*VENDORS*

Photography- Rueban (Fred Fox)

We decided to go with Fred Fox, because they did a great job with other weddings of our friends/family. Although we knew some of their photographers were a little 'out dated' if you will. So, when it came to picking the specific photographer, we decided to go with their best/premier photographer Rueban. He is very talented in many different photographic styles and album designs. Although he is more $$ then the others, we are confident that he is worth it after viewing his work. We also went with a larger company for the comfort of knowing if (god forbid) something happened and Rueban could not make it, we would be guaranteed a replacement. We will be doing an engagement sessions later this year where we will be able to finally meet with him in person. We are not sure if we are going to get a videographer yet. Rumor has it that Fred Fox will call you a week or so prior to the wedding and offer the videography for a HUGE discount. So we'll see......... Approximate cost $3200

Florist- Wallflower Designs

After doing lots of research, we ended up going with Marla Johnston from Wallflower Designs. She actually was a preferred vendor of Cantigny. We first met and saw Marla's work at the Cantigny Bridal Expo. We loved what we saw, and thought she was a very friendly, calm, and talented person. She use to do work for Elizabeth Wray Floral Designs(which is a very reputable, expensive company), but then ventured off to start her own business that she runs right out of her home!! Very reasonable prices and very flexible!! She also did a wedding for a friend of mine, and she was very happy with her flowers! Approximate cost $2000 (no centerpeices, thats a DYI for us)

DJ- Music by Design

We encountered Music by Design at our first major wedding expo that we attended. We really liked them right off the bat, but we didnt book them for a few months just so we could do our research and make sure we made the best choice. I definately think we did by booking them!! They are a very modern DJ company with a NO CHEESE policy. Our DJ, Jeff,  was super nice, and not weird or dorky at all! They even give you your own website for you to customize the music you want/ dont want, get everyones name and info, timelines etc. That way there is no confusion, and you get exactly what you want!! PHEW!! Approximate cost $1200

DOC- Denise Pape (Weddings By Denise)

Originally we were not planning on getting a DOC. But, we knew we wouldnt get much help from Cantigny the day of for odds and ends. We also heard from SEVERAL people that hiring a DOC was the best $ they spent. Denise was also a preferred vendor from Cantigny, so that was comforting knowing she was familiar with the location. Once we met with her and realized ALL the things that she and her assistant help with, I just KNEW we had to hire her!! I know it will be such a huge stress reliever knowing that they will be taking care of everything the day of our wedding. It is very comforting too, knowing that all the hard work that will have been put into this wedding will be organized and executed that day without us having to worry about a thing! Approximate cost $1100

Officiant

Since we are getting married at Cantigny, we needed to hire an officaint to conduct the ceremony. We had been recommended by several people, Reverend Jim Rehnberg. Otherwise known as Rent-a-Rev. Sounds super cheesy, but he really has been amazing to work with. He has been doing this for YEARS and knows it all like the back of his hand. He is very flexible and helpful with the ceremony outline. He gives you so many options and great advice. I'm very happy to have him marry us!!! Approximate cost $850

Harpist

We first met Claudia at a wedding Expo in Schaumburg. She was actually the very first vendor that we booked. We were just so amazed with her talent, professionalism, and experience that we booked her on the spot. She has been very helpful with any ?s about songs and details so far. She also lets you choose what you want her to wear the day of your wedding which I thought was nice. She is playing for the entire ceremony and cocktail hour for one flat rate, which we thought was very reasonable.
Approximate cost $400

Photobooth- Shutterbooth

Following with the new trend, we decided to get a photobooth for the reception. We thought it would be something fun and unique for our guests to enjoy. It will also double as our favors and guests book. Each guest will get 2 copies of their photobooth pics, one to keep and one to put into a guest book with a special message for us!! We have a perfect space for it too, right outside of the main room so it wont be distracting. I cant wait to see the crazy photos that will be taken!!! Especially after everyones had a few drinkies!! Approximate cost $1200 (which includes all of our extras)

Formally Modern Tux

This was all up to my FI. He chose this company because of the quality of thier suits and ties. He didnt want clip on ties and cheap shiny vests. They have a great deal of rent 6 tuxes get one free and rent 11 get 2 free, etc. They also sell invitations from reputable companies there at 50 %. Not sure if thats where we'll get our invites, but its nice to have the option.

Uplighting & Gobo-MDM Entertainment

After viewing pictures of a few receptions held at Le Jardin, we decided that adding uplighting would do wonders to the room. They turn off most of the lights and then dim the ceiling lights at Le Jardin for the reception. It makes for a very boring look. I was recommended MDM by fellow knotties. We met with Mike the owner and got VERY reasonable pricing for lighting around the room, lighting for our ceremony if held indoors and a custom Gobo. He was SUPER nice and professional and even spoke highly of his competitors. He was very helpful and honest about the different aspects of lighting, and I cant wait to see how great our reception will look!
Approximate cost-$500 for uplighting $250 for gobo

HAIR-Beauty on Call

I chose BOC because I wanted the comfort of knowing that no matter what happened, I would have two fabulous hair stylists making myself and my girls beautiful on my wedding day. I was not comfortable going with a private solo stylist, regardless of their raves, because god forbid something came up last min and they were unable to come.  BOC has different levels of stylist that work for them. I chose the top selection, which consists of stylists that work for top modeling agencies and mags. I felt that the pricing was reasonable too. BOC has been very consistant and quick to rt any of my calls and emails, which I really appreciate too.
Approximate cost-$250(me) $100(BMs and moms)

A L'AMOUR

After a rough start off to dress shopping, I thankfully made the decision to go to A L'Amour in Barrington. EmmyLou was the consultant that helped me. She was so attentive, and easy going that it made the whole experience even more delightful. I told Emmy exactly what I was looking for and my price point and she brought back about 5-6 dresses that were exactly what I was looking for!! Got the 2nd dress that I tried on, and the rest is history!!!!

Also, picked out the BM dresses there too- B2/Belsoie is the designer. I picked the color, fabric and length. Then all the girls get to pick a different style of their choice to wear!! Very resonably priced, and of course EMMY was soooo helpful with this process!!!


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