January 11, 2012

Trending with Fashion Inspired Wedding Cakes

Posted by StrictlyWeddings.com :: 2 Comments :: Filed Under

Ahh, another perfect Wednesday filled with fantastic wedding inspiration, today we bring you some fabulous wedding cakes inspired by fashion. Who new that an amazing source of inspiration for your wedding could be your closet. We’ve seen how fashion can inspire table centerpieces, dinnerware, interior decor and of course color palettes.  So why stop there? Basing your wedding cake and color palette on your favorite piece of clothing assures an incredible outcome. But, designing your cake based on your wedding dress is just GENIUS.

Source: Belle the magazine

 
 
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January 09, 2012

Chicago Wedding Reception Venues – The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel)

Posted by StrictlyWeddings.com :: 6 Comments :: Filed Under

StrictlyWeddings.com welcomes The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel) as a new Chicago partner under Wedding Reception venues. We love this location’s classic, yet chic style. Perfect for the bride looking for a luxury location for their wedding reception. Located just steps from the highly prized north Michigan Avenue, you can expect unparalleled expertise in event planning, and a team of experienced professionals who can fashion your wedding event to your personal style and taste.

Showcasing floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views and a 400,000-piece crystal chandelier, The Ballroom is a picturesque backdrop for your wedding celebration. Your guests will savor a customized menu featuring gourmet dishes developed just for you by Executive Chef Mark Payne. The hotel offers 434 beautifully designed guest rooms, including breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan.

Photos of a Ritz-Carlton Chicago wedding courtesy of Jai Girard Photography.

 
 
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January 06, 2012

Chicago’s Entertaining Company | Up-Market catering for your wedding

Posted by StrictlyWeddings.com :: 5 Comments :: Filed Under

How do you measure if the caterer you choose will provide the impact that you’re looking for? Experience counts. Real testimonies (call or email) are insightful. And a true connection with the caterer could be the difference as to whether your vision is realized or not.

One of our partners from Chicago, Entertaining Company, has successfully executed food for a multitude of events. What’s their secret?

According to founder Wendy Pashman, it’s about up-market catering. What exactly is up-market?  Is it super schmancy?  Over-the-top expensive? Menus bursting with truffles Filet Mignon encrusted with 24-carrot gold!?   Moreover, what kind of business strategy is promoting “upmarket” when the economy is all about value-adds and deals-of-the-day?

As she sees it, up-market is all about the value add. But, in this case, it’s not buy-one-get-one-free. The value add is in the details. The small (and big,) touches that make an event stand out. And, it’s about really good food. At an Entertaining Company event, the food isn’t an obligatory after-thought. It’s the center ring at the circus.

Up-Market is Ideas. In short, they come to the table with ideas and inspirations. They trend spot and delight in coming up with something new.  They come to every event ready to play and create something one-of-a-kind.

Up-Market is Trust. Entertainment Company’s consultant Molly Fennell, who has gained a wide following at such competitive catering venues as Café Brauer, said her secret is centered in providing brides with “trust and confidence.”  It is their job to make it all happen, without a hitch.

Up-Market is Service. Is there any greater luxury than service? Seasoned consultants begin with the basics and work up to the details. EC guides the client step by step, and takes care of all the details along the way.

Up-Market is the Details. When EC staff serves an event, they go above and beyond. Surprise vegans at the table get served according to their dietary needs. Brides with broken heels get crazy glue procured at the corner bodega.  A guest who announces his birthday gets a make-shift candle made out of a string and a crayon.

That’s how you execute excellence and continue to thrive in a challenging business environment. So, Entertaining Company’s Up-Market Catering = Great food. Creativity. Connecting. Service – beyond expectation.

 
 
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January 04, 2012

Metallic Drama – Golden Wedding Cakes

Posted by StrictlyWeddings.com :: 2 Comments :: Filed Under

These striking metallic and golden cakes are not new, but we think it’s a good idea to share with our new brides some of the different options that can be available when planning your wedding. Or think about a dessert table with different kinds of sparkly cupcakes and desserts.

Source: Belle The Magazine

 
 
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January 03, 2012

Nasher Sculpture Center shines in our new Featured Wedding

Posted by StrictlyWeddings.com :: 1 Comment :: Filed Under

The synergy of three of our StrictlyWeddings.com partners come together in this lovely new featured wedding. The wonderful detailing of wedding planner Jordan Payne. The moments captured by photographer Thisbe Grace and the exquisite Nasher Sculpture Center  as the setting for the wedding reception. You’ll love as much as we do!

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