Professional Documents
Culture Documents
ME
:IN FOCUS
BRIDAL
BLITZ
DESIGNER
P. 14 VERA WANG
GET MARRIED,
P. 46 STAY MARRIED
TO DO’S BEFORE
P. 54 SAYING I DO
WHERE
RUNWAY MEETS REALITY,
STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE +
HAUTE MEETS HEART™
WWW.ME-INFOCUS.COM
CONTENTS
STAFF
VERY VERA 14 BRIDAL BEAUTY 32
STYLE ME.
ENTERTAIN ME.
INFORM ME.
INDULGE ME.
INSPIRE ME. PUBLISHER
EMPOWER ME.™ The LB Group LLC
38
WISH UPON A WEDDING: Making Dreams Come WWW.ME-INFOCUS.COM
True, One Wedding at a Time WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MEINFOCUSMAG
44 Copyright© 2010 ME: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC. All Rights Reserved. All
WOW YOUR WEDDING: The Hottest Catering text, images, graphics and other materials in this publication and the website are
subject to the copyright and other intellectual property rights of ME: IN FOCUS/
Trends from Jennifer Monti of Phil Stefani Signature The LB Group LLC and other respective contributors, affiliates and/or submit-
Events ters. These materials may not be reproduced, distributed, modified or reposted
to other publications or websites without the express written permission of ME:
IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC or other respective copyright holders. The photos
on the following pages of this issue, unless otherwise credited, are copyrighted
46 property of The LB Group LLC and express written permission must be granted
for any usage. Any photos not noted above, and not specifically credited, are
GET MARRIED, STAY MARRIED: Our Panel of obtained from publicly shared/open license sources and/or databases. The
ON THE COVER Experts Share Their Thoughts marks appearing in this publication and/or the website including, but not limited
to: (i) The LB Group LLC; and (ii) ME: IN FOCUS and its respective logos,
images, emblems, phrases, slogans, designs, and mottos; are trademarks of
The LB Group LLC, its brands and affiliates. The information contained herein is
Lesya Merena 48 designed to be as contextual and factual as possible, per our best efforts and
the information and/or resources available and/or provided to us at the time. We
JET SET: Honeymoon Hot Spots
Green is in, white is out! Be bold reserve the right, however, to make changes at any time, without notice, in the
editing of the publication therein for clarity, brevity, content, and purpose. Some
and colorful! Our model Lesya links and/or contact information provided in this publication may lead to websites
looks gorgeous in this beautiful 54 and/or establishments/businesses by independent third party owners. The
green dress designed by Vera information presented therein is the sole responsibility of those independent
Wang. TO DO’S BEFORE SAYING I DO: Relationship third party owners. The LB Group LLC and ME: IN FOCUS have no control or
Expert and Author Brenda Della Casa Advises on responsibility for the content of independent sites and/or nature of third party
establishments/businesses and we provide these links and/or contact informa-
PHOTO BILLY ROOD What to Ask Before Taking the Plunge tion to our readers solely for their convenience.
E:L
(editor’s letter)
VERY VERA
This photo was taken during the ‘Very Vera’ shoot on pg. 14
Dear Readers,
Wedding season is upon us, and this issue whiteCHICAGO’s dedication to passing hectic wedding planning process, always
is an out of the box mix of tradition and on the love (and savings) through stylish remember who you are and what matters
trends, focused on the modern woman consignment to the life changing wedding to you.
who knows that at the end of the day, wishes come true through the work of With the Sex and the City 2 movie re-
getting married is only the first step to- national non-profit Wish Upon a Wedding. cently out, I’m reminded of the TV series
ward being married. We are thrilled to showcase Vera Wang’s finale, when Carrie Bradshaw ends with a
From the proposal to the exotic honey- couture designs in a gorgeous feature poignant thought: “…the most exciting,
moon and everything in between, this spread shot at Chicago’s Ritz Carlton, and challenging and significant relationship of
issue is full of helpful tips and heartfelt the ethereal quality of Vera’s gowns on all is the one you have with yourself. And
advice from industry professionals who the hotel rooftop at sunrise and in the if you can find someone to love the you
have dedicated their careers to helping grand ballroom are truly breathtaking. YOU love, well, that's just fabulous.”
couples and their families make the whole In addition, look and feel your best for
experience one to remember. wedding photos with our bridal beauty Be Good.
Weddings are a celebration of love, and inspirations for gowns, hair and makeup. Bee
this issue celebrates that love through And finally, whether you’re just in the
insightful and inspiring stories, from early stages of falling in love or in the
OUR FAVORITE WEDDING MOVIES BUZZ
FILM
aaaa aaaa
Diana’s Valencia’s
Pick Pick
ENTERTAIN
ME PRIDE & PREJUDICE
KIERA KNIGHTLEY + MATTHEW MacFAYDEN
MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING
NIA VARDALOS + JON CORBETT
Based on the Jane Austen novel, Pride Toula, a Greek woman (Nia Vardalos)
and Prejudice is a humorous love story who is in distress about her age and marital
about five sisters and their pressures to status, has a change of luck when a non-
marry to insure financial security upon Greek man (Jon Corbett) graces her life while
the anticipated death of their present care- she is working at her family business. Her
taker. With emphasis on social class, self-perceptions change, as does her life,
scandal and gossip, it is an excellent love when she falls into a secret relationship with
story about life, love and marriage in the this charming character. Love and compro-
Georgian era. mise overrule all in this heartwarming
romantic comedy.
Harper Stewart (Taye Diggs), a young Julia Roberts plays 27 year old Julianne, Directed by the acclaimed Mira Nair, this
author on the verge of success and a woman who pursues the heart of her movie is a sensory overload of color, music
marriage, grows weary of the combination long-time college friend Michael (Dermot and celebration. The story follows a wealthy
of the two. Contemplating freedom from Mulroney), but only after he becomes Indian family and the hectic wedding planning
such an engagement in his prime, this semi- engaged. This romantic comedy is sure to for their only daughter. This film is ultimately
auto-biographical book makes its way into keep you laughing and entertained, with a about a family’s strengths and bonds as rela-
the wrong hands, further complicating his lesson of honesty and selflessness taste- tionships are tested, wounds reopened and
internal predicament. Variables of trust and fully intertwined. drama unfolds. Mira takes us into the vibrant
life-altering decision-making weave their world of Indian wedding traditions and culture,
way through this Spike Lee production. while telling a story we all can relate to in
some aspect. The soundtrack will make you
want to get up and dance.
BY VALENCIA DAVIS
VE
LO
HE
G T
RIN
HA
S
lists’ for gowns they want to purchase. It
will also offer dresses for the mothers of
brides and bridesmaids. Currently, whiteX-
change.com has clientele in 32 states.
Four years and a staff of eight later, Stacy
shares that it’s easier now to manage the
daily operations of whiteCHICAGO, all
while maintaining the brand of the company.
Giving back and remaining eco-conscious
are also important to whiteCHICAGO, as
the boutique recently started a recycling
p WHITECHICAGO/
WHITEXCHANGE
PHOTO E3 PHOTOGRAPHY
1 2 3 4
This made-for-two ceramic These aristocratic Park Avenue For the eco-conscious couple, Made from recycled scrap
sushi platter is functional, fash- Flutes come engraved with the this stylish household item is metal, this eco-friendly wine
ionable and ideal for the mod- newlyweds’ names and wed- handmade from 100% linen, a holder is perfect for the eccen-
ern couple who loves to enjoy ding dates. Their intricate de- renewable natural fiber, as well tric, feline-loving pair while they
gourmet Japanese cuisine from sign is embellished with Aus- as environmentally friendly enjoy a cool Pinot Grigio on a
the comfort of their own home. trian crystals set against a water-based inks. hot summer’s day.
vintage finish, a sure fire way to
Sushi Platter dazzle the new bride. Cornstalk Pendant Lamp Crazy Cat Wine Holder
$50 $134 $78
www.uncommongoods.com Park Avenue Flutes www.2modern.com www.sundogcompany.com
$75
www.thingsremembered.com
WHAT COLOR IS YOUR COUPLE?
5 REGISTRY RAVES
MODERN + CREATIVE GIFTS!
Looking to jazz up your registry?
Looking for a gift for that special couple?
Here are some unique and thoughtful ideas.
BY VALENCIA DAVIS
ART-CONSCIOUS COUPLE
5 6 7
For the couple who loves pop Entitled ‘Astral Reflections’, this Designed to catch the eyes of
art almost as much as one colorful piece of home décor graphic artists and other color
another, these custom-made doubles as a gorgeous wall gurus, these Pantone ® mugs are
Warhol-inspired canvases turn mirror. An eclectic addition for a must-have splash of color for
any wedding photo into an the couple who loves to spread any newlywed couple with a
instant classic portrait. their taste for quality throughout sense of design.
their home.
Warhol Pop Art Portraits Pantone® Mugs
$239 Astral Reflections Mirror $125 ~ set of 10
www.gifts.com $350 www.delight.com
www.artfulhome.com
www.simplyperfectbymelissa.com
IMAGE
PHOTOS STEPHEN GARRETT
ENVY
@ LOFT ON LAKE
On May 6, guests gathered for a
luxury bridal show featuring some
of Chicago’s best in wedding fashion,
wedding planning, photography,
catering and more.
VIEW MELISSA’S
BLOG
HTTP://SIMPLYPERFECTBYMELISSA.BLOGSPOT.COM
MEMBER OF THE
ASSOCIATION OF
BRIDAL CONSULTANTS
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PHOTOS BY GARBOT
ANGIE GARBOT,
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Chicago wedding photographer Angie Garbot provides
helpful hints for aspiring wedding photographers and tips
for brides to assure ‘picture perfect’ wedding images.
INTERVIEWED BY BEE LI
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PHOTO DAVID WITTIG WWW.WEDDINGS.DAVIDWITTIG.COM
ALICE PADRUL
BRIDAL COUTURE
1360 W. Randolph St., Chicago
312 455 8094
www.alicepadrul.com
BRYAN K. OSBURN
http://bryankosburncollection.carbonmade.com
t|Ü
IF YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED in
2010, you might be pleased to know that
brides are no longer feeling pressured to
grow their tresses long just for the wed- SHORT HAIR
ding day. Gone are the terribly elaborate
styles of the 80s & 90s, where hair was Brides, rejoice! Short hair is in and easy to style! Create a
miraculously curled, permed or teased and young and chic look with the hairstyle above. Great for a
tons of hair gel was slapped on to create casual wedding and it even goes well with the qun kwa
hair that felt like a helmet! Instead, as the for Asian brides!
world struggles to recover from an eco-
nomic recession, 2010 wedding hairdos
are all about achieving a natural, simple
and fun style that doesn’t have to be ex-
pensive. The following trends can comple-
ment every type of wedding theme, includ-
ing beach, country, glitzy or traditional.
6 COMPAGNIA
DELLA BELLEZZA
CHICAGO
Make heads turn with this classic updo. Add a simple ribbon or Create a cute little bun by braiding your hair and pin it at
crystal headband for a graceful style that is perfect for your wed- the nape. The look can be accomplished even with
ding celebration! shoulder length hair. Add a sparkling tiara or some fresh
flowers for a sophisticated style that goes well with any
wedding theme.
6BOBBIE’S BEST
LOOK
1500 N. Wells St., 2nd Floor, Chicago
312 437 1800
CURLY
WWW.WISHUPONAWEDDING.ORG
cants, Liz created Wish Upon a Wedding. urachal adenocarcinoma, a rare form of
JOIN THE FACEBOOK
Officially launched in January, the non- bladder cancer. The night she underwent PAGE
profit is the world’s first wedding wish surgery, Nick proposed to her. With che- WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WISHUPONAWEDDING
granting organization. motherapy, Beth’s prognosis is 20 to 24 TO SEE BETH + NICK’S VIDEO
Liz comments that she would like to take months. DETAILING THEIR STORY,
the organization nationwide to help hun- It was Beth’s aunt who learned about PLEASE VISIT THE GALLERY
dreds of people. Wish Upon a Wedding and encouraged PAGE OF OUR WEBSITE
WWW.ME-INFOCUS.COM
“It takes a lot of time, energy and re- Beth to apply. The rest is history.
sources to plan a wedding,” admits Liz. Liz says she plans to spread the love in
“We’re happy to provide this service to November during the organization’s
take the pressure off of the couples so ‘Month of Giving’ with fundraising galas
they can relax and celebrate this special all over the country.
time in their lives.”
CHICKEN BREAST
VESUVIO
WILD BERRY NAPOLEON
WITH CHANTILLY CREAM +
STRAWBERRY COULIS
PHIL STEFANI
SIGNATURE EVENTS &
RESTAURANTS
WOW YOUR WEDDING
HOTTEST CATERING TRENDS
1300 W. Hubbard St., Chicago
312 226 7611 Add some zest to your celebration with some trendy catering ideas
from Jennifer Monti, Director of Catering Sales, at Phil Stefani’s Signature
Restaurants in Chicago.
www.stefanicatering.com
www.stefanirestaurants.com
BRAISED
SHORT RIBS
W ASIAN (INFUSION)
MARIE’S LEIGH’S
ADVICE ADVICE
“I think most major issues facing “Strong marriages have solid
married people ultimately boil bank accounts. You have to
down to trust. I believe if people make five positive deposits for
were able to maintain trust, there every one negative withdrawal.
would be fewer people who seek Deposits are words of admira-
or need my help. They would be tion and appreciation. Just like
able to resolve their issues much managing your finances, you
more efficiently. When trust have to be aware of your rela-
breaks down, it affects every tionships and constantly be
aspect of your relationship. You checking your ‘emotional bank
no longer know if you’re ‘in this accounts’ to see how you’re do-
together’.” ing. You want to make constant
deposits so you have a cushion
and the occasional withdrawal
won’t put you in the red.”
e GET MARRIED,
6
KIMBERLY A. SHARKY LMFT, CST REVEREND BILL YACCINO
RELATIONSHIP & SEX THERAPIST
RABBI MISHA TILLMAN PRESIDENT & FOUNDER OF
MISSIONAL ALLIES
RIVIERA MAYA,
MEXICO
Summer is the perfect time to save on your honeymoon with low season deals
in Central America, starting with the Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. You’ll fly into
Cancun but bypass it in favor of Playa del Carmen, the heart of the Riviera
Maya about one hour south. Enjoy the turquoise waters and white sands by
day and fine dining and entertainment by night. If you’re feeling adventurous,
explore the nearby cenotes, giant limestone sinkholes once thought to be
sacred by the Maya – or better yet – dive them. If you don’t know how, it’s
easy to get certified with the many dive shops in the area. Take a short ferry
ride to Cozumel, a treasure trove of pristine reefs and a mecca for underwater
enthusiasts. Further south, relax the day away with your honey in a hammock
on the stunning secluded beaches of Tulum, and spend some time exploring
the area’s ancient Mayan ruins.
www.rivieramaya.com
WHAT COLOR IS YOUR COUPLE?
L
in this economy doesn’t mean
sacrificing a fabulous honey-
moon. For the couple whose
looking to save on travel time
and costs, each of these four
destinations offers a distinct
getaway experience.
PHOTOS BY BIAN LI
BOHEMIAN ADVENTURERS
For the adventurous couple who’s more hippie than high maintenance,
Guatemala is an off the beaten path alternative to the more touristy Central
American countries, and jam packed with activities to indulge your inner
Bohemian, from volcano trekking to bass fishing. Visit the old Spanish city of
Antigua, whose cobblestone streets, artisanal shops and colonial charm
make it the perfect base to visit the surrounding Mayan ruins, indigenous
community markets and the beautiful Lago de Atitlan, a picturesque locale
described by English author Aldous Huxley as “...really too much of a good
thing.” An early morning trek up to one of the peaks surrounding the lake to
catch the sunrise will reveal why ‘Atitlan’ means ‘the place where the rainbow
gets its colors.’
www.atitlan.com
DIVE BOATS AT THE PIER AT SUNRISE, CAYE CAULKER
REEF SEEKERS
Get ready to kick back with your honey. You’ll hear people tell you this a lot
when you’re in Belize, a beautiful country famous for its laid back, ‘shoes
optional’ attitude, tropical rainforests and gorgeous reefs. While a bit pricier
than the rest of Central America, Belize still offers plenty of low season
summer deals. And unlike the rest of Central America, Belize is primarily an
English-speaking country. As part of one of the largest coral reef systems in
the world, Belize is a diver’s paradise and the two islands of Ambergis Caye
and Caye Caulker are great places to start out on your diving adventure,
which must include diving the famous Great Blue Hole. Besides diving, Belize
has a growing ecotourism industry. Trek through the jungle, kayak from caye
to caye or just do what the locals do and slow down and relax...
www.travelbelize.org
YUKON EXPLORERS
ALASKAN CRUISE
Go north! Summer is the best time to explore the wondrous natural
landscape that is Alaska. From glacier-trekking to whale-watching to roaming
the Yukon trail, Alaska offers limitless adventure. One of the best ways to see
a lot in a little amount of time is via cruise, and there are numerous options to
choose from. If you have more time, take a road trip and discover the beauty
of the Alaskan wilderness. Head out to Denali National Park, home of grizzly
bears, caribou and an amazing assortment of other wildlife. Denali is also
home to North America’s highest peak, Mt. McKinley.
www.alaskacruises.com
is an internationally
published author who
specializes in romance,
lifestyle and wellness
features. Brenda has
written for and been
featured in dozens of
major publications.
BRENDA DELLA CASA
ASK
YOURSELF
“If there were no rock and “Can you communicate “Does he make you laugh?
I had to go to City Hall, openly and honestly with Does he make you feel
would I still want to marry your partner?” beautiful? Does he share
this man?” your values and support
“Are you with someone your goals and dreams?
“Am I going into this with who allows you to be your- Does he want the same
my eyes wide open?” self and accepts you for things you do?”
who you are?”
“Are both of you emotion-
ally mature enough to take “Would you love him if he
this step?” lost his hair, grew a gut or www.cindarellawasaliar.com
fell ill?” www.iamstaggered.com
Our relationship guru Brenda Della Casa, author of Cinderella Was a Liar and
relationship expert for IamStaggered, the UK’s top ten men’s wedding website,
offers her advice to women with questions they should ask themselves before
taking the plunge.
JULY/AUG 2010
ME
:IN FOCUS