A Winter Wonderland

March 2, 2015 Kim Gapinski

This styled shoot is truly a joy to share! We froze our butts off, but I think it's safe to say it was worth it. I have an extremely talented family and this wouldn't have been possible without their mad skills. Shout outs are in order:

The fierce and beautiful model: Kendra Gapinski, dressed in a stunning gown from Migniotte Bridal, winter accessories from Mango, Anthropologie, topped off with classic red lipstick from Mac Cosmetics. Super fresh floral design: Angela Gapinski (Root 31) Breath-taking photos taken by: The Siners Photography. Calligraphy: the talented Jenna Blazevich. Super Rad Vintage Glassware/Dessert Accompaniments: Nimble Wel l. Vintage Table/Chair Rental: Violet Vintage. Pistachio Cake: Homemade by My Momma :)

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This Valentine's Day... Treat Yo Self

February 12, 2015 Kim Gapinski

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth:

KATHERINE ANN CONFECTIONS: THAT MELT IN YOUR MOUTH GOODNess

Seriously though, her chocolates are life changing.

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SWEET AND SAUCY SHOP: HOT GUY COOKIES? I MEAN DUH.

RELAX AND RESTORE:

SPA DAY: THE DANA HOTEL SPA:

One of our personal favorite ways to treat yo self is the ultimate spa day! The Spa at Dana Hotel offers a luxurious and relaxing getaway in the heart of downtown Chicago. Indulge in a massage, body wrap, facial or a simple manicure - no matter what you choose, we're sure you'll leave feeling revived and refreshed.

SPREAD THE LOVE:

Top Row: Steal Petal Press / Bottom Row: Greer Chicago

Top Row: Amanda Catherine Designs / Bottom Row: Maddie Nieman

HIBERNATE AT HOME:

BLUMGARTEN & CO: Get fancy with some floral

Stop by the quaint neighborhood storefront in Pilsen and take home something to brighten up your bedroom.

Get cute and cozy: and ready to cuddle

Monogram's on Webster will monogram anything and everything!

Things We're Into...

January 30, 2015 Kim Gapinski

Doing: The Bar Method

Your New Year's resolution is to get tight and right? The Bar Method could be for you! The combination of targeting specific muscle groups and stretching is proven to tighten and tone in as little as one month. Stop in one of the many Chicagoland studios to try a class and flip through a book of former bride's before and after photos!

Trending: Chalkboard Signs

This won’t come as news to our fellow Pinterest lovers, but chalkboard signs are popping up at weddings everywhere! These cute and customizable signs can provide information from Instagram hashtags, signature cocktails or simply a lovely message from the newlyweds. We know that some trends are harder to execute than others, but we have to admit our recent couples have made it seem easy, affordable and oh so adorable!

Wearing: Grown-up Sweatpants

Who doesn’t love anyone that makes comfort wear socially acceptable for daytime – all hail J. Crew for introducing the Skinny Sweatpants to the world. While still too casual for the office, with the right styling and accessories these sweats can be totally appropriate for errands around town, weekend brunch or best of all: hair and make up with your girls on wedding morning!

Eating: DiSotto Enoteca

The brick walls, candlelight and fine wine selection create a classic, rustic, ambiance perfect for any occasion. Tucked away within Francesca’s on Chestnut in the heart of the Gold Coast, this extensive wine bar offers master sommeliers to help pair selections with the ever-changing menu of Italian tapas. A must try for wine enthusiasts or anyone looking for a romantic night out.

Inspired By: Winter

While the drop in temperatures and piles of snow may deter some, we prefer to take advantage of the beauty of winter! Here's a sneak peek from our most recent woodland, winter styled photoshoot - more to come!

Diana and Alex

January 4, 2015 Kim Gapinski

St. Clement Catholic Church + Salvage One, Chicago

“An iconic Chicago cathedral and a quirky antique store served as the perfect backdrops for Diana and Alex’s celebration. The sunny, summer day of wedded bliss, breath taking photos, and trolley rides ended with sweets, speeches and lots and lots of dancing. Diana and Alex cut up the dance floor like no other couple I’ve seen, I even caught them having their own private dance party. Cheers to the most fun-loving and well dressed couple with a love that is palpable by everyone around them!”