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Brannon was a vision in her Carrafina gown which was purchased at A Joyful Occasion. Michael also looked stunning in his custom tuxedo from Nicholas Joseph.

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The brides shoes were created by designer Angela Nuran and from The Left Bank (as mentioned in our Things we are loving now blog). This particular pair of Angela Nurnan shoes is the Starletta-Glitz Ivory Wedding Shoe. This wedding shoe is elegant, has a low heel (height heels vary from 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches – great for comfort and dancing all night long!), and will be sure to make a statement. The sparkly heel on this shoe (which can be customized) adds just the right amount of bling without going overboard! Brannon personalized the heel with blue and platinum Swarovski, giving her a unique “something blue!”.

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The floral design for this wedding was created by Alex of Exquisite Designs Chicago! Brannon & Michael wanted to bring warm fall florals into their wedding design and Alex did just that! She created marvelous centerpieces out of Circus roses, Mokara Blooms. and fall Chrysantemums.

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The Maid of Honor’s bouquet was also on display as a centerpiece!

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Brannon’s bouquet was hand tied in ivory ribbon to match her gown. Sewn onto the ivory ribbon was a bouquet charm with a picture of Brannon’s dog. This little detail was so simple to incorporate but so special to Brannon. This elegant bouquet consisted of Mango Cala Lilies, Saffron Mokara Orchids, and Circus Roses with little touches of Magnolia tips.

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The evening started with a beautiful wedding ceremony in the main lounge. The walls were up-lit by Automated Lighting Design with a beautiful soft Amber color to accentuate the warmth of the room. The uplighting transformed this rich dark room into a warm welcoming area for guests to enjoy their evening.

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During the reception guests enjoyed dancing to the swanky sounds of Orchestra 33 and taking photos in the photo booth provided by Flashbooth!

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All of the photos were taken by the talented photographers at Carasco Photography! As always their work was AMAZING and captured each of the elements of this wedding in a beautifully artistic way.

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We got inspired this morning while reading a little newspaper article titled ‘A proposal for the ages’. It got us to thinking…what really goes into an elaborate proposal? From the limo, to the restaurant, to the flowers, to maybe even the top of the Eiffel Tower… AND of course THE RING! Today’s proposals are more extreme and over the top than ever before!

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Source for newspaper: Detroit Free Press

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By the numbers…

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$5,700 = the average cost of an engagement ring

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We love this elegant and timeless engagement ring by Neil Lane Bridal at Kay Jewelers. ($3,099.99)

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This engagement ring from Tiffany & Co. is FABULOUS! ($14,400.00)

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It is not a bad idea to take your ‘future bride to be’ shopping and casually stroll into a jeweler to get a feel for the shapes and designs of engagement rings that she likes before proposing. If she is expecting the proposal and the two of you have discussed it then plan a day to pick out the ring together! Keep in mind lots of ladies know what their dream ring looks like years before the actual proposal! We also LOVE the idea of the groom designing the engagement ring!!

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77% = grooms who propose on bended knee

This is for all of you traditionalists…

p.s. most women love the idea of a man proposing on bended knee!

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71% = grooms who have asked bride’s parents for permission

This is another one for the traditionalists. The parent’s of the bride will really respect you going the extra mile to ask their permission. (We know that this is something that can be nerve wrecking and a little uncomfortable but lets be honest these people are going to be a part of your life and earning their respect is really important. This will mean a lot to your girl as well!)

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57% = grooms who propose privately

 A private proposal is intended to be very intimate and personal. While we love the fun and excitement of the ever so popular over the top proposals that have become a huge trend, in our opinion too many grooms want to impress EVERYBODY instead of wanting to impress the ONLY person that matters… THE BRIDE!

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43% = grooms who planned the proposal down to the last detail

It is extremely thoughtful and creative when a groom takes the time to plan out a unique and personal proposal. They are typically one to remember!

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10% = grooms who winged it

While we do not encourage winging your proposal (the chances of the proposal not going smoothly are high) we love the spontaneity of it!! There is something to be said about sweeping your girl off her feet.

Source for by the numbers: 2011 Engagement & Jewelry Study from the Knot Market Intelligence

Source for pictures: Pinterest

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We wanted to share some OUT OF THIS WORLD proposals that we found!!

Movie Trailer Proposal 

Times Square Proposal 

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Check out this mans attempt at an OUT OF THIS WORLD proposal. Although this is kind of an intense proposal we still had to share!

Flash Mob Proposal 

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Source for the videos: YouTube

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Michelle Durpetti Events Promotional Video

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Just a little bit about our friends at Leap Weddings….

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Leap Weddings is a company that is based upon FILM (wedding day videography), HAIR (wedding hair/updos), and FUN!!! They pride themselves on being different and cutting edge (& we agree). Their team consists of video mastermind extraordinaire/owner, Ben, and his partner, Stephanie, who is also a hair artist/stylist expert. Oh, how could we forget Moose! Moose is the office mascot, in charge of slobber management (and is also known as Ben’s adorable mutt). Ben and Steph have an AWESOME team of associates behind them who have worked with us on several projects (including, but not limited to: Phyllis & Seyed’s Summer 2011 Wedding at The InterContinental Hotel/Signature Room AND Heather & Mark’s Spring 2011 Wedding at A New Leaf).

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Check out these two AWESOME videos Leap Weddings created for our delightful bride and groom, Heather & Mark.

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Heather & Mark- Video 1

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Heather & Mark- Video 2

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Some of Stephanie’s brilliant work….

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Leap Weddings produces unforgettable videos that capture bride and groom wedding day dreams. They want your experience working with them to be a fun one! Click below to see one of their AMAZING wedding day videos!

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Leap Weddings Video

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Thanks Leap Weddings… You guys ROCK!

Ceremony & Wedding Reception: The Rookery

Caterer: Jewell Weddings

Beverages: Binny’s Beverage Depot

Cake: Tipsy Cake

Floral: Exquisite Designs

Stationer: Erickson Design

Photography: Carasco Photography

Music: Stu Hirsh Orchestra

Rentals: M&M- The Special Events Company & Classic Party Rentals

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Chicago

 Hair & Makeup: Aga Kaskiewski

Transportation: Exquisite Limousine & ABC Transportation

We have scoped out the scene with these 5 exotic places- French Polynesia, Fiji, Morocco, Bali, and Thailand! — and with the sun, fun and romance abounding, your honeymoon will be beyond memorable!

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FRENCH POLYNESIA

We are loving the tourquoise waters and powder sugar beaches of the French Polynesia. Many couples do a Moorea-Bora Bora combo, since the islands are all so close…. On Morrea, the Hilton’s, over-water bungalows come with marble tubs; the current here is peaceful, so you can swim right off your deck! Doubles from $734 (low season) and $845 (high season), with breakfast, hilton.com.

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Don’t forget a fabulous pair of sunglasses and a sassy scarf because you are off to Bora-Bora! At the Four Seasons, the over-water bungalows have major Mount Otemanu views and palatial living rooms. Book the Kahaia spa suite, and see the fish floating under the massage bed! Doubles, from $835 (low season) and $945 (high season), fourseasons.com.

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Are you up for some water sports amid your glam getaway? The swanky St. Regis boasts some of the biggest over-water bungalows in town. Doubles from $1,235 (low season) to $1,390 (high season), stregis.com. Wherever you stay, do a reef shark-swim excursion. It’s a rite of passage in these parts and the finned ones won’t bite. Probably. Just don’t watch shark week before you go!

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Don’t forget to pack: SEXY PJ’S. With this romantic destination, you will be taking advantage of room service – A LOT! Stop by Agent Provocateur or G Boutique before you leave to pick up some sexy pieces to wow your groom!

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FIJI

Tiny prop planes bring you in from the main isle, Viti Levu, to secluded little islands. On Matangi Private Island Resort, you’ll find a favorite perch in one of the tree houses. Personally, we LOVE the idea of a tree house honeymoon! How fun! Doubles from $650 (year-round), with meals, matangiisland.com.

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At Vomo Island Resort couples lounge, enjoy each others company, and siesta after lunch feasts in their  standalone villas. Doubles from $762 (year-round), with meals, vomofiji.com.

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Fourteen bures (cottages) plus 14 beaches equal bliss on celebrity fave Turtle Island. The routine here? Wake, snorkel, grab a bottle of champers, and picnic on a deserted beach – uber romantic! Guests can eat together at dinner, which means Charlize Theron could be your date!  Doubles from $2,499 (year-round), all-inclusive, turtlefiji.com.

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Don’t forget to pack: FABULOUS SWIMWEAR AND COVER-UP’S. They take up little luggage space, and let’s be honest-you won’t be wearing much else!

MOROCCO

Looking for a little international intrigue? Watch monkey handlers mingle with snake charmers in Marrakech’s Djemaa el-Fna square; then retreat from the crowd to La Maison Arabe, a stylish oasis in the medina. Doubles from $200 (low season) and $250 (high season), with breakfast, lamaisonarabe.com.

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Wind your way to the Atlas Mountains and Kasbah Tamadot Resort; the electric blue pool is offset by russet peaks. Doubles from $524 (low season) and $625 (high season), with breakfast, kasbahtamadot.virgin.com. 

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Finally, dish out those dirhams in the town of Fes, buying rugs, jewelry, and spices. Sleep at the Sofitel Palais Jamai, where rooms are decked out in deep reds and gold. Doubles from $207 (low season) and $260 (high season), sofitel.com. 

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Don’t forget to pack: A GREAT PAIR OF COMFY KICKS. Manolos are so Carrie Bradshaw, and we know every woman wants to feel sexy on her honeymoon, but cobblerstone streets are serious business and require sturdy footwear!

BALI

Are you a yoga fanatic? Or maybe you are looking for a little “Eating, Praying and Lovin’??” If so, start your Bali-moon in the boho town of Ubud, where backpackers and yoginis tour temples, watch dancers, and browse boutiques stuffed with kites and carvings. The ric-paddy vistas and free yoga seem fabulous at Uma Ubud. Doubles from $260 (low season) and $305 (high season), with breakfast, uma.ubus.como.bz.

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Scoot to the coast and the Alila Manggis Resort; the beaches here aren’t super-touristy. Doubles from $150 (low season) to $180 (high season), with breakfast, alilahotels.com.

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When you are ready to play action stars, swing to Kuta Beach and the Legian Beach Hotel, in the heart of Bali’s bumpin’ nightlife. Doubles from $211 (low season) and $259 (high season), with breakfast, legianbeachbali.com.

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Don’t forget to pack:  YOGA PANTS! That tush needs to look hot during your yoga sessions.

THAILAND

Touch down in Bangkok and make for the Metropolitan, where the sunken tubs are built for two. Doubles from $303 (year-round), metropolitian.bangkok.como.bz.

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Suitably soaked, toast with champers at Lebua’s Sky Bar- it’s 63 stories high. Fly north to Chiang Mai: shop the Old Town district for silks, or jungle-trek aboard the back of an elephant. When it’s bed time, Rachamankha seduces with antique-decorated digs. Doubles from $207 (low season) to $225 (high season), with breakfast, rachamankha.com. 

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Ready for a seaside escape? (Yes, please!) Fly south to Sala Samui on Koh Samui island, where the villas come with private pools. Doubles from $227 (low season) and $283 (high season), with breakfast, salasamui.com.

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Don’t forget to pack: SUNSCREEN! Pick a high SPF- those rays are serious whether you’re at the beach or not.

Source: Brides Magazine, December 2011

I have often found myself at industry events, and when one planner runs into another, after a few cordial hellos and “how are yous” the conversation inevitably turns to how “insanely busy” each one of them is and how nobody has time to breath, etc, etc. This is honestly not something I can do in an economy in which every person has felt the effects of the world around us. And, when I think back on last year at this time, I distinctly remember feeling quite the opposite, to be very honest. I actually remember having a very not fun conversation with trusted business advisors on the very real possibility that the company could, possibly, not survive 2011. We had undergone so many changes – with staff leaving, some under less than joyful terms, and we were in the land of wedding planning more than event planning – and the phones were not ringing nearly enough to calm fears and put concerns to rest.  However, given that quitting is not in my DNA – 2011 was going to be THE year – Quite simply, because it had to be.

In November, we set our sights on an expo, and with the help of the amazing team at Luxury Bridal Expo, we attended the show, got our brochures in the hands of hundreds of brides and felt like we were doing something to swing momentum in the right direction. The holidays came and went, and when January arrived, we sat, waiting by the phone, hoping that more couples would call and that the phones would start ringing off the hook and we would get gloriously busy and perhaps even lose sight that at one time we lamented being slow.

With a pace that felt slower slower than that of molasses in January, exactly that began to happen. The phones began to ring, couples came in for consultations, weddings were booked, and even some non-wedding event work started to come back our way. And, for a second, we were grateful – but we knew we had to keep pushing that crucial momentum in that cucial direction (which at times felt VERY uphill) if we were going to get where we needed to be. And, as the last stark, cold days of winter gave way to the return of warmth, blooms and spring – we were moving at full speed, and it was delightful!

Our first wedding of 2011 was in May, and was a couple I will never forget. They, like so many of our couples, have become part of our MDE family and I love that!  May gave way to June, and so on and so forth, and we had the pleasure and privilege of becoming a part of so many couple’s stories as they planned and celebrated their marriages.

Our season went a little something like this: charge the radios, grab the timelines…AND: outdoor garden receptions including the best dog, ballrooms, lofts, zoos, gardens, architectural gems, university campuses and 95 floors above earth… Jewish ceremonies, Catholic ceremonies, Orthodox ceremonies, Persian knife dances, Irish blessings, Scottish bagpipers, unity candles, unity sand, wedding cake, wedding pie, cupcakes! Best man speeches, maid of honor speeches, father of the bride speeches, amazing dj’s, fabulous bands, gorgeous florals, tossing bouquets, pinning boutonnières on groomsmen, helping bridesmaids with wayward dress straps…bustling, bustling, bustling and more bustling of one gorgeous gown after another – some ball gown, others slender in silhouette, some opulent, others simply elegant, adjusting veils, adjusting slips, providing the invaluable extra bobby pin; cuing processionals, willing the ring bearer or flower girl down the aisle without tears, joyfully greeting recessionals, stopping a floating candle from falling over and spilling all over the aisle runner – and most important – looking at my brides that moment before they float down the aisle to their groom, reminding them to breathe, and getting that overwhelming sensation that I LOVE my job and that what we do is SPECIAL.

We are a part of this most important day for our couples, and regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, orientation or creed – they chose us to bring their day to life and create a memorable day of celebration for loved ones. How many people get greeted with THAT every day as they walk through the door of their office?!

And, it didn’t stop there. We were able to assist several incredibly worthy non profit organizations in the planning, development and execution of their fundraising events, enable them to raise the funds that are the lifeblood of their organizations, granting them the opportunity to continue to carry out their messages and missions. These events are no less touching than weddings, because in addition to helping others, we give ourselves a gift – we get to use our skills to help those that change lives. It is humbling and awesome and it makes my feel really good inside when I can participate in and BE the change I want to see in the world.

Of course, there was a very important birthday in my family this year. Gene & Georgetti turned 70.  Gene was my grandfather and is such an integral part of what drives me, guides me and inspires me every day. Planning that three day celebration to mark this enormous milestone granted me the rare opportunity to use my professional skills to celebrate my family, my heritage and our wonderful restaurant and THAT was as much a gift for myself as it was for each dedicated employee, loyal customer and my utterly fantastic parents.

All of our weddings are personal. We celebrate every couple, as they become husband and wife. But this year brought with it two very special weddings that I was able to lend a hand in planning, and be in! I was even a maid of honor myself for the very first time. Two of my childhood friends married the men of their dreams and being a part of their beautiful days – one in Lake Tahoe and the other right here in Chicago – was both a highlight and very poignant milestone in our friendships and my life. Paige & Brannon are both friends from childhood, and have grown into beautiful, accomplished, FANTASTIC women. I am SO proud to have them as friends and am so grateful for the honor of sharing in their most beautiful weddings!!

Congratulations to Paige & Cory and to Brannon & Michael – I love you all!

But, events aren’t only about the client, or the couple – nor are they only about the planning, development and precision that we apply to them. They are also about the people that we work with in symphony to bring each and every event to life – just as a story comes off the page of a book and burst into life., our trusted and fabulous vendors (and friends!) are very much a part of our story and our client’s stories coming to life this year. We thank each and every one of them for working with us, allowing us to learn from them, laughing with us, supporting us and granting us the privilege of doing our jobs surrounded by a commitment to excellence. We so look forward to working with you in 2012! (Many of you on the luxury Brides, Bubbles & Bliss event this coming March!) Of course, most very VERY special, heartfelt love, gratitude, affection, respect and SO much more to Scott & Cara Nava – the AMAZING talent behind Carasco Photography – who has so graciously provided much of the images featured in the blog and throughout our blogs.

Of course, I have to take a minute and be personal…A HUGE part of my life is my horses, as I am sure you know…and to each and every fellow rider and friend who has become like family to me at Canterbury Farm – you have been AMAZING this year. Unfortunately for my horses, this has been a year with a few more injuries and unexpected bumps in the road than we would have preferred – BUT – always being able to count on Allie & Greg’s professionalism, guidance and friendship as well as the support of everyone (Marcia, Kathy Jo, Jessica, Hollis, Courtney, Liz, Jen and EVERYONE I may have accidentally left out) who rides there has made it a year full of laughter, learning and smiles – even through the occasional tears…

It is hard to imagine that there are SO very many things I left out! New team members arriving, saying goodbye to others as they left for international adventures (Courtney! I know you are probably reading this and yes I am talking about you!), competing with my beloved horses (in my spare time, of course) boating, cubs games, and then, ever so subtlety, the long, hot days of summer eased quietly into the crisp, chic days of fall – and the holidays were looming ahead. And now, finally, here we are – in between the tradition of Christmas and the sparkly celebrating of New Year’s Eve; about to say goodbye to 2011…about to say hello to 2012 (and yet another birthday!) with the phones ringing, clients booking, calendars filling, films premiering! and, most importantly – with gratitude, happiness and love abounding. To our 2011 couples and clients – THANK YOU. We love you and will always remember you for choosing us. And to everyone – we raise our glass (or in this case, mug of tea!) and wish you good health, much wealth and endless joy in this New Year! We cannot wait for this year’s story to unfold!!!!

CHEERS!

If you are looking for a downtown chic city feel for your wedding venue we are loving Paris Club! Salon Prive offers an elegant and sexy setting perfect for any private event. This space can comfortably seat 72 guests and hold a 100 person cocktail reception. Not only can you have your wedding reception at Paris Club, you can also have your wedding after party there! For more information on Paris Club click here!

Recently, on a trip to New York City, we discovered the Oheka Castle in Long Island, NY. The Oheka Castle is referred to as the historic Gold Coast Mansion. The castle is known for making your wedding an exclusive one allowing only one wedding per day! Located just one hour from Manhattan, Oheka Castle offers plush formal gardens, luxurious ballrooms, 32 guest suites, and award winning Cuisine. This is truly one of the most elegant wedding venues in the world! For more information on this amazing venue click here! (We sort of want to live there!)

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What girl isn’t inspired by shoes? Shoes come in all different sizes, shapes, colors, details, embellishments, inches, and patterns. THESE sparkly peep-toe Jimmy Choo’s are absolutely AMAZING! Not only are we inspired by the elegant champagne color, detail of the scattered hotfix Swarovski crystals, height of the heel, but we are also loving the dramatic look that this pair in particular is screaming! We are not going to lie….when we were in New York discovering the Oheka Castle we also purchased this pair of Jimmy Choo’s… Oops! it makes a FABULOUS wedding shoe! For more information on this pair of Jimmy Choo’s click here!

This pair of Angela Nurnan shoes has been worn by two of our brides this year and is a great alternative to a more pricey option such as Jimmy Choo… This pair, which is the Starletta-Glitz Ivory Wedding Shoe, is elegant, has a low heel (height heels vary from 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches – great for comfort and dancing all night long!), and will be sure to make a statement. The sparkly heel adds just the right amount of bling without going overboard – we LOVED our October bride Brannon, who personalized the heel with blue and platinum Swarovski, giving her a unique “something blue!”. You can find this pair of Angela Nurnan wedding shoes at The Left Bank!

We absolutely loved the beautiful gown that Carolina Herrera designed specifically for Bella to marry Edward in during the Twilight:Breaking Dawn Part 1 movie. The dress designed by Carolina Herrera, shown on the right, is one of a kind, but was soon replicated by designer, Alfred Angelo. The gown, which retails for $799 at Alfred Angelo stores nationwide, features long lace-trimmed sleeves, a Chantilly-inspired lace applique trim and a plunging cut-out illusion back. While the cinematic gown is in silk, the replica gown uses liquid satin. We are loving this new trend of sleek sophistication instead of the popular wedding day ball gown.

They’re Real Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics LLC is something that we feel every bride should treat themselves too. While we love the dramatic look of false lashes for your wedding day, lots of brides tell us that their grooms would like them to look as ‘normal’ as possible. Grooms today want to be able to recognize their bride as she walks down the aisle. We are loving this mascara because it lengthens, curls, volumizes, lifts, and separates. The jet black, long-wearing formula won’t smudge or dry out. A specially designed brush reveals lashes you never knew you had! To find out more about this amazing mascara click here!

Rosemary Fanti Designs is a remarkable company that specializes in live wedding and event illustrations.  Rosemary is an incredibly talented woman who prides herself on visually capturing the special moments at your wedding or event and explaining them through an illustration.

We love to give our couples a little something special on their wedding day! We love the customized bouquet text tiles that Paloma’s Nest can create. This text tile ties around the brides bouquet and adds a personalized touch. We realize that the text tile is something that the bride will carry down the aisle, but it is ultimately a gift for both the bride and groom.  We love the idea of using this personal textile as a Christmas tree ornament after the wedding! For more information on this gift click here!

Garrett’s Popcorn is a Chicago tradition and great new trend for wedding favors! One of our couples this past fall had Garrett’s popcorn as their wedding favor and their guests loved it! It is a unique wedding favor that will be sure to wow your guests! I mean, who doesn’t love chocolate, caramel, or cheese flavored popcorn? These unique party favors can either grace every table with elegance and style or you can create a Garrett’s Popcorn table with an assortment of flavors in different size and shaped glass jars! For more information on Garrett’s Popcorn click here!

1. Brides, Bubbles, & Bliss is an avant garde bridal event aimed toward fashion forward brides and grooms. “As photographers, we are very visual and are inspired by what we see. We wanted to create a modern event that appeals to the senses and goes beyond traditional bridal.” Brides, Bubbles and Bliss is more of a soiree where brides can mingle with their mom, bridesmaids or fiancé with a glass of bubbles and be inspired by an evening of glamour.

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2. Brides, Bubbles and Bliss benefits a local charity every year. Charities have included PAWS Chicago and Deborah’s Place. In 2012, the proceeds will benefit Hephzibah Children’s Association. Hephzibah’s Group Homes are where abused and neglected children come to heal and grow, where they can be free of fear, worry, and loneliness. Their Family Based Services renews and strengthens family bonds and their Foster Care Services creates new, loving and secure family ties. Hephzibah’s Day Care program offers an award winning educational experience for children in the community — regardless of their family’s ability to pay.

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3. Brides, Bubbles and Bliss highlights local artisan vendors who can help bring your wedding vision to life! From the gown, to the décor, to wedding planning and beyond… our hand-selected partners offer quality services and products for the most discerning clientele. (For more information on presenting vendors of BBB 2012, click here).

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4. Brides, Bubbles and Bliss features a full runway show for men and women with the hottest wedding and bridal fashion. Nicholas Joseph Custom Suits will showcase wedding suits and custom tuxes. Gowns such as Marchesa, Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta and more from Ultimate Bride and couture collections by local Chicago designer, Alice Padrul Bridal Couture will highlight our runway. There is limited availability for runway seating, so get your tickets quick! To reserve seating for the runway show, you must purchase the VIP Bridal Ticket. Tickets can be purchased on EventBrite.

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5. Traditionally, Brides, Bubbles and Bliss has been a winter event taking place in early February. Due to last year’s “Snowmaggadon” (as we like to refer to it), on February 1, 2011, the Brides, Bubbles and Bliss event now takes place in early March just in time for brides-to-be to get a head start on their fall 2012 or 2013 wedding.

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6. We are excited to announce that one lucky bridal ticket holder will be eligible to win a one-of-a-kind cocktail dress by Alice Padrul Bridal Couture! Another lucky bride will receive “An Evening in Chicago” package that includes one night’s stay in a Chicago suite, dinner for two and more!