Your bridal bouquet is the icing on the cake—it completes your wedding day look with an extra bit of pretty! Not sure where to start? Talk to your florist about your vision. Let them know what your wedding dress looks like, what the bridal party is wearing, where you’re getting married, etc. If you’re having an outdoor wedding in the middle of summer, some flowers will hold up better in the heat than others. If you’re sticking to a tight budget, in-season flowers are usually less expensive. Trust the pros—they’ll point you in the right direction and help bring your vision to life!

From beachy and boho, to romantic and elegant, these ten beautiful bridal bouquets created by Florida florists fit just about any style. Get ready to be inspired!

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The fabulous team at Mayne Stage stopped by the blog to discuss their unique, original venue and how it is super versatile and adaptable to a couple’s vision. All photos provided by Mayne Stage.

Couples looking to host a wedding in Chicago have hundreds of options. What makes Mayne Stage so
unique?

Our amenities and the ability for any couple to really put their personalized stamp on the venue for their wedding are what sets Mayne Stage apart. Mayne Stage is a grand, Art Deco venue that was restored with 1920s flair. Originally built as a theater in 1912, it now functions as an event and wedding venue. Starting with the personalized marquee and entrance boards, couples are able to really make an impression as guests enter the venue. The monitors, bridal rooms and various stage setups also help to make the venue feel like it is your own. The expertise and knowledge that our experienced staff brings to the table offer our couples a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.

How is Mayne Stage adaptable?

Mayne Stage is able to transform and bring our clients’ vision to life. Our state-of-the-art sound and lighting, bridal rooms, the stage and preferred caterers are just a few features that help Mayne Stage highlight the couple and make them the star of the show. Performing the ceremony on stage ensures that all eyes are on the happy couple on such a special day. With three floors, couples are able to have different stations, the perfect area for a photo booth and more.

What about the size of events? How does Mayne Stage cater to small, intimate weddings vs. big, boisterous ones?

The total seated capacity of all rentable space at Mayne Stage is 220, while the standing capacity is 275. Mayne Stage is able to cater to weddings of all sizes by changing the floorplan and seating arrangements to accommodate a wedding of any size. The natural layout of the
theater space, where ceremonies and receptions are held, is more intimate by nature. Our state of the art sound and lighting systems also help to create a more intimate tailored feel to a wedding of any size.

Why does Mayne Stage like hosting weddings?

It is such an honor for us at Mayne Stage to participate in and witness such a special, monumental day filled with love. We truly feel privileged when clients choose to host their wedding at our venue. It feels like family.

What are your tips for couples who are just starting the wedding planning process, especially those who are still trying to pick a venue?

It is important for couples to take tours and ask questions. Make sure to ask what is included in the rental and what amenities are available to you. Understanding what additional add-ons are available as well will help in the decision-making process, with regards to price. It is
important for couples to prioritize their needs versus wants for the wedding and reception, and find out if the venue can accommodate their wishes.

Mayne Stage is an historic, one-of-a-kind wedding venue that makes for vivid, special and entirely unique memories with seating capacity for up to 220 guests and standing capacity for up to 275 guests. Email events@maynestage.com for more information. 

They say rain is good luck, but from traveling guests to outdoor ceremonies, there are so many reasons why every couple hopes for ideal weather conditions on their wedding day. You can plan for so much, but weather is always going to be the one thing you can’t control.

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On a holiday stay in the city, Jamie got more than just amazing views of the Chicago skyline when Kyle surprised her with a proposal at the LondonHouse Chicago rooftop bar. All photos by Kristin Bernice: Photography.

How did you meet?

We met at an event called Nightstorm in high school. Nightstorm was this traveling event that went throughout Wisconsin and essentially was a “club” for teenagers. Trust me, people thought these were cool then! Kyle likes to joke around that our story is like the Rihanna song “We Found Love” where it says, “We found love in a hopeless place.” We began dating shortly after meeting. Kyle graduated and went to college the following year and this began our four-year long-distance relationship. Once Kyle graduated, he moved to Milwaukee where I was finishing up school.

How did he propose?

We originally planned to go to Denver over the holidays to get away for a vacation, but after we got a puppy in November we decided it would be best to stay closer to home. We decided to head to Chicago for a few days right after Christmas. We stayed at LondonHouse Chicago and planned to see Hamilton, one of my favorite shows. On the first day in Chicago, we had a cocktail reservation at the LondonHouse rooftop bar for a drink before our dinner. We went up to the rooftop cupola to admire the beautiful skyline of Chicago. As I was soaking in the view, Kyle started to play the song that we want to be our wedding song. Before I knew it, he was on one knee asking me to marry him with the beautiful
Chicago skyline in the background.

Do you have any wedding details picked out yet?

We don’t have many wedding details picked out yet as we are trying to enjoy our engagement as much as possible. We do know that we want to have our wedding in the fall of 2020 and we want to get married in downtown Milwaukee. Although we don’t have many details picked out yet, we are over the moon excited to become Mr. and Mrs.

The stunning Ice Castles- Lake Geneva was the perfect setting for this dramatic and unique styled shoot. All photos by Elyse Bullard Photography.

A winter wedding already has a slightly magical feel, with snow, twinkling lights and cozy interiors. When you cap off a winter wedding with a photo shoot at an actual Ice Castle, fairy tales truly come to life. The design team behind this styled shoot was inspired by the icy blue and white landscape of Ice Castles- Lake Geneva and the gorgeous arched doorways within the castle. The bride was regal in a stunning gown with a low-cut back and her hair softly swept up. She paired a plush fur stole with her white gown for a luxurious touch. The cascading bouquet of purple and pink protea, calcynia, and veronica, paired with roses and eucalyptus was striking against the icy backdrop. The cold interiors were a perfect excuse for the newlyweds to get close and cozy, resulting in sweet, romantic wedding portraits that are as impressive as they are unique.

Vendors:

 Venue: Ice Castles- Lake Geneva, Photography: Elyse Bullard Photography, Model’s Gown: Morilee by Madeline Gardner via All About the Gown by Judy, Inc., Formalwear: Model’s Own; Tie: All About the Gown by Judy, Inc., Floral: Willow Design, Hair & Makeup: Jillian Niemann, Jewelry: Bird’s Tail Designs

Ready to start planning your own Big Day? Check out our expert advice, stunning real weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for the ultimate inspiration.  

A trip to the Shedd Aquarium to enjoy the beluga experience with her boyfriend Tyler turned out to be much more than Katlin ever imagined! All photos provided by Katlin & Tyler.

How did you meet?

Tyler and I both thought we could find love through the internet, so we both joined OKCupid. Tyler and I chatted for a bit and then he asked me out. On our first date, we went to Wood in Lakeview. I found out that Tyler and I both grew up in Long Grove and literally lived around the corner from each other for over 15 years! I even went to his house when I was 9 years old and was new to the neighborhood, but we never actually met each other until our first date. Definitely a first date to remember!

How did he propose?

Tyler started off the morning by bringing me flowers and breakfast in bed. He then let me know that I had an appointment to get my hair blown out. Later on in the day, he took me to the Shedd Aquarium where I found out he bought out all of the tickets so that we could have a private Beluga experience. The trainer told us that they teach the Belugas to retrieve things, so they threw a frisbee into the water and the Beluga retrieved it. They threw the frisbee again, but the Beluga brought back a box. We got out of the water and Tyler got down on one knee and told me how much I have changed his life and how he loved me. After I said yes, we had a private table with champagne and strawberries overlooking the otter exhibit. It was a fantastic day!

Do you have any wedding details picked out yet?

We will be getting married at the Hyatt in Oak Brook on the McDonald campus in January 2020. I have already bought my dress and my bridesmaids’ dresses at Volle’s in Lake Zurich. We want to use lots of greenery and garlands as well as dark jewel-toned flowers throughout our wedding.

Ready to start planning your own Big Day? Check out our expert advice, stunning real weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for the ultimate inspiration.  

Viewing their beloved pets as members of the family, many couples choose to include their furry friends in their wedding day. We’ve seen it all – from ring bearer pups to mini brides! It’s the perfect way to personalized your wedding and include everyone that’s most important to you.

In addition to pets, some brides even snagged beautiful photos with animals on their venue’s property. Farms and zoos are the best place for these photo ops, but we also love the Hemingway House’s resident cat!

Here are a bunch of unique and adorable ways couples have included pets and other animals in their wedding days.

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With sunny skies, a tropical breeze, and temperatures in the mid-80s year-round, it’s no wonder the slogan of Aruba is “One Happy Island.” It’s a perfect Caribbean destination for the most romantic weddings and honeymoons in every season: consistent weather, white sand beaches and Instagram-worthy turquoise waters.

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Your wedding cake is the sweet ending to your perfect day. From elegant floral creations, to colorful bold designs, the possibilities are endless. Dress it up with sugar flowers, brush strokes and gold leaf, or keep it simple with sleek white buttercream and fresh flowers. But don’t get lost in the design—flavor is just as important. Opt for bakeries that use premium ingredients for a wedding cake that tastes just as good as it looks!

Whether you prefer a traditional wedding cake, or you’re in search of something that’s uniquely you, these 8 Chicagoland wedding cake bakeries are ready to create the cake of your dreams!

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Glamour & Lace Events designed this classically elegant styled shoot at Holiday Inn Chicago West-Itasca. The pink, ivory, and champagne color palette was accented with pops of gold and plenty of lush florals to achieve a romantic vibe.

The Holiday Inn Chicago West-Itasca, located only an hour outside of Chicago’s Loop, is dedicated to making your event perfect from start to finish. Memories made there will last a lifetime. On a sunny afternoon, the fresh green outdoor ceremony space was pulled together by a handcrafted birch arch, with lush, creamy florals affixed to each corner. The light pink rosebuds on the unity candle table ensured classic elegance is felt in every aspect of the event. Each bouquet in the ceremony was re-purposed as a centerpiece for the reception to follow.

Inside, the reception space was ethereal and sultry, but still fresh and cultivated. Tables were set with crisp white linens, china and additional ivory florals. The seats were draped with silky white and gold fabrics. The four-tiered cake took the spotlight, dressed with baby blush rosebuds and a hint of lush greenery. A palette of light pink, ivory and champagne echoed the event’s timelessness and kept the dreamy mood distinguished and beautiful until the end of the night.

Vendors:

Venue: Holiday Inn Chicago West-Itasca, Photography: TWA Photographic Artists, Event Planner: Glamour & Lace Events, Floral: Aberdeen’s Wedding Florists, Draping: Quest Events, Cake: Central Continental Bakery, Chair Linens: Cinderella Event Studio, Stationery & Table Linens: Holiday Inn Chicago West-Itasca

Ready to start planning your own Big Day? Check out our expert advice, stunning real weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for the ultimate inspiration.  

Photo by Northern Art Photography

Just across Lake Michigan, a not-so-far-away destination offers stunning, picturesque scenery with the nation’s longest freshwater coastline, wildlife refuges and over 100 state parks. Combined with its rich automotive and arts history, Michigan is an ideal place for a romantic getaway, whether it’s a honeymoon, or everything from the bachelor party to the reception.

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Engaged couples braved the extreme cold to attend the fabulous Northern Illinois Bridal Expo, presented by Alexis Kay Designs, and find wedding vendors and style inspiration for their Big Days. All photos by Katherine M. Photography.

Despite the arctic temperatures outside, brides-to-be and newly engaged couples found their way to the Duke Ellington Ballroom at NIU, Dekalb. Inside it was warm, cozy and full of top wedding vendors and professionals. Couples planning their perfect wedding day found everything they needed from DJs to makeup artists to floral designers. There was no shortage of gorgeous wedding day attire inspiration, thanks to Alexis Kay Designs. They showed stunning wedding gowns and sharp formalwear in a wide variety of styles. The Northern Illinois Bridal Expo 2019 was an ideal one-stop-shop for engaged couples looking for wedding professionals and style inspiration.

Ready to start planning your own Big Day? Check out our expert advice, stunning real weddings, and follow us on Pinterest for the ultimate inspiration.

It’s no secret that the cold, Chicago weather can be harsh on your skin. Cold temperatures tend to rob skin of any and all moisture, leaving skin feeling chapped, itchy or irritated. Mix frigid temperatures outside with hot, dry heaters inside…and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. That’s why we sat down with the skincare experts at Lapiel Laser Center to find out what you can do to help your winter skin and which products you can trust.

In this guest post, they break down exactly which products to choose and how to use them so you can have silky, smooth and moisturized skin from December to March. As an added bonus, they’ve broken it down according to age group, so you can find products personalized for the specific maturity of your skin. All photos provided by Lapiel Laser Center.

Top 3 Tips for All Ages:

There are a few tips that are universally applicable for skin of any age. Add these 3 tips into your skincare routine and lifestyle for accelerated results.

• Add a humidifier: Using a humidifier can help counteract the drying air so moisture is less likely to evaporate from your skin. Did you know that a home in the winter can drop to a 15% humidity level?! It’s scary but true. Adding a humidifier to your home can boost up your humidity level significantly and help your skin retain moisture levels.
• Consider adding a facial oil: Facial oils aren’t just for dry skin types. In fact, just a few drops (of a formula that’s right for your skin type) can amp up your moisturizer or be worked in as your “serum step” to help restore your skin’s natural moisture balance.
• Always wear an SPF: If you aren’t wearing SPF every day yet…listen up! SPF isn’t just for beach days in the summer. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can damage skin on any day. Unprotected sun exposure can reduce skin’s elasticity over time and cause skin to age prematurely. Make SPF a part of your morning skincare routine to make sure you’re covered, no matter what month!

Tips for People in their 20’s:

While we always love stepping up the level of hydration this time of year (like using a heavier moisturizer), we’ve found that incorporating a regular exfoliation step into your skincare can actually get to the root of the problem to help your skin both absorb and retain moisture better. And who doesn’t love a peel pad?

Our favorite wintertime skincare product to recommend to clients in their 20’s are the Exfoliating Peel Pads from Eminence Organics.

Why we love them: These peel pads are formulated with alpha hydroxy acids and natural active ingredients, so they are extremely effective while still being gentle on the skin. The pads work to remove dead skin cells to unveil a softer and revitalized complexion. And don’t fret— these peel pads don’t come with any downtime.

At Lapiel, we carry 3 varieties of the Exfoliating Peel Pads: Firm Skin Acai Exfoliating Peel, Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel, and Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel. Each peel is formulated with a specific skin condition in mind, so stop by Lapiel to find out which formula is right for you (or visit the Eminence Organics website) for more info.

Adding one of these peel pads into your winter routine will leave your skin exfoliated, smooth, and ready to soak in any layer of moisture you put on top of it.

Tips for People in their 30’s:

Retinol has long been lauded as the holy grail of skincare ingredients, and it’s no surprise why. Retinol has no shortage of benefits, including diminishing fine lines/wrinkles, improving uneven skin tone, refining the skin’s surface texture, and protecting against the environment. However, some retinol products can be extremely harsh and leave skin feeling sensitive, which isn’t great, especially with freezing Chicago temperatures and wind!

We’ve tried lots of retinol products, but our favorite across the board is the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer from Eminence.

Why we love it: This moisturizer is a magical blend of PhytoCellTec™ Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells, coconut, shea butter and grape seed oil, and Eminence’s Natural Retinol Alternative Complex. On top of the formula smelling like summer (yum!), this product actually works to fight signs of aging and protect skin against harmful free radicals. Plus, the formula feels rich and luxurious without leaving skin greasy or oily.

Adding this product into your routine will result in more firm, toned, and tighter skin… and who doesn’t want that?

Tips for People in their 40’s:

Many of our clients who walk into Lapiel want to know about products that will defend their skin against aging, and Tensage Antioxidant Defense Serum is one of our favorites to suggest.

Why we love it: Tensage Antioxidant Defense Serum is a lightweight serum that packs a powerful punch against signs of aging, while also protecting skin against environmental stressors, of which there are no shortage of in Chicago! This formula, created by Tensage, is a plant-based option that fights damage caused by the environment with a blend of antioxidants, Vitamin C and Ferulic acid.

This cocktail of ingredients will brighten dull winter skin and serve as a barrier against anything and everything the city throws at you.

Tips for People in their 50’s+:

If you are age 50 or above, we recommend investing in a truly splurge-worthy night cream to give your skin that extra dose of moisture it craves. Our all-time favorite product is the Tensage Stem Cell Cream, which can be used on the face, neck and décolleté.

Why we love it: This night cream from Tensage is a silky product that makes a big difference right away for both moisture and signs of aging.

As we age, the cells in our skin break down and the natural stem cells are less able to replace them. Even while trying to carefully avoid sunlight and other damaging conditions, the natural aging process eventually takes over and leads to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Adding a product like Tensage Stem Cell Cream into your routine can help improve skin’s appearance during the aging process and add stem cells back. (The stem cells in this product are actually extracted from the eggs of the Cryptomphalus aspersa snail in a patented process…how cool?!)

This night cream is a true investment and will work to make the skin appear firmer and plumper over time. We promise your skin will thank you!

Interested in learning more about how to protect your skin?

Schedule a free consultation with our Aesthetician Julie to learn more about our services and products, or walk into our location at 3454 N Lincoln Ave to check out the products mentioned in this post!

Call 773-453-8696 or contact us via email at info@lapiellaser.com

The photo booth experts at Chicago Mirror Booth stopped by the blog to chat about why couples should consider having a photo booth at their wedding reception and how they stand out from other photo booth providers. All photos provided by Chicago Mirror Booth.

Why should a couple planning a wedding consider having a photo booth?

Couples should consider having a photo booth because it uniquely captures fun and memorable moments with loved ones on their special day.

How is the photo booth experience you offer unique or special?

The Mirror Booth is different from the conventional photo booth in that it allows guests to take full-length body photos and simultaneously gives more room for larger groups of people to join in on the fun! Our selfie mirror allows you to see exactly what the photo will look like without squinting at a screen or waiting for your photo to print. It allows guests to add emojis and filters to their photos as well as giving retake options, so everyone gets the perfect shot every time.

If a couple wants to have a photo booth at their reception, what should they consider before booking?

Couples should consider the different types of booths and space location before booking. They should think about what photo layout they want for their photo strips (one photo or a multi-photo layout), what kind of experience they want their guests to have (more private in a closed photo booth or room for larger groups in an open photo booth), and if the venue will have adequate space to host a photo booth. They should also check to make sure there is an accessible outlet where they want to place the photo booth.

How can I ensure my guests will use and enjoy the photo booth?

To get the most out of your mirror photo booth use, we recommend that the couple have signs that encourage guests to snap a photo to keep as a favor. Other ways can include having the DJ announce the photo booth’s presence and having the mirror booth attendant encourage guests to step in the booth and make a memory.

Outside of a wedding reception, what are other wedding events where a photo booth could be enjoyed?

The Mirror Photo Booth can be enjoyed at any event. Chicago Mirror Booth has experience working with clients who use our services at corporate events, anniversary parties, graduation parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, sweet 16’s, quinceañeras, baby showers, and more!

Chicago Mirror Booth offers a special and unique way to make any event better with their mirror photo booths. Email info@chicagomirrorbooth.com for more information.

Imagine walking down the aisle to the sound of a live string quartet. How much would it cost to hire live ceremony musicians for your wedding?

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