Chicago - April 24, 2007

Love Actually

Spring 2007 Wedding Guide

Since childhood, you’ve imagined a picture perfect wedding (and, okay, a movie star career). Reality may have since set in, but the feather boa stays. And the party will be a blockbuster.

Notes on a Scandal
There will be intrigue and probably drama (thanks, Mom), but you are the star. Designer Erin Jang will make that clear with oversize invites that look like rock/movie posters (theindigobunting@gmail.com).

Forces of Nature
No need to trek to the tropics. At Garfield Park Conservatory, you and your guests will be surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant blossoms whether indoors or out (300 North Central Park Avenue; 312-746-5250).

Little Miss Sunshine
Says no to carnations. Natalie Orr of Hello Darling hand-picks top-notch blooms based on your vision and her expert eye (1951 West Division Street; 773-742-4736).

Eat Drink Man Woman
Your guests are not on your crash diet plan. Let them indulge in White Linen Catering’s locally produced, organic ingredients served by a knock-your-socks-off staff (449 West North Avenue; 312-951-9710).

The Sweetest Thing
A dessert that lives in your freezer for a year had better be special. Order sweets and a cake you’ll want to keep forever (but shouldn’t) from Amy Beck Cake Design (312-545-3655).

The Prestige
Ta-da: The mother-daughter team at Foos Photography prefers natural moments to forced poses. The results are awe inspiring (contact@foosphotography.com).

Sex, Lies, and Videotape
You don’t have to have a fetish to want everything on tape. But you do have to be willing to take risks. StudioThisIs uses timeless tracks (Bob Dylan, Mazzy Starr) and contemporary videography to make your film an instant classic (219-465-0189). 

The Devil Wears Prada
And the bridezilla wears Vera Wang. The designer has graced Chicago with the soft opening of her bridal boutique on Oak Street. (Grand opening is in May.) Gowns don’t come cheap, but neither does fame (34 East Oak Street, second floor; 312-363-8174).

The Pursuit of Happyness
You’ve imbibed and indulged; now it’s time to inspire. Rally your bridesmaids with a thank-you brunch. Look at pictures. Rehash the night. Tend to hangovers. Then give all the dresses to The Glass Slipper Project, a Chicago nonprofit that donates gently worn bridesmaid gowns to disadvantaged young women for prom.

So I Married an Axe Murderer
Hey, that wasn’t in the script! It’s called a background check, and you can get one at sherlockrecords.com.

Roll the credits. And get more tips from our fall 2006 wedding guide.