Popcorn!

Interested in having a favor station at your wedding? How about Popcorn!
No matter if you are in a small town or the city, popcorn is a treat that is treasured by all.

I live in the suburbs but travel to the city during the week, so I figured I would share my two favorite Popcorns in both places.

Sycamore, IL. The Popcorn Stand

This has been a favorite since I was very little. My family lived very close to downtown Sycamore, so we could walk up town to The Popcron Stand. They offer all of the classic favorites white popcorn, cheese popcorn, carmel Corn and popcorn balls! The best part is the quaint small town appeal of the old fashioned popcorn stand, which has been open by various owners for over 118 years!!!

Chicago, IL Garretts Popcorn

This is a chicagoland favorite. In 2002, Oprah featured the Garrett Mix on her Favorite Things episode. I have to agree with Oprah Because it is my favorite as well! They also offer Plain, Buttery and Caramel Crisp Popcorn.

Furry Friends and Family

When it comes to your wedding day, it is your closest friends and family that you want to celebrate with you. For some of us that includes our Furry friends and Family!! This Summer I had the pleasure of working with Kelly, Doug and their dog Tucker!

Tucker was able to come after the ceremony to participate in the Family photos taken by Malia Rae Photography. Tucker even had a pink bow around his collar to match the decor.

More photos of Kelly and Dougs wedding coming soon!

Why do we do that? Part two

Many wedding traditions originated from superstitions and folktales. On Wednesday we gave you the first 9. Here is the second 9

10. Tying cans to the wedding car was done because, the noise frightens away evil spirits.

11. The Bride wears something blue because this shows the Bride and Groom are considered royalty.

12. The men have a stag party to kiss the bachelor days goodbye.

13. Carrying the Bride over the threshold was done because the Bride tripping meant bad luck.

14. The couple goes on a honeymoon, because it is considered the cooling off period for the Brides family.

15. Having a ring bearer is because the marriage was doomed if the ring fell on the ground.

16. Having a flower girl dropping petals, guarantees the couple many chances to have kids.

17. The Bride throws the bouquet, so the Brides good fortune is passed on.

18. Groom throws the garter to distract the guests so they keep their hands off the bride.

Happy Friday Everyone!

Why do we do that? Part one

Just a few weeks ago I attended a Bridal shower for my soon-to-be Cousin. At the shower we played a great game called "Why do we do that." Many wedding traditions originated from superstitions and folktales. So we were asked to match the custom with the original superstition.

There were 18 so here are the first 9. You can find the second half on this Fridays blog.

1. Designating a specific ring finger was because, it contains the vein of love.

2. The Bride wears a veil because it wards off evil spirits by disguising the Bride

3. The Bride wears a white gown because it proves the Brides worthiness.

4. Serving wedding cake to guests is so that guests can collect crumbs as a token of good luck.

5. Cutting the wedding cake together symbolizes the couples shared future.

6. The Bride stands on the left of the groom, so he can defend his bride, his right arm must be free.

7. The Bride carries a bouquet because the strong smell wards off evil spirits.

8. The groom wears a boutonniere so he is wearing his ladies colors to display his love.

9. The wedding party dresses alike, to confuse evil spirits about who is really getting married

Interesting isnt it...come back friday for the final 9.

Geneva Wedding Walk

CS Brides presents the

Geneva Wedding Walk

Sunday, September 20th
Geneva Commons 602 Commons Drive Geneva, IL 60134

The Geneva Commons Wedding Walk is the perfect time to see all Geneva has to offer to plan your unique wedding. You will have a chance to meet with venues, boutique shops, and visit some of the top wedding businesses in Chicagoland. Each bride that registers to attend this event will receive a must-have wedding planner. During the Geneva Wedding Walk, each bride will gather a lot of fabulous ideas, goodies and giveaways.

And don't miss out on the featured trip giveaways!Eight day, seven night stay for two at the beautiful Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. And adult-exclusive Marina hotel!(Provided by Aruba Tourism)Four nights, five days at the Deluxe adults-only, all inclusive Royal Cancun Resort, Cancun Mexico & two round trip air tickets on Apple Vacations to Cancun.(Provided by AAA & Apple Vacations)

Register Now www.genevabride.com Space is limited

Custom Bridesmaid Jewelry

When it comes to Bridesmaids dresses and jewelry, Brides try their best to select items that could possibly be worn again. Most times thats easier said than done. But thats not true for my most recent find! I love this teagan necklace by Abby Hathaway.




Love the shells and pearls on the necklace, its a neutral color so it will match well with most colors. And this is a great length for bridesmaids.

Once the wedding is over your Bridesmaids can wear it long for a completely different look!

You can find this necklace on Abby Hathaways etsy store. Have a design in mind? Contact Abby for information on Custom Jewerly.

Crate and Barrels Throwing a Party!

Crate and Barrel is throwing a party for you to register!


You will recieve 2 full hours to register before the store is open to the public. You can enjoy food and drinks and the experts will be there to advise you as you register. Also if you register at this event you will recieve a hanblown heart shaped bowl.


Upcoming events on: September 13, October 4, and October 18 form 9-11am


For more information and reservations contact the store nearest you!

Tea and Tour

Palmer House & CS Brides cordially invite you to

BRIDAL TEA & TOUR

Thursday, September 17th4 PM - 6 PMPalmer House 17 East Monroe Street

Enjoy an afternoon of traditional English tea and sweet delicacies while embarking on a tour of the Palmer House's historic hotel and newly renovated ballrooms.

Discover the latest trends with informal modeling from Macy's Bridal Salon, all while indulging in the Palmer House's greatest tradition - tea!

To Purchase Tickets please call 312.917.3404
All attending brides are eligible to win a two night stay at the Palmer House
Future event onDecember 3

CS Brides' An Afternoon of Bridal Luxury 2009

Announcing CS Brides' An Afternoon of Bridal Luxury 2009

Event: CS Brides' An Afternoon of Bridal LuxuryChicago’s Most Luxurious Bridal Event
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009 Noon–4:00PM
Location: Spiaggia 980 North Michigan Avenue - Level Three

Enjoy the afternoon with CS Brides' third annual charitable wedding walk on Oak Street. This outdoor wedding walk will include glimpses of couture gowns, elegant jewelry, haute cuisine and delectable cakes at more than 25 stops along the famous shopping row. Brides-to-be will receive a luxury tote to collect gifts at each location (exclusively for the bride). The walk will begin at the Private Dining Rooms of Spiaggia.

$65 for the Bride (includes Tote Bag)
$25 per guest of the bride (Tote Bag not included)
*For tickets, order online*

A percentage of the proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association.
Online orders close October 1 at 5pm.

For additional event details, call 312.274.2508

Cake Cutting Ceremony

Cutting the cake is symbolically the first task that the Bride and Groom perform together as husband and wife. Feeding each other the first slice symbolizes the mutual commitment to one another.

So what does smashing the cake in each others face symbolize?

Have you discussed the Cake Cutting Ceremony with your Fiance?