Note to self--let it go-- SURVIVE!

SURVIVE--the pink and white party
to benefit breast cancer
at the Hotel Sax Chicago
on Sunday July 29th.

JULY 12th, 2012

So I'm twittering--survive, survive, survive. 

I'm facebooking--survive, survive, survive.

I'm talking to my interns about how we are going to promote survive.  "We are going to message everyone privately, then message then in the group, then tag them in a picture, then tweet them   Survive here. Survive there.  Hey let's put Survive everywhere---Happy, happy, happy, right?  Nothing heavy then -- BAM!

The mother of one of the models calls me up, and right there in the middle of my facebooking she goes into a SURVIVOR STORY.  I can feel her about to open up, and really I'm afraid.   "No, oh no,. not in the middle of my facebooking, I won't know what so say.   I'm fine with the cause, no I really am; but, I don't make me really think about cancer....", I'm saying to myself.  But luckily she shared with me.  And her sharing made me feel really appreciative, and spiritually connected.

They Survived.  Her daughter is so beautiful too.  And she is really smart and hardworking.  She is studying to go into the medical field.  They take test regularly.  They found a doctor with solutions.  And I can hear the happiness in her mother's voice.  Okay it wasn't so bad-- WE SURVIVE.

So I'm feeling rather strong after SHARING.  Right fist pump, I'm not a kid anymore.  I'm grown.  I can handle this.  If you're gonna have a benefit then people are definitely going to share things with you, Robert. 

My interns are looking up to me.  I was mature.  I'm a role model, right? 

So, I go on with my day, and it's coming together rather nicely.  I run some errands, and I get back home, and I'm facebooking again survive, survive, survive. I start emailing out vendor packets, survive, survive survive, and then BAM!

I get another call from Atia's mom from Project Lady Bug, and yes she gives me another survivor story.  This one involves a child, and I start thinking about my daughters and THIS TIME I FOLD.  I end up confessing.

"When my mother was on her dying bed with Cancer, I ran away to study abroad in West Africa!" 

Robert are you ***king serious it was 15 years ago, and you are still feeling guilty about that, still ashamed, still going in circles.

And so now the SURVIVOR who fought her own battle with cancer, and walked her daughter through a successful fight with cancer has to console YOU!

At some point it's just too much--LET IT GO ALREADY!

LOVE ROBERT

"Survive"!--A benefit for Breast Cancer Awareness

I survive.

I survived a set of tubes being tied only to come untied, and allow for my "surprise" conception.
I survived a childhood in an environment that was so notoriously negative eventually the entire community had to be wiped clean. 
I survived living someone else lie. (Yikes!)
I survived loosing my mother to a bitter battle with Cancer.
We survive.

We survived being robbed of our homes and forced to evacuate our villages.
being abused, raped, and molested
being silenced, scared, and bullied.
We survived being used, misunderstood, under-appreciated, persecuted, slandered, and plotted against.
We survived foster care, divorce, and wanting to be loved.  
We survived the results of the test.
We survived  paralysis, autism, deformities and illness.


So, on Sunday July 29th, my friends and I are having a BIG Pink and White Party. 

To celebrate the "Gift of Life".
and its trials and tribulations
that bring us closer to our creator,
and closer to a realization of who we really are
beneath the scares
within our soul where WE ARE ALL CONNECTED.
 

"SURVIVE"!
(A pink and white party, food and drinks, fashion showcase, silent auction, spa services, shopping event.)Produced by Robert Sharod,
A portion of the proceeds go to promote Benefit Breast Cancer Awareness through The American Cancer Society.

Sunday, July 29th from 6-9PM
After Party from 9-12AM

Hotel Sax Chicago
Paris Room 
333 N. Dearborn

"In the Name of Love" a designer TELLS ALL!

"This is a note to all Brides and planners alike.  There is always a tendency towards disorder, but what is, will be, and he will send you many angels.  So in your planning process trust in the lord." 

 JOURNAL ENTRY

So after the debacle with "you know who" at "you know where" back in March,  I was pretty frazzled.  I turned to Jennifer my trusted intern turned business manager and say,  "Well we have to change the venue and reschedule the event."

I get back on the phones.  Where?

The Newberry bites it.  Instantly we both get excited.  The price is right.  The venue is on the Gold Coast.  The Gold Coast.  Wait a minute.  This might actually work, right?

So, the first hurdle is getting all the people who were on board before to be on board again.  A couple of the vendors jump ship, but most are understanding.

Now the other problem is that my time is all occupied because of the heavy prom and bridal season, so I've got to spend most of my time sewing and not planning.  So, in the fire my intern turned business manager goes -- Jennifer you will appreciate me for this one day.  "But, Robert I'm only an intern I don't know..." "Can it Jennifer, duty calls" I warn her.

So, I've got to get someone to help her out so it doesn't become too over whelming.  I call up Shari.  She goes on and on about how horrible my reputation has been hit by the debacle at "you know where" but she agrees to come to my rescue, and bring out all the "Gold Coast" socialites.  And she delivered I might point out here  --first problem solved.

I'm over budget at the onset because I've ditched out some payments where services were not rendered by "you know who", so I reach out to another friend Nicole from Allen/Williams Events, who comes through with a sponsorship, and we are able to secure the venue. Incidentally, Nicole showed up three days before the show and kicked in DAY OF services for the event which really helped Jennifer out--second problem solved.

We can't find a caterer, I'm biting my nails, and none other than Berghoffs comes through a week before the event.  The food was so good.  Everyone was talking about it.  There was steak, shrimp, I mean it couldn't have been better--Third problem solved.

So now everything is smooth sailing.


WHERE ARE YOUR MODELS?

The easiest thing would have been to just call up Benjamin Cottrell, the maestro of fashion in Chicago, and a good friend, and he would have brought the models in.  But, I remembered my fiasco at "you know where" and was timid to call him.  So, I post a model call on Facebook.. Lots of models show of which I choose three including a model from Catherine Dean.  So, this is the illustrative Catherine Dean the designer, model, "jackie of all trades" that I heard so much about.  She brings me a "sickening" model that looks like a cross between Diana Ross and Keri "Hilson, Wilson --the two hit wonder".

So now I've got three models where am I gonna get the rest?  I only have a week.  A lady named Patricia Gomez responds on facebook.  "I can bring you five European models with experience."  So I'm thinking this is some sort of set up.  What if on the day of the event they don't show u?. What if this is one of my enemies sick idea of a joke?  I pray.  And I listen to God. She shows up with five of the most beautiful women I've ever seen.  Benjamin "a true friend" surprises me on the day of my event and helps with the model walk!-- Fourth problem solved.

So the day of the show I'm out with Shari trying to find linens for the tables, "You better not give those rental people four hundred dollars for linens" says Shari four days before the event, "I can get linens"  only once she starts calling around she realizes it's harder than what she thought.  So on the day of the show, me, her, and her gorgeous daughter are in her Beamer, which is about as junky as my studio Shari, and we are riding around looking for linens.

Shari's daughter is having a birthday party this weekend also, so we end up at a party store where Shari and I get into the biggest fight.  She wants to cover the vending tables with plastic, and I'm telling her how embarrassing that would be.  Shari it's a bridal event no plastic.  Shari grabs four plastic gold table covers for a dollar a piece, "Just in case, Robert" She yells. We get the stuff for her daughter's party and we leave. 

We go to many stores looking for cloth linens within budget with no luck. We wound up at Marshalls.  They have two white linens. We grab those.  Shari and I have another fight.  She wants to get white shower curtains and cover the tables with those--and she is serious, "No one will see the ringlets, Robert!". 

Shower curtains?-lol.  I buckle to the pressure and began laughing hilariously in the store. I mean I literally couldn't stop.   I had a vision of one of the soccer moms turned event planner discovering the shower curtains and a whole comedic skit ensued.  After Shari sees how funny it is we walk back over to the linen section where she discovers that there are some yellowish, goldish linens that we could use.  We grab six of those to add to the two white we have and we are off again.

Sandra Dognmi calls us, and says that she has some white.  So, now we mix in the gold cloths we brought,with Sandra's white, with the three plastic gold ones (from the party store) and...Fifth problem solved.

SO that's it.  No more problems, right?

NO!

Makeup artist calls in sick at 1:00.  What am I gonna do now.  Turns out that Catherine Dean the "jackie of all trades" is also a MAC certified make-up artist. --Sixth problem solved.

We all make it to the venue by 5:00.  Black Tie Tuxedo comes through with me and my son's tuxedo at 5:45.  The room is packed, and all the seats filled by 6:30.  The models are all ready by 7:00.  The show begins and BAM!  The White Collection -LUXE, comes out.  Love Prevails. SUCCESS.

Many thanks to all involved.and all who attended

LOVE ROBERT

To Our Brides "Int the Name of Love" at The Newberry

To Our Brides,

You expect to be treated like royalty on May 10th, and we know that is a lofty idea; nevertheless it's our company's goal with each and every customer. After all, you are preparing for your BIG DAY, and we are immensely thankful that you are coming to our BIG DAY. 





The evening with feature bridal tastings by the historic Berghoff's ,and the quintessential Pure Kitchen Catering.  Edible Arrangements have also prepared some very refreshing fruit bouquets for your enjoyment.  And what's a party without cocktails from Binny's.

For you entertainment we have spa services including makeovers, and messages.  There will also be a wonderful DJ, and live performers.  The evening will be capped by romantic carriage rides, so this is an event where you can also bring hubby.

Of course the gowns will be accessorized by the lovely Susan from The Left Bank, and I will also be showcasing my bridal negligees which should prove very exciting.

Many thanks in advance for your attendance and I can't wait to meet each and every one of you at "In the Name of Love on May 10th at The Newberry.  If you have any questions please give us a call at (773) 285-1178.

LOVE ROBERT

Reaching out to Media and Wedding Planner for "In the Name fo LOVE"

Hello Wedding Planners and Media,

Forming a relationship with the city's most distinguished wedding planners, and media  is a pivitol part of Atha Sharod Bridal's marketing program.  We have been fortunate enough to receive local media coverage, and we have seen first hand the power of the media and recommendations.  This is why we decided to give our "special guest" VIP treatment with front row seating, and a special gift bags.  We want you to know that we will take good care of your clients, and give them the utmost services.   Many of your top wedding planners, bloggers, and journalist have already RSVP.  If you would like to join and be seated in the front row for "In the Name of LOVE" please contact Jennifer Ann at jennifer.athasharod@gmail.com, and she will send you a link to a special invitation just for you. You can call (773) 285-1178 if you have any questions.  I thank you in advance for your interest.

LOVE ROBERT

Reaching out to Media and Wedding Planners

Hello Wedding Planners and Media,

Forming a relationship with the city's most distinguished wedding planners, and media  is a pivitol part of Atha Sharod Bridal's marketing program.  We have been fortunate enough to receive local media coverage, and we have seen first hand the power of the media and recommendations.  This is why we decided to give our "special guest" VIP treatment with front row seating, and a special gift bags.  We want you to know that we will take good care of your clients, and give them the utmost services.   Many of your top wedding planners, bloggers, and journalist have already RSVP.  If you would like to join and be seated in the front row for "In the Name of LOVE" please contact Jennifer Ann at jennifer.athasharod@gmail.com, and she will send you a link to a special invitation just for you. You can call (773) 285-1178 if you have any questions.  I thank you in advance for your interest.

LOVE ROBERT

Vending Oppurtunity for "In the Name of LOVE"

Hello Industry Professionals,

"In the Name of Love" at the Newberry on May 10th is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your business to soon to be brides and wedding planners.  Many of your top wedding planners have already RSVP.  If you would like to present your company at this event there is still an opportunity to do so.  All participants must be vetted.  Please contact Jennifer Ann at jennifer.athasharod@gmail.com and she will send you a sponsorship package. You can call (773) 285-1178 if you have any questions.  I thank you in advance for your interest.

LOVE ROBERT

"In the name of LOVE" -- Love's fight to survive.

I repeat, "ALWAYS REMEMBER LOVE"; for, she is the feminine side of GOD.

One of the greatest expressions of GOD is the tenant of Matrimony, the union of two loved ones.    On GOD'S Masculine side is POWER, and on GOD'S Feminine side is LOVE.  Since we are all made in GOD'S image we all naturally possess a masculine and feminine side, and the goal of matrimony is to place these two components of God in perfect harmony.  It's important that this balance is achieved through Matrimony as this stage of life is the foundation of family, community, and society.

Of course this balance is not achieved without a fight.  As an artist we are blessed with the gift of creativity (the language of LOVE), and the burden that often comes along with this gift - the fight.  We are most times  misunderstood and abused.  Especially, in a system of capitalism where a man's worth is essentially measured by how much profit another man can gain from his work. So it wouldn't be surprising for a business person to try to control an artist for their own personal profit and gain; in fact, this has been part of the history of the artists' plight.  While the designer and artists are often the source of the product that businesses sell, we are often looked at as at odds with big business.  LOVE is constantly in defense, and her protector is GOD.

"The White Collection - LUXE" is my take on this dichotomy.  The American woman has the unique position of being the vanguard of femininity (LOVE), and simultaneously the example of female independence (POWER).  The entire world is watching as the American woman balances her role as the nurturer, and the bringer of life with a new understanding that she also can share POWER.  This quality of the American woman represents a great change in world thought, and inevitably will birth the realization that she can integrate LOVE into the fabric of American life including business.

This collection is uniquely soft, gentle, pure, and natural.  The designs are non-intrusive, pristine, and lofty.  The people who manufacture this collection are well paid artisans working in humane conditions.  The business model of Atha Sharod Bridal is one of giving back to the communities that we service with our gowns.   The idea that we would bring LOVE back into our manufacturing process is not one that we have taken up for gain, but one that we enforce because we believe in "capitalism with a conscious", and we are sure that on your BIG DAY you would prefer this model also.  This collection is made in America for the woman who wants to express "LOVE" on her BIG DAY.

I know it's a lofty concept, lol.

LOVE ROBERT.

"In the Name of Love" 3/25th -DAY 5/Always Remember to LOVE

Listen to the voice of LOVE!  She is your inner voice, and she is held in the pit of your soul.  Her desire is that you let her glow shine from inside of you out into to the world. 

You know, when planning your BIG DAY it's so easy to forget what you are planning.  You are planning a ceremony - a spiritual ceremony - to celebrate the union of two souls in hopes that they will come together in harmony.  You are planning a celebration of "Love" which implies the presence of God. 

Keep God in mind as you go through the planning process; for, at the end of the planning process you want to have made a spiritual journey, so that your BIG DAY really symbolizes a transformation or transition into a deeper understanding of yourself, and what it means to be human.  The basic fundamental idea of "LOVE" is that we are all connected at the Soul.  Imagine how profound it would be if you can manage to connect with the team of people who are helping you plan your BIG DAY on a spiritual level, then you've really created the proper foundation for your BIG DAY.

So remember LOVE in all your preparations.  It's okay to be passionate. But, always be righteous, kind, and sharing because these are the last days before your BIG DAY; so, it's very important that you cleanse yourself of emotional baggage so that her glow can shine from inside of you...

"In the Name of Love" with Atha Sharod Bridal at Stan Mansion on March 25th--spread the word!

Meet Maggie Fasan a 4th Generation Florist

Her father's father, no grand mother's father, wait a minute I should have taken notes - let me just say, Maggie is the fourth generation in her family to manage the Fasan Florist which has been in business since 1924!  And when asked if she was forced into the business she admitted that perhaps it was that way for her father, but said, "No, I find a value in working with the flowers.  I really enjoy it." So after going to college in Wisconsin, Maggie returned to help her father run the business that he had dedicated his life to.

Now you look at the building, and the inside decor, and you think well it seems like nothing has changed here since 1924, lol - the look of the floral boutique is almost antiquated including the florescent sign that modestly reads "One of the Best Florist in Chicago".  So when Maggie, who looks very young,  brought out their huge portfolio albums I was blown away by how fresh and forward their floral designs were.  Fasan Florist has more than a reputation, they have volumes of proof in pictures that they are indeed "One of the Best Florist in Chicago".  When you began to look through their recent work, it illustrates what happens when generations of experience meet with floral trends.  You can clearly see that the dynamic duo of Maggie with the eagerness of her youth, coupled with the mastery that experience has afforded her father, Mr. Fasan, is a team that can bring life to the floral fantasy of any bride.  Maggie showed me her new work with combining leaves of grass and weaving them into floral arrangements with bold colored wild flowers.  Surprisingly,  these bouquets were unique enough to satisfy the brides who always say, "I want something different"; yet, they were finished to such perfection that they could be appreciated by anyone who admires beauty.

Then Maggie turned the page to a wedding they had done at the Drake -  it was a look classic enough for royalty; in fact, if you are looking for a vintage look in flowers you have to get Maggie to show you these photographs.  It may have been crass, but I had to ask her the cost just because the centerpieces sat up about three feet high and were full with the most beautiful large roses.  I was pleasantly surprised that the price was affordable.

Although Maggie gave me a lot of reasons why she went into working with her father, I could see in the way her eyes completely lite up when she spoke of him that her love of flowers was an extension of her love for her dad.  And I would recommend that you all visit Fasan Florist, a small town American florist in the heart of the city because they will put their heart and soul into your floral arrangement.  Oh, and I almost forgot, if you want to meet Maggie Fasan and see examples of her and her father's work, they will be at  the Zhou B Art Center on Dec 8th for The Birth of Atha:  An American Ballet and Opera.

Jeff and the Traveling Photo Booth

Everyone on the local Bridal scene knows and loves Jeff.  If could be that he is extremely charismatic, or it could be that he always rolls with a big toy that we all like to play around with - the "Traveling Photo Booth".

What's a traveling photo Booth?  It's one of the hottest new bridal trends.  Remeber when you and your friends would go downtown to Nay Pier or Woolworth and take pictures in the booth behind the curtain.  Well, a couple of years back a couple of years ago a team of guys  got the wacky idea to lease these booths out for use at wedding receptions and events; thus a million dollar (maybe that's why he's always so happy) idea was born.

Let me explain.  Firstly, this is very different from what your photographer whose pictures you kind of want to be scripted so that everyone is captured in their best light and the entire wedding is documented.  The "traveling photo booth" is almost the opposite, these photographs will let your guest be a diva, a gansta, a mc, a funny man, wild, and or crazy in love.  You never know what people will do in front of the camera once they are behind the closed curtain.


Secondly, Your guest will be excited to walk away from your wedding with their photo strips.  Trust me that excitement doesn't wear off with age.  When I was in the photo booth I was still the teenage boy at Woolworth and that nastalgic boyish  excitement you can't put a pice tag on .  The more meaningful gifts you give to your guest the more you immortalize your wedding day.

And thirdly, it's a great activity to get your guest out of the seriosness of the moment, and get them having fun  I've seen Jeff at many of the bridal events, and while other vendors are looking around trying to get potential brides to come buy their booth, Jeff is always swamped with beautiful, and not neccessarily as beautiful, women and men alike posing and having a good time.


So when Jeff and I did our last event at the University Club after a few glasses of champagne and almost a tray of their jumbo cocumut crust shrimp I was feeling pretty gutsy.  I walked over to him with the swaem of models, and soon to be brides hoarding the booth, and I twisted his arm until he agreed.  The result - YAY! 

Jeff has agree to come to the Birth of Atha:  An American Ballet and Opera at the Zhou B Artt Center on December 8, and bring his "Traveling Photobooth".  So you can come with your future hubbys, and/or  BBF's so we can all "act a fool" behind the curtian, lol

Thank you Jeff for accepting our invitation to Platinum we are confident that our brides will love working with you.

BRIDAL COLORS FOR FALL/SPRING?

Ladies let's start with the GROOMS.  It's not every year that the men even make a mark on Bridal Fashion, so this year it's nice that they are really stepping out of the box.  And, no it doesn't mean that you give him free reign, but it's nice to see that YOUR BIG DAY is also HIS BIG DAY.   So, if hubby to be comes to you and voices his desire that the groomsmen wear Grey, Brown, Blue, on even pinstripes - LISTEN because he is on to one of the next hot trends in bridal color. 

To further complicate your bridal palette, I've noticed that Bridesmaids are looking at bolder colors like Burgundy, Canary Yellow, Olive, and Royal Purple. Unlike pastels, bolder colors can be a lot more challenging to coordinate, and to add to that the groomsmen don't want to wear black tuxedos and you've got yourself a catastrophe if you're color challenged.

So to help you navigate in the world of color for the Fall and early Spring season here are three of our tops choices:

COLOR COMBINATION 1:  Champagne, Gold, Peach, and Brown. 

MEN:  Brown suits with brown bow ties over peach shirts (if they try to go pink just say NO! It's just too over done and we don't want to startle the older men, lol). Pull it all together with apricot floral corsages.
WOMEN: The women should wear peach or brown dresses with contrasting sashes. The women can accent their dresses with gold heels and jewelry.  A classic gold sequins clutches purse would also be nice. 

COLOR COMBINATION 2: Lavender, Plum, and Platinum 

MEN:  Platinum or charcoal grey suits with lilac shirts.  Plum corsages, bow ties, and handkerchiefs will bring this color palette together for a strong finish.
WOMEN: The bridesmaids can wear lavender with plum accents or vice versa.  Silver jewelry and shoes work well with this color combination.

COLOR COMBINATION 3: Navy Blue, a faint Mint Green, and a Pastel Yellow

MEN:   Navy blue suits with mint green shirts.  A nice yellow carnation corsage would pop with this color combination.
WOMEN:  Navy blue or mint green dresses with yellow sashes, shoes, and accessories.

So please let your imagination guide you.  The above  suggestions will offer you lots of exciting floral and decor opportunities.  I can definitely see a peach invitation with a brown inlay and metallic gold writing; or silver candle holders with layers of lavender orchids and plum fabric, or a lakeside with centerpieces of hydrangea and carnation combinations pulling on the pastel yellow and green theme,  with table setting using rich navy blue accents for an executive finish.

LOVE ROBERT

3 Surprising Trends for Fall Brides.

It's official, brides just can't get enough of THE SASH.  While this trend has been gaining in popularity for almost two years, it's allure is now picking up in more conservative boutiques through out the Midwest.  In fact, Susan from the Left Bank here in Chicago told me that it's hard for her to even keep them in the store they are moving so quickly.  We, at Atha Sharod Bridal kind of seen this one coming though, so you'll see that many of our gowns are coupled with sashes.

More surprising, is the trend towards the MERMAID CUT.  We have been forced to add a mermaid cut to the White Collection - LUXE.  The ballroom cut continues it's popularity, but as thicker brides turn their back on this cut, and opt for the MERMAID and TRUMPET upscale boutique that followed Vera Wang's lead too closely are scrambling for more fitted dresses for their brides who want to show their curves.

And the last trend I'd like to highlight involves a  move away from the ever so popular sweat heart.  I was afraid that because of Kate's dress brides might start requesting long fitted sleeves, and I am glad that as a trend that hasn't seemed to have caught on.  We have noticed that there has been a resurgence of the CAPPED SLEEVE, and as a design consequence  the KEYHOLE back.  We are  proud to have been in front of this trend as one of the more popular pieces in our White Collection - LUXE collection features capped sleeves.

So there you have it my observations of surprising trends for the fall brides: Sashes, Mermaids, and Capped sleeves.

Our Preferred List - after the August 7th "sneak preview"

Often when planning a big event, you learn who is who.  Such was the case with Atha Sharod Bridal's, "sneak preview" held at the Loft on Lake.  I want all brides to know that I take my reputation with the utmost seriousness, and that the people that I recommend to you are vendors that have been tried, and tested by yours truly either through events that I have held or through weddings of my clients.  Below are vendors whom I have worked with, and can wholeheartedly recommend:

Norman's Bistro - caterer
Ceder's Mediterranean - caterer
Rueter's Bakery - bakery
Fancy Candies and Sweet Buffet - dessert buffet stylist
The Left Bank - bridal accessories
Tracey Ballog - makeup
Analise Ojeda - hair
Rosemary Fanti - illustrator
Loreen Hospodar - bouquet preservationist

Art of Imagination: Deborah lives up to her ambitious company name!

So I'm planning a runway show in September or October, and a friend tells me to check out the Zhou B. Art Center as a possible host..  When I visit the venue Donna, who is very pleasant by the way, shows me into her office where I see the most exquisite table place setting with a centerpience made of silver painted twigs with streams of chandelier crystals hanging from them and shear fabric surrounding the entire area.  The display was so powerful that I knew I had to contact one of the designers who worked on the concept.  So it is with much excitement that I announce that Deborah for the Art of Imagination will provide the decor for the Loft on Lake on Augsust 7th for our"sneak preview" of The White Collection - LUXE.

For those of you who do not know, on August 7th at the Loft on Lake you will witness a true master of theater and Drama as she transforms the Loft into a Wonderland.  Her use of fabric and color are unparallelled and her reputation is blemish-free.  Thank you Deborah for making the Loft look it's best for me on that day.  And ladies if you are thinking that you might need someone who specialize in decor to tie in your story, and color scheme, come check out Deborah on Sunday, August 7th at the Loft on Lake.

LOVE ROBERT

Styled by Fancy Candies & Sweet Buffets "Indulgent"

Elizabeth Ann O'Brien from Fancy Candies & Sweet Buffets is that little girl inside of every woman who dreams of marrying the prince someday.  She is the hopeless romantic that cries at all the Julia Roberts movies.  She is the little train that could, and she encourages everyone around her to "think big".  So when I tell my fairytale on August 7th at the Loft on Lake she will be there weaving my theme into her breath-taking styling of my dessert buffets.

Like all story tellers she is artistic, creative, and a character.  She is every bodies Irish aunt - she's about as easy going and chipper as they come.  And while the dessert sthat she styles are sophisticated, romantic, and dreamy, more than anything they are indulgent.  Your guest will feel completely catered too, and spoiled by the thought and details that she puts into her craft.

I have to share with you a funny story about what happened when I first met her at the Chicago Bridal Expo event at the Sharaton back in June.  I'll start with a simple admission: I am diabetic; consequently I crave sweets.  So  I'm walking through the bridal expo meeting some of the other vendors and bam!  Three tables with all kinds of goodies some of which I haven't seen since I was seven years old.    It was so attractive that I was drawn over to the table like a kid in a candy factory, I mean I was happy.  I actually got a little giddy looking at her display,  and when I reached for a cupcake Elizabeth goes, "oh no that's my display you can't eat the goodies until thirty minutes before the end of the show.  I style dessert trays".  Needless to say I was so done with her in that moment, "What kind of cruel joke was that!"  I later figured out that the attractiveness of the dessert buffet, the magnetism that her presentation created was what she was selling to the brides.


What ever your story is let Elizabeth help you tell your story through a customized styled dessert presentation.  I know I can't wait until I see what she does for mine, but knowing her it will be a fairytale; more importantly, because this is Atha Sharod Bridal's BIG DAY, and you are our guest you can eat as many goodies as you want.  Thank you Fancy.

LOVE ROBERT

Tracy Ballog; She knows how to paint a face.

Okay I hate to break the news, but just because you like doing make-up, and you're pretty good at it that doesn' make you a make-up artist, lol.  No, but I'm serious though. Honestly, doesn't it seem like there are almost as many make-up artists as there are models.  And now that photographers are retouching photos they are so fed up with the bad makeup jobs that they are telling us, the designers, not to even bother with makeup.  I still remember Palo Dubrik telling me, "You can add make-up in editing."   So, why did I choose Tracy Ballog for my big show on August 7th?  Because I couldn't afford not too.

I'm spending too many resources and time presenting the "sneak preview" of The White Collection - LUXE to take a chance that the make-up will not be stellar.  Yes, you could edit the photos after the fact, but its a pretty expensive choice. I want my models to be confident that they look great, and I believe that confidence will translate into better images. You know when you're spending a fortune on one day, a small detail like makeup is important because it does effect how you and your bridal party will look in your photographs.

I remembered that one of my clients looked impeccable on her wedding day, and I gave her a call.  She recommended Tracy without reservation, so I took a look at her portfolio on her facebook page -  FLAWLESS.  Rows and rows of pictures of her work that are all natural and clean, but blemish free.    Turns out she has been doing make-up since forever, no offense Tracey you are still a young whipper snapper; in addition, she has a great sense of humor ladies.

Tracy  I can't wait to work with you on August 7th at the Loft on Lake.  Ladies if you need a makeup artist come check Tracy Ballog out.  I know your cousin who works for Avon does a good job, but on your BIG DAY you might want to go with experience.   

LOVE ROBERT

By the way I know many of you have heard about the new technique where it's almost like they air brush the make-up onto your face. Its the latest rave and Tracy will illustrate the technique, and give you the pros and cons of using this technique on your wedding day when you come on August 7th.  Thank you Tracy.

Thank you for Buying American on your BIG DAY

What is American?

The answer to this question had changed greatly over the years.  These changes make a real statement about the tenacity of our culture,and our ability to reinvent ourselves.

Dependiong upon who you ask you will get varied responses.  Somemight say that it's in our ball parks with our hotdogs, or at our outdoor gathering with our roasted pork ribs and apple pies, or right on our radio stations that range fro country music to rap, or in the amendments of our consitution that gaurntee that everyone is treated equally, or on our streats riddle with synagues, mosques,and cthederals located blocks fro each oter, or on the ages of our many magazines and newspaper where you will find any old fool with an opinion in print.

Here at Atha Sharod Bridal we are proud to be American. Our production team looks like the united nations - we are American  The stores that carry our brand are small boutiques in small towns with simple people with big hearts - we are American.  Our bespoke brides are hardworking independent women  who are just as feminine as the women who are house wives - we are American.   And we are proud to say, We are made in America of the finest materials' available.  We are proud to say that our gowns are sold where "fine gowns" are sold.  So, we would like to take the time out to thank all of you for buying American.

LOVE ROBERT

An introduction to our "sneak preview" on August 7th at the Loft on Lake

On August 7th from 4-7 pm the bridal industry's insiders, press, and brides-to-be will gather at the Loft on Lake located at 1366 W. Lake Street for a "sneak preview" of Atha Sharod Bridal's  forth coming bridal gown and negligee collection, The White Collection - LUXE.

Atha Sharod Bridal is Chicago's latest edition to the national bridal scene.  The much anticipated collection will officially be released in October, and has already been picked up by upscale boutiques throughout the Midwest.  Our bridal gown and negligee collection is made in the USA of 100% European silk and French imported laces.  The success of the companies forth coming bridal collection has prompted us to offer our services to local brides as a custom bridal couturier.

Our preferred vendors list will be at our "sneak preview" atthe Loft on Lake on August 7th.  This events gives the press, and brides-to-be an opportunity to see our company and our friends in the bridal industry up close.  This will prove to be a every special day for the Chicago bridal community.  Gorgeous bridal gowns and negligees, food, music, drinks, and good company - now, what can be be more exciting than that?!  

Tickets are $20.  The first 50 brides to RSVP will receive a bottle of wine from Wild Medley Winery; and, a gift bag with gift certificates and coupuns to be used with our preferred list vendors.  This gift bag is valued at over $300. 


TO RSVP to this event please call (773) 285-1178.

LOVE ROBERT

Cedars Mediterranean Kitchen: Experience the Universality and Versatility of Old World Cuisine

            For all those who have grown up in Hype Park, or attended the University of Chicago what I’m about to say will be old news; because, during dinner time for almost twenty years Cedars restaurant has enjoyed great popularity in this community, and it continues to be a favorite caterer for the university at many of their larger events.  But, for all of you who are thinking, “Mediterranean at my wedding?” I introduce to you the unique options of Cedars, an excellent way to serve your guest with a meal that is healthy, delicious, and satisfying.

What is Mediterranean food?  Well there are many cultures that live along the Mediterranean Sea.  But usually the term is used to refer to Palestinian, Lebanese, and Greek cuisines.  The main course in Mediterranean food is usually mildly seasoned grilled lamb, beef, chicken, shrimp, or salmon served alongside mixed summer vegetables including ripe tomatoes and squashes sautéed in olive oil with a hint of garlic. The staple of this diet is rice and Couscous.  Nutritionist are turning to this cuisine for it’s ability to offer a healthy, yet tasty meal alternative.  Because it doesn’t use strong spices, excessive salt, or heavy oils, it’s not only appealing to a larger cross-section of the American population but it’s also considered healthy food.   Mediterranean food is an old world wholesome way of eating that is arguable the basis for most of Europe’s cuisines.  Yes, the food definitely takes you someplace else when you eat it, but it’s a familiar palatable experience.  And, no one knows how to make your taste buds feel more at home than Cedar’s.

Shish-Kebobs are a popular cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine; and, at Cedars boy do they know how to do Kebobs.  Cedars has a wide variety of kebobs including beef tenderloin, chicken, salmon, shrimp, and kefta (a lamb and beef mixture).  Cedars starts by combining green peppers, red peppers, and tomatoes on a skewers with their marinated meats.  Then Cedars’s special touch is that they grill them at a very high temperature in their famous brick oven.  The result is the best kebobs in Chicago.   I usually order the kefta kebobs where Cedars combines minced lamb and beef by grinding them together with herbs and spices.  Kefta kebobs are similar to the concept behind gyros (a Greek specialty) only Cedars’s kefta kebobs are a lot less salty and much tastier.  The most popular of the kebobs are the chicken kebobs.  The chicken is marinated in a variety of herbs including a hint of yellow curry and fresh lemon.  Ceders’s kebobs would make a delicious addition at any gathering whether it’s an outdoor catered  barbecue or a sit down affair where you want something a little more exciting than poorly seasoned chicken breast and steak.

Of course they can cater a formal dining event, or a buffet, but Cedars’s specializes in family style dinning.  Cedars’s family style dining is a sure way to serve your guests plenty of good tasty food, and offer them a wide variety of dishes.  For example you can have a family plate of Shrimp Kebobs, Chicken Kebobs, and lamb or beef at each table allowing your guest to enjoy three meat choices.  Alongside the meats, Cedars is sure to provide a heaping family sized plate of sautéed vegetable and some rice at each table to accompany the meats and satisfy your vegetarian guest.  Whatever you choose with Cedars’s family dining your guest will be presented with a feast beyond their imagination.

And on August 7th you will enjoy one of my favorites in the Loft on Lake when Atha Sharod Bridal host a "sneak preview" of our forth -coming collection, The White Collection - LUXE.  Can't wait to see you all there.  To RSVP to this event call (773) 285-1178

LOVE ROBERT