Archive | Chicago RSS feed for this section

Running of the Brides

10 Jul

Attention all brides in training, the race of a lifetime is right around the corner!

The world famous “Running of the Brides” event kicks off in Chicago on July 23 at the State St. Filenes Basement store.

brides gone wild

Recruit your helpers, camp out early and get ready to shop for your dream dress in hyper drive!  Doors open at 8am and in less than 60 seconds racks carrying over 2,000 designer wedding gowns will be stripped bare.

There’s no room for modesty!

Boston running of the Bridesrunning of the brides image

Brides pull as many dresses as they can hoard,  frantically undress and start trying on gowns.

Instantly, the bartering begins as brides call out sizes, colors and styles to be traded.
Is it worth the chaos?  Absolutely!

The discounts are unreal and it’s thrilling to see how much you have saved. Designer dresses priced from  $1,000 to $10,000 are marked down to $249, $499 and $699.

With these savings, your future hubby may be allowed to invite his own guests to the wedding.

To learn more about the infamous event, visit: www.filenesbasement.com/bridal.php

You can also check out the new Running of the Brides new community page to connect with helpers and stay up to date with the latest news and info.

Chicago runners: Keep running to White Chicago at 222 West Huron for the “Breakfast with the Brides” event, co-hosted by CS Brides Magazine.  The designer bridal consignment shop will open at 9am on event day for a much less aggressive second round, with complimentary muffins and mimosas (courtesy of Egg Harbor Café and Binny’s).

The chic boutique carries new and previously worn gowns at 30-70% off, so don’t be discouraged if Round 1 was unsuccessful.
White Chicago’s talented in-house seamstress will be on hand to fit and restyle your dress. Plus, save 20% on beautiful wedding veils and accessories by Lori London.

Run, Bride, Run!

Jacqueline Trotter and Daniel Lotzof- Sep. 6, 2009

29 Mar


When Daniel Lotzof and Jacqueline Trotter purchased a brand new Chicago condo together,  it was already an exciting day for the high school sweethearts, but Daniel made sure it was extra-special.

The very same day, the two were planning renovations and decorating ideas so they decided to drop off paint samples.  As Jacqueline opened the door, she discovered that Daniel had done some secret decorating on his own.

“I was so caught off guard I froze and started dropping tile and paint chips where I stood! I had the biggest smile on my face as I began to follow hundreds of red rose petals to the living room where Daniel had a table for two completely set up with a bouquet of roses, champagne and dinner from one of our favorite restaurants,” describes Jacqueline.

After a formal proposal and dinner, friends and family joined the couple to help celebrate.

“It was the most romantic moment of my life,” she adds.

The bride looked beyond breathtaking! Jacqueline’s Ulla Maija dress was a piece of fine architecture, featuring luxurious folds and tailored layers of duchess satin.  “I felt like I was wearing a work of art,” said Jacqueline.  That artwork truly became a masterpiece once it was on the beautiful bride. Just ask the lucky groom…

On September 6, 2009 (the big day) the sun was beaming, matching the smiles on the bride and groom’s faces.The couple had the talented Gerber and Scarpelli on board to capture all of their precious moments.  Jacqueline and Daniel were photographed at their favorite Chicago structures and have so many magnificent photos of their Sweet Home Chicago.

The beautiful bridesmaids (wearing Jenny Yoo) got to enjoy the weather too and were photographed at Millenium Park along with the groomsmen, who also had some fun during the photo session.

Jacqueline and Daniel’s wedding style was timeless and romantic. Sharing an appreciation for divine architecture and design, the Chicago Cultural Center was the perfect venue for their September wedding. The glistening mosaic walls and ceilings, sky high windows overlooking Millenium Park, and the infamous Tiffany stained glass dome (pictured below) created a truly magical setting for their 330 guests.

The bride and her mother utilized their great style and design instincts to plan every detail of the luxurious affair.  Jacqueline’s color palette of soft white, cream, peach, and green, with golden copper accents, complimented the organic beauty of the historic venue perfectly.

A Gentle Wind florist created both short and tall arrangements full of fresh, classic blooms, including green hydrangeas and classic peach and cream colored roses.  The “penny l’amour,” copper shaded tablecloths added a rich luster to the regal setting.

The Jewish wedding ceremony was held in the Chicago Cultural Center’s Millenium Park room.While watching the ceremony, guests were treated to some of the most spectacular views of Chicago and a ceiling with exquisite details.

“My favorite part of the night was never leaving Daniel’s side.  No matter where we were during the evening we stuck together and shared every memorable moment,” says Jacqueline.

“Our wedding was a special time to bring together the people who absolutely mean the world to Daniel and I, our friends and family,” says Jacqueline.

“Everyone could feel the love and warmth in the room and nobody wanted the night to end.
“Luckily, the pictures from Gerber and Scarpelli and sweet memories of the wedding will last a lifetime!

Happy New Year!

5 Jan

2009 was an unforgettable year!

I am ringing in the new year with the most precious memories of my incredible November 7 nuptials, Costa Rican honeymoon and holiday celebrations with a wonderful, newly extended family.
As my lifelong obsession with the bridal industry continues, 2010 will be full of the most savvy
wedding tips, trends and inspiration for every future Mrs. (here at wedsavvy.com).


No longer a “bride to be,” but forever a wedding addict!
Happy New Year and Happy Planning!
Relax, soak it in and embrace this special time. It flies by!