July 6th, 2010
I generally like to feature vendors I have worked with directly, but I have been so taken with Tweedle Press that I thought I ought to pass along the good news. Nina, the owner of the press, does all letterpress printing. I didn’t really know what letterpress was until I visited her studio and she showed me the 70 year old, heavy machines that print by putting an impression on the paper. This is printing with texture. She also makes her own paper sometimes, which makes for even more texture.
She also does design, so it’s a one-stop shop for wedding or party invitations; menus; thank-you cards; or any other paper goods. Her commitment to environmental practices is strong, too. The only possible drawback is price: Her prices are best for large orders. It’s beautiful work, though, so you might find that it’s worth it to spend a little more for beautiful, stylish, eco-friendly paper goods.
Posted in Eco-Friendly Events, Vendors, Wedding Planning, Weddings | No Comments »
February 2nd, 2010
The Wellington String Quartet
The thing that sets the tone of a party is always the music, and if you want a classy atmosphere, then you are probably thinking of hiring a string ensemble. I like to recommend the Wellington String Ensembles to my clients who want a string quartet, trio, or other combination of instruments to play classical music.
This is a group of diversely talented young musicians headed by violinist Emanuel Ban. I have worked with them on weddings and was most impressed by their professionalism and musicianship. At one wedding, they were even able to bring a trumpeter with them to play the recessional, as the bride had requested.
There are many talented musicians in this city, so what I look for is people who are reliable and professional. I want to be sure that if I recommend musicians, they will show up on time and dressed properly. With this group, I never have to worry.
Posted in Vendors, Weddings | No Comments »
December 7th, 2009
Okay, you are already wondering what on earth Theatre Building Chicago has to do with events. The answer is that this three-theatre space on Chicago’s north side also has a lovely lobby available for rental to private clients. They don’t promote it much and the hours are limited, but I think it is worth a look. The decor is funky-eclectic. And the staff is wonderful. They go far out of their way to make sure you have what you need. I have never worked in a venue where the staff was as helpful. There are also three theatres available for daytime rental by the day. You do have to work around whatever show happens to be in there, but (with the staff’s excellent help), it is easy to do lectures, presentations, and other events for which theatre-style seating is preferable. I highly recommend this venue for small daytime or weekday evening events.
Posted in Parties and Special Events, Vendors | No Comments »
October 12th, 2009
A typically whimsical photo by Carasco Photography.
Every once in a while, I work with someone I just click with. Last summer, I worked with Scott and Cara of Carasco Photography for the first time and there was that click. My client had hired them before she hired me, so they were unknown to me until a week before the wedding. All I knew was that my client thought they did very nice work.
In the week before the wedding, I had a very nice phone conversation with Cara, so I had a good feeling about them. Then I met them both at the wedding and discovered just how personable and interesting they both are. We had a chance to chat for a while when we had a few minutes’ break and I discovered that I like their attitude, as well. I was also impressed by their work ethic and efficiency. They did a lot of capturing the moment but also took portraits. I enjoyed watching them take the portraits because they made it look like a lot of fun.
And then I saw the photos and was completely amazed by the results. They really captured that wedding day in all its glory. (You can see some of their photos in my photo gallery.) Those are some of my favorite photos of weddings I have worked on because they really show the beauty of the day.
There are countless photographers in Chicago but I think there are only a few who have everything going for them the way Scott and Cara do. So, take a look at what they do and I hope you’ll consider them when you are looking for a photographer.
Posted in Vendors, Wedding Planning | No Comments »
