Chicago - April 12, 2005

Crazy in Love

Spring 2005 Wedding Guide

The crying, the screaming, the foot stomping. Ruh-roh,
here comes the bride.

Hey. Anyone who’s been there knows it’s not your fault. Blame it on all the nutsos — your so-called friends and loved ones — and their crazy demands and expectations.

Our picks help you manage the craziest of the lot.

The Laura Ashley Mom
Mom likes baby-pink sweetheart buds; you prefer sexier flowers. Let Epoch Floral suggest a compromise (the first of many): a tight pave of roses atop a cuff of white orchids (615 North State Street; 312-642-2968).

The Art-Director Fiance
You-know-who expresses a sudden interest in framing every shot. Tell him to leave it to an expert. Former ad-shooters Gerber and Scarpelli will artfully capture your big day (110 North Peoria Street; 312-455-1144). Refocus your groom’s energy by putting him in charge of the Occasional Slideshow video for the rehearsal dinner.

The Not-into-Labels Family
Dad’s remarried. Mom lives with her partner. And everyone’s pitching in. So many names, so little space on the invitation. The ladies at Fuss are pros when it comes to design and typeface. Their studio opens April 25 (65 East Oak Street).

The Third-Trimester Matron of Honor
She’s your oldest, closest, and now biggest friend. Take her to the newest bridal salon on Oak Street, Belle Vie, where she’ll find empire styles from Lazaro, Dessy, and Amsale (34 East Oak Street, 4th floor; 312-751-2222).

The Chatty Maids
Your posse’s opinionated — that’s why you love them. But when gown shopping, you wish they’d keep it to themselves. Let Sarah Stalker at the Saks Fifth Avenue bridal salon help you manage the peanut gallery and find a dress that you adore
(700 North Michigan Avenue; 312-799-5205).

The Gourmand
Mother-in-Law
His mother can’t stand the thought of not serving beef tenderloin, and you can’t stomach paying for it. J&L Catering suggests a compromise: beef bourguignon — same cut, less cash (1229 North North Branch; 312-280-7900).

DJ Nuptials (a.k.a. the Best Man)
He’s been mastering the turntables in the hopes of a wedding-night debut. Assign him the mix-CD for the guests and give the Dennis Keith Band a call. Known for their versatile repertoire, these guys can rock hard or chill out.

The Know-It-All Big Sis
Muffy swears by her Wedgwood and crystal. Maybe you were adopted after all. Lille will introduce her to lines like John Derian and Bodo Sperlein, and if she’s not won over by their elegance, she’ll be charmed by the store’s online registry (1923 West North Avenue; 773-342-0563).

The Hawaiian Tabernacle Choir
Fine. Everyone loves Hawaii. But that doesn’t mean it’s the right spot for you. Let the experts at MoonRings help plan a honeymoon perfectly suited to your personality, budget, and time frame.

Because when all of this is done, you’re gonna need to get away. Big time.