Christine Denison and Brian Diss, March 21, 2009

These are early images from the Denison/Diss wedding we did on 3/21/09. I'll have more to show later, but thought I'd post these as a little preview. The client wanted to create a feeling of drama and sophistication, which I think we were able to achieve through lighting, fabric treatments and outstanding elevated floral pieces. The reception took place at the Hilton Garden Inn with cocktails beginning in their pre-function area, then progressing into the ballroom for dinner and dancing. More to come!!

This is a view of the fabric treatment that was over the dance floor, looking straight up. Floral, fabric treatment and lighting were done by my associates, the amazing team at MichaelAngelos!

Franks Favorite Things - Drake Hotel - March 10, 2009

On March 10, 2009, the Illinois chapter of the Association of Bridal Consultants held a very special meeting at the Drake Hotel. My longtime colleague, Frank Andonoplas presented 'Franks Favorite Things.' It was a beautiful showcase of his undeniable talent for decor and design! Every table (14 in all) was beautifully appointed, with coordinating china, glassware, flatware, linens, menu cards and gorgeous centerpieces. I didn't get images of all of the tables, but what I did get is shown below. I came away inspired and with more than a few new ideas!

This table was all done in whites and crystals. I loved the napkin treatment - a 'chandelier' crystal!



The linen on the table below was made from 100% recycled materials!


I loved the spring/whimsical linen on this table, as well as the petals filling the centerpiece to hide the floral stems of this biedermeier styled piece.







Cute twist on the traditional pocket napkin fold!

Cool manzanita branches formed the base of this centerpiece.


Oh my goodness this centerpiece was phenomenal in person! The ostrich and pheasant feathers, the cala lily's, I LOVED it! You would have too.



This look was very elegant and traditional, but not stuffy looking!





I think this one may have been my favorite- it suprised me and inspired me to not be afraid to mix colors and textures. Be bold! Love the cool shape of the bread/butter dish!




I love the way these individual floral pieces are loosely connected with the bears grass.

It was so great to be with my friends, old as well as new, in the event industry! The energy in the room was contagious, I couldn't help but catch the fever!

Wedding Photos in Notre Dame Stadium

If you are planning a wedding at Notre Dame this summer with hopes of getting some photos of you and your bridal party inside the football stadium, listen up. One of my former brides, Nicole (Jones) Brochu who works in sports marketing on campus, has informed me that the stadium 'bowl' is under renovation. The 'bowl' is the inside portion of the stadium, the seating, the tunnels leading to the field, etc. Also, both locker rooms (home and away) are being renovated as well. So even if you do have a hook up to allow you access, its a torn up mess. All work has to be finished by the time football season rolls around, so perhaps, you fall brides may have a chance. Not to worry though, you have so many outstanding venues around campus to photograph your Notre Dame wedding, seriously, where do I begin? The Grotto, the Administration Building (Golden Dome), the reflecting pool in front of 'Touchdown Jesus', the lake, and the list goes on and on! Just thought I'd pass this info along!

Guest Welcome Bags

I'm often asked what should go into a guest welcome bag - I say, it depends on the time of year, and the location the wedding is taking place in. My staples that go in every bag, regardless, are, a welcome note or letter, an agenda of the weekend's activities and a guide of local places to eat and things to do. I also always include something to drink - usually water, something sweet and something savory/salty, hopefully, locally made. BUT, depending on the time of year, I customize a bit. If its July, and the church has no air conditioning, I might include those personal, battery operated, hand held fans. You can get them customized with your names and wedding date if you like! If its the dead of winter and the temps are low, I've used HotHands hand warmers. Guests simply open the packet and the tiny hand warmers go to work! Perfect for coat pockets! Its all about welcoming your guests and thinking of their comfort. Deliver the bags to the hotel your guests will be staying in the day before you expect any arrivals. Most hotels are happy to hand each guest one of your bags upon check in. Tired from traveling, your guests will appreciate you for thinking of them!