Love is Love

So excited to be attending the Love is Love event tonight at Cafe Brauer. It's not too late to get your tickets! Join me and the other members of Stand Up tonight to celebrate marriage equality and help support Equality Illinois. Get your tickets HERE.

Your Wedding Can Benefit Others (Including Four-Legged Friends)

Many couples use their wedding as an opportunity to benefit others. The newly married Meredith and Michael are no exception. At their wedding last night, they included a Dollar Dance, where guests gave cash to dance with the bride. The money they collected (check out that pitcher of cash!) will be donated to New Leash on Life, a Chicago dog rescue.

Do I have the best couples, or what? 

An Opportunity to Win a FREE Ceremony - and Support a Great Cause!

This Saturday, May 18th from 2-5 p.m. at Marty's Martini Bar - help  support the Chainbite Gang, a team of riders participating in the Ride for AIDS Chicago!

Ride for AIDS Chicago is a two-day, 200-mile, bicycling event produced by Test Positive Aware Network. The Ride is an essential fundraiser for TPAN and its Community Partners, which include  organizations throughout Chicagoland that provide HIV/AIDS services. 

Since this is such a great cause and these organizations really need help, I am donating a hand-crafted, personalized ceremony to be raffled off at the event. 

The gift certificate can be redeemed for a wedding ceremony, baby blessing.... you name it! Here's the info on the ceremony details:

• The ceremony must take place at a location within 30 miles of O'Hare Airport
• Ceremony dates are based on my availability, through 2014
• Gift certificate may be used as a gift
• This offer is not valid for current clients. Current clients may use the gift certificate for remaining balance of officiating fee.
• Certificate valued at up to $900

In addition, there will be some other fantastic Raffle Prizes, including:

• Thomas Pheasant Lamp valued at $1600.00
• Designer Pillows from Scalamandre valued at $1000
• Broadway in Chicago Theater Tickets
• Chicago Blackhawks autographed hockey puck 
• and much, much more!

So stop by, have a martini, and buy some raffle tickets!! 

There is Light Shining Through the Cracks

"There is a crack in everything - that's how the light gets in." - Leonard Cohen

The events of the past day have left a huge crack in our world. Our hearts ache for the families in Newton, Connecticut who are suffering. I have shed tears and felt the sadness shared by so many of us. I hugged my children and held them a little closer last night.

In the wake of the news coverage, I have heard so many people express their pain with questions."What is the world coming to?" "What has happened to our humanity?" "Why are people so horrible?"

While I share the anger,disbelief, and sadness, I refuse to believe that this horrible tragedy is a sign of the future. I can't accept that this awful, heart-breaking event is an example of what our society has become.

There is still good in the world. There is still light shining through the cracks. 

And to help you remember, I offer 26 Moments That Restored Our Faith In Humanity This Year from BuzzFeed.

Here's one of my favorites: #19 - The famous rugby player who visited his biggest fan in the hospital

from Buzzfeed.com

So, as we remember and grieve with those who are suffering, keep your loved ones close to you, and remember the good in the world.  And don't ever give up on HOPE. 

Addicted to Love Letters

I have been enjoying the 12 Days of Love Letter Writing so much! 

This past weekend (days 6 and 7) were dedicated to writing to people living in the Rockaways area of New York, which was hit particularly hard by Hurricane Sandy. 

This writing project has even inspired me to write a few love letters to be left at random spots around town here at home. Now I wish I would have taken one with me when I went to a doctor's appointment today. Who couldn't use a love letter while waiting in a doctor's office?

In any case, it's so wonderful to spread a little love and cheer! It's becoming addicting. But in a good way. 

12 Days of Love Letters

So, the holiday season is upon us. Even if it is supposed to reach 60 degrees tomorrow, I promise that it really is December. And most of us have begun holiday shopping. 

Okay, I haven't started shopping, but I have started thinking about it. 

But, maybe you're looking for a more meaningful way to usher in the holidays. If so, you may want to consider The 12 Days of Love Letter Writing. This letter writing campaign is an effort to make the holiday season brighter for some folks who need a little kindness and love right now.                                              

It's pretty simple. For 12 days in a row- starting this Monday, Dec. 3rd - you are emailed with a letter request from someone who needs some holiday cheer. You write a letter or a card and send it to the lovely people at The World Needs More Love Letters. They bundle up all the warm wishes and send them to their merry way.

What a wonderful way to spread some love and joy.... and to make a real difference in someone's life.

Ready to write? Click HERE to join the effort. And don't forget to pick up some nice stationery when you're out running errands this weekend. 

Wish Upon a Wedding will be granting a wedding wish to Deshawn & Monica next month, a couple who met in high school and re-connected last year, via Facebook.

After 25 years, and many health-related struggles for Deshawn, they will have their dream wedding on 11-11-11.

Congratulations, Monica & Deshawn!

And, as always, thank you to all the wonderful people who volunteer their time and services to make couples' wedding wishes come true!

You Can Make a Difference in Someone's Life!

Last week, I blogged about BE:The Exhibit, happening here in the 'burbs next week (remember? it's on MY BIRTHDAY!).

Now I'd like to invite you to get involved. You have a chance to make a difference.

Michael Anthony, organizer of BE, and creator of the documentary, For Billy, invites adults and teens to share their experiences. Join him on March 19th for an opportunity to tell your story. You may be the one to make the difference in someone's life.

I was lucky. I was never bullied. I was pretty happy as a kid. I had someone who made a difference when I was young. Her name was Gwen Wizner and she was a friend of my mom.

Gwen was larger than life - a pile of bright red hair, emerald green eyes, impeccably dressed, and a personality that sparkled. She called me "Dolly." She made me feel like I could be someone special.

Everyone needs a Gwen, but not everyone who needs someone is lucky enough to have someone. You can fill that need. You can make a difference.

Join me at BE:The Exhibit for an evening of music & art

Please join me on Friday, March 18th at an important event called BE: The Exhibit.

From the website:

BE:The Exhibit is a one-night-only artistic installation aimed at combating homophobia and teenage bullying in the Chicagoland area through art and activism. What started as one boy’s cry for help through an anonymous letter has grown into a national art campaign and documentary.

Professional Chicago-based artists have created original works of art – paintings, photography, sculpture – to be shown at BE and auctioned off for charity. There will also be a live stage show featuring music, dance and spoken word from some of Chicago’s most talented LGBTQ and straight-supportive artists and activists – all created from the secret thoughts of bullied teens.

BE is also an interactive exhibit. Guests will have the opportunity to write their own anonymous letters about their fears, create original art that will be auctioned off for charity, share their personal stories with our “5 Question Confessional Cam”, participate in our stage show and meet other Chicagoland teens, families and activists – all with the same aim: to combat homophobia and teenage bullying through art and activism.

DATE: Friday, March 18^th 2011

TIME: Doors open at 6.30 PM, Show begins at 7.45 PM

LOCATION: The European Crystal Ballroom at 519 West Algonquin Road in Arlington Heights, IL

COST: FREE (Donations Accepted)

All are welcome — All ages, all races, all religions, all orientations, everyone!

Stand up and show the youth of our city that: “YES, IT DOES GET BETTER!”

Grab a friend and join me on March 18th!

Celebrating Good Deeds and Great Talent!

I just heard some great news and had to share. I'm all about CELEBRATING, you know!

First, I need to introduce you to Kate Diaz. She is a local singer/songwriter that you will definitely be hearing about in the future! I had the good fortune of meeting Kate and her mom earlier this year at our homeschool Co-Op. I had the great pleasure of hearing her play guitar and sing - such a wonderful, rich voice!

So..... I was really excited to hear that Kate was invited by the band Sister Hazel to perform on stage with them at House of Blues earlier this year. Kate had done a cover version of "All for You" which the band saw (and liked!) on YouTube. They admired her talent as well as her generous nature. You see, Kate has been performing at Potbelly's on the weekends, saving her tip money to donate to a charity which supports families dealing with cancer. Sister Hazel knew that Kate was someone who deserved celebration!

Here she is performing with the band at House of Blues. This was so fantastic - it had to be shared!

And, the story doesn't end there! Kate has written a wonderful Christmas song called "Christmas Smiles." The song can be downloaded at iTunes. All proceeds form the song will be donated to CureSearch for Children's Cancer. Download it now! You'll get a great song and you'll be donating to a great cause.

Here is an acoustic preview of "Christmas Smiles":

This just shows that one person can make a difference. Thanks for the inspiration, Kate!!

It's Time for BEADS!! Stop by at my Bead for Life Open House this Sunday!

If you're considering Bead for Life jewelry for your wedding (for your bridal party, or as shower favors), or if you're just wondering what it's all about - I have good news for you:

I'm hosting a Bead for Life Open House this Sunday!

You can come by and see the beads in person - and learn more about the amazing work done by Bead for Life. Here are the details:

Bead for Life Open House

at Caribou Coffee at 90 E. Northwest Hwy. in Mt. Prospect

(across from the downtown Mt. Prospect Metra station, just east of Elmhurst Rd.)

Sunday, Dec. 5th from 1:30 until 4 pm.

I'll have a display of the gorgeous bead jewelry, as well as information about Bead for Life. The pieces really are beautiful and make great holiday gifts. You can leave with a beautiful present, and fell good about making a difference in the lives on women in Uganda.

The wonderful bangle bracelets are only $5! But, I'm warning you - it's be hard to pick just one. That's why I'm always wearing at least three at a time! I've been hosting these Open Houses for the past five years, so believe me, I've purchased lots of them!

So, come on by and say hello!

Aaron & Nicole's Gorgeous Garden Wedding

I had the pleasure of marrying Aaron and Nicole this September in a beautiful garden setting. The wedding took place at Blumen Gardens in Sycamore. This is a large garden center, which doubles as a wedding venue. It was perfect! Except for one thing - it was REALLY cold that day. I wore a suit, so I was okay, but I felt really bad for poor Nicole and the bridesmaids who were freezing. But, they were all great sports and went on to the absolutely beautiful reception - indoors.

Besides being in a gorgeous setting, the wedding had lots of wonderful details, which you can see in the photos here.

Of course, you know I went crazy when I saw the cupcakes! And look at those darling little birds on top. So adorable!

Each table had fresh flowers and greenery. Plus, questions for the guests to answer. What a great way to get people chatting!

My favorite part was that they made a donation to Operation Smile, in lieu of traditional guest favors. I just love it when couples give back to others! This definitely illustrates Aaron & Nicole's generous hearts.

Everything was so beautiful, especially the bride and groom. Just take a look at those gorgeous smiles! I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

And for more pictures, taken by their great photographer, Kristin Kasperek, click here. Enjoy!

The Wish Upon a Wedding Gala is Coming up!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Save the date for the

Wish Upon a Wedding Gala!!

I'll be there.... I hope you will be, too!

Wedding Beads for You!

I know I've written a post about BeadforLife before, but I was motivated to do so again when the most recent newsletter popped up in my email.

This edition of The Bead included an article called "Shopping Is Giving: Add Beads to Your Wedding!"

Well, you know that had my name all over it.

The article shared the story of a customer who proposed to his wife by presenting her with - not a diamond ring - but a bracelet from BeadforLife.

The woman (who is now his wife) said, “The fact that Ugandan women made these beads added a tremendous amount of value to the engagement! This symbol of our commitment to each other also represents something real and valuable to those Ugandan women and their families.” How cool is that?!

If your proposal has already happened, BeadforLife can still play a role in your wedding. For example, brides can give a jewelry set to bridesmaids - complete with necklace, earrings and bracelet - for as little as $25! Not only are the pieces very affordable, the jewelry really is gorgeous. Trust me, I know.

I have hosted Bead Parties for the past five years and own more BeadforLife bracelets than any one person really should. Just ask my husband, who puts up with my bead habit. Actually, as I sit here writing, I realize that right now, at this very moment, I'm wearing a BeadforLife necklace, a band bracelet, and two bangle bracelets. I love them all! And there's lots more in my jewelry box.... and the bathroom cabinet.... and the table next to my bed..... you get the idea.

Besides being attractive, inexpensive, and durable - your purchase makes a huge difference in the lives of the beaders in Uganda.

So, if you're still thinking about bridesmaids gifts, or shower favors, or even jewelry for yourself, consider shopping at BeadforLife's online shop. Just take a peek.

C'mon. You know you want to!

Shoes for You = Shoes for a Child

Check out these fun shoes from TOMS. They're cute and reportedly very comfortable - and what makes them even better is that, for every pair purchased, TOMS will donate a pair of shoes to a child in need. Cool, huh?

They have boots as well as a variety of shoes, including silver and gold glitter shoes. Very cute!

There is a gallery of photos on the website, showing how different people wear their TOMS. The photos here are from weddings.

How cute are these shoes?!?

You may want to consider TOMS for your wedding - your bridal party will love being comfy and you'll love that your wedding helped children in need.

You (Yes, YOU!) are invited.....

Join me on March 24th at the Chicago launch party for Wish Upon a Wedding! The event will take place at the Ravenswood Event Center, starting at 6 p.m.

Wish Upon a Wedding is a non-profit organization that grants wedding wishes to people facing life-threatening illnesses.

Not only will you be supporting a great cause, you'll also enjoy a wonderful evening. My pal, the fabulous DJ Harsh, will be providing the musical entertainment, so it's guaranteed to be a good time!

RSVP to: WUWChicago@yahoo.com

See you there!

Wish Upon a Wedding!

Recently, I learned about an exciting organization called Wish Upon a Wedding. This wonderful group, which officially launched in January, 2010, grants wedding wishes to people facing life-threatening illnesses. There are currently chapters in LA, San Francisco, Orlando, New York and Chicago.

How can you help? If you're getting married, you can opt to have your guests donate to Wish Upon a Wedding rather than purchasing gifts from a traditional registry. You can also donate to Wish Upon a Wedding instead of buying wedding favors for your reception. If you choose to do this, you will be provided with donation cards to display at your wedding.

There are other ways to help, too. You can adopt a wedding and donate airline miles.

If you're a wedding vendor, you can volunteer your services to be a Wish Granter. I just applied to become a Wish Granter and I'm so excited!

Please support this worthy cause by spreading the word! Follow this link to use your social networking connections to tell your friends about Wish Upon a Wedding.

The Party's Over......

I was recently checking out the website and blog of local Chicago wedding planner, Lisa Gordon, owner of Lisa Gordon Events. Lisa specializes in coordinating non-traditional weddings and commitment ceremonies, especially eco-friendly celebrations.

I saw this post on dealing with the "stuff" after the reception has ended. Her post goes over such things as what to do with leftover food. Did you know that, in some areas, food can be donated to a shelter? And what the heck do you do with all those decorations?? Read Lisa's post for some great tips!

The Unassuming Sing-Along That Morphed into a Concert

Like everyone, the situation in Haiti left my family filled with sadness - and an overwhelming desire to Do Something. So, my husband came up with the idea of hosting a fundraiser. I made chili and soup, and invited some friends to come over for a sing-along. Neither of us play instruments, so we asked our musically-inclined pals to bring instruments if they so desired.

We were thrilled that our dear friend's son, Ian, was interested in participating - with his guitar! He then told us that his drummer buddy, Angelo, would also join us. This was going to be great!

Well, on Sunday evening the guys showed up..... with all of their equipment! Every time I turned around they were shlepping in another case.

So, we set them up in our "family room" and they put on an amazing show. The musical offerings included songs by Pete Seeger, Radiohead, Dolly Parton, Elvis Costello. I had to pinch myself! We sang along and I even caught my hubby inching closer to the microphone. (Don 't deny it - I saw you!)





The addition of friends playing the sax and bass guitar made it even more amazing. Not only did I get to sing along, they let me play the tambourine. I was on a roll until, unfortunately for me, I was upstaged by Lynn and her crazy harmonica skills. Oh well.

In any case, we raised a good amount of money, collected supplies, and had a great time to boot!











Thank you to our friends for all the generous donations. And a HUGE thank you to Ian and Angelo for donating your musical talents to make our fundraiser a success. Thank you, thank you! We couldn't have done it without you!!

And these fantastic musicians are even available for weddings (Hint! Hint!). Well, at least until they hit the big time! And I can say I knew them when.......

Bead for Life comes to town!

If you've read my blog, you probably know that Bead for Life is near and dear to my heart. That's why I'm happy to announce that I'll be hosting a Bead for Life Open House on December 5th!

The event will take place at Sweet Remembrance, a wonderful new coffee shop in downtown Des Plaines. (I'll be writing more about it in the future, because it's fabulous!) The shop's gracious owner, Randy Toelke, has allowed me to use the space to host the event. Thank you, Randy!!

Here are the details:
Bead for Life Open House/Bead Party
Saturday, Dec. 5th from 2 to 5 pm at Sweet Remembrance
614 Lee St., Des Plaines (just north of the Metra station)


Come check out the gorgeous bead jewelry, handmade from recycled paper. You can finish up your holiday shopping and help a worthy cause. These make wonderful, meaningful gifts. A necklace and bracelet set would be perfect for your bridal party.- and affordable for you! Or, think shower favors - bracelets are only $5.00!

Best of all, your purchase makes a huge difference to the beaders in Uganda, who are working diligently to lift themselves out of poverty. You can learn more about Bead for Life by visiting the website.

Come have a cup of coffee (and maybe one of the amazingly delicious cookies!) and check out the bead jewelry. Join the fun!