Posts Tagged Weddings
Posted by Laura Nelson on March 14, 2010
Many engaged couples choose to express their individuality (and the uniqueness of their relationship) by working with their jeweler to create a truly special, one-of-a-kind engagement ring. Here are some pointers:
The Stone–Round diamonds continue to be the most popular shape, but more brides-to-be are considering fancy options, including princesses, ovals, pears and marquises.
The color– Forward-thinking couples are stepping out of the box by choosing fabulous colored diamonds (often pink or yellow) as a center stone of their engagement rings. Others are looking at fine colored gemstones. If this option sounds intriguing, here’s a tip… Consider the bride’s coloring. An emerald might look especially elegant on a red-haired woman; a woman with bright blue eyes might favor a sapphire. A colored gem centerstone in a pave diamond setting is considered very stylish.
The Metal–For most of the 20th century, platinum or white gold were considered the most proper metals for an engagement ring, with yellow gold gaining popularity in the past couple of generations. Today, the style pendulum has swung toward white metals again. Progressive designers are supporting this trend by offering alternative white metals, such as tungsten, titanium and palladium. Another fashionable and interesting look is the combination of metal colors, where platinum is teamed with 18-karat gold.
The Design–While some couples prefer a timeless, classic design, others like an engagement ring that’s very much in step with contemporary fashion.
Tell us what you have in mind. We’ll be happy help you to design a ring that incorporates style elements, themes or symbols that define who you are!
Matthew Erickson Jewelers is at 4421 Fox Valley Center Drive (on the outer ring at Fox Valley Mall). (630) 820-0300. www.matthewericksonjewelers.com
Posted by Laura Nelson on February 7, 2010
A romantic outdoor location with the gentle splash of water and lingering floral fragrance in the air makes an ideal wedding setting. A graceful stone bridge and striking waterside rock formations add to the ambience of natural prairielands in full bloom, making the setting perfect for outdoor wedding ceremonies.
What exotic location boasts all these amenities? A Caribbean destination location? Hardly. The picturesque location is Lisle Park District’s nearby Community Park in Lisle.
“Community Park is a very versatile and affordable place to have weddings and receptions,” says Mike Gianatasio, recreation supervisor. The park provides the perfect backdrop for breathtaking wedding photos. From late April through May, the apple blossoms are in bloom. And, from late June through September, the beauty of native wildflowers takes over.
Park District North and South shelters offer gorgeous waterside views in an elegantly manicured setting. Shelters are available to rent on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with the exception of July Fourth during the Eyes to the Skies festival. Shelters have electricity available, and feature attached restroom facilities. The VanKampen Island Stage and Community Band Shell are also available upon request. Rental fees are modest, with Lisle Park District residents receiving a reduced rate.
Lisle Park District also can accommodate indoor pre-wedding celebrations, showers, parties and rehearsal dinners at The View Restaurant, overlooking the scenic wetlands of River Bend Golf Course.
For more information about planning perfect celebrations, contact Lisle Park District recreation supervisor Mike Gianatasio at (630) 353-4306.
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
Claudine Scanlon, Owner, Sassy’s Originals
Weddings remain one of the most formal occasions in custom and apparel. The rules are relaxing, though, says Claudine Scanlon, owner of Sassy’s Originals in Bloomingdale. Mothers of the bride and groom have great flexibility in their choice of what to wear for the big day.
“Just a few years ago, mothers wore a silk suit during the daytime ceremony, and then changed to a beaded gown for the reception following,” says Scanlon. “Today, most moms wear the same gown all day long,” she says.
According to Scanlon, mothers are choosing youthful and figure flattering styles this season with rouched waistlines and shorter jackets. A jacket or little bolero gives the gown a different look throughout the event. Colors for spring are moving to deeper tones than traditional pastels. Lace details continue to be incorporated.
Destination weddings have increased the popularity of tea-length gowns, says Scanlon. Many floor length styles are also suitable for alteration to tea-length. Dresses with tiered skirts have been especially popular.
Sassy’s also offers crystal and rhinestone jewelry, beaded evening handbags and formal shoes to complete wedding ensembles. Sassy’s Originals is at 360 W. Schick Rd. in Bloomingdale. (630) 894-1395. www.sassysoriginals.com
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
The most important characteristic for hair in outstanding bridal styling is to have healthy, shining hair, according to James Lauderdale, owner of Jus’ Hair in Naperville. Whatever style the bride chooses, hair should be in top condition for photos and to last throughout the day.
Lauderdale recommends a trial run for the bride about two weeks before the wedding. “We have a consultation, then style the hair to make sure it’s what the bride wants. Next, we photograph the hair so it can be duplicated for the wedding day,” says Lauderdale. “On the day of the wedding, brides want no surprises, and this schedule takes the stress out of the hair-styling aspect.”
James and Cheryl Lauderdale, Jus' Hair, Naperville
Currently, Lauderdale says updos are in vogue for brides and bridal parties. “It’s a natural, tousled look, with big curls, either pinned-up, or free-flowing when brides wear their hair down,” he says. It’s a modern, trendy, natural look. Generally, if the bride wears her hair up, the attendants follow along.
For wedding hair consultations, call James Lauderdale at Jus’ Hair, (630) 863-8665.
Jus’ Hair is a full service hair salon offering cut, color and styling services for men and women, with an emphasis on organic and peroxide-free colors. Jus’ Hair is at 43 E. Jefferson Ave., downtown Naperville. www.jushair.com
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
Moving wedding parties between airports, hotels, rehearsals, ceremonies, churches, and restaurants can be a challenge. Spare Wheels Transportation takes the stress out of planning for guests and members of the wedding party with a fleet of 35 vehicles.
Spare Wheels can provide airport shuttle services for individual guests–or transport the entire wedding party in a new 18 passenger limo bus.
“Bridal parties love the new vehicle,” says Spare Wheels president, Judy DeVoe.
“It ensures that everybody gets to the church on time.” The limo bus features three bars, a 42″ plasma TV, on-board rest room, and can be decorated upon request. “It’s also perfect for bachelor and bachelorette parties,” says DeVoe.
Spare Wheels, based in St. Charles, also provides transportation for corporate events, dinners, sporting events, and group outings.
Details available at www.sparewheels.com, or call (630) 377-4637.
