I'm a Guest Blogger! - Tips for Personalizing Your Wedding Ceremony

I was invited by the wonderful Greatest Expectations to write a blog post about personalizing your wedding ceremony. So, of course, I did!

The article covers several ways to make your ceremony a reflection of the two of you, including music, readings, and unique rituals. 

Photo by Julia Franzosa Photography

So, what are you waiting for?

Head on over and read my article, The Perfect “I Do” for You- How to Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony 

World Cup Celebrations

Before I go any further, let me say that, yes, I am well aware of the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup.

But.... a little closer to my heart is the fact that the World Cup has just begun. I'll admit that I am by no means a sports fan, but having been practically raised on a soccer field, the sport is inescapable in my family.

I love it for the fact that it is truly the sport of the entire world. Having worked with refugees over the years, I know that soccer is often an escape from the harsh realities of life for many people, especially children. I can clearly recall a time several years ago, when I brought a donated soccer ball to a Somali family with three sons. The look of joy on their faces was the best thank you I could ever get. It still makes me smile.

So, I am compelled to share the news that there was a another sports celebration happening today. It was the opening game of the World Cup in South Africa. The South African consulate is hosting Celebrate Africa right here in Chicago, which will include public viewing parties and soccer tournaments.

This morning, Daley Plaza played host to the viewing of the Mexico - South Africa game (which ended in a 1-1 tie). In addition to the game, there was plenty of entertainment, including musical performances by a South African drumming group and a Mexican Mariachi ensemble. I heard a re-cap of the event on Worldview on WBEZ and it sounded amazing. One of the highlights was when the African drummers joined the mariachis and had a spontaneous jam. Could this happen any place else??

Just to get you in the spirit of this incredible world-wide party, here's the official World Cup song (in Spanish & English).

Skokie 2009 Festival of Cultures

This past Sunday I spent the afternoon with my family, enjoying the colorful sights and sounds of the Skokie Festival of Cultures. What great fun!

We really enjoyed the energetic performance by Evanston Escola de Samba, a favorite of my husband's. I doubt there was a single person not dancing (or at least swaying) to the music!

As for me, I was especially impressed by the dancers from Jasmin Jahal Dance Company, performing dances from Egypt, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. (I'm pretty sure my hubby liked them, too!) I confess that I've tried belly dancing classes, so my interest was piqued to begin with. These dancers were incredible! The audience was enthralled by the bright costumes and the fluid, graceful moves.

I learned that Jasmin Jahal Dance is also the host of Chicago Shimmyfest, held in July. I may need to go check that out! And by the way, the spectacular dancers are available to perform at weddings!!

In addition to the entertainment, the Festival of Cultures offered an International Market, as well as booths with organizations representing different countries. I chatted with a nice woman at the Phillipine both, who gave me a recipe for Adobo Chicken, which I plan on trying this week. The Thailand booth featured a woman carving the most intricate designs from fruit & vegetables. She made a fish from a melon and was in the process of carving carrot tulips as we watched. To the delight of my children, the Germany booth gave out mini packets of Gummi Bears.

It was a great afternoon, capped off by dinner at Pita Inn. Falafel, hummus, chicken shawarma, rice pilaf & mint iced tea - my idea of heaven!

In any case, this festival got me to thinking about the many couples getting married who come from rich, fascinating cultures. It's important to remember that, what's common to you and your family, may be new and exciting (and fun!) to your guests!

Holi Festival of Colors

The Celebrant Foundation & Institute sponsored the 2009 Holi Festival of Colors and Unity on March 8th in New Jersey.

As a member of the Celebrant Foundation, I am proud to say that the organization works to promote unity and understanding. The Holi Festival, which is known as a holiday of colors and unity, celebrates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of devotion.

Take a look at a video clip by clicking here.