCDUI/AAAAAAAABSA/6dmghiNMvlA/IMG_5241_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" border="0" /></a> <br />I would LOVE one of those lighting installations in my dining room! Also digging the purple and yellow color scheme in the background.</p> <p> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoaGp4cjI/AAAAAAAABSE/R7eE1j5U8Uo/s1600-h/IMG_52424.jpg"><img title="IMG_5242" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="550" alt="IMG_5242" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoaSCq32I/AAAAAAAABSI/rS79csq6RSk/IMG_5242_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" border="0" /></a>  <br />Organic wood table top, green spider mums, a very Zen feel… not sure about the beta fish in the glass vases though! <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoagpfLJI/AAAAAAAABSM/B5Nks6_wlj8/s1600-h/IMG_52462.jpg"><img title="IMG_5246" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="550" alt="IMG_5246" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoa6JgVBI/AAAAAAAABSQ/g8QSYJtJ-fk/IMG_5246_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JxxJPWbXf5XLP0EuTKQ2vifYHK9WeIeMC8nUeraxDAoBgExhx6bR7nLAG7hy_ZBg8kg3Cb8zE7FnzirPSDkMMOtJC2KgSVEucDrBkRKkvcMsqIV5aDoCa71QJqKQTSwMSJRzROzg5zDm/s1600-h/IMG_52483.jpg"><img title="IMG_5248" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="IMG_5248" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGobqdvYcI/AAAAAAAABSY/v2CdZmjJk-8/IMG_5248_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> The place settings here are absolutely exquisite (hard to see) and I adore the two-toned purple and fuchsia glassware! <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGob5JeoZI/AAAAAAAABSg/4ALVuQ4c8pU/s1600-h/fuschiarosecarnationballorchids10.jpg"><img title="fuschia rose carnation ball orchids" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="420" alt="fuschia rose carnation ball orchids" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGocC81AiI/AAAAAAAABSk/vxR_f8Yo86U/fuschiarosecarnationballorchids_thum.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGocs18WjI/AAAAAAAABSo/3P13H-BIaCc/s1600-h/IMG_53486.jpg"><img title="IMG_5348" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="550" alt="IMG_5348" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoc7038UI/AAAAAAAABSs/lM83CRaA6os/IMG_5348_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" border="0" /></a> <br />Sexy lounge areas, the fuchsia and black is so dramatic!</p> <p> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGodId1zsI/AAAAAAAABSw/QoJP7kZSCgQ/s1600-h/greengoddesspinkorchidwillowcenterpi.jpg"><img title="green goddess pink orchid willow centerpiece" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="550" alt="green goddess pink orchid willow centerpiece" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGodxL4ryI/AAAAAAAABS0/bGS1C-9fFMA/greengoddesspinkorchidwillowcenterpi%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoeB6xh_I/AAAAAAAABS4/oDES5gUUWXc/s1600-h/IMG_52926.jpg"><img title="IMG_5292" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="412" alt="IMG_5292" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGoetErHKI/AAAAAAAABS8/sQPIJbtns4o/IMG_5292_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" border="0" /></a> <br />I’m normally not a big fan of ALL rose centerpieces, but when done in a dramatic long row like this, it makes for a very striking centerpiece. Imagine some long feasting tables with these arrangements! Divine… <br /> <br /> <br /></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSsYmseYfkzuFbrSkmuFakitiT56zEd7JtrrI1xEHfYpuBs0lgTnPjnTgZJ35cnTT7j8j6xDtgZPXSiSpIxHm6MVyfnKqhZzUgJ2y3SgnW6SnIEnMzuUBwT-MG24_TiajQntjGKj69XYI/s1600-h/IMG_532611.jpg"><img title="IMG_5326" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="354" alt="IMG_5326" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGofMELvpI/AAAAAAAABTE/UmdtT9mnirg/IMG_5326_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGofRnNv2I/AAAAAAAABTI/_BdLXe_cFUU/s1600-h/IMG_533011.jpg"><img title="IMG_5330" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="354" alt="IMG_5330" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SwGofua3nkI/AAAAAAAABTM/bLKW5tFLuRQ/IMG_5330_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" border="0" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>To be continued…</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-12810564324952834672009-11-13T10:11:00.002-06:002009-11-13T10:13:23.843-06:00Sylvia Weinstock: The Importance of Wedding Cake<p align="center" style="text-align: left;">One of the presenters I was most excited to see was Sylvia Weinstock! THE Sylvia Weinstock! She is a wiry, spunky, practical lady… it’s too bad she didn’t bring some cake for us to try. Or hand out some sugar flowers…<em> would that have been asking too much</em>?! haha, j/k.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FFQxfPKI/AAAAAAAABPs/12QvgWSgWbM/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockofficialimage4.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock official image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="309" alt="Sylvia Weinstock official image" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FFhoZrlI/AAAAAAAABPw/zxh_ctZYi48/SylviaWeinstockofficialimage_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FFxR-yuI/AAAAAAAABP0/KFkMSVuYjOc/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockABCConference9.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock ABC Conference" height="309" alt="Sylvia Weinstock ABC Conference" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FGEIhvPI/AAAAAAAABP4/euewbayKopk/SylviaWeinstockABCConference_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" border="0" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; " /></a></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">She took us through some of her favorite cakes over the years, the inspiration for some of them, as well as the difficulties of shipping her cakes around the world. Why (in her opinion) is wedding cake so important? Because cutting the cake is often the first thing a newly married couple does together to celebrate their marriage. So cake shouldn’t be an afterthought!</p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">When asked about the whole cupcakes-replacing-wedding-cake trend, she responded along the lines of, “Cupcakes are not elegant. A bride wears a long white dress. She is setting a formal tone, and cupcakes are not formal.” (So lesson learned: never ask Sylvia Weinstock for a cupcake cake!)</p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">And when asked, “How do you get the tops off of those REALLY tall cakes?” She replied, “You have the banquet captain stand on a ladder and make a really big SHOW of it! It’s entertainment!”</p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">And by the way, if you are ever lucky enough to get a slice of her cake, <strong><em>save the sugar flower!!</em></strong> If kept clean and dry, it will supposedly last forever. It’s hard to believe, but each of her meticulously crafted sugar flowers is <em><strong>anatomically correct</strong></em>!! </p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">Anyways, what is a post about Sylvia Weinstock without some cake p0rn? Her cakes are seriously over-the-top masterpieces! I wish I could find pictures of the cakes she actually talked about, but alas, I guess those were the more obscure cakes that were not splashed across the blogosphere!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIwvXk-PNQ_urutf0cDeN93U-FE9NiaFzbQUhOgfpYZYyZuQI_x7tEDlEu2iSlaVAF8k-07W5ic_7pMmo2haA6D6Au0SXeraKeXeq3uo0pNg6tori_49MKnc9eA7s-wWbDnc4a0duBuTy/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockwhitecakesugarflowers%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock white cake sugar flowers" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="450" alt="Sylvia Weinstock white cake sugar flowers" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FGoFDX-I/AAAAAAAABQA/5JW1KGh-0Ug/SylviaWeinstockwhitecakesugarflowers_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FG051nYI/AAAAAAAABQE/Ym7ItdV-yjw/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockallwhitecakesugarflow%5B1%5D%5B2%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock all white cake sugar flowers" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="505" alt="Sylvia Weinstock all white cake sugar flowers" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FHG86TtI/AAAAAAAABQI/8CXygVwqMG8/SylviaWeinstockallwhitecakesugarflow%5B1%5D_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FHX7UU_I/AAAAAAAABQM/SeyQJ_YhHcg/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockbasketweavecakeyellow%5B2%5D%5B1%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock basketweave cake yellow pink flowers" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="408" alt="Sylvia Weinstock basketweave cake yellow pink flowers" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FHvFGh4I/AAAAAAAABQQ/98pgSEFr1TQ/SylviaWeinstockbasketweavecakeyellow%5B2%5D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FINqhiQI/AAAAAAAABQU/m0i0ITZfRE8/s1600-h/SylviaWeinstockcakebluepurplesugarfl%5B1%5D%5B1%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock cake blue purple sugar flowers" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="435" alt="Sylvia Weinstock cake blue purple sugar flowers" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FIQYzxCI/AAAAAAAABQY/AM7aHb07ANg/SylviaWeinstockcakebluepurplesugarfl%5B1%5D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FIi6phmI/AAAAAAAABQc/63csFcfb788/s1600-h/Sylvia%20Weinstock%20orange%20yellow%20flowers%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock orange yellow flowers" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="525" alt="Sylvia Weinstock orange yellow flowers" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiF_gFUpLFY0aic-NP5eu0rOGJbNwJCofLA90fxoEKS6j7CVM43Jg1BYXSUM5N1C96z8VMdhm6BVQfkWrJII0X0WEJ7-7HfBCjpSwvECXvk2yekxUUr5q7UULtWkxwb5D1UoD37gwhRV6y/?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Sv2FJMnXrGI/AAAAAAAABQk/T-oyBz3-MQ0/s1600-h/Sylvia%20Weinstock%20red%20orange%20cake%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Sylvia Weinstock red orange cake" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="467" alt="Sylvia Weinstock red orange cake" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfN95Gnn85hhUd6foxpsLjHwGklRWbGxZYn5N8JdEzDfzRWHApxEGdgbvJi0ixzzos7p_BXAlGM7lOLY9yxjNTJBtWL82qQFwOcok9TODSNESfFsFM719fihs-Uasp7tGqLIv7PcJucLLO/?imgmax=800" width="350" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;">(Sorry for lack of photo credits, I found these same images on multiple sites!)</p><p align="center" style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-62826202527008548722009-11-11T15:36:00.000-06:002009-11-11T15:36:00.694-06:00Peggy Post: Advice for Peaceful Planning<p>I am back from two intense days at my very first <a href="http://bridalassn.com/" target="_blank">Association of Bridal Consultants</a> Annual Conference! It was inspiring and invigorating, and I am SO excited to take what I learned and make 2010 one heckuva <strong><em>fabulous</em></strong> year! </p> <p>One of the highlights of the conference was keynote speaker and etiquette guru, Peggy Post, great granddaughter-in-law of Emily Post, THE original etiquette expert. Peggy now serves as the spokesperson for the <a href="http://www.emilypost.com" target="_blank">Emily Post Institute</a>. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Svst9tQOqxI/AAAAAAAABO8/-AykBlk7qpQ/s1600-h/Peggy%20Post%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Peggy Post" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="300" alt="Peggy Post" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Svst9zwDAII/AAAAAAAABPA/Fpa9HBf4d-w/Peggy%20Post_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" border="0" /></a><font size="1">Photo by </font><a href="http://www.kurtackerman.com/" target="_blank"><font size="1">Kurt Ackerman</font></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObb6-jH7LfnwiNsiWP1F8gHZ_umXLbQzuf3wyGlpGBpJIs7cUl5HDNjRho7eT3658vs8ETArmW0bE2UPWMfCNWoMfoNOKTyQc_gIC5ixQOeDNUEPBuenC3dV4JoyRu_GxzZ8hn5xYQR7F/s1600-h/Peggy%20Post%20Wedding%20Etiquette%20ABC%20Conference%5B10%5D.jpg"><img title="Peggy Post Wedding Etiquette ABC Conference" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="512" alt="Peggy Post Wedding Etiquette ABC Conference" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Svst-ei8DaI/AAAAAAAABPI/RTeohwCfrMs/Peggy%20Post%20Wedding%20Etiquette%20ABC%20Conference_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="365" border="0" /></a>    <br />She was literally 20 feet in front of me, how cool is that?!</p> <p>Her topic focused on <strong>Peaceful Wedding Planning</strong>, and she really drove home a few key points (excuse me for the obvious paraphrasing below). You would think that much of this is common sense, but I’m sure we can all attest to the lack of good manners in the world these days! We’re all guilty of it too at times… and could use a reminder!</p> <p><font size="6">“</font> <br /><strong><em>What is etiquette?</em></strong> Etiquette helps us figure out solutions to situations. <strong>It is more than table </strong><strong>manners, it is what we do in life</strong>. Etiquette is simply how persons lives <strong>touch one another's</strong>.</p> <p> Etiquette is about <strong>three main principles</strong>, and how we <strong>live</strong> the principles:</p> <p>- Consideration <br />- Respect – interest in others as they are <br />- Honesty – sincere, truthful and tactful</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Consider these ‘guidelines’, not ‘rules’, as they are fluid and ever-changing. <font size="6">”</font></p> <p>Peggy’s advice to handle wedding conflict:</p> <p>“<strong>Compromise</strong>. <strong>Listen</strong> with an open mind and <strong>love every idea for 5 minutes</strong> as you allow others to voice their suggestions.”  </p> <p>I really thought this was a great tip: <em>love every idea for 5 minutes. </em>Haven’t we all been in the situation where two people are at odds and one person immediately shoots down the others’ idea? This is especially pertinent in the world of wedding planning when say, the bride wants one thing, and her fiance/mother/father want another thing. This could potentially lead to WWIII in some situations. Instead, Peggy suggests,</p> <p>- Stay Calm <br />- Listen <br />- Stick with the facts <br />- Don’t get personal! <br />- Propose a solution <br />- Be willing to negotiate</p> <p>And on another note… YES, in this age of technology, a hand-written THANK YOU CARD is still pertinent! Don’t just email/Facebook/Twitter your Thank You!  Because Peggy said so :) <br /> <br />What a great speaker! My only regret was not bringing her book for her to sign afterwards!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Svst-ogNjCI/AAAAAAAABPM/kVzhiRvuuf4/s1600-h/Peggy%20Post%20Wedding%20Etiquette%20Book%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="Peggy Post Wedding Etiquette Book" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="240" alt="Peggy Post Wedding Etiquette Book" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Svst-8k_nqI/AAAAAAAABPQ/NY6B2zl1dbo/Peggy%20Post%20Wedding%20Etiquette%20Book_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="191" border="0" /></a></p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-59741457699805815712009-10-21T10:00:00.002-05:002009-10-27T21:17:34.159-05:00Married: John & Vida – June 27, 2009 {Pt 3}<p align="center">The Reception</p> <p align="center">John and Vida’s reception was abound with details and surprises that I can’t wait to share with you! Vida was a very detail-oriented and hands-on bride, which just thrilled me to bits!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57EDTFzII/AAAAAAAABFg/vjQ5wATy3gY/s1600-h/Succulent%20Escort%20card%20display%5B10%5D.jpg"><img title="Succulent Escort card display" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="Succulent Escort card display" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57EkjJD6I/AAAAAAAABFk/jzWdot-1FTA/Succulent%20Escort%20card%20display_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />One of my very favorite elements of the entire wedding was this escort card table (it took forever to set up!) Check out the succulent TREE that Vida found, it’s just AMAZING! <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57FDqWZiI/AAAAAAAABFo/2TH6ZpDGXkU/s1600-h/green%20mum%20escort%20card%20display%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="green mum escort card display" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="green mum escort card display" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57FWRflDI/AAAAAAAABFs/w2izfRsJSck/green%20mum%20escort%20card%20display_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />Those little black and white vessels are mini rock vases that Vida purchased from Thailand which that we filled with green kermit mums.<br /><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57F5Hlg1I/AAAAAAAABFw/z_AD5PvKMgA/s1600-h/wu-0675%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0675" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0675" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57GPnFC_I/AAAAAAAABF0/VDeYf7aorjo/wu-0675_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p><p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57GjKaM3I/AAAAAAAABF4/RwyMJqy9Uro/s1600-h/wu-0656%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0656" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0656" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57Gzk_iBI/AAAAAAAABF8/pdlwN_UZTDw/wu-0656_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />One of my favorite ways of adding visual interest to a reception room is mixing round tables with long “feasting” tables, as they are called. It worked perfectly in this space!</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57HO8s7oI/AAAAAAAABGA/B-3WwfjzsNE/s1600-h/wu-0686%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0686" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0686" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57HrGeelI/AAAAAAAABGE/r0_7qjJWx1s/wu-0686_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />Their cityscape monogram on the wall. Initially this was to be projected on the dance floor, but after conferring with the lighting technician, we made the last minute decision to put it on the wall for more dramatic effect. People were taking pictures in front of it all night!</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57H6vrA0I/AAAAAAAABGI/VV4nKHr0IIo/s1600-h/shell%20moss%20cymbidium%20centerpiece%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="shell moss cymbidium centerpiece" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="shell moss cymbidium centerpiece" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57IMcjSwI/AAAAAAAABGM/MPGrk2PF9Jk/shell%20moss%20cymbidium%20centerpiece_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />Let me tell you a little secret: There was NO florist involved in any of the centerpieces! Vida pre-assembled these very Zen centerpiece trays beforehand (notice the shells!), and then on the wedding day we laid them out, along with the fresh orchid blooms, driftwood branches, more shells, monstera leaves, trailing rocks.<br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57IUI4zcI/AAAAAAAABGQ/z51elmnQBcs/s1600-h/wu-0446%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0446" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0446" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57I-w-ZdI/AAAAAAAABGU/pTG0jlAioS0/wu-0446_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />I love the choice of modern stemware!</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57JnKNrpI/AAAAAAAABGY/M1zE2Wa16d0/s1600-h/wu-0614%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0614" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0614" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57KAs8TsI/AAAAAAAABGc/ErhmOisvfBE/wu-0614_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57KW2keLI/AAAAAAAABGg/_0vIIoNyb54/s1600-h/wu-0637%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0637" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0637" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mODowIiBPnVWO_AeGEa7Hl_3rDfUL1RdGLDPjdHvUi08MFO-4LQBIKXY24XZXXp6Fi-bjdzz-NFi3z5EgHoH7Wj5t9Rdf4xBK8TpOCK3XnTjv3T9Df8S0bOSJZKj-ioHfJVdpIHeToCE/?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />I love the simplicity of this shot.<br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57LCdOyvI/AAAAAAAABGo/RyrXWMHpMrQ/s1600-h/wu-0642%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0642" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0642" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57LXI_MKI/AAAAAAAABGs/_zD77N-Co6g/wu-0642_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /></p> <p align="center">They had an abundant food spread, including: <br /><br />1. Sushi station with maki rolls and nigiri, made on-site by a sushi chef! <br />2. Thai food station provided by Vida’s parents, who own <a href="http://www.thaigrillchicago.com/" target="_blank">The Thai Grill</a> in Edgwater (it’s delish!) <br />3. Continental station with carved beef tenderloin and miso glazed salmon <br />4. Thai dessert station <br />5. Ice cream sundae bar!</p> <p align="center">You better believe their guests were happy (and impressed!)!!<br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd8xakxjjvIiig7X9ezddK1-1KpzEUF6DlNf8uFYVdd2mJbysC_PZQGiVGhu0nr0_JNF6clZiE7FWmoJfy4U6hyphenhyphen0xg8FggD6GnhF9tjNZuODA_0GqyttSqn7aphV34ItcYMzqFvY8LJ84x/s1600-h/Sushi%20buffet%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Sushi buffet" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="Sushi buffet" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57MDTrt9I/AAAAAAAABG4/HXBmpy6H_VA/Sushi%20buffet_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />Sushi was definitely THE most popular station, the line was long the entire time! I was thrilled to snag a few pieces, hehe :)<br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57MXbR6fI/AAAAAAAABG8/XQK6C8AGiI0/s1600-h/wu-0680%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0680" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0680" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57MkSkOPI/AAAAAAAABHA/l-EB3KHe0Eo/wu-0680_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Vida’s gorgeous yellow diamond rings</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57M40Bk0I/AAAAAAAABHE/X_8WIVyWvgY/s1600-h/Thai%20dessert%20station%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Thai dessert station" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="Thai dessert station" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57NL0z-CI/AAAAAAAABHI/jjqq91E9MqE/Thai%20dessert%20station_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />The Thai dessert table – those little things that look like mini peppers and fruits are actually mung bean desserts!</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57NiPY5tI/AAAAAAAABHM/UaPSpbZuWvc/s1600-h/Thai%20dessert%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Thai dessert" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="Thai dessert" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57N317RaI/AAAAAAAABHQ/z5cSEgxOvKI/Thai%20dessert_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57OEkBnSI/AAAAAAAABHU/n8Ui0sTlTX0/s1600-h/Thai%20Fruit%20Carvings%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Thai Fruit Carvings" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="Thai Fruit Carvings" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57ORUhPZI/AAAAAAAABHY/30iBpxKAF14/Thai%20Fruit%20Carvings_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />The beautiful tradition of Thai fruit carving… so intricate!<br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57PH_tkLI/AAAAAAAABHc/HFfMjUhau5o/s1600-h/pug%20cake%20with%20sea%20shell%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="pug cake with sea shell" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="pug cake with sea shell" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57PoQU-UI/AAAAAAAABHg/tKVpXdkVodw/pug%20cake%20with%20sea%20shell_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />No ordinary white, 3-tiered cake for J & V! Say hello to Monkey the pug, and yes, he is holding a shell in his mouth. This is the dog they eventually plan to get, and his/her name will be Monkey! <br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57P_rSQQI/AAAAAAAABHk/OAFw6kBOEAk/s1600-h/wu-0713%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0713" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0713" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57QbB6loI/AAAAAAAABHo/Bi2x3WwNTm4/wu-0713_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57Qh7ZlII/AAAAAAAABHs/yfRkfPEsUE4/s1600-h/wu-0724%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0724" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0724" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57Q-7Ao2I/AAAAAAAABHw/eEokWPZJ2o4/wu-0724_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />*ouch*</p> <p align="center"> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57RJ_N9hI/AAAAAAAABH0/alXSgu_vMqE/s1600-h/wu-0737%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0737" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0737" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57RS_tUaI/AAAAAAAABH4/yWkOkExloIs/wu-0737_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />There were a number of wonderful toasts <br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57R3htzGI/AAAAAAAABH8/fr_dpNwg_L8/s1600-h/wu-0851%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0851" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0851" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57SXiF7vI/AAAAAAAABIA/sDzJsXvFWng/wu-0851_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></p> <p align="center"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0JjL1P4GbZfBCCcPKHZxSxXtmZuXFyw24gN1oMB5NnoFLc4La4fiAMXDF7gZad5sK9zYv2nHuRwUmUDidEEWMAAXjFv-kyM6g6RQ0IesPMEXSmZBnS02k3mVOuEdLekt73LOl9O_-B6b/s1600-h/wu-0853%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0853" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0853" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57S0XzirI/AAAAAAAABII/TIcf-7b7z9s/wu-0853_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />They didn’t want a traditional slideshow, so they found a company in Singapore that made an animated version of their love story, and interwove photos into the mix. It was definitely a unique twist! <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57TAAFVGI/AAAAAAAABIM/BNl0TmM4sRc/s1600-h/wu-0868%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0868" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0868" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57TnCRWLI/AAAAAAAABIQ/n2kc8c7rPTQ/wu-0868_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />Instead of a first dance, they had a first <em>song</em>! John used to sing, so when he busted out his guitar, it seemed fitting… although the guests were surprised when Vida chimed in with a duet! What did they sing? A love balled wasn’t their style, so John re-wrote the lyrics to “So I married my dream girl” (aka the free credit report jingle!). LUV it. <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtMgBG-rVFh9JkA0ga_bFIQqpFXor3910BoUyX1CwHiTq6L3AVJtcN5dWO7oT4giL4w_9DqX2R4s7JX077_1EGVHT0lKmuZNWZsb9EdKx_YQ_y9NAES8OJvQ1wEOqh0rbc3ujYYokoJpN/s1600-h/wu-0923%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0923" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0923" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57UE2VEYI/AAAAAAAABIY/kdjYNM-Dd4Q/wu-0923_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57Ubpx9KI/AAAAAAAABIc/R3QmLKd_bMk/s1600-h/wu-0980%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0980" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0980" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57UznsY8I/AAAAAAAABIg/zOnzNNdhXM8/wu-0980_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><br />Dance floor was packed, of course <br /><br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/St57VFHkUOI/AAAAAAAABIk/uh-lgNx1fkI/s1600-h/wu-0677%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0677" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0677" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAyhDfm3VnoOJGi9NAw5KwNV6ySJq_Xre-frvJ20u1Gev0HsaQ5ENnseb7Di0z2jN_gPzK7ms8YOZdajMx90_ZcbIi_lsVyv6DsjrXlZ1EfN3tOSr1kVp4x8ENL_kvWXahs3ySBSrk5Ws0/?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Success! <br /><br />John and Vida, we were so thrilled to help make your wedding day a fabulous and memorable celebration! Thanks for letting us be a part of it!</p> <p align="center">Photographer: <a href="http://secondprintproductions.com/">SecondPrint Productions</a> <br />Venue: <a href="http://enventchicago.com/" target="_blank">EnVent</a> <br />Ceremony Musicians: <a href="http://www.opusfocus.org/">Opus Focus</a> <br />DJ: DJ Jay<br />Florist (Personal Flowers only): <a href="http://www.vale-of-enna.com/">Vale of Enna</a> <br />Lighting/Draping: <a href="http://chicagolightingdesign.com/">Chicago Lighting Design</a> <br />Linens: <a href="http://chaircoversbysylwia.com/">Chaircovers by Sylwia</a> <br />Continental Catering: <a href="http://www.cateringbymichaels.com/">Catering by Michaels </a><br />Sushi Station: <a href="http://www.thaliaspice.com/">Thalia Spice </a><br />Thai Station: <a href="http://www.thaigrillchicago.com/">The Thai Grill </a><br />Pug cake: <a href="http://tipsycakechicago.com/">Tipsycake </a><br />Fruit carvings: Bree’s Basket <br />Vida’s Makeup: <a href="http://beautifulyu.com/">Beautiful Yu</a> <br />Equipment Rentals: <a href="http://chicago.classicpartyrentals.com/">Classic Party Rentals </a><br />Staffing: <a href="http://www.serviceisus.com/">Service is Us</a></p><p align="center"><br /></p>sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-86394774557896407492009-10-16T10:00:00.000-05:002009-10-16T10:00:03.339-05:00Married: John & Vida – June 27, 2009 {Pt 2}<p>The Ceremonies</p> <p>So where were we? It was 3pm, John and Vida had just finished their photo session and arrived at the venue, <a href="http://enventchicago.com/" target="_blank">Envent</a>, to get ready for their Chinese Tea Ceremony. Vida is Thai/Chinese, so she paid homage to her Thai heritage by wearing a beautiful, traditional Thai silk dress. Tea was poured and they served it to their parents and relatives as a sign of respect. In return, they received blessings from their elders along with red envelopes filled with money and gold jewelry. For many Chinese who uphold traditional beliefs, this is when the actual marriage takes place, and you are not technically married until you partake in this particular tea ceremony.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Stehy5t48KI/AAAAAAAABCc/FW_D880oFI4/s1600-h/Thai%20dress%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Thai dress" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="Thai dress" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StehzA2McFI/AAAAAAAABCg/zAj39KvRfqk/Thai%20dress_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StehzaxylyI/AAAAAAAABCk/xJAAzuXYjns/s1600-h/Chinese%20Tea%20ceremony%202%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Chinese Tea ceremony 2" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="Chinese Tea ceremony 2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StehzlzfDhI/AAAAAAAABCo/_BsELy3alEI/Chinese%20Tea%20ceremony%202_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2GUobXt083fSTubcxJnwFCyc980nXlfWIbPk54PrUHiiniefJDc3Va6ZWVJNuvCG6zILtQh1_6tixjpH1SjSYE5fid9ZhnShM1eBwC_oD0_3Nj91BlDEOeVBuU5k3jtFhf7x__-0emPZ/s1600-h/Chinese%20Tea%20Ceremony%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="Chinese Tea Ceremony" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="Chinese Tea Ceremony" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh0eaDYII/AAAAAAAABCw/HpL0iSHXzvU/Chinese%20Tea%20Ceremony_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />{Note that the bride serves tea to the male elder and the groom serves to the female elder}</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh0gnd9_I/AAAAAAAABC0/Fp4JdMNJHGI/s1600-h/wu-0384%5B7%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0384" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0384" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh1M8IhnI/AAAAAAAABC4/vUyoXp5SgJA/wu-0384_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Then it was time for Vida to change back into her white wedding gown and get ready for the Western-style ceremony. </p> <p>    <img title="wu-0305" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0305" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh1Tky5cI/AAAAAAAABC8/fdXxyXC85k8/wu-0305_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh1q49m8I/AAAAAAAABDA/jPcf9XgZ15k/s1600-h/wu-0306%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0306" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0306" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh2IJED0I/AAAAAAAABDE/hoW2IZQ4CKA/wu-0306_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh2Xz-01I/AAAAAAAABDI/pu2jHl-e8hs/s1600-h/wu-0307%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0307" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0307" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh2hkBYrI/AAAAAAAABDM/zqdNhRlRwzk/wu-0307_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />Their beautiful ceremony programs, notice their monogram subtly embossed in the bottom left hand corner. <br /></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHr17lIUIVZHyXnpidAYnBlKYsaLxjxStQdBNe3VOnuZklEDU5AxyBTCuruWTW3blyXs4MDTMC-OeuMf5Hd8p5eAXUqrXVU4t8Ho3iWwZBLsXlkwK155IoXk3SoQA8YRy2aO5eBb-cQ6Xs/s1600-h/wu-0485%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0485" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0485" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh3W-WIhI/AAAAAAAABDU/YZvIsr3Chik/wu-0485_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Vida asked both of her parents to escort her down the aisle, one of my very favorite ways of honoring both parents who raised her.</p> <p> <br /> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh3hnBYuI/AAAAAAAABDY/I6-XYP5t3sY/s1600-h/wu-0490%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0490" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0490" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh30F0dJI/AAAAAAAABDc/NE6TQWh_OtQ/wu-0490_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh4OpLu0I/AAAAAAAABDg/7ew6lXqEKAQ/s1600-h/wu-0492%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0492" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0492" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh4iKrLKI/AAAAAAAABDk/-0IMXWeBya8/wu-0492_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh44p-_MI/AAAAAAAABDo/DLMJROQLTHg/s1600-h/wu-0494%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0494" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0494" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh5Iw3BYI/AAAAAAAABDs/JAphdRX6cyg/wu-0494_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><strong><em>Now I’d like to highlight a part of their ceremony that was truly unique. Vida and John opted not to have a traditional bridal party (too many friends, couldn’t decide who to include?!). So we brainstormed on how we could incorporate the special people in their lives. We played around with a few ideas, but ultimately came up with a Candle Lighting Ceremony. This is not your typical Unity Candle lighting! </em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>First, both of their mothers came up and lit two taper candles (using a pre-lit votive) and then lit the large center candle which was in the shape of a lotus blossom.</em></strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh5lMJD-I/AAAAAAAABDw/ep9RjKzyDTo/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%201%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony 1" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="candle lighting ceremony 1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh5z7yb7I/AAAAAAAABD0/y2ehEz0i8Ck/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%201_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh6N1fKpI/AAAAAAAABD4/3wB7BTPJn9k/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="candle lighting ceremony" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh6SU6dxI/AAAAAAAABD8/eNPM07YSaDc/candle%20lighting%20ceremony_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Lighting the lotus blossom… <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh62BCvsI/AAAAAAAABEA/tXzvqoK1EoM/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%203%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony 3" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="candle lighting ceremony 3" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh7D9iuLI/AAAAAAAABEE/On73bnMoUP8/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%203_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Then the mothers handed the tapers to two of John and Vida’s friends who then lit the next pillar candles. <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh7XUPMAI/AAAAAAAABEI/oeFtrM81fns/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%204%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony 4" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="candle lighting ceremony 4" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh7sbJwLI/AAAAAAAABEM/3Gw1cSXmVj4/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%204_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />And then they handed the tapers off to the next pair of friends… <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGB5wm99H__H6APdW9NYxrUhZxnPd_c1_sfX3RtIg1DgCCm79DCDaF7MvyodUlTb6Qcsw7l15aFcwwEy0ISGzOc3kYv9HGGCpwdTjwt8xxYaUvufGy9uf-zU8rBPsYm7asukGB9lx1gXC/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%205%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony 5" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="candle lighting ceremony 5" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh8G3IcJI/AAAAAAAABEU/7j_cD4UsKXY/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%205_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />Who then did the same… <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh8h1AliI/AAAAAAAABEY/43nZzpvMKPY/s1600-h/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%206%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="candle lighting ceremony 6" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="560" alt="candle lighting ceremony 6" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh839vOEI/AAAAAAAABEc/a2GGgytH8aU/candle%20lighting%20ceremony%206_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />And the end result was a gorgeous candle-lit tablescape representing their family and friends. Meaningful and perfect! <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh9BGZVpI/AAAAAAAABEg/3oTW11LvUY8/s1600-h/wu-0531%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0531" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0531" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh9ZlbmNI/AAAAAAAABEk/vaL6YLdm1M4/wu-0531_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh9vGgoLI/AAAAAAAABEo/0uzoFKoxsgw/s1600-h/wu-0545%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0545" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0545" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh94OzwHI/AAAAAAAABEs/T0y_fxVEpZo/wu-0545_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh-Ha5YxI/AAAAAAAABEw/W3ZlgLQnX6s/s1600-h/wu-0532%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0532" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0532" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh-nDENEI/AAAAAAAABE0/FfKOhrkna5M/wu-0532_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />John and Vida wrote their own vows, which I always highly recommend! Their vows were both touching and brought many of the ladies to tears (myself included!)</p> <p> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh-30dTFI/AAAAAAAABE4/h581Ly1X548/s1600-h/wu-0553%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0553" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0553" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh_GSK1bI/AAAAAAAABE8/f-Q6MxMr6L4/wu-0553_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh_aP1GTI/AAAAAAAABFA/53QZjHRo6pc/s1600-h/wu-0541%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0541" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0541" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/Steh_34VL2I/AAAAAAAABFE/XLwlt3pTUUU/wu-0541_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />There was no ring bearer, so they asked two of their closes friends to hold the rings in a special vessel (see, didn’t I say that Vida loves shells?) <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiAlEE3FI/AAAAAAAABFI/3OfpOhWbKn0/s1600-h/wu-0539%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0539" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0539" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiA6_UrCI/AAAAAAAABFM/U2_hMQk24yw/wu-0539_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>    <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiBN1lKZI/AAAAAAAABFQ/TKbi-WIGPOo/s1600-h/wu-0571%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0571" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0571" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiBftOv4I/AAAAAAAABFU/D_TVmH6jvf0/wu-0571_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiBy7Y03I/AAAAAAAABFY/DB9wJQ8gHEU/s1600-h/wu-0575%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0575" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0575" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SteiCJgo2hI/AAAAAAAABFc/wEreFRYAIbU/wu-0575_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br />I love this shot… a stolen kiss as the officiant signs the marriage license. </p> <p>To be continued…</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p align="center">All images by <a href="secondprintproductions.com/" target="_blank">SecondPrint Productions</a>.</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-67913657520507021402009-10-15T11:27:00.001-05:002009-10-15T11:27:46.440-05:00Married: John & Vida – June 27, 2009 {Part 1}<p align="left">I have been so antsy to feature the wedding of my dear friends, John and Vida, I’m so excited to finally have my little hands on their pictures!! I have known John for over a decade now… we met in the cornfields of Champaign (aka the University of Illinois) and have managed to remain friends throughout the years. I always thought that perhaps John would be a “bachelor for life", but after he introduced our circle of friends to Vida, I knew that that title was on its way out… </p> <p align="left">Vida has a thing for sea shells. So he popped the question July 4th weekend of 2008 by tucking a gorgeous canary yellow diamond ring into a sea shell, proposing, and then whisking her off to a weekend beach getaway… so Vida could collect more shells :) </p> <p align="left">Their wedding was one of the most intense weddings I have produced to date, with a whopping 22 different vendors! FYI, a wedding typically averages about a dozen vendors. But it was certainly the most rewarding in terms of the final outcome… happy couple, happy guests, and fabulous wedding!</p> <p align="left">All images by one of my favorite photographers, Albert of <a href="secondprintproductions.com/" target="_blank">Second Print Productions</a>. Not much need for captions in this series below… the pictures speak for themselves!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNSUFvSEI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/GsnR3ZXGeKk/s1600-h/wu-0050%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0050" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0050" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNSwUaOPI/AAAAAAAAA9U/nLBPavoz0ek/wu-0050_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a>  <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNTOSuLVI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/enTIOefqJjE/s1600-h/green%20cymbidium%20hydrangea%20succulent%20bouquet%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="green cymbidium hydrangea succulent bouquet" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="green cymbidium hydrangea succulent bouquet" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNTgE0HVI/AAAAAAAAA9c/_23b7Py8b6k/green%20cymbidium%20hydrangea%20succulent%20bouquet_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />I am a wee bit obsessed with Vida’s bouquet, by Grace of <a href="http://www.vale-of-enna.com/" target="_blank">Vale of Enna</a>. Hydrangea, cymbidium orchids, succulents, lotus pods and fiddlehead ferns. And the perfect shape and size. Le sigh… <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNTxeTJjI/AAAAAAAAA9g/oWFz1TiyMH8/s1600-h/wu-0102%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0102" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0102" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNUF_wi_I/AAAAAAAAA9k/yEVNZDer1yQ/wu-0102_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a>  <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNUT3G6CI/AAAAAAAAA9o/qkz72W-J6u8/s1600-h/wu-0107%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0107" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0107" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNU_IhmCI/AAAAAAAAA9s/pj9YfzwD3bo/wu-0107_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br />Vida looks stunning, and so happy! <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNVMUuQjI/AAAAAAAAA9w/xwSEyu79yZI/s1600-h/wu-0068%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0068" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0068" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNVXbhkAI/AAAAAAAAA90/wz8v5VozerM/wu-0068_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a>  <br />While John looks pensive… <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNV1zGtZI/AAAAAAAAA94/D3TfH0SmQf0/s1600-h/wu-0122%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0122" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0122" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNW0SxIRI/AAAAAAAAA98/GYch8RgIM0E/wu-0122_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>Their first look at Vida’s parents’ home <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNXKrihxI/AAAAAAAAA-A/4QOhUpVNL7g/s1600-h/wu-0124%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0124" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0124" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNXl-xemI/AAAAAAAAA-E/M_VbZlwxpqs/wu-0124_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNX5_yKgI/AAAAAAAAA-I/X0BPTbECnT8/s1600-h/wu-0129%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0129" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0129" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNYWVKmKI/AAAAAAAAA-M/06oFxhhORM0/wu-0129_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNYgWCDrI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/ivsHtsU1Rp4/s1600-h/wu-0144%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0144" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0144" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNZEarzbI/AAAAAAAAA-U/X9pLSjfkFH0/wu-0144_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNZcW8I5I/AAAAAAAAA-Y/y2Weurv0P7I/s1600-h/wu-0164%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0164" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0164" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNZjaJigI/AAAAAAAAA-c/qIsSJqAUCXY/wu-0164_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNZ0QkxOI/AAAAAAAAA-g/ScdGdtYXUD8/s1600-h/wu-0168%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0168" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0168" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNaN6blUI/AAAAAAAAA-k/9hGgbhbrQXs/wu-0168_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNaZB4J7I/AAAAAAAAA-o/epBvpkEi4jA/s1600-h/wu-0170%5B6%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0170" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0170" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNa20BxaI/AAAAAAAAA-s/NfLtW45U9-Q/wu-0170_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="370" border="0" /></a>  <br />That’s my wedding veil that Vida borrowed, and it looks <em>very</em> precarious in this shot… but I love it!  <br /> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNbQRZhtI/AAAAAAAAA-w/976cKrknwhs/s1600-h/wu-0172%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0172" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0172" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNbqntfDI/AAAAAAAAA-0/NSGZTOiaUDM/wu-0172_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> <br /> <br /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNb_SdxaI/AAAAAAAAA-4/G48p2TwpHiI/s1600-h/wu-0188%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0188" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0188" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNcNfYRlI/AAAAAAAAA-8/p6uHIMFVNv0/wu-0188_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>Hellooo, gorgeous! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNcQAtfsI/AAAAAAAAA_A/ENsticSBK3I/s1600-h/wu-0192%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0192" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0192" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNcz7LHuI/AAAAAAAAA_E/v-hgt-YpxSk/wu-0192_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a>More of Grace’s handiwork <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNdEouoAI/AAAAAAAAA_I/9Dtllwknu0k/s1600-h/wu-0141%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0141" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0141" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNdlHiE6I/AAAAAAAAA_M/SN1HkCu4GwE/wu-0141_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNd5czXqI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/CpXv3yOfpi4/s1600-h/wu-0217%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0217" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0217" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNeGOu_JI/AAAAAAAAA_U/necTCLAcNgQ/wu-0217_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNeizQUgI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/GL0HaQKxkG8/s1600-h/wu-0233%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0233" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0233" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNe9mhlEI/AAAAAAAAA_c/tBuNCNMYA9I/wu-0233_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a>  <br />Vida wanted some whimsical balloon shots… <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNfMsJmOI/AAAAAAAAA_g/GlJC7eAK5I0/s1600-h/wu-0237%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0237" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0237" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNfvTpaiI/AAAAAAAAA_k/Rn94JH27ozU/wu-0237_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> And they turned out so cute! <br /></p> <p align="center"><img title="wu-0259" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="wu-0259" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNf9ygeyI/AAAAAAAAA_o/4TRgfVK9ehM/wu-0259_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" />Where in the world are they? Their venue, Envent, was in a warehouse district with some large silos… urban chic! <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNgFQyOfI/AAAAAAAAA_s/VR7c36BrIw4/s1600-h/wu-0270%5B7%5D.jpg"><img title="wu-0270" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="560" alt="wu-0270" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/StdNgbT2KcI/AAAAAAAAA_w/9wMNHPT16_s/wu-0270_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="373" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center">To be continued…</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-13864283358174087792009-10-01T10:01:00.001-05:002009-10-01T10:01:03.497-05:00Win a Kate Spade Handbag!<p>My philosophy is, a girl can <em>never</em> have enough purses! And this one that’s on the line is simply drool-worthy. Roomy AND red, my favorite color… enter <a href="http://blogs.wishpot.com/wedding/2009/09/win-kate-spade-designer-handbag.html" target="_blank">here</a> to win (click the link)!</p> <p><a href="http://www.wishpot.com/">Wishpot</a> and <a href="https://www.bagborroworsteal.com/ui/g/member?sourceCode=11414&adtrackId=11319">Avelle</a> the New Bag Borrow Steal (think Sex in the City) have teamed up to bring you our latest giveaway. Enter to win this fabulous fun red kate spade Designer Handbag! Retail value $429</p> <p><img src="http://blogs.wishpot.com/wedding/files/2009/09/clip-image0011.jpg" /></p> <p>Here’s how to enter:</p> <p><b>Tell us or show us what you want to carry in your Avelle Designer Bag! <br /></b><i>(Your fave accessories, your pets, your dreams, the kitchen sink and more….)</i> <br /><strong> <br />Tell :</strong> get <strong>1 entry</strong> <br />for each response <a href="http://blogs.wishpot.com/wedding/2009/09/win-kate-spade-designer-handbag.html">here</a>, on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/avelle">Avelle FB Fan Page</a><strong>,</strong> or on Twitter RT #Avelle</p> <p><b> <br />Show</b>: get <strong>2 entries</strong> <br />post a pic of what you want to carry on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/avelle">Avelle FB Fan Page</a>, or on Twitter</p> <p><b> <br />Share</b>: Get <strong>3 entries</strong> <br /><a href="https://www.bagborroworsteal.com/ui/g/member?sourceCode=11414">sign up at Avelle</a>, follow <a href="http://twitter.com/avelle">Avelle on Twitter</a> or blog about this giveaway</p> <p>Be sure to leave a comment on the <a href="http://blogs.wishpot.com/wedding/2009/09/win-kate-spade-designer-handbag.html">Wishpot Blog</a> with what you did. Giveaway lasts one week. We will draw a winner on Monday Oct 5<sup>th</sup>. Good Luck!</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-61688179426169369062009-09-29T12:04:00.001-05:002009-09-29T12:04:24.284-05:00Beautiful Invitations by Junefille<p>Today, I asked my friend and wedding stationer extraordinaire, Franchec of <a href="http://junefille.com/" target="_blank">Junefille</a>, to share some of their recent work, along with some background and insight into each piece. Fran and I met in the Corporate world a while back, but quickly learned that we both led secret double lives in the wedding world :)</p> <p><em>(Commentary below by Fran from Junefille)</em><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-BPzLXiI/AAAAAAAAA7g/-JpkRqRypc8/s1600-h/invite1%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite1" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-Bgo7s3I/AAAAAAAAA7k/vzudy6MrPfA/invite1_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-B6OzPKI/AAAAAAAAA7o/wmSvUEV8Hus/s1600-h/invite1b%5B7%5D.jpg"><img title="invite1b" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite1b" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-CT26QbI/AAAAAAAAA7s/lWpGdVgpiOg/invite1b_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><em>We set out to find a way to combine Cynthia's youthful presence along with her mother’s traditional view on her daughter’s special event. By focusing on her favorite color, using filigre and a crystal brooch, we were able to give Cynthia an invitation that embraced the young woman she was becoming with a punch of color that kept it her personal style.</em></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-CtGnn6I/AAAAAAAAA7w/GOTPlrd11Wk/s1600-h/invite2%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite2" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite2" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-DM7gkiI/AAAAAAAAA70/pwYVaP0GyGs/invite2_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><em>Maria and Nathan wanted a unique twist on traditional invites. We suggested peacock feathers for a chic pop of color. The result is a vibrant look with a classic presentation.</em> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-DSgLt7I/AAAAAAAAA74/cCadh7vc0II/s1600-h/invite3%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite3" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite3" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-Dy6Q0MI/AAAAAAAAA78/f2sM9oGhE3o/invite3_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><em>When we first met Sara and Jonathan, they made sure to explain the importance of blending their cultures while still maintaining a modern appeal. The use of cherry blossoms symbolized Sara’s Chinese culture with a modern twist. <br /></em> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-EKkTdvI/AAAAAAAAA8A/xaiPGQqngNY/s1600-h/invite4%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite4" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite4" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-ETLQi5I/AAAAAAAAA8E/OpaI_U7TQAo/invite4_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><em> This image above illustrates the many ways couples can add special details to their invites with monogrammed belly bands.</em> <br /> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-E8G4MzI/AAAAAAAAA8I/U5pFquCEs40/s1600-h/invite5%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite5" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite5" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-FLobu3I/AAAAAAAAA8M/DvzIj5hNZrU/invite5_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsivSaEg9VJOvEMkAOsNJh1LM5QkObQV4GQjGelDMs3pOrZlPIBA7PslAnAf9crBilNrM54N8IgmggWt8OvDBCeNQKxPPWX0KpHhY9sp7VQezNWgCS1bn1vi2GSSwZYiATVBud9Ajz3qtd/s1600-h/invite5b%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="invite5b" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="373" alt="invite5b" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SsI-F7aVZNI/AAAAAAAAA8U/afk9uGfQzsQ/invite5b_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" border="0" /></a><em>The use of floral imagery was very important for this romantic themed wedding. The theme was carried out through all of wedding stationary, down to the elegance with the font treatments.</em></p> <p>If you are looking for custom wedding invitations, don’t hesitate to contact <a href="http://junefille.com/" target="_blank">Junefille</a>… Their work is stunning, and they will collaborate with you to design invitations that your guests will actually want to KEEP!</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-20056700760588598902009-09-04T14:11:00.001-05:002009-09-04T14:11:24.371-05:00Favorite Wedding-Related Reads<p>Print out this <a href="http://www.bordersmedia.com/coup/coupon40book0903.asp?cmpid=SA_20090903_REW" target="_blank">Borders coupon</a> and get yourself 40% off list price of a book!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKU54I_vI/AAAAAAAAA6I/nEWgVBUNQbU/s1600-h/image%5B37%5D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="135" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKVNGcYkI/AAAAAAAAA6M/Z2v3sWkakSU/image_thumb%5B49%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>In store only and it expires on Monday 9/7, so hurry hurry. Looks like you need to sign up for a Borders Rewards Membership, but that literally took me a minute last time, so no biggie!</p> <p align="center">Here are some of my favorite wedding-related recommendations…</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKVmNXEOI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/P2JzwI2bJPg/s1600-h/image%5B5%5D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="382" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKXOk4TmI/AAAAAAAAA6U/VNOcuPI8HQw/image_thumb%5B7%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=0307341933" target="_blank">The Knot Book of Wedding Lists</a>: Offers some fantastic tips for brides-to-be’s. <br /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKXnV8MFI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/RqWblh2U33s/s1600-h/image%5B11%5D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="image" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKYKXdXcI/AAAAAAAAA6c/kPY49W51ChM/image_thumb%5B15%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?type=1&catalogId=10001&simple=1&defaultSearchView=List&keyword=fete+wedding&LogData=[search:+18,parse:+24]&searchData={productId:null,sku:null,type:1,sort:null,currPage:1,resultsPerPage:25,simpleSearch:true,navigation:5185,moreValue:null,coverView:false,url:rpp%3D25%26view%3D2%26type%3D1%26nav%3D5185%26simple%3Dtrue%26book_search%3Dfete%2Bwedding,terms:{book_search%3Dfete+wedding}}&storeId=13551&sku=1584796286&ddkey=http:SearchResults" target="_blank">Fete: The Wedding Experience:</a><em> Hello</em>, wedding porn at its finest!! Inspiring weddings and great advice by NYC planner extraordinaire, Jung Lee. <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKYgmKM5I/AAAAAAAAA6g/U8GxsM6WLHI/s1600-h/image%5B17%5D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="293" alt="image" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKZJSFidI/AAAAAAAAA6k/Iq6SptWSsng/image_thumb%5B23%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=0307341801" target="_blank">Colin Cowie Chic</a>: Fabulous inspiration by THE Colin Cowie… <br /> <br /> <br /></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SqFKZlWooyI/AAAAAAAAA6o/-PV0ZubFNaw/s1600-h/image%5B25%5D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="310" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZeWug4Se3R3M_E2uclV0zL1WVZZg875Af7WWbBvxGaUs4OwDCUgPGRGaWYndycEo7xCMb_r9oVlZUIpPcaemp6mB0ZqbxMJlq8WzTf_AUVqsGHutnjbzrg6GUGwCDlG32V66f31kmoYOS/?imgmax=800" width="250" border="0" /></a> <br /><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=0060745045" target="_blank">Wedding Etiquette:</a> And we can’t forget Peggy Post. While its often said that “anything goes” for wedding these days, we can’t just throw away ALL the rules! There are still some niceties and considerations that are just considered good wedding etiquette!</p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p align="center">Any recommendations to add?</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-14130177893466385572009-08-14T13:15:00.001-05:002009-08-14T13:15:37.932-05:00Chicago Weddings: Making it Legal<p>There are so many fun aspects to planning your fabulous wedding, that sometimes the process of actually getting your marriage license gets overshadowed. But definitely don’t forget about this important step! </p> <p>Below is a map of Chicago area counties… <em>get your license in the county where your wedding is taking place, and NOT where you live!</em> For example, if you live in downtown Chicago (Cook County), but are getting married in the suburb of Oak Brook, be sure to go to the DuPage County Clerk’s office to obtain your license. And yes, this means you will probably need to take a day off to go there since the DuPage County Clerk’s office does not have evening or weekend hours…</p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" height="492" alt="Map of the vPlants Chicago Region showing counties included" src="http://www.vplants.org/img/map_vplants.gif" width="498" />(<a href="http://www.vplants.org/map_county.html" target="_blank">Source</a>)</p> <p>Since many of my clients are getting married in the City of Chicago, here are some Cook County tips:</p> <p><strong>Eligibility:</strong> <br />- be 18 years of age or older <br />- be of opposite sex <br />- not be blood relatives</p> <p><strong>Application Process:</strong> <br />- Couples must appear <strong>together</strong> at one of the Cook County Clerk's <a href="http://www.cookctyclerk.com/sub/contact.asp" target="_blank">six locations</a> <br />- Fill out and sign a marriage license application <br />- Present <a href="http://www.cookctyclerk.com/sub/valid_identification.asp#splId" target="_blank">valid identification</a> with proof of age <br />- The marriage license fee is $40, to be paid at the time of application by <strong>cash or debit card</strong></p> <p><strong>Additional Information:</strong> <br />- License is issued while you wait <br />- License is effective the <em>following calendar day</em> after they are issued <br />- License is valid for 60 days <br />- License is effective only in Chicago and suburban Cook County <br />- <em>And lastly, no medical or blood tests are needed</em></p> <p>Please be sure to visit the official <a href="http://www.cookctyclerk.com/sub/marriage_licenses.asp" target="_blank">Cook County Clerk’s Office website</a> for complete details on applying for your marriage license. (I didn’t cover the info on underage marriages or recently divorced applicants!),</p> <p>Here are additional links with information on where/how to obtain your marriage license in other Chicago-area counties: <br />- <a href="http://www.dupageco.org/countyclerk/generic.cfm?doc_id=622" target="_blank">DuPage County</a> <br />- <a href="http://www.lakecountyil.gov/CountyClerk/VitalRecords/MarriageLicenses.htm" target="_blank">Lake County</a> <br />- <a href="http://www.co.mchenry.il.us/Common/CountyDpt/countyclerk/ClkVRecords.asp" target="_blank">McHenry County</a> <br />- <a href="http://www.co.kane.il.us/coc/Records/Marriage/marriagelicense.asp" target="_blank">Kane County</a> <br />- <a href="http://www.willclrk.com/marriagelicenses.htm" target="_blank">Will County</a></p> <p>Have a fabulous weekend!</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2790048798529163384.post-14064440283031694532009-07-26T10:00:00.000-05:002009-07-26T10:00:02.173-05:00Happy 1 Year Anniversary Nina & Justin!<p>Congratulations Nina and Justin on your First Anniversary! I hope it has been a wonderful, exciting year full of new experiences :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SmSIaRvgQnI/AAAAAAAAA20/Ee8shp1dTbU/s1600-h/b166575463%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="b166575463" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="601" alt="b166575463" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_v95hwNXh66k/SmSIasKX3QI/AAAAAAAAA24/36PjSUc3Fc8/b166575463_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" border="0" /></a></p> <p>See more pictures from their fabulous wedding by clicking: <a href="http://sweetchicevents.blogspot.com/2008/09/nina-justin-72608.html" target="_blank">here</a> (all images by Dave Won)</p> sweetchiceventshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782841639543368389noreply@blogger.com1